Causes and consequences of sperm mitochondrial dysfunction
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Date
2020
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Wiley-Blackwell
Abstract
Mitochondria have multiple functions, including synthesis of adenine triphosphate,
production of reactive oxygen species, calcium signalling, thermogenesis and apoptosis. Mitochondria have a significant contribution in regulating the various physiological aspects of reproductive function, from spermatogenesis up to fertilisation.
Mitochondrial functionality and intact mitochondrial membrane potential are a prerequisite for sperm motility, hyperactivation, capacitation, acrosin activity, acrosome
reaction and DNA integrity. Optimal mitochondrial activity is therefore crucial for
human sperm function and semen quality. However, the precise role of mitochondria
in spermatozoa remains to be fully explored. Defects in sperm mitochondrial function
severely impair the maintenance of energy production required for sperm motility
and may be an underlying cause of asthenozoospermia. Sperm mtDNA is susceptible
to oxidative damage and mutations that could compromise sperm function leading
to infertility. Males with abnormal semen parameters have increased mtDNA copy
number and reduced mtDNA integrity. This review discusses the role of mitochondria
in sperm function, along with the causes and impact of its dysfunction on male fertility. Greater understanding of sperm mitochondrial function and its correlation with
sperm quality could provide further insights into their contribution in the assessment
of the infertile male.
Description
Keywords
Male infertility, Mitochondrial DNA, Mitochondrial membrane potential, Oxidative stress, Sperm mitochondria
Citation
Durairajanayagam D. et al. (2020). Causes and consequences of sperm mitochondrial dysfunction. Andrologia,e13666.