Articles tagged with Sperm
Research shows that ambient temperature before conception influences offspring's brown adipose tissue activity and protection against excess weight and metabolic disorders. This epigenetic mechanism may explain why people in cold regions have higher levels of brown fat.
A study by the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona revealed that the ATR protein is essential for proper meiotic recombination and genetic material exchange in spermatocytes. Inhibiting this protein causes anomalies that block spermatogenesis, leading to a programmed cell death.
A randomized trial found that a 14-week nut-rich diet significantly improved sperm quality, including increased count, vitality, and motility. The study also showed a reduction in sperm DNA fragmentation, associated with better male fertility.
A large US clinical trial found that an antioxidant supplement taken daily by the male partner for three months made no difference to sperm concentration, motility, or morphology. The study also showed no significant differences in natural conception rates between the antioxidant and placebo groups.
Researchers found that fibroblast growth factor 2 (FGF2) promotes sperm production by expanding a subset of spermatogonial stem cells. FGF2 also acts on the testicular microenvironment to facilitate retinoic acid action, revealing its novel function in mouse testis.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University of the Negev have developed a cell culture system that can change testicular stem cells into sperm-like cells, potentially enabling future fertility for boys with prepubertal cancer. The study found that biologically active spermatogonial cells can develop in vitro to different stages of spermatogen...
A study at the University of Toledo identifies a new centriole in human sperm that functions in zygotes, potentially contributing to male infertility and early embryo developmental defects. The research provides new avenues for diagnostics and therapeutic strategies.
Researchers at Ben-Gurion University discovered that prolonged stress can lower sperm motility, affecting fertility. The study compared sperm samples from military conflict periods to unstressful periods, finding a significant difference.
A new study found that early life trauma in men is associated with lower levels of two specific sperm microRNAs, which can be transmitted to the next generation. The study suggests a possible link between childhood trauma and increased risk of stress-related disorders.
A new system has been designed to improve the quality of frozen horse sperm by using impermeable cryoprotectants that protect the external part of the cell. This method has been shown to be more effective than traditional permeable cryoprotectants, which can damage the sperm membrane and affect fertility.
Scientists documented dozens of dolphins and pilot whales, as well as rare Sowerby's beaked whales, endangered sperm whales, and giant ocean sunfish. The aerial survey revealed an incredible abundance of marine life in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument.
The CENTROBIN protein plays a positive role in flagellum development, while exerting negative effects on primary cilia formation. Its discovery reveals the multifunctional nature of this protein in distinct cell types.
A Japan-US research collaboration found that taurine absorption by sperm cells helps regulate osmotic stress during fertilization. The study, published in FEBS Journal, revealed that taurine deficiency leads to increased male infertility rates and altered sperm shape.
Environmental pollutants interfere with hormonal signalling mechanisms in males, causing multiple pathologies including infertility. Professor Daniel Cyr's research focuses on sperm maturation and the role of a cellular barrier in the epididymis.
A new compound called EP055 has been discovered to stop sperm temporarily without affecting hormones, offering a potential 'male pill' alternative. The study found that the compound significantly slowed sperm mobility, limiting fertilization capabilities.
Increasing tumor size relative to testis size is linked to reduced sperm production in men with testicular cancer. The rule of 50s suggests that men with a testis tumor occupying greater than 50% of their testis have less than a 50% chance of sperm production.
Researchers found that physical and mental exercise improves learning ability and reduces disease risk in mice, with the effect being passed on to the next generation through epigenetic inheritance. The study identified two microRNA molecules, miRNA212 and miRNA132, as responsible for this inherited learning capacity.
Researchers at James Cook University have successfully developed a sperm freezing technique for African wild dogs, allowing for genetic diversity to be introduced without disrupting pack hierarchy. The technique has the potential to assist outbreeding efforts and maximize population management.
A study published in BMC Evolutionary Biology found that rival sperm competition makes ant sperm better swimmers, increasing their mobility, speed, and straightness by up to 50%. Researchers discovered that seminal fluid from rival males and queen secretions enhance sperm motility, suggesting a self-non-self-recognition mechanism.
A study of 5,177 male partners of infertile couples found that low sperm counts are associated with metabolic alterations, cardiovascular risk, and low bone mass. Men with low sperm counts were more likely to have a bigger waistline, higher blood pressure, and lower HDL cholesterol.
