Background Semen quality is one of the most important indicators of boar reproductive performance.In the past,boar breeding has mostly emphasized characteristics such as lean meat percentage,feed conversion efficiency...Background Semen quality is one of the most important indicators of boar reproductive performance.In the past,boar breeding has mostly emphasized characteristics such as lean meat percentage,feed conversion efficiency,and growth rate,while overlooking the genetic improvement of reproductive traits.This study employs advanced multi-omics approaches,such as transcriptome-wide association studies(TWAS)and colocalization between genome-wide association studies(GWAS)and expression quantitative trait loci(eQTLs),to provide a comprehensive understanding of the genetic mechanisms governing semen quality traits in boars.Results Here,we collected 190,000 ejaculate records across 11 semen quality traits from 3,604 Duroc boars.The heritability of semen quality traits ranged from 0.095 to 0.343.Genetic correlations between semen quality traits varied from−0.802 to 0.661,and phenotypic correlations ranged from−0.833 to 0.776.Single-trait GWAS identified 19 independent variants,corresponding to 13 quantitative trait loci(QTLs).By integrating PigGTEx and FAANG resources,we combined TWAS and colocalization analyses to reveal genetic regulation of semen quality traits.Notably,both GWAS and colocalization analyses pinpointed the DCAF12 as a crucial gene associated with multiple semen quality traits.Additionally,the ZSCAN9 gene and the variant rs322211455 were found to significantly affect sperm motility(SPMOT),possibly through hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.PheWAS further highlighted an association between rs322211455 and sperm abnormality rate,demonstrating the crucial role of ZSCAN9 in male fertility.Conclusion This study reveals the genetic basis and regulatory mechanisms underlying semen quality traits in Duroc boars,identifying key candidate genes such as DCAF12 and ZSCAN9.These findings provide important insight into the genetic regulation of semen quality in boars.展开更多
Objective To explore and quantify the association of hot night exposure during the sperm development period(0–90 lag days) with semen quality.Methods A total of 6,640 male sperm donors from 6 human sperm banks in Chi...Objective To explore and quantify the association of hot night exposure during the sperm development period(0–90 lag days) with semen quality.Methods A total of 6,640 male sperm donors from 6 human sperm banks in China during 2014–2020were recruited in this multicenter study.Two indices(i.e.,hot night excess [HNE] and hot night duration[HND]) were used to estimate the heat intensity and duration during nighttime.Linear mixed models were used to examine the association between hot nights and semen quality parameters.Results The exposure-response relationship revealed that HNE and HND during 0–90 days before semen collection had a significantly inverse association with sperm motility.Specifically,a 1 ℃ increase in HNE was associated with decreased sperm progressive motility of 0.0090(95% confidence interval[CI]:–0.0147,–0.0033) and decreased total motility of 0.0094(95% CI:–0.0160,–0.0029).HND was significantly associated with reduced sperm progressive motility and total motility of 0.0021(95% CI:–0.0040,–0.0003) and 0.0023(95% CI:–0.0043,–0.0002),respectively.Consistent results were observed at different temperature thresholds on hot nights.Conclusion Our findings highlight the need to mitigate nocturnal heat exposure during spermatogenesis to maintain optimal semen quality.展开更多
A growing global trend indicates a decline in semen quality,with a lack of physical activity identified as one of the contributing factors.Exercise is medication,and numerous studies have explored its effects on semen...A growing global trend indicates a decline in semen quality,with a lack of physical activity identified as one of the contributing factors.Exercise is medication,and numerous studies have explored its effects on semen quality.However,there is no consensus on the most effective type and intensity of exercise for improving semen quality,owing to inconsistent findings across studies.These discrepancies may be attributable to variations in study populations(e.g.,healthy versus infertile individuals)and research methodologies(e.g.,observational versus interventional studies).This paper reviews the existing literature from the databases PubMed,Web of Science,and Google Scholar,reclassifying articles on their subject and research designs to delineate the relationship between exercise and semen quality.It also summarizes the mechanisms through which exercise influences semen quality,including hormonal regulation,oxidative stress,and inflammatory factors.展开更多
Extensive studies have identified potential adverse effects on semen quality of obesity, based on body mass index, but the association between body fat distribution, a more relevant indicator for obesity, and semen qu...Extensive studies have identified potential adverse effects on semen quality of obesity, based on body mass index, but the association between body fat distribution, a more relevant indicator for obesity, and semen quality remains less clear. We conducted a longitudinal study of 4304 sperm donors from the Guangdong Provincial Human Sperm Bank (Guangzhou, China) during 2017–2021. A body composition analyzer was used to measure total and local body fat percentage for each participant. Generalized estimating equations were employed to assess the association between body fat percentage and sperm count, motility, and morphology. We estimated that each 10% increase in total body fat percentage (estimated change [95% confidence interval, 95% CI]) was significantly associated with a 0.18 × 106 (0.09 × 106–0.27 × 106) ml and 12.21 × 106 (4.52 × 106–19.91 × 106) reduction in semen volume and total sperm count, respectively. Categorical analyses and exposure-response curves showed that the association of body fat distribution with semen volume and total sperm count was stronger at higher body fat percentages. In addition, the association still held among normal weight and overweight participants. We observed similar associations for upper limb, trunk, and lower limb body fact distributions. In conclusion, we found that a higher body fat distribution was significantly associated with lower semen quality (especially semen volume) even in men with a normal weight. These findings provide useful clues in exploring body fat as a risk factor for semen quality decline and add to evidence for improving semen quality for those who are expected to conceive.展开更多
Background Boars fed a mixed form of inorganic and organic iron in excess of the NRC recommended levels still develop anemia,which suggested that the current level and form of iron supplementation in boar diets may be...Background Boars fed a mixed form of inorganic and organic iron in excess of the NRC recommended levels still develop anemia,which suggested that the current level and form of iron supplementation in boar diets may be inappropriate.Therefore,56 healthy Topeka E line boars aged 15–21 months were randomly divided into 5 groups:basal diet supplemented with 96 mg/kg ferrous sulfate(FeSO_(4))and 54 mg/kg glycine chelated iron(Gly-Fe,control);80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe;80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg methionine hydroxyl analogue chelated iron(MHA-Fe,from CalimetFe)for 16 weeks.The effects of dietary iron supplementation with different sources and levels on semen quality in boars were investigated.Results 1)Serum Fe and hemoglobin concentrations were not affected by reduced dietary iron levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups compared with the control group(P>0.05).2)Serum interleukin-6(IL-6)and sperm malondialdehyde(MDA)levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups were lower than those in the control group(P<0.05),and higher serum superoxide