Melatonin as a potential tool against oxidative damage and apoptosis in ejaculated human spermatozoa

Fertil Steril. 2010 Oct;94(5):1915-7. doi: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.12.082. Epub 2010 Feb 12.

Abstract

It is assumed somatic cells can die in the apoptotic, the autophagic, or the necrotic way; however, the mechanisms of sperm death are not clear. Here, ejaculated human spermatozoa were evaluated for apoptosis and reactive oxygen species production in the absence or presence of melatonin, and we concluded that melatonin reverses sperm apoptosis due to its free radical scavenging actions.

Publication types

  • Clinical Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Apoptosis / drug effects*
  • Caspase 3 / metabolism
  • Caspase 9 / metabolism
  • Ejaculation
  • Free Radical Scavengers / pharmacology
  • Humans
  • Hydrogen Peroxide / pharmacology
  • Male
  • Melatonin / pharmacology*
  • Oxidative Stress / drug effects*
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism
  • Spermatozoa / drug effects*
  • Spermatozoa / metabolism
  • Spermatozoa / pathology

Substances

  • Free Radical Scavengers
  • Reactive Oxygen Species
  • Hydrogen Peroxide
  • Caspase 3
  • Caspase 9
  • Melatonin