Oxidative stress affects sperm health and fertility—Time to apply facts learned at the bench to help the patient: Lessons for busy clinicians

Background: Increased oxidative stress (OS), resulting from the delicate balance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense, is closely linked to sperm abnormalities and male subfertility. Elevated ROS levels particularly affect sperm quality. The vulnerability of spermatozoa to ROS is due to the absence of DNA repair mechanisms and the high presence of polyunsaturated fatty acids in their membranes.MethodsThis article updates and advances our understanding of the molecular damage caused by OS in spermatozoa, including lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, motility, and functionality. Additionally, the review discusses the challenges in diagnosing OS in semen and recommends accurate and sensitive testing methods. Case studies are utilized to demonstrate the effective management of male infertility caused by OS.Main findingsHighlighting the need to bridge the gap between research and clinical practice, this review suggests strategies for clinicians, such as lifestyle and dietary changes and antioxidant therapies. The review emphasizes lifestyle modifications and personalized care as effective strategies in managing male infertility caused by OS.ConclusionThis review calls for early detection and intervention and interdisciplinary collaboration to improve patient care in male infertility cases related to increased OS.Increased oxidative stress (OS), resulting from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant defense, is linked to sperm abnormalities and male subfertility. This article explores molecular damage in spermatozoa due to OS, emphasizing lipid peroxidation, DNA damage, motility, and functionality issues. It suggests clinical strategies, including lifestyle and dietary changes and antioxidant therapies, and underscores the importance of accurate diagnosis, early intervention, and interdisciplinary collaboration in managing male infertility related to OS.image