dismutase levels and lower MDA levels in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group(P<0.05).3)Boars in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups had lower serum hepcidin(P<0.01),ferritin(P<0.05),and transferrin receptor(P<0.01)concentrations,and boars in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group had higher seminal plasma Fe concentrations compared with the control group.4)Boars in the 80 mg/kg and 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups had lower abnormal sperm rate and in situ oscillating sperm ratio compared to the control group at weeks 12 and/or 16 of the trial.However,the effect of Gly-Fe on improving semen quality in boars was not evident.5)Serum IL-6 level was positively correlated with hepcidin concentration(P<0.05),which in turn was significantly positively correlated with abnormal sperm rate(P<0.05).Furthermore,significant correlations were also found between indicators of iron status and oxidative stress and semen quality parameters.Conclusions Dietary supplementation with 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe did not induce iron deficiency,but rather reduced serum inflammatory levels and hepcidin concentration,alleviated oxidative stress,increased body iron utilization,and improved semen quality in adult boars.展开更多
Objective:To investigate the relationship between ambient sulfur dioxide(SO2)exposure and semen quality parameters.Methods:A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the as...Objective:To investigate the relationship between ambient sulfur dioxide(SO2)exposure and semen quality parameters.Methods:A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the association between SO2 exposure and semen quality parameters.This search encompassed the timeframe from January 2000 to May 2023 and included electronic databases such as Web of Science,Google Scholar,PubMed,Cochrane,and Scopus.Pooled effect estimates with 95%confidence intervals(CI)were calculated using percent changes(PC).The meta-analysis included seven studies with 6711 participants and 15087 semen samples.Results:The results revealed a significant negative association between ambient SO2 exposure and certain semen quality parameters.In particular,SO2 exposure was associated with a significant decrease in progressive motility(PC=0.032;95%CI:-0.063 to-0.001;P=0.044)and sperm concentration(PC=-0.020;95%CI:-0.036 to-0.005;P=0.012).However,no statistically significant associations were observed for total sperm count(PC=-0.038;95%CI:-0.079 to 0.003;P=0.070),seminal fluid volume(PC=-0.009;95%CI:-0.048 to-0.030;P=0.662)and sperm motility(PC=-0.17;95%CI:-0.363 to 0.022;P=0.830).In addition,the results of the subgroup analysis revealed specific variables that were associated with the decrease in relevant sperm parameters.Conclusions:This systematic review and meta-analysis provides compelling evidence supporting a consistent negative association between exposure to ambient SO2 and semen quality parameters.展开更多
Background Comprehending the patterns of alteration in boar semen quality and identifying effective nutritional interventions are crucial for enhancing the productivity of commercial pig systems.This study aimed to ex...Background Comprehending the patterns of alteration in boar semen quality and identifying effective nutritional interventions are crucial for enhancing the productivity of commercial pig systems.This study aimed to examine the alteration in semen quality in boars,and assess the impact of protocatechuic acid(PCA)on semen quality during the phase of declining semen quality.Methods In Exp.1,a total of 38 Pig Improvement Company(PIC)boars were selected and their semen quality data were recorded from the age of 9 to 37 months.In Exp.2,18 PIC boars(28 months old)were randomly assigned into three groups(n=6)and fed a basal diet,a basal diet containing 500 or 1,000 mg/kg PCA,respectively.The experiment lasted for 12 weeks.Results The semen volume,concentration,and total number of spermatozoa in boars exhibited an increase from 9 to 19 months old and showed a significant linear decreased trend in 28,24,and 22 months old.Sperm motility displayed an upward trajectory,reaching its peak at 20 months of age,and showed a significant linear decreased trend at 20 months old.Dietary supplementation of PCA demonstrated an effect to mitigate the decrease in semen volume,concentration of spermatozoa,total number of spermatozoa(P>0.05),and significantly increased the sperm motility(P<0.05).Moreover,supplementation of 1,000 mg/kg PCA significantly increased the sperm viability(P<0.05).Analysis on cellular signaling pathways revealed that PCA restored serum testosterone levels and alleviated oxidative damage by upregulating the expression of HO-1,SOD2,and NQO1 in testicular stromal cells.Notably,PCA can enhance phosphorylation by selectively binding to AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK)protein,thereby improving sperm mitochondrial function and augmenting sperm motility via PGC-1/Nrf1.Conclusions These data elucidated the pattern of semen quality variation in boars within the age range of 9 to 37 months old,and PCA has the potential to be a natural antioxidant to enhance sperm quality through modulation of the AMPK/PGC-1/Nrf1 signaling pathway.展开更多
The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effects of male age and ejaculatory abstinence on semen parameters and reproductive hormones among men residing in Africa and the Middle East. A total of 70,14...The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effects of male age and ejaculatory abstinence on semen parameters and reproductive hormones among men residing in Africa and the Middle East. A total of 70,142 semen analysis results were analysed and grouped according to the age intervals (16 - 20, 21 - 30, 31 - 40, 41 - 50, 51 - 60, >60) and ejaculatory abstinence (<2 days, 2 - 5 days and >5 days). Semen parameters i.e. volume, concentration, progressive motility, total progressively motile count, morphology, total normal sperm count, DNA fragmentation, viability, sORP, normed sORP were specifically evaluated. Additionally, for each age interval, reproductive hormones i.e. estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and prolactin were evaluated. Semen volume, total progressively motile count, sperm morphology and total normal sperm count constantly decrease significantly after the age of 30 years. Sperm concentration started declining significantly after the age of 50 years. There was a constant age- related increase in number of spermatozoa with damaged DNA. sORP constantly increased up to 60 years. Furthermore, constantage-related decreases in FSH, serum testosterone and prolact in were observed from patients aged between 16 years and 60 years. Semen volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology were significantly higher in patients having > 5 days of abstinence. Patients having > 5 days of abstinence had the lowest normed sORP. Male age significantly affects sperm parameters and reproductive hormones in fertile and infertile men residing in Africa and the Middle East. Prolonged abstinence days provides better semen quality.展开更多
Aim： To investigate the relationship between Ureaplasma urealyticum （UU） infection and semen quality. Methods： From 2001 to 2003, 346 eligible patients aged 20-45 years were invited from two hospitals in Shanghai,...Aim： To investigate the relationship between Ureaplasma urealyticum （UU） infection and semen quality. Methods： From 2001 to 2003, 346 eligible patients aged 20-45 years were invited from two hospitals in Shanghai, China, to participate in an investigation which included questionnaires about general and reproductive health, an external genital tract examination, UU culture and semen analysis. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine whether UU had a significant effect on semen quality after adjustment for confounding factors. Results： Findings suggested that UU infection was associated with higher semen viscosity and lower semen pH value. Sperm concentration was lower in UU positive subjects than that in UU negative subjects （54.04 × 10^6/mL vs.70.58 × 10^6/mL）. However, UU did not significantly affect other semen quality indexes. Conclusion： UU infection of the male genital tract could negatively influence semen quality.展开更多
