What is the Origin of Male Oxidative Stress Infertility?

The concept evolved with the refinement of semen analysis and the recognition that sperm dysfunction often correlated with markers of cellular damage. The scientific community identified that the delicate cellular machinery of spermatozoa is highly susceptible to free radical damage due to the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in their membranes. This understanding shifted the focus toward a biochemical etiology.

What is the Mechanism of Male Oxidative Stress Infertility?

Oxidative stress arises from an overproduction of ROS by sources such as abnormal sperm, leukocytes in the semen, or environmental toxins, coupled with a depletion of seminal antioxidants. These free radicals induce lipid peroxidation in the sperm membrane, compromising its integrity and function. Critically, ROS can also cause DNA fragmentation within the sperm nucleus, which is detrimental to embryonic development and is a key factor in reduced fertility potential.

Male Oxidative Stress Infertility

Meaning

A clinical diagnosis of male infertility where the primary contributing factor is an excessive level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) within the seminal fluid, overwhelming the antioxidant defense capacity. This imbalance results in damage to sperm DNA, cell membranes, and motility, significantly impairing the sperm’s ability to fertilize an egg. It is a major, often modifiable, cause of idiopathic male infertility.