Measuring Free Radicals in Human Sperm Cells Related to Microbiota and Lifestyle Factors

Launched by UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER GRONINGEN · Aug 21, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the role of free radicals in male infertility, particularly how these unstable molecules may affect sperm quality. Free radicals are produced naturally in our bodies, but too many can cause damage, especially in sperm cells. The researchers will use a new technique called diamond magnetometry to measure the levels of free radicals directly in sperm and serum, which may help identify potential causes of infertility. Additionally, the study will explore whether the bacteria present in semen, known as microbiota, and lifestyle factors, like diet and habits, influence free radical levels and overall semen quality.

The trial is open to men aged 18 to 55 who are visiting the UMCG for a routine semen analysis as part of their fertility care. To participate, individuals must not have received chemotherapy or testosterone treatments, must not be azoospermic (meaning they produce no sperm), and should not have any signs of infection or be currently taking antibiotics. Participants can expect to undergo standard semen analysis along with the new testing methods, contributing to valuable research that may improve our understanding of male infertility and its potential treatments.

Gender

MALE

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Males of couples visiting the CRM at the UMCG between 18-55 years old.
• • Planned semen-analysis as standard care.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Males who receive(d) chemo- and/or radiotherapy, use(d) testosterone suppletion and/or anabolic steroids
• • Males who are azoospermic
• • Males who have an abnormal SA due to genetic causes.
• • Semen analysis with round cells \>2x106 /ml (as marker for infection)
• • Males who currently use antibiotics