Effect of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons Exposure on Sperm DNA in Idiopathic Male Infertility

BACKGROUND. Biological mechanisms contribute to the relationship between polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) exposure and infertility in males by altering semen quality. OBJECTIVES. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of PAHs on male infertility using the sperm chromatin dispersion test (Halo sperm assay). METHODS. Sixty-six (66) infertile males under 45 years of age were examined for the determination of urinary metabolite and oxidative stress by measuring lipid peroxidation and antioxidant activity of glutathione and glutathione-s-transferase, as well as hormonal activity of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), testosterone and prolactin and semen quality. RESULTS. There was an increased level of urinary metabolite of 1-hydroxy pyrene, 1-hydroxy naphthalene and 2-hydroxy naphthalene in the urine of the infertile group. In addition, elevated concentrations of malondialdehyde coincided with a decreased level of antioxidants, leading to oxidative stress in the infertile group. Semen samples showed 30% sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) fragmentation. CONCLUSIONS. The data provide strong evidence of a statistical threshold for semen samples containing 30% sperm DNA fragmentation resulting in a reduced level of pregnancy success. PARTICIPANT CONSENT. Obtained ETHICS APPROVAL. Study approval was given by the ethics committee of Alexandria University (United States Department of Health and Human Services, institutional review board registration (IRB), IORG0008812 Medical Research Institute, expires 4/8/2019, OMB No: 0990-0279). COMPETING INTERESTS. The authors declare no competing financial interests.