Increased levels of interferon-gamma in seminal plasma of infertile men |
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Authors: | Dr R Paradisi M Capelli M Mandini E Bellavia and C Flamigni |
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Institution: | Institute of Reproductive Physiology and Pathology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, S. Orsola Hospital, University Alma Mater Studiorum of Bologna;Central Laboratory, S. Orsola Hospital, Bologna, Italy |
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Abstract: | Summary. The role of the cell-mediated immunity in male infertility is still far from clear. Interferon-gamma (INF-γ), a secretory product of activated T cells and natural killer cells, has been hypothesized to have a toxic effect on sperm function. The presence of INF-γ was investigated in seminal plasma of fertile and infertile subjects, using a specific enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, in order to study its role in male infertility. Forty-one subjects were studied; 20 had proven fertility and normal semen quality (fertile group) and 21 showed male infertility for at least 2 years and poor semen quality (infertile group). INF-γ was present in significantly higher levels in the seminal plasma of infertile subjects (6.36±0.72 fmol ml?1) compared to fertile subjects (3.68±0.30 fmol ml?1). Moreover, a significant negative correlation between INF-γ levels and sperm count, motility and morphology was detected, whereas no correlation between INF-γ levels and leukocyte count was found. These findings (i) confirm INF-γ to be present in seminal plasma; (ii) show increased INF-γ secretion in the infertile group; (iii) demonstrate negative correlations of INF-γ with the main spermiogram parameters and (iv) no correlation with leukocyte count. INF-γ may therefore play an important role in male infertility. Seminal plasma— |
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Keywords: | interferon-gamma cell-mediated immunity infertility human |
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