Several recent studies have shown that the fecundity of a man decreases progressively with sperm concentrations below 40 million spermatozoa per mL. Therefore, it is unfortunate that the new World Health Organization ...Several recent studies have shown that the fecundity of a man decreases progressively with sperm concentrations below 40 million spermatozoa per mL. Therefore, it is unfortunate that the new World Health Organization guidelines for semen analysis recommend lowering the lower cutoff value for normal sperm concentration from 20 to 15 million spermatozoa per mL. As a result large groups of subfertile men across the world may not receive appropriate andrological help in the future.展开更多
Semen from 5210 sperm bank donors was analyzed and trends in semen quality were evaluated at Shandong Human Sperm Bank between 2008 and 2014. After 2-7 days of abstinence, semen samples were collected. Measurements of...Semen from 5210 sperm bank donors was analyzed and trends in semen quality were evaluated at Shandong Human Sperm Bank between 2008 and 2014. After 2-7 days of abstinence, semen samples were collected. Measurements of semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm forward motility, and total sperm count were performed. There were significant declining trends in semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm forward motility, and total sperm count. Our results indicate that the quality of semen in this cohort of sperm donors had decreased during the study period.展开更多
Aim： To examine whether reproductive hormones play a role in the association between body mass index （BMI） and semen quality. Methods： Semen quality and testosterone （T）, luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle-sti...Aim： To examine whether reproductive hormones play a role in the association between body mass index （BMI） and semen quality. Methods： Semen quality and testosterone （T）, luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH） and estradiol （E2） were evaluated in 990 fertile males with age 38.9 ± 9.7 （mean ＋ SD） years recruited from the Chinese general population in 2001 and 2002. Results： Semen quality was reduced among underweight （BMI 〈 18.5） compared with normal （BMI 18.5-24.9） and overweight （BMI 25.0-29.9）, but the associations were independent of reproductive hormones. After adjustment for the potential confounders, underweight men had reductions in sperm concentration （22.4 × 10^6/mL）, total sperm count （52.9× 10^6） and percentage of normal sperm forms （6.9%） compared with men with normal BMI. Being underweight may be a risk factor for low sperm concentration （OR： 4.68, 95% confidence intervals [CI]： 2.01-10.91）. Otherwise, being overweight may be a protected factor for low sperm concentration （OR： 0.25; 95% CI： 0.08-0.83） and low total sperm count （OR： 0.37, 95% CI： 0.15-0.87）. Conclusion： Low BMI was associated with reduced semen quality. The associations between BMI and semen quality were found statistically significant even after adjustment for reproductive hormones. Reproductive hormones cannot explain the association between BMI and semen quality.展开更多
Aim： To assess whether exposure to computers harms the semen quality of healthy young men. Methods： A total of 178 subjects were recruited from two maternity and children healthcare centers in Shanghai, 91 with a hi...Aim： To assess whether exposure to computers harms the semen quality of healthy young men. Methods： A total of 178 subjects were recruited from two maternity and children healthcare centers in Shanghai, 91 with a history of exposure to computers （i.e., exposure for 20 h or more per week in the last 2 years） and 87 persons to act as control （no or little exposure to computers）. Data on the history of exposure to computers and other characteristics were obtained by means of a structured questionnaire interview. Semen samples were collected by masturbation in the place where the semen samples were analyzed. Results： No differences in the distribution of the semen parameters （semen volume, sperm density, percentage of progressive sperm, sperm viability and percentage of normal form sperm） were found between the exposed group and the control group. Exposure to computers was not found to be a risk factor for inferior semen quality after adjusting for potential confounders, including abstinence days, testicle size, occupation, history of exposure to toxic substances. Conclusion： The present study did not find that healthy： men exposed to computers had inferior semen quality. （Asian J Andro12005 Sep; 7： 263-266）展开更多
Semen from 10 932 male partners of infertile couples was analysed and sperm parameter trends were evaluated at the Reproduction Biology Laboratory of the University Hospital of Marseille （France） between 1988 and 20...Semen from 10 932 male partners of infertile couples was analysed and sperm parameter trends were evaluated at the Reproduction Biology Laboratory of the University Hospital of Marseille （France） between 1988 and 2007. After 3-6 days of abstinence, semen samples were collected. Measurements of seminal fluid volume, pH, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility and detailed morphology of spermatozoa were performed. Sperm parameters were analysed on the entire population and in men with normal total numeration （ 〉~ 40 million per ejaculate）. The whole population demonstrated declining trends in sperm concentration （1.5% per year）, total sperm count （1.6% per year）, total motility （0.4% per year）, rapid motility （5.5% per year） and normal morphology （2.2% per year）. In the group of selected samples with total normal sperm count, the same trends of sperm quality deterioration with time were observed. Our results clearly indicate that the auality of semen decreased in this population over the study period.展开更多
This study analyzed the trend in semen quality of infertile male patients in Wenzhou,China,based on the data obtained from 38905 patients during 2008-2016 in The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University...This study analyzed the trend in semen quality of infertile male patients in Wenzhou,China,based on the data obtained from 38905 patients during 2008-2016 in The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University(Wenzhou,China).The results showed that only 24.9%of the patients had normal semen quality.For the semen quality of infertile male patients,that of the workers and 40-year-olds was significantly worse than the other occupational and age groups.For all the infertile patients,low semen volume,asthenozoospermia,and teratozoospermia accounted for 8.4%,50.5%,and 54.1%,respectively.During 2008-2016,the annual mean percentage of fast forward motile spermatozoa,percentage of total forward motile spermatozoa,and percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology decreased linearly with slopes of-2.11,-2.59,and-0.70,respectively.The proportion of patients with asthenozoospermia and multi-abnormal spermatozoa increased during 2008-2016 with slopes of 4.70 and 4.87,respectively,while for low semen volume,it decreased with a slope of-0.47 in the same time period.The proportion of patients with teratozoospermia increased from 2008 to 2011 and from 2011 to 2016 with slopes of 17.10 and 2.09,respectively.In general,the deteriorating trend of semen quality of infertile male patients in Wenzhou was obvious.Future efforts should be made to reveal the adverse influences on semen quality,such as occupational exposure,environmental quality,and living habits.Furthermore,more pervasive reproduction health education is necessary.展开更多
