Determination of Electrolytes and Trace Elements in Biological Samples from Patients with Altered Semen Parameters: a Correlational Analysis

Abstract

AbstractThe effects of important nutrients such as calcium (Ca), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), selenium (Se), and zinc (Zn) have been investigated in relation to male fertility due to their roles in proper spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, motility, and optimal sperm function. An imbalance between these elements has been associated with several pathologic conditions and male reproductive issues. The purpose of this study was to determine the essential trace and electrolytes elements, such as Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Se, and Zn, in human biological samples (blood, serum, and semen) from patients with male infertility. This study used correlational analysis to determine the potential associations between these elements and male fertility. Imbalances in these elements have been linked to various pathological conditions and male reproductive issues. One hundred eighty referent male adults and two hundred twenty-nine patients diagnosed with subtypes of infertility were included in the study, divided into two age groups. Acid digestion was controlled using a microwave oven, and the essential trace elements and electrolytes in the oxidized biological samples were determined using atomic absorption spectrometry. Certified reference materials of blood and serum were used to validate the accuracy of the methodology. The results showed that the concentrations of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Se, and Zn in the blood, serum, and seminal plasma of male adults in all age groups were higher than those in patients with different infertility phenotypes. Essential element deficiency in all biological fluid samples may significantly negatively affect human reproductive health and lead to male infertility. Through a multidimensional approach, our study sought to unravel the intricate biochemical signatures associated with OAT, providing insights that may shape the landscape of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for male reproductive health.