Association Among Sperm Adiponectin, DNA Fragmentation, Oxidative Stress and Metabolites in Male Infertility

Infertility is a widespread global problem, with a male factor contributing to approximately 40–50% of cases. Several studies have investigated the involvement of adipokines in reproductive functions, but only a few have investigated their role in the male reproductive component. Collectively, adipokines are present in human sperm and most of them are expressed in the male genital tract. Some authors report that adiponectin, in contrast with other adipokines such as resistin or chemerin, has a positive effect on spermatogenesis. Although the pathophysiological role of adipokines in sperm is not yet fully understood, they could influence sperm functionality and could be potential biomarkers of male fertility. High levels of sperm DNA fragmentation have been associated with several adverse reproductive outcomes, although studies have shown conflicting results. Another critical factor in male infertility is oxidative stress, which negatively affects sperm function and viability, also because it triggers DNA alterations, lipid peroxidation and alterations in protein expression, compromising fertilization potential. To better understand the correlation between sperm DNA fragmentation, adiponectin and oxidative stress and their role in clinical practice, we evaluated these parameters in the seminal plasma of males who presented to the infertility study center of Careggi University Hospital of Florence. By accurately evaluating these parameters and their possible correlation, it will be possible to personalize treatment for individual patients.