Abstract

REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES AND FERTILITY IN MALE

Z. N. Kashmiri*

ABSTRACT

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) is a phrase used to describe a number of reactive molecules and free radicals derived from molecular oxygen or are highly reactive oxidizing agents belonging to the class of free radicals. Male fertility dependent on the proper production of sperm cells i.e. the process of spermatogenesis which is a very complex and involves the management of several factors. Disorders ranging from hormonal disturbances to physical problems, to psychological abnormality have been implicated in male infertility. Adequate amount of ROS is required to acquire fertilizing capacities in male but higher ROS levels damages a variety of biomolecules such as lipids, amino acids, carbohydrates, protein and DNA and causes apoptosis in sperm, lso adversely affect the sperm function leading to infertility in men. This article reviewed the role of ROS in male fertility.

Keywords: Reactive oxygen species, free radicals, fertility, infertility, spermatogenesis.