Influence of oxidants and anti-oxidants on semen parameters in infertile males

Abstract

The deleterious effect of free radicals on spermatozoa was assessed by estimating malondialdehyde and vitamins E and C in seminal plasma and their relation with different sperm parameters. Twenty-two fertile controls with 74 primary infertile males were analysed in the department of biochemistry, SCB Medical College, Cuttack. Seminal malondialdehyde level was observed to be raised in all infertile groups except azoospermic cases in comparison to control. Levels of vitamins E and C were significantly low in the infertile cases (p < 0.001) in relation to control. Significant positive correlation between malondialdehyde with total sperm count and leucocyte count (p < 0.01) indicates their dual contribution towards free radical generation. The negative association of semen malondialdehyde with normal sperm motility and morphology suggests damaging effect of free radicals on sperm membrane integrity. Marked negative correlation of seminal malondialdehyde with both the vitamins signifies their protective utilisation during oxidative phenomenon. In conclusion, understanding the physiologic and pathologic effects of free radicals on sperm function will help in designing new and effective treatment strategies in male infertility.