A new study in mice found that prenatal exposure to di-(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP), a common endocrine disruptor, can lead to decreased fertility and reproductive abnormalities in males. The researchers discovered that even the offspring of male mice exposed to DEHP during pregnancy exhibited similar reproductive problems.
Researchers used a novel, multi-scale modeling method to demonstrate that tensegrity principles govern the spatial arrangement and physical forces experienced by components of living cells. This approach revealed how tensegrity-based changes in molecular shape drive cellular motion and generate tensional forces.
Researchers have identified a new structure inside human sperm tails, which is essential for swimming and fertilization. The spiral-shaped feature helps coordinate the movement of motorproteins that propel the sperm forward.
Researchers found that the offspring of elderly mouse-fathers had a shorter lifespan and featured exacerbation of histopathological and molecular aging traits. Epigenetic changes in paternal sperm and offspring were also observed, suggesting intergenerational influences on aging processes.
New research reveals that a father's stress alters his sperm, leading to changes in the brain development of his child. This finding provides insight into the crucial role fathers play in their offspring's brain development.
Researchers discover ebselen alleviates testicular symptoms and prevents sexual Zika transmission in mice. The antioxidant treatment also shows promise in preventing the virus's spread among humans.
A study found that obese men have higher levels of inflammatory markers in their seminal fluid and lower sperm quality, correlating with body mass index (BMI). Chronic inflammation in the male reproductive organs may explain the link between obesity and reduced fertility.
Researchers develop a new male birth control pill by modifying ouabain, an African plant-based heart-stopping poison. The derivative binds strongly to α4 protein in sperm cells, interfering with fertilization. The compound has shown no toxicity in rats and may offer reversible contraception.
Research reveals that MADS-box genes in moss control sperm motility and cell division, critical for fertilization. The findings suggest that these genes may have been reused by flowering plants to evolve new functions.
A new device, SPARTAN, uses an obstacle course to select the fastest and healthiest sperm cells for use in IVF treatment. The device can reduce IVF treatment cycles and potentially increase pregnancy rates by selecting sperm with excellent motility, normal morphology, and better DNA integrity.
Scientists have successfully packaged a cancer drug into sperm cells, which were then guided to cervical cancer cells using magnetic forces. The loaded sperm killed over 80% of the cancerous tumor with minimal payload loss.
Researchers discovered a pair of receptors crucial for plant fertilization, which work together with molecules to orchestrate the process. The study advances understanding of plant reproduction, revealing an intricate communication mechanism between male and female parts.
A Japanese research team developed a refrigeration preservation technology that extends mouse sperm freezing period from three days to 10 days. This breakthrough enables safe and easy transportation of genetically modified mice worldwide, accelerating international collaborative research.
A study by Wayne State University School of Medicine researchers found that sperm RNA elements can predict human health, potentially leading to improved fertility clinic predictions and better neonatal care outcomes. The discovery may also enable the development of preventive measures against diseases.
A University of Adelaide researcher tested a theory on the evolution of sexes in algae, finding that the classic Disruptive Selection Theory is supported. The study used data from various species of green algae and found that the ratio of larger gametes to smaller ones must be greater than three for males and females to evolve stably.
Research published in Occupational & Environmental Medicine found that air pollution is associated with poorer quality sperm. The study, which analyzed data from nearly 6,500 men in Taiwan, discovered a strong link between exposure to fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and abnormal sperm shape.
In a groundbreaking study, FSU Professor Don Levitan found that sperm from multiple males compete for fertilization, allowing eggs to choose their preferred mate. This discovery has significant implications for the evolution of reproductive compatibility and the creation of new species.
A recent study examined the impact of scheduling IVF procedures on weekends versus weekdays. The results showed that delays of two days or longer may be unfavorable in some treatments, but may not affect live-birth rates for most IVF/ICSI treatments receiving single-embryo transfer.
Don Ingber and Charles Reilly created a film that accurately depicts the fertilization of an egg by a sperm, revealing new insights into molecular-scale processes. The film's animation pipeline integrated physics-based software with molecular dynamics simulation to create a model that worked across all size scales.
A study found that mating induces sexual inhibition in female jumping spiders, causing them to reject subsequent male suitors. Females commonly store sperm from their first mating and can use it for the rest of their lives.
Scientists used animation techniques from 'Star Wars' to develop a new molecular modeling tool, yielding insights into sperm tail movement and protein motors. The project also tackled a fundamental challenge in science: modeling hierarchical cellular and molecular motions across various scales.