Spermadhesins,as the most important components of boar semen seminoproteins,play a regulatory role in sperm motility,sperm capacitation and sperm-ovum fusion.In order to study the fertility differences among different...Spermadhesins,as the most important components of boar semen seminoproteins,play a regulatory role in sperm motility,sperm capacitation and sperm-ovum fusion.In order to study the fertility differences among different boar breeds,the sperm motility,sperm viability and sperm deformity,as well as the spermadhesins＇ m RNA expression in fresh semen of Luchuan,Landrace and Duroc boars were compared.The results showed that the sperm motility and viability of Luchuan boar showed no significant differences with those of Landrace and Duroc boars（P〉 0.05）,but its sperm deformity was significantly lower than those of the other two exotic breeds（P〈0.01）;no significant differences were found in the m RNA expression levels of spermadhesins between Luchuan and Landrace,Duroc boars（P〉0.05）,excepting that the m RNA expression level of AQN1 in Luchuan boar semen was significantly lower than that in Duroc boar semen（P〈0.05）;the m RNA expression levels of AQN3,AWN and PSP-II in Landrace boar semen were significantly higher than those in Duroc boar semen（P〈0.05,P〈0.01）.In short,there were significant differences in the m RNA expression levels of spermadhesins among different pig breeds,which showed no significant correlations with the differences in sperm motility,viability and deformity.展开更多
The aim of this study was to evaluate the semen quality of university students in Wuhan, the largest city in the world in terms of the number of university students. All student sperm donors recorded in the Hubei Prov...The aim of this study was to evaluate the semen quality of university students in Wuhan, the largest city in the world in terms of the number of university students. All student sperm donors recorded in the Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank from 1 March 2010 to 31 December 2013 were screened. At last, a total of 3616 semen samples from 1808 university student sperm donors were eligible and retrospectively analyzed. Each donor＇s semen parameters were averaged over two samples and compared with the World Health Organization criteria, and a generalized linear regression model was used to examine several determinants of semen quality. We found that the mean and median values were 3.0 ml and 2.8 ml for semen volume, 50.2 x 106 m1-1 and 50.0 x 106 m1-1 for sperm concentration, 148.1 x 106 and 142.1 x 106 for total sperm count, and 58.6% and 60.0% for total sperm motility. About 85.0% of donors had parameters that were all normal. Season and duration of abstinence were critical factors affecting semen quality. We also found a decrease in sperm concentration during the 4 years observation; however, this may not be a strong evidence to confirm the declining trend of semen quality. In conclusion, semen quality of university students in Wuhan was not optimal and should be paid high attention, long-term observation and further study should be carried out to confirm the present situation.展开更多
The aim of the present study was to assess if semen quality declines during in vitro fertilization （IVF） and whether or not this phenomenon is triggered by chronic male stress. In order to test this hypothesis, we f...The aim of the present study was to assess if semen quality declines during in vitro fertilization （IVF） and whether or not this phenomenon is triggered by chronic male stress. In order to test this hypothesis, we first investigated a retrospective cohort of 155 male IVF patients （testing cohort）. Subsequently, we started a prospective cohort study in men undergoing their first IVF and assessed semen quality and subjective male chronic stress using a validated tool, i.e. the Fertility Problem Inventory （FPI） questionnaire. The association between stress and sperm quality decline measured 4-6weeks before the start of IVF （T1） and at the day of oocyte retrieval （T2） was the primary outcome. Live birth rate, first trimester abortion and rate of poor responders were secondary outcomes. In the testing cohort, mean progressive motility, but not mean sperm density significantly declined. There were 78/154 （51%） men who showed a decline in semen density and 50/154 （32%） men who showed a decline in progressive motility. In the validation cohort, progressive motility declined, whereas, sperm density increased from T1 to T2. Of 78 men, 27 men had increased stress （FPI-score 〉 146）. Sperm density and progressive motility were not significantly different in men with and without stress. However, in the presence of male stress, couples had a higher rate of poor responders, miscarriages and a lower rate of live births. Subjective stress is not associated with a decline in semen quality observed during IVF but may be associated with adverse ore^nancv outcome.展开更多
The incidence of infertility has recently risen.Semen quality is an important male fertility indicator,and dietary factors can affect semen quality.We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to determine th...The incidence of infertility has recently risen.Semen quality is an important male fertility indicator,and dietary factors can affect semen quality.We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effects of healthy dietary patterns on semen quality.A literature search was conducted in 3 databases(Embase,Web of Science and PubMed)on August 21,2021.The included cross-sectional studies examined the influence of the Mediterranean,Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension(DASH),and prudent diet patterns on semen quality parameters;six studies(1244 subjects)were included.By comparing high consumption with low consumption of healthy dietary patterns,the results of the meta-analysis showed significantly higher sperm concentrations(mean difference[MD]=6.88×10^(6) ml^(−1),95%confidence interval[CI]:1.26×10^(6) ml^(−1)–12.49×10^(6) ml^(−1);P<0.05),a significant increase in total sperm count(MD=16.70×10^(6),95%CI:2.37×10^(6)–31.03×10^(6);P<0.05),and a significant increase in progressive sperm motility(MD=5.85%,95%CI:2.59%–9.12%;P<0.01).The sperm concentration,progressive sperm motility,and total sperm count were significantly higher in men with higher versus lower consumption of healthy dietary patterns.However,the results must be interpreted with caution.展开更多
Background:Natural astaxanthin(ASTA)has strong antioxidant properties and has been widely used as a health product to improve human health.However,the effects of ASTA on the reproductive performance of aging roosters ...Background:Natural astaxanthin(ASTA)has strong antioxidant properties and has been widely used as a health product to improve human health.However,the effects of ASTA on the reproductive performance of aging roosters have been poorly studied.We aimed to investigate the effects of dietary ASTA on semen quality and antioxidant capacity in aging roosters and to explore the potential mechanism of semen quality change via antioxidation defense system.Methods:In the present study,9653-week-old Jinghong No.1 layer breeder roosters were fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet containing 0,25,50,or 100 mg/kg ASTA for 6 weeks.Results:Semen quality in the ASTA groups remarkably improved than that in the control group,and antioxidant activities,the abilities to scavenge hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions,increased gradually with ASTA addition(P<0.05).In addition,the mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes as well as the mRNA and protein levels of the mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)were markedly increased in the 50-100 mg/kg ASTA group(P<0.05).Conclusions:Collectively,these results demonstrate that dietary ASTA may improve semen quality by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and the ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals,which may be related to upregulation of the MAPK/Nrf2 pathway.展开更多
基金supported by grants from The Sci-Tech Innovation 2030 Agenda(2023ZD04045)Guangxi Key Research and Development Program(AB241484033).
