Evaluation of the aquaporin molecules characterization in the sperm cells of men from different aged

TL;DR

This study examines how aquaporin molecules in sperm cells change with age and may contribute to male infertility.

Contribution

The novel contribution is the characterization of aquaporin-3, -7, and -8 expression in sperm cells across different age groups.

Findings

Aquaporin-3 immunostaining increased with age, being lowest in the youngest group.

Aquaporin-8 showed increased expression in the 26–35 age group.

Aquaporin-7 was most densely expressed in the youngest group and showed no inter-group differences.

Abstract

Male infertility rises for many reasons, along with age; therefore, we aimed to research the characterization of aquaporin-3, 7, and 8 in human sperm belonging to different age groups.

This study was conducted on sperm samples of men aged over 18 years. A total of 60 men were included in the study and divided into three age groups: group 1, age 18–25 years (n = 20); group 2, age 26–35 years (n = 20); and group 3, age ≥35 years (n = 20). Sperm ejaculates obtained from each participant were used for spermiogram tests, Kruger strict morphology analysis, and immunohistochemistry.

We observed no statistically significant differences in terms of macroscopic and microscopic sperm testing. The immunostaining score of aquaporin-3 was the lowest in group 1 and increased in group 3 and group 2, respectively (p < 0.05). Aquaporin-8 immunostaining only increased in group 2 (p < 0.05). Aquaporin-7 immunostaining scores were not different between the groups (p > 0.05). When the immunostaining scores of aquaporin molecules were compared with each other, aquaporin-7 was significantly increased compared with the others (p < 0.05).

According to the results, it can be stated that aquaporin-3 and aquaporin-8 molecules were more expressed at age 26 to 35 years, and aquaporin-7 was densely expressed from age 18 to 25 years. If the characterization of these molecules is adversely affected, male infertility may eventually emerge. We recommend further advanced-level studies on this subject.

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