Integrated Impact of Thyroid Homeostasis and Growth Factor Signaling on Seminal Quality and Sperm DNA Integrity: A Comprehensive Study

Background: Male infertility is a complex global challenge influenced by systemic endocrine regulation and local cellular signaling. This study investigates the integrated impact of Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH) levels and localized growth factors on sperm parameters and DNA integrity. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, semen and blood samples from ۵۰۰ male patients at Nobel Medical Laboratory (Isfahan) were evaluated. Semen analysis was conducted according to WHO ۲۰۲۱ standards. Serum TSH was measured via chemiluminescence, and Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) was quantified using flow cytometry. The role of local signaling factors, such as Insulin-like Growth Factor ۲ (IGF۲), was synthesized into the analytical framework. Results: Findings revealed a significant negative correlation between elevated TSH levels (subclinical hypothyroidism) and sperm progressive motility (P < ۰.۰۵). Furthermore, subjects with TSH > ۴.۵ mIU/L exhibited significantly higher rates of SDF, indicating increased oxidative stress. The analysis suggests that thyroid dysregulation disrupts local microenvironments by altering the expression of growth factors like IGF۲, leading to impaired spermatogenesis. Conclusion: The synergy between the HPT axis and local growth factor signaling is vital for maintaining sperm genetic stability. Routine TSH screening should be an essential part of male fertility evaluations to promote better reproductive outcomes and lifestyle-based health interventions.

کلیدواژه ها:

TSH ، Male Infertility ، Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF) ، IGF۲ ، Oxidative Stress ، Health Promotion