文摘Background Semen quality is one of the most important indicators of boar reproductive performance.In the past,boar breeding has mostly emphasized characteristics such as lean meat percentage,feed conversion efficiency,and growth rate,while overlooking the genetic improvement of reproductive traits.This study employs advanced multi-omics approaches,such as transcriptome-wide association studies(TWAS)and colocalization between genome-wide association studies(GWAS)and expression quantitative trait loci(eQTLs),to provide a comprehensive understanding of the genetic mechanisms governing semen quality traits in boars.Results Here,we collected 190,000 ejaculate records across 11 semen quality traits from 3,604 Duroc boars.The heritability of semen quality traits ranged from 0.095 to 0.343.Genetic correlations between semen quality traits varied from−0.802 to 0.661,and phenotypic correlations ranged from−0.833 to 0.776.Single-trait GWAS identified 19 independent variants,corresponding to 13 quantitative trait loci(QTLs).By integrating PigGTEx and FAANG resources,we combined TWAS and colocalization analyses to reveal genetic regulation of semen quality traits.Notably,both GWAS and colocalization analyses pinpointed the DCAF12 as a crucial gene associated with multiple semen quality traits.Additionally,the ZSCAN9 gene and the variant rs322211455 were found to significantly affect sperm motility(SPMOT),possibly through hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis.PheWAS further highlighted an association between rs322211455 and sperm abnormality rate,demonstrating the crucial role of ZSCAN9 in male fertility.Conclusion This study reveals the genetic basis and regulatory mechanisms underlying semen quality traits in Duroc boars,identifying key candidate genes such as DCAF12 and ZSCAN9.These findings provide important insight into the genetic regulation of semen quality in boars.
基金funded by the Guangdong Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(No.2022A1515011517).
文摘Objective To explore and quantify the association of hot night exposure during the sperm development period(0–90 lag days) with semen quality.Methods A total of 6,640 male sperm donors from 6 human sperm banks in China during 2014–2020were recruited in this multicenter study.Two indices(i.e.,hot night excess [HNE] and hot night duration[HND]) were used to estimate the heat intensity and duration during nighttime.Linear mixed models were used to examine the association between hot nights and semen quality parameters.Results The exposure-response relationship revealed that HNE and HND during 0–90 days before semen collection had a significantly inverse association with sperm motility.Specifically,a 1 ℃ increase in HNE was associated with decreased sperm progressive motility of 0.0090(95% confidence interval[CI]:–0.0147,–0.0033) and decreased total motility of 0.0094(95% CI:–0.0160,–0.0029).HND was significantly associated with reduced sperm progressive motility and total motility of 0.0021(95% CI:–0.0040,–0.0003) and 0.0023(95% CI:–0.0043,–0.0002),respectively.Consistent results were observed at different temperature thresholds on hot nights.Conclusion Our findings highlight the need to mitigate nocturnal heat exposure during spermatogenesis to maintain optimal semen quality.
基金supported by the Emerging Interdisciplinary Platform for Medicine and Engineering in Sports(EIPMES)and R&D Program of Beijing Municipal Education Commission(grant No.KM202310029001).
文摘A growing global trend indicates a decline in semen quality,with a lack of physical activity identified as one of the contributing factors.Exercise is medication,and numerous studies have explored its effects on semen quality.However,there is no consensus on the most effective type and intensity of exercise for improving semen quality,owing to inconsistent findings across studies.These discrepancies may be attributable to variations in study populations(e.g.,healthy versus infertile individuals)and research methodologies(e.g.,observational versus interventional studies).This paper reviews the existing literature from the databases PubMed,Web of Science,and Google Scholar,reclassifying articles on their subject and research designs to delineate the relationship between exercise and semen quality.It also summarizes the mechanisms through which exercise influences semen quality,including hormonal regulation,oxidative stress,and inflammatory factors.
基金supported by the Guangdong Natural Science Foundation(No.2022A1515011705).
文摘Extensive studies have identified potential adverse effects on semen quality of obesity, based on body mass index, but the association between body fat distribution, a more relevant indicator for obesity, and semen quality remains less clear. We conducted a longitudinal study of 4304 sperm donors from the Guangdong Provincial Human Sperm Bank (Guangzhou, China) during 2017–2021. A body composition analyzer was used to measure total and local body fat percentage for each participant. Generalized estimating equations were employed to assess the association between body fat percentage and sperm count, motility, and morphology. We estimated that each 10% increase in total body fat percentage (estimated change [95% confidence interval, 95% CI]) was significantly associated with a 0.18 × 106 (0.09 × 106–0.27 × 106) ml and 12.21 × 106 (4.52 × 106–19.91 × 106) reduction in semen volume and total sperm count, respectively. Categorical analyses and exposure-response curves showed that the association of body fat distribution with semen volume and total sperm count was stronger at higher body fat percentages. In addition, the association still held among normal weight and overweight participants. We observed similar associations for upper limb, trunk, and lower limb body fact distributions. In conclusion, we found that a higher body fat distribution was significantly associated with lower semen quality (especially semen volume) even in men with a normal weight. These findings provide useful clues in exploring body fat as a risk factor for semen quality decline and add to evidence for improving semen quality for those who are expected to conceive.
