# Seminal F2-IsoP and RvD1 Levels in Idiopathic Infertile Men

## TL;DR

This study explores oxidative stress in idiopathic male infertility by measuring F2-IsoP and RvD1 levels in semen, finding differences in sperm motility and chemical localization between groups.

## Contribution

The study introduces a potential diagnostic approach for idiopathic infertility by evaluating oxidative stress markers in seminal plasma.

## Key findings

- Higher F2-IsoP levels correlated with reduced sperm motility in idiopathic infertile men.
- Group 2 patients showed significantly higher F2-IsoP and RvD1 levels compared to Group 1.
- Immunofluorescence revealed distinct 8-IsoProstaglandin F2α localization patterns in sperm between the two groups.

## Abstract

A significant percentage of male infertility is classified as idiopathic infertility, defined as abnormality in at least one semen parameter, with no previous history of diseases affecting fertility. In this paper, we investigated whether the presence of oxidative stress might be involved in idiopathic infertility. Oxidative stress is strongly associated with inflammatory processes, creating a self-reinforcing cycle that impairs sperm parameters and, consequently, male fertility. In the context of oxidative stress and inflammation, F2-Isoprostane (F2-IsoP), a prostaglandin-like compound produced from non-enzymatic peroxidation of arachidonic acid, and resolvin D1 (RvD1), a resolvin that functions as a lipid mediator in the resolution of inflammation, were assessed in semen. The main results obtained in this study indicate reduced progressive sperm motility in patients defined as idiopathic infertile with higher levels of F2-IsoPs and RvD1. For these reasons, more advanced tests are needed to accurately diagnose male infertility by evaluating the environment provided by the seminal plasma. In particular, in idiopathic infertile patients with reduced motility, it is likely that infertility may be associated with OS, which is worth investigating.

30 percent of infertile men are diagnosed with idiopathic infertility. This study aimed to assess oxidative stress in the semen of 77 patients with idiopathic infertility by measuring F2-isoprostane (F2-IsoP), resolvin D1 (RvD1) levels, and semen parameters. The presence and localization of 8-IsoProstaglandin F2α were determined using immunofluorescence. No significant correlations were observed for F2-IsoP and RvD1 levels with the semen variables. Based on F2-IsoP levels, individuals were classified into two groups: Group 1 (F2-IsoPs ≤ 29.96 ng/mL, 51%) and Group 2 (F2-IsoPs > 29.96 ng/mL, 49%). In comparison to Group 1, Group 2 showed significantly higher F2-IsoP levels (13.33 ng/mL vs. 44.80 ng/mL; p < 0.05), a lower progressive motility percentage (30% vs. 25%; p < 0.05), and increased RvD1 levels (36.09% vs. 44.94%). Immunofluorescence analysis revealed a different localization of 8-IsoProstaglandin F2α in the ejaculated sperm of Group 1 compared to that observed in Group 2. A weak signal was detected in the sperm tail (Group 1, 79.1% vs. Group 2, 36.9; p < 0.01). In spermatozoa of Group 2 patients, a strong signal in the acrosome, midpiece, and tail was highlighted. These findings suggest the need to test oxidative stress during routine semen analysis in patients with idiopathic infertility to improve diagnosis and treatment.