The impact of mitochondrial impairments on sperm function and male fertility: a systematic review

Minoo Vahedi Raad; Amir Masoud Firouzabadi; Maryam Tofighi Niaki; Ralf Henkel; Farzaneh Fesahat

doi:10.1186/s12958-024-01252-4

journal article Open Access Jul 17, 2024

The impact of mitochondrial impairments on sperm function and male fertility: a systematic review

Minoo Vahedi Raad

Amir Masoud Firouzabadi

Maryam Tofighi Niaki

Ralf Henkel

Farzaneh Fesahat

Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology Vol. 22 No. 1 · Springer Science and Business Media LLC

View at Publisher Save 10.1186/s12958-024-01252-4

Abstract

Abstract
Background
Besides adenine triphosphate (ATP) production for sustaining motility, the mitochondria of sperm also host other critical cellular functions during germ cell development and fertilization including calcium homeostasis, generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), apoptosis, and in some cases steroid hormone biosynthesis. Normal mitochondrial membrane potential with optimal mitochondrial performance is essential for sperm motility, capacitation, acrosome reaction, and DNA integrity.

Results
Defects in the sperm mitochondrial function can severely harm the fertility potential of males. The role of sperm mitochondria in fertilization and its final fate after fertilization is still controversial. Here, we review the current knowledge on human sperm mitochondria characteristics and their physiological and pathological conditions, paying special attention to improvements in assistant reproductive technology and available treatments to ameliorate male infertility.

Conclusion
Although mitochondrial variants associated with male infertility have potential clinical use, research is limited. Further understanding is needed to determine how these characteristics lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes and affect male fertility potential.

Topics

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Published: Jul 17, 2024
Vol/Issue: 22(1)
License: View

Authors

M

Minoo Vahedi Raad

A

Amir Masoud Firouzabadi

Cite This Article

Minoo Vahedi Raad, Amir Masoud Firouzabadi, Maryam Tofighi Niaki, et al. (2024). The impact of mitochondrial impairments on sperm function and male fertility: a systematic review. Reproductive Biology and Endocrinology, 22(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12958-024-01252-4

The impact of mitochondrial impairments on sperm function and male fertility: a systematic review

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