基金China Agriculture Research System(CARS-36)Major Project of Technical Innovation in Hubei Province(No.2022BBA0056)+1 种基金Dekon-Huazhong Agricultural University Project Co-operation AgreementSchool-Enterprise Cooperation Project-Micronutrient Nutrition and Mechanism of Breeding Pigs。
文摘Background Boars fed a mixed form of inorganic and organic iron in excess of the NRC recommended levels still develop anemia,which suggested that the current level and form of iron supplementation in boar diets may be inappropriate.Therefore,56 healthy Topeka E line boars aged 15–21 months were randomly divided into 5 groups:basal diet supplemented with 96 mg/kg ferrous sulfate(FeSO_(4))and 54 mg/kg glycine chelated iron(Gly-Fe,control);80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe;80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg methionine hydroxyl analogue chelated iron(MHA-Fe,from CalimetFe)for 16 weeks.The effects of dietary iron supplementation with different sources and levels on semen quality in boars were investigated.Results 1)Serum Fe and hemoglobin concentrations were not affected by reduced dietary iron levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups compared with the control group(P>0.05).2)Serum interleukin-6(IL-6)and sperm malondialdehyde(MDA)levels in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups were lower than those in the control group(P<0.05),and higher serum superoxide dismutase levels and lower MDA levels in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group(P<0.05).3)Boars in the 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg Gly-Fe and MHA-Fe groups had lower serum hepcidin(P<0.01),ferritin(P<0.05),and transferrin receptor(P<0.01)concentrations,and boars in the 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe group had higher seminal plasma Fe concentrations compared with the control group.4)Boars in the 80 mg/kg and 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe groups had lower abnormal sperm rate and in situ oscillating sperm ratio compared to the control group at weeks 12 and/or 16 of the trial.However,the effect of Gly-Fe on improving semen quality in boars was not evident.5)Serum IL-6 level was positively correlated with hepcidin concentration(P<0.05),which in turn was significantly positively correlated with abnormal sperm rate(P<0.05).Furthermore,significant correlations were also found between indicators of iron status and oxidative stress and semen quality parameters.Conclusions Dietary supplementation with 80 mg/kg or 115 mg/kg MHA-Fe did not induce iron deficiency,but rather reduced serum inflammatory levels and hepcidin concentration,alleviated oxidative stress,increased body iron utilization,and improved semen quality in adult boars.
文摘Objective:To investigate the relationship between ambient sulfur dioxide(SO2)exposure and semen quality parameters.Methods:A systematic literature search was conducted to identify relevant studies investigating the association between SO2 exposure and semen quality parameters.This search encompassed the timeframe from January 2000 to May 2023 and included electronic databases such as Web of Science,Google Scholar,PubMed,Cochrane,and Scopus.Pooled effect estimates with 95%confidence intervals(CI)were calculated using percent changes(PC).The meta-analysis included seven studies with 6711 participants and 15087 semen samples.Results:The results revealed a significant negative association between ambient SO2 exposure and certain semen quality parameters.In particular,SO2 exposure was associated with a significant decrease in progressive motility(PC=0.032;95%CI:-0.063 to-0.001;P=0.044)and sperm concentration(PC=-0.020;95%CI:-0.036 to-0.005;P=0.012).However,no statistically significant associations were observed for total sperm count(PC=-0.038;95%CI:-0.079 to 0.003;P=0.070),seminal fluid volume(PC=-0.009;95%CI:-0.048 to-0.030;P=0.662)and sperm motility(PC=-0.17;95%CI:-0.363 to 0.022;P=0.830).In addition,the results of the subgroup analysis revealed specific variables that were associated with the decrease in relevant sperm parameters.Conclusions:This systematic review and meta-analysis provides compelling evidence supporting a consistent negative association between exposure to ambient SO2 and semen quality parameters.
基金partially supported by the funds from the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32102578&U22A20515)National Key R&D Program of China(2023YFD1302300&2023YFD1301204)。
文摘Background Comprehending the patterns of alteration in boar semen quality and identifying effective nutritional interventions are crucial for enhancing the productivity of commercial pig systems.This study aimed to examine the alteration in semen quality in boars,and assess the impact of protocatechuic acid(PCA)on semen quality during the phase of declining semen quality.Methods In Exp.1,a total of 38 Pig Improvement Company(PIC)boars were selected and their semen quality data were recorded from the age of 9 to 37 months.In Exp.2,18 PIC boars(28 months old)were randomly assigned into three groups(n=6)and fed a basal diet,a basal diet containing 500 or 1,000 mg/kg PCA,respectively.The experiment lasted for 12 weeks.Results The semen volume,concentration,and total number of spermatozoa in boars exhibited an increase from 9 to 19 months old and showed a significant linear decreased trend in 28,24,and 22 months old.Sperm motility displayed an upward trajectory,reaching its peak at 20 months of age,and showed a significant linear decreased trend at 20 months old.Dietary supplementation of PCA demonstrated an effect to mitigate the decrease in semen volume,concentration of spermatozoa,total number of spermatozoa(P>0.05),and significantly increased the sperm motility(P<0.05).Moreover,supplementation of 1,000 mg/kg PCA significantly increased the sperm viability(P<0.05).Analysis on cellular signaling pathways revealed that PCA restored serum testosterone levels and alleviated oxidative damage by upregulating the expression of HO-1,SOD2,and NQO1 in testicular stromal cells.Notably,PCA can enhance phosphorylation by selectively binding to AMP-activated protein kinase(AMPK)protein,thereby improving sperm mitochondrial function and augmenting sperm motility via PGC-1/Nrf1.Conclusions These data elucidated the pattern of semen quality variation in boars within the age range of 9 to 37 months old,and PCA has the potential to be a natural antioxidant to enhance sperm quality through modulation of the AMPK/PGC-1/Nrf1 signaling pathway.
文摘The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the effects of male age and ejaculatory abstinence on semen parameters and reproductive hormones among men residing in Africa and the Middle East. A total of 70,142 semen analysis results were analysed and grouped according to the age intervals (16 - 20, 21 - 30, 31 - 40, 41 - 50, 51 - 60, >60) and ejaculatory abstinence (<2 days, 2 - 5 days and >5 days). Semen parameters i.e. volume, concentration, progressive motility, total progressively motile count, morphology, total normal sperm count, DNA fragmentation, viability, sORP, normed sORP were specifically evaluated. Additionally, for each age interval, reproductive hormones i.e. estradiol, luteinizing hormone, follicle stimulating hormone, testosterone and prolactin were evaluated. Semen volume, total progressively motile count, sperm morphology and total normal sperm count constantly decrease significantly after the age of 30 years. Sperm concentration started declining significantly after the age of 50 years. There was a constant age- related increase in number of spermatozoa with damaged DNA. sORP constantly increased up to 60 years. Furthermore, constantage-related decreases in FSH, serum testosterone and prolact in were observed from patients aged between 16 years and 60 years. Semen volume, sperm concentration, progressive motility and normal morphology were significantly higher in patients having > 5 days of abstinence. Patients having > 5 days of abstinence had the lowest normed sORP. Male age significantly affects sperm parameters and reproductive hormones in fertile and infertile men residing in Africa and the Middle East. Prolonged abstinence days provides better semen quality.
