Understanding seminal plasma in male infertility: emerging markers and their implications

Abstract

Infertility affects a significant proportion of the reproductive‐aged population, with male‐associated factors contributing to over half of the cases. However, current diagnostic tools have limitations, leading to an underestimation of the true prevalence of male infertility. While traditional semen parameters provide some insights, they fail to determine the true fertility potential in a substantial number of instances. Therefore, it is crucial to investigate additional molecular targets responsible for male infertility to improve understanding and identification of such cases. Seminal plasma, the main carrier of molecules derived from male reproductive glands, plays a crucial role in reproduction. Amongst its multifarious functions, it regulates processes such as sperm capacitation, sperm protection and maturation, and even interaction with the egg's zona pellucida. Seminal plasma offers a non‐invasive sample for urogenital diagnostics and has shown promise in identifying biomarkers associated with male reproductive disorders. This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive overview of seminal plasma in the diagnosis of male infertility, exploring its composition, function, methods used for analysis, and the application of emerging markers. Apart from the application, the potential challenges of seminal plasma analysis such as standardisation, marker interpretation and confounding factors have also been addressed. Moreover, we have also explored future avenues for enhancing its utility and its role in improving diagnostic strategies. Through comprehensive exploration of seminal plasma's diagnostic potential, the present analysis seeks to advance the understanding of male infertility and its effective management.

Effects of reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction on reproductive aging

“…In order to cope with the risk of high OS, sperm have developed a unique oxidative defense mechanism to maintain low levels of ROS within their internal environment (Guerriero et al, 2014;O'flaherty, 2019). Besides providing a liquid environment for sperms, seminal plasma serves as a source of numerous nutrients and protective substances that modulate sperm capacitation and gamete interaction (Vashisht and Gahlay, 2023). Among multitudinous substances, antioxidant system is highprofile for their roles involved in the process (Yin et al, 2023).…”

Integrative Assessment of Seminal Plasma Biomarkers: A Narrative Review Bridging the Gap between Infertility Research and Clinical Practice

“…To produce semen, glands in the male urogenital tract secrete a fluid known as SP. It comprises lipids, glycans, inorganic ions, small molecule metabolites, and biopolymers such as cell-free DNA, RNA, microRNAs, peptides, proteins, and oligosaccharides [ 1 ]. Zinc and selenium are essential building blocks of antioxidant enzymes crucial for proper spermatogenesis.…”

“…Zinc and selenium are essential building blocks of antioxidant enzymes crucial for proper spermatogenesis. The seminal vesicles contribute the majority of the molecules found in SP [ 1 ]. Additionally, the prostate releases a fluid that contains lipids, citrate, and proteolytic enzymes to control sperm maturation, semen liquefaction, and motility [ 2 ].…”

“…Investigating the physiology of humans and seminal plasma (SP) biomarkers has emerged as a crucial area of research, providing insight into the intricate relationships among male reproductive health, fertility outcomes, and overall wellbeing [ 1 ]. Seminal plasma, a complex fluid containing a diverse array of proteins, lipids, hormones, and other bioactive compounds, is a vital medium that supports and controls several elements of the male reproductive process.…”

Correlation between seminal plasma biochemical markers and semen parameters in idiopathic oligoasthenoteratospermia: identification of biomarkers for L-carnitine therapy

“…illustrated dynamic interactions among different components of semen quality measurements and seminal plasma biochemical markers ( 12 ). In clinical settings, seminal plasma biochemical markers are frequently employed to evaluate the functional status of the epididymis and other accessory glands ( 13 ). However, the variability in detection methods and the broad spectrum of reference values may result in the inaccurate interpretation of the clinically significant reference values for these markers ( 14 , 15 ).…”