The Role of Oxidative Stress in Male Infertility: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Approaches

Male infertility represents a complex and multifactorial global health challenge, affecting millions of couples worldwide. Among the various etiological factors, oxidative stress (OS) has gained prominence as a pivotal contributor to male reproductive dysfunction. OS results from an imbalance between the generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and the capacity of endogenous antioxidant defenses to neutralize them. Excessive ROS can induce detrimental effects on spermatozoa, including DNA fragmentation, lipid peroxidation of the sperm membrane, and protein modifications, thereby compromising sperm motility, viability, and fertilization potential. The molecular mechanisms underlying OS-induced sperm damage involve mitochondrial dysfunction, triggering of apoptotic pathways, and disruption of cellular homeostasis. This review comprehensively synthesizes current knowledge about OS-mediated damage mechanisms and their implications for male fertility. We also critically evaluate therapeutic approaches aimed at counteracting OS, focusing on antioxidant supplementation with agents such as vitamin E, coenzyme Q۱۰, and carnitine, alongside supportive lifestyle changes like smoking cessation and dietary modifications. Emerging evidence from clinical trials suggests that tailored antioxidant regimens may lead to significant improvements in sperm parameters and pregnancy rates. However, variability in study designs and patient populations underscores the need for standardized treatment protocols and further robust clinical investigations. Targeting OS offers a promising avenue for enhancing male fertility outcomes, reinforcing the importance of personalized medicine in reproductive health management.

کلیدواژه ها:

Oxidative Stress ، Male Infertility ، Reactive Oxygen Species ، Antioxidant Therapy