文摘Aim： To investigate the relationship between Ureaplasma urealyticum （UU） infection and semen quality. Methods： From 2001 to 2003, 346 eligible patients aged 20-45 years were invited from two hospitals in Shanghai, China, to participate in an investigation which included questionnaires about general and reproductive health, an external genital tract examination, UU culture and semen analysis. Multiple linear regression models were used to examine whether UU had a significant effect on semen quality after adjustment for confounding factors. Results： Findings suggested that UU infection was associated with higher semen viscosity and lower semen pH value. Sperm concentration was lower in UU positive subjects than that in UU negative subjects （54.04 × 10^6/mL vs.70.58 × 10^6/mL）. However, UU did not significantly affect other semen quality indexes. Conclusion： UU infection of the male genital tract could negatively influence semen quality.
文摘Several recent studies have shown that the fecundity of a man decreases progressively with sperm concentrations below 40 million spermatozoa per mL. Therefore, it is unfortunate that the new World Health Organization guidelines for semen analysis recommend lowering the lower cutoff value for normal sperm concentration from 20 to 15 million spermatozoa per mL. As a result large groups of subfertile men across the world may not receive appropriate andrological help in the future.
文摘Semen from 5210 sperm bank donors was analyzed and trends in semen quality were evaluated at Shandong Human Sperm Bank between 2008 and 2014. After 2-7 days of abstinence, semen samples were collected. Measurements of semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm forward motility, and total sperm count were performed. There were significant declining trends in semen volume, sperm concentration, sperm forward motility, and total sperm count. Our results indicate that the quality of semen in this cohort of sperm donors had decreased during the study period.
文摘Aim： To examine whether reproductive hormones play a role in the association between body mass index （BMI） and semen quality. Methods： Semen quality and testosterone （T）, luteinizing hormone （LH）, follicle-stimulating hormone （FSH） and estradiol （E2） were evaluated in 990 fertile males with age 38.9 ± 9.7 （mean ＋ SD） years recruited from the Chinese general population in 2001 and 2002. Results： Semen quality was reduced among underweight （BMI 〈 18.5） compared with normal （BMI 18.5-24.9） and overweight （BMI 25.0-29.9）, but the associations were independent of reproductive hormones. After adjustment for the potential confounders, underweight men had reductions in sperm concentration （22.4 × 10^6/mL）, total sperm count （52.9× 10^6） and percentage of normal sperm forms （6.9%） compared with men with normal BMI. Being underweight may be a risk factor for low sperm concentration （OR： 4.68, 95% confidence intervals [CI]： 2.01-10.91）. Otherwise, being overweight may be a protected factor for low sperm concentration （OR： 0.25; 95% CI： 0.08-0.83） and low total sperm count （OR： 0.37, 95% CI： 0.15-0.87）. Conclusion： Low BMI was associated with reduced semen quality. The associations between BMI and semen quality were found statistically significant even after adjustment for reproductive hormones. Reproductive hormones cannot explain the association between BMI and semen quality.
文摘Aim： To assess whether exposure to computers harms the semen quality of healthy young men. Methods： A total of 178 subjects were recruited from two maternity and children healthcare centers in Shanghai, 91 with a history of exposure to computers （i.e., exposure for 20 h or more per week in the last 2 years） and 87 persons to act as control （no or little exposure to computers）. Data on the history of exposure to computers and other characteristics were obtained by means of a structured questionnaire interview. Semen samples were collected by masturbation in the place where the semen samples were analyzed. Results： No differences in the distribution of the semen parameters （semen volume, sperm density, percentage of progressive sperm, sperm viability and percentage of normal form sperm） were found between the exposed group and the control group. Exposure to computers was not found to be a risk factor for inferior semen quality after adjusting for potential confounders, including abstinence days, testicle size, occupation, history of exposure to toxic substances. Conclusion： The present study did not find that healthy： men exposed to computers had inferior semen quality. （Asian J Andro12005 Sep; 7： 263-266）
文摘Semen from 10 932 male partners of infertile couples was analysed and sperm parameter trends were evaluated at the Reproduction Biology Laboratory of the University Hospital of Marseille （France） between 1988 and 2007. After 3-6 days of abstinence, semen samples were collected. Measurements of seminal fluid volume, pH, sperm concentration, total sperm count, motility and detailed morphology of spermatozoa were performed. Sperm parameters were analysed on the entire population and in men with normal total numeration （ 〉~ 40 million per ejaculate）. The whole population demonstrated declining trends in sperm concentration （1.5% per year）, total sperm count （1.6% per year）, total motility （0.4% per year）, rapid motility （5.5% per year） and normal morphology （2.2% per year）. In the group of selected samples with total normal sperm count, the same trends of sperm quality deterioration with time were observed. Our results clearly indicate that the auality of semen decreased in this population over the study period.
基金the Major Project of National Key Research and Development Program(2018YFC1004300).
文摘This study analyzed the trend in semen quality of infertile male patients in Wenzhou,China,based on the data obtained from 38905 patients during 2008-2016 in The First Affiliated Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University(Wenzhou,China).The results showed that only 24.9%of the patients had normal semen quality.For the semen quality of infertile male patients,that of the workers and 40-year-olds was significantly worse than the other occupational and age groups.For all the infertile patients,low semen volume,asthenozoospermia,and teratozoospermia accounted for 8.4%,50.5%,and 54.1%,respectively.During 2008-2016,the annual mean percentage of fast forward motile spermatozoa,percentage of total forward motile spermatozoa,and percentage of spermatozoa with normal morphology decreased linearly with slopes of-2.11,-2.59,and-0.70,respectively.The proportion of patients with asthenozoospermia and multi-abnormal spermatozoa increased during 2008-2016 with slopes of 4.70 and 4.87,respectively,while for low semen volume,it decreased with a slope of-0.47 in the same time period.The proportion of patients with teratozoospermia increased from 2008 to 2011 and from 2011 to 2016 with slopes of 17.10 and 2.09,respectively.In general,the deteriorating trend of semen quality of infertile male patients in Wenzhou was obvious.Future efforts should be made to reveal the adverse influences on semen quality,such as occupational exposure,environmental quality,and living habits.Furthermore,more pervasive reproduction health education is necessary.