A study of 796 male volunteers found that shorter or longer sleep durations were associated with lower High DNA Stainability in sperm. Volunteers sleeping 6.5 hours or less had 30% lower DNA stainability compared to those sleeping 7-7.5 hours.
Scientists have achieved a breakthrough in dry preservation of mammalian sperm cells, allowing for the possibility of preserving feline reproductive cells and expanding conservation efforts. The new method uses rapid microwave dehydration, enabling minimal DNA damage and viability.
Researchers at Michigan State University have identified the PNLDC1 gene as a key player in regulating sperm production, providing a genetic foundation for male birth control. The study's findings suggest that silencing this gene can lead to infertility in mice, making it a promising approach for human male contraception.
Scientists have characterized the complex process of human sperm stem cell development, revealing four distinct cellular phases. The study's findings may lead to better tools for diagnosing and treating male infertility, as well as uncovering genetic changes underlying cancers associated with male infertility.
A study led by St. Jude Children's Research Hospital found that fertility preservation is associated with increased optimism about the future for survivors, but remains underutilized by at-risk patients with cancer. Meeting with a fertility specialist and parental recommendations are key factors in deciding to bank sperm.
A new Central Park fly species, Themira lohmanus, has been discovered and named after City College of New York entomologist Professor David Lohman. The insect's unique mating ritual involves unusual methods and appendages used by males to store sperm for the female's selection.
A potential Zika vaccine has shown to completely prevent infection, transmission from pregnant mothers to developing fetuses and protect males against testicular infection and injury. The vaccine also prevents a lowered sperm count after one vaccination.
A recent study published in Andrologia reveals that obesity is associated with lower semen volume, sperm count, and motility. The findings suggest that weight loss before conception may improve fertility outcomes for couples seeking infertility treatment.
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center have identified Polycomb Repressive Complex 1 (PRC1) as a key molecular switch that activates healthy sperm production in males. The study reveals that PRC1 sheds reproductive germline gene components, allowing fertile sperm to develop when the time is right.
Researchers at Boston University School of Medicine have identified a new lung cell type implicated in innate immune defense against Streptococcus pneumoniae, one of the leading causes of pneumonia worldwide. The discovery may lead to new therapeutic strategies for combating this pathogen.
A QUT world-first study found that informal sperm donors are motivated by factors such as family, friends, and personal characteristics, with little impact from perceived risks. Donors who have previously used clinical settings also tend to donate more and generate more offspring in the informal market.
A new study from UMass Amherst suggests that phthalate levels in expectant fathers can impact couples' reproductive success through epigenetic modifications of sperm DNA. The researchers found associations between certain phthalates and changes in sperm DNA methylation, which may influence early-life development.
A meta-analysis of studies found frequent sperm aberrations and lower fertility rates among men after undergoing Roux-en-Y gastric bypass procedures. Researchers identified elevated estrogen hormone levels and deficient vitamin D as potential factors contributing to semen abnormalities and reduced fertility.
A study by Case Western Reserve University researchers has identified long non-coding RNAs that play a critical role in orchestrating sperm development. The lncRNAs help regulate various stages of sperm development and are found exclusively in the testes, suggesting they could be used to develop novel infertility drugs.
Scientists have created healthy offspring from genetically infertile male mice using a new technique that removes the extra sex chromosome. The approach has potential for treating human infertility caused by Klinefelter syndrome and Double Y syndrome.
Researchers Fei Zhao and colleagues discovered a hormone-sensing nuclear receptor that contributes to Wolffian duct degeneration in females. The finding challenges the long-held assumption that androgens are essential for Wolffian duct retention, suggesting alternative mechanisms may be at play.
A UTSA professor has received a $1.5 million grant to study spermatogonial stem cells in a cutting-edge way. The goal is to understand how these cells form and support sperm production, leading to earlier diagnoses and more effective treatments for male infertility.
Two types of testicular macrophages have been identified, one found in interstitial spaces and another on the surface of seminiferous tubules. These macrophages prevent other immune system agents from entering the testes by releasing specific molecules.
Researchers have discovered a new biomarker associated with mucopolysaccharidoses (MPS), a group of rare genetic disorders. Elevated CSF spermine levels were linked to CNS symptoms in patients, providing a potential diagnostic tool and target for novel therapeutics.