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Role of sperm apoptosis and oxidative stress in male infertility: A narrative review
Asadi, Asadollah; Ghahremani, Rozita; Abdolmaleki, Arash & Rajaei, Farzad
Abstract
Activation of caspase, externalization of phosphatidyl serine, change in the
mitochondrial membrane potential, and DNA fragmentation are apoptosis markers
found in human ejaculated spermatozoa. Also, reactive oxygen species (ROS) play
a vital role in the different types of male infertility. In this review, data sources
including Google Scholar, Scopus, PubMed, and Science Direct were searched for
publications with no particular time restriction to get a holistic and comprehensive
view of the research. Apoptosis regulates the male germ cells, correct function
and development from the early embryonic stages of gonadal differentiation to
fertilization. In addition to maintaining a reasonable ratio between the Sertoli and
germ cells, apoptosis is one of the well-known quality control mechanisms in
the testis. Also, high ROS levels cause a heightened and dysregulated apoptotic
response. Apoptosis is one of the well-known mechanisms of quality control in
the testis. Nevertheless, increased apoptosis may have adverse effects on sperm
production. Recent studies have shown that ROS and the consequent oxidative
stress play a crucial role in apoptosis. This review aims to assimilate and summarize
recent findings on the apoptosis in male reproduction and fertility. Also, this review
discusses the update on the role of ROS in normal sperm function to guide future
research in this area.
Keywords
Fertility; Spermatogonia; Apoptosis; Reproduction; DNA fragmentation; DNA integrity; ROS.
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