文摘Spermadhesins,as the most important components of boar semen seminoproteins,play a regulatory role in sperm motility,sperm capacitation and sperm-ovum fusion.In order to study the fertility differences among different boar breeds,the sperm motility,sperm viability and sperm deformity,as well as the spermadhesins＇ m RNA expression in fresh semen of Luchuan,Landrace and Duroc boars were compared.The results showed that the sperm motility and viability of Luchuan boar showed no significant differences with those of Landrace and Duroc boars（P〉 0.05）,but its sperm deformity was significantly lower than those of the other two exotic breeds（P〈0.01）;no significant differences were found in the m RNA expression levels of spermadhesins between Luchuan and Landrace,Duroc boars（P〉0.05）,excepting that the m RNA expression level of AQN1 in Luchuan boar semen was significantly lower than that in Duroc boar semen（P〈0.05）;the m RNA expression levels of AQN3,AWN and PSP-II in Landrace boar semen were significantly higher than those in Duroc boar semen（P〈0.05,P〈0.01）.In short,there were significant differences in the m RNA expression levels of spermadhesins among different pig breeds,which showed no significant correlations with the differences in sperm motility,viability and deformity.
文摘The aim of this study was to evaluate the semen quality of university students in Wuhan, the largest city in the world in terms of the number of university students. All student sperm donors recorded in the Hubei Province Human Sperm Bank from 1 March 2010 to 31 December 2013 were screened. At last, a total of 3616 semen samples from 1808 university student sperm donors were eligible and retrospectively analyzed. Each donor＇s semen parameters were averaged over two samples and compared with the World Health Organization criteria, and a generalized linear regression model was used to examine several determinants of semen quality. We found that the mean and median values were 3.0 ml and 2.8 ml for semen volume, 50.2 x 106 m1-1 and 50.0 x 106 m1-1 for sperm concentration, 148.1 x 106 and 142.1 x 106 for total sperm count, and 58.6% and 60.0% for total sperm motility. About 85.0% of donors had parameters that were all normal. Season and duration of abstinence were critical factors affecting semen quality. We also found a decrease in sperm concentration during the 4 years observation; however, this may not be a strong evidence to confirm the declining trend of semen quality. In conclusion, semen quality of university students in Wuhan was not optimal and should be paid high attention, long-term observation and further study should be carried out to confirm the present situation.
文摘The aim of the present study was to assess if semen quality declines during in vitro fertilization （IVF） and whether or not this phenomenon is triggered by chronic male stress. In order to test this hypothesis, we first investigated a retrospective cohort of 155 male IVF patients （testing cohort）. Subsequently, we started a prospective cohort study in men undergoing their first IVF and assessed semen quality and subjective male chronic stress using a validated tool, i.e. the Fertility Problem Inventory （FPI） questionnaire. The association between stress and sperm quality decline measured 4-6weeks before the start of IVF （T1） and at the day of oocyte retrieval （T2） was the primary outcome. Live birth rate, first trimester abortion and rate of poor responders were secondary outcomes. In the testing cohort, mean progressive motility, but not mean sperm density significantly declined. There were 78/154 （51%） men who showed a decline in semen density and 50/154 （32%） men who showed a decline in progressive motility. In the validation cohort, progressive motility declined, whereas, sperm density increased from T1 to T2. Of 78 men, 27 men had increased stress （FPI-score 〉 146）. Sperm density and progressive motility were not significantly different in men with and without stress. However, in the presence of male stress, couples had a higher rate of poor responders, miscarriages and a lower rate of live births. Subjective stress is not associated with a decline in semen quality observed during IVF but may be associated with adverse ore^nancv outcome.
基金supported by a grant from the National Nature Science Foundation of China(No.82173539 and No.81874268).
文摘The incidence of infertility has recently risen.Semen quality is an important male fertility indicator,and dietary factors can affect semen quality.We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to determine the effects of healthy dietary patterns on semen quality.A literature search was conducted in 3 databases(Embase,Web of Science and PubMed)on August 21,2021.The included cross-sectional studies examined the influence of the Mediterranean,Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension(DASH),and prudent diet patterns on semen quality parameters;six studies(1244 subjects)were included.By comparing high consumption with low consumption of healthy dietary patterns,the results of the meta-analysis showed significantly higher sperm concentrations(mean difference[MD]=6.88×10^(6) ml^(−1),95%confidence interval[CI]:1.26×10^(6) ml^(−1)–12.49×10^(6) ml^(−1);P<0.05),a significant increase in total sperm count(MD=16.70×10^(6),95%CI:2.37×10^(6)–31.03×10^(6);P<0.05),and a significant increase in progressive sperm motility(MD=5.85%,95%CI:2.59%–9.12%;P<0.01).The sperm concentration,progressive sperm motility,and total sperm count were significantly higher in men with higher versus lower consumption of healthy dietary patterns.However,the results must be interpreted with caution.
基金This study was supported by Modern Agricultural Industry Technology System-Peking Poultry Innovation Team(BAIC04–2021)the National Key R&D Program of China(2016YFD0700201).
文摘Background:Natural astaxanthin(ASTA)has strong antioxidant properties and has been widely used as a health product to improve human health.However,the effects of ASTA on the reproductive performance of aging roosters have been poorly studied.We aimed to investigate the effects of dietary ASTA on semen quality and antioxidant capacity in aging roosters and to explore the potential mechanism of semen quality change via antioxidation defense system.Methods:In the present study,9653-week-old Jinghong No.1 layer breeder roosters were fed a corn-soybean meal basal diet containing 0,25,50,or 100 mg/kg ASTA for 6 weeks.Results:Semen quality in the ASTA groups remarkably improved than that in the control group,and antioxidant activities,the abilities to scavenge hydroxyl radicals and superoxide anions,increased gradually with ASTA addition(P<0.05).In addition,the mRNA levels of antioxidant enzymes as well as the mRNA and protein levels of the mitogen-activated protein kinase(MAPK)and nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2(Nrf2)were markedly increased in the 50-100 mg/kg ASTA group(P<0.05).Conclusions:Collectively,these results demonstrate that dietary ASTA may improve semen quality by increasing antioxidant enzyme activities and the ability to scavenge hydroxyl radicals,which may be related to upregulation of the MAPK/Nrf2 pathway.
