Genetic Damage in Human Spermatozoa, Second Edition

The goal of the male gamete is to deliver a fully intact and functioning paternal genome to the oocyte. To fulfill this aim, the process of chromatin maturation during spermiogenesis must be correctly completed to guarantee DNA protection during the long journey to reach the oocyte and to properly de-condense and form the male pronucleus after fertilization. Genetic abnormalities in spermatozoa can be generated in any phase of the sperm production and life and may be due to endogenous and exogenous conditions, the latter including in vitro manipulation for assisted reproduction and gonadotoxic therapies. In addition, emerging studies point out the importance of the damage to the sperm epigenome and address the mechanisms involved in generating it. All these abnormalities may have profound consequences for male fertility status and even for the health of the progeny. This book presents an updated overview of the various types of damage that may affect sperm chromatin. Besides the main mechanisms involved in the generation of de novo mutations and DNA strand breaks and oxidation, two chapters of the book are dedicated to sperm epigenome and epigenetic damage and their consequences for the progeny. In addition, as one of the most important issues regards the possible medical interventions to reduce or prevent sperm DNA fragmentation, one chapter faces the important aspect of pharmacological and surgical treatments, lifestyle modifications, and prevention against exposure to environmental and occupational toxicants. We wish to thank all the authors for their invaluable contributions to the book. They are all expert scientists in the field, and we appreciate their willingness to offer their knowledge in this important branch of reproductive medicine. We hope that this book will help the researchers in the topics of reproduction and serve as a reference for medical and technical staff working in assisted reproduction laboratories.