Ureaplasma urealyticum induces polymorphonuclear elastase to change semen properties and reduce sperm motility: a prospective observational study

Abstract

Objective To elucidate the mechanism underlying how Ureaplasma urealyticum (UU) affects sperm quality and identify a therapeutic target. Methods In this prospective observational study, the differences in and relationships among semen volume, pH, viscosity, liquefaction time, sperm concentration, sperm motility [progressive motility (PR)], and seminal polymorphonuclear (PMN) elastase were analyzed in 198 normal semen samples (control group) and 198 UU-infected semen samples (observation group). The UU-infected samples were treated and the above parameters were compared between the two groups. Results The semen volume, viscosity, liquefaction time, and seminal PMN elastase were significantly higher in the observation than control group, but the pH and PR were significantly lower. In the observation group, the pH and PR were significantly higher after than before treatment, whereas the semen volume, PMN elastase, viscosity, and liquefaction time were lower. UU was closely related to semen volume, pH, viscosity, liquefaction time, sperm motility (PR), and PMN elastase. PMN elastase had significant negative effects on semen pH and sperm motility (PR) but positive effects on viscosity and liquefaction time. Conclusion UU might induce PMN elastase to increase the liquefaction time and viscosity of semen, eventually decreasing PR. PMN elastase might be a therapeutic target of UU.

Effects of Ureaplasma urealyticum infection on semen quality and sperm morphology

“…Compared with the uninfected group, males with U. urealyticum infection had higher middle segment deformity, round cells, and excessive cytoplasm, which could reduce the ratio of normal sperm and might cause dyspepsia and male infertility ( 30 ). Co-incubation of U. urealyticum and sperm led to a significant decrease in the number of motile sperm cells and premature sperm death.…”

An overview regarding the relationship between Mollicutes, infertility and antibiotic resistance (Review)

“…The presence of Mollicutes, such as Ureaplasma, in seminal plasma could influence sperm characteristics and promote the production of certain substances, potentially leading to adverse effects on male reproductive health. The study underlined the importance of understanding the complex interactions between pathogens and seminal plasma components in the context of male fertility (40)(41)(42)(43)(44)(45)(46).…”