Effect of Escherichia coli and its soluble factors on mitochondrial membrane potential, phosphatidylserine translocation, viability, and motility of human spermatozoa.
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the effect of Escherichia coli and its soluble factors on the viability and function of human spermatozoa.


METHODS
In this prospective study, after removal of seminal plasma, the sperm suspension was incubated in vitro with E. coli or with supernatant from E. coli culture.


METHODS
Andrology laboratory in a medical research institution.


METHODS
Semen was obtained from normozoospermic men.


METHODS
Semen samples were evaluated to determine the effect of E. coli and its soluble factors on sperm viability, motility, mitochondrial membrane potential (DeltaPsim), phosphatidylserine translocation, and reactive oxygen species generation.


METHODS
To verify the effect of E. coli and its soluble factors on sperm function.


RESULTS
After incubation with E. coli, the percentage of sperm with intact DeltaPsim decreased significantly, as did sperm viability and motility. Reactive oxygen species levels and phosphatidylserine translocation did not increase significantly. After sperm incubation with E. coli supernatant, a significant reduction in DeltaPsim, viability, and motility were also observed.


CONCLUSIONS
Escherichia coli and its soluble factors affect sperm function, suggesting that the harmful effects of bacterial infection do not require that the spermatozoon come into direct contact with bacteria.
Schulz
Mabel
M
Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.
Sánchez
Raúl
R
Soto
Lilian
L
Risopatrón
Jennie
J
Villegas
Juana
J