In vitro reconstruction of inflammatory reaction in human semen: effect on sperm DNA fragmentation.

The study was aimed at evaluating an in vitro induction of DNA damage in three sperm subpopulations exposed to selected inflammatory mediators, such as leukocytes, two combinations of pro-inflammatory cytokines (interleukin [IL]-6 + IL-8 and IL-12 + IL-18) and two bacterial strains (Escherichia coli and Bacteroides ureolyticus). Semen samples from normozoospermic volunteers were differentiated by swim-up (swim-up fraction) and Percoll gradient procedures (90% and 47% Percoll fractions). Leukocytes were isolated from the whole heparinized blood using the density gradient centrifugation technique.

Proinflammatory cytokines as an intermediate factor enhancing lipid sperm membrane peroxidation in in vitro conditions.

We have examined the effect of white blood cells (WBCs), various proinflammatory cytokines, or a combination of the two on the peroxidation of human sperm membrane lipids in in vitro conditions. Six recombinant cytokines, such as interleukin-1beta (IL-1beta), IL-6, IL-8, IL-12, IL-18, and tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-alpha), used singly or in combinations, were analyzed. WBCs were isolated from the whole heparinized blood using a density gradient technique (Histopaque 1.

Male genital tract infection: an influence of leukocytes and bacteria on semen.

We have studied the oxidative status of 155 semen samples, 95 originating from healthy individuals and 60 from infertile patients, which were subdivided into two groups: (a) normozoospermic with genitourinary tract infection (GTI); and (b) with pathological spermiogram and GTI. Several phases of infection were observed: with bacterial presence only, bacteria and leukocytes, and leukocytes only, following the routine inflammatory pattern. Leukocyte numbers, bacterial strains, pro- and anti-oxidants, and selected pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-alpha) were studied.

Interaction between leucocytes and human spermatozoa influencing reactive oxygen intermediates release.

The relationship between the presence of white blood cells (WBCs) and the fertilizing potential of human semen is still an open question. It is well known that the presence of leucocytes in human semen can be related to the production of reactive oxygen intermediates (ROI). Semen samples were obtained from 15 normozoospermic men and leucocytes were isolated from heparinized blood drawn from 15 volunteers.

Reactive oxygen species and sperm cells.

There is a dynamic interplay between pro- and anti-oxidant substances in human ejaculate. Excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation can overwhelm protective mechanism and initiate changes in lipid and/or protein layers of sperm plasma membranes. Additionally, changes in DNA can be induced.

Male genital tract inflammation: The role of selected interleukins in regulation of pro-oxidant and antioxidant enzymatic substances in seminal plasma.

Human semen contains spermatozoa as well as populations of round nonspermatozoal cells primarily consisting of leukocytes. Activation of white blood cells present in the seminal plasma during genital tract inflammation and cellular reactions against microbial agents may provoke a release of a variety of products such as cytokines and reactive oxygen species. The aim of this study was to evaluate whether a panel of selected cytokines (interleukin [IL]-1 beta, IL-6, IL-8, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha [TNF alpha]) detectable in seminal plasma during male genital tract inflammation could be considered as mediators between altered semen parameters and changed levels of pro-oxidant and antioxidant substances.

Infertility in Poland--present status, reasons and prognosis as a reflection of Central and Eastern Europe problems with reproduction.

Poland has been considered a representative country for the population of Central and Eastern Europe as it has genetically homogenous population and reveals profound similarities in economical and historical processes common for all countries of the region. According to our observations there is approximately 20% of infertile couples in Poland (lack of concentration after at least 12 month of unprotected intercourse) and 40-60% of them are infertile because of the male factor. However, studies of infertility in Poland that have been conducted so far need to be verified.

[Pro- and antioxidant system activity in cervical mucosa].

The aim of the study was to evaluate the activity of the pro- and antioxidant systems in cervical mucus of healthy women and women with pathological of disorders cervical. After cervical mucus liquefaction, the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase and xanthine oxidase was determined by means of chemiluminescence assays. The activity of the antioxidant system in cervical mucus of healthy women was higher as compared to the group with pathological cervical disorders.