Climate change may seriously damage sperm!

Climate change could pose a threat to sperm and male fertility, according to a new scientific study which found that occasional heatwaves damage insect sperm, which negatively affects their fertility to the point of sterilization.

This, according to scientists, may explain in general why climate change has over time led to a decline in the population of various species in nature. "We know that biodiversity is affected by climate change, but it is difficult to explain the exact causes. Our new study shows that sperm is particularly sensitive to increased temperatures," said Professor Matt Cage of the University of East Anglia. The research team of Dr. Cage, who published in the journal Nature Communications, mentioned that extreme events such as heatwaves are becoming more frequent, intense, and widespread, causing local species extinction. One explanation for this may be the quality of sperm. "The researchers studied beetles exposed in the laboratory to conditions similar to those of a heatwave. It was found that there was a decrease in the quantity and quality of sperm of male insects, as well as a reduction of 50% to 75% of the number of offspring. In addition, the sexual disposition of male beetles decreased, given the fact that they mated half as often as they did at normal temperatures. In contrast, female beetles were not affected by the increased temperature.

When male beetles were exposed to two successive heatwaves with an interval of ten days, their offspring production was less than 1% compared to insects living at normal temperatures. Also, offspring born from male beetles that had previously been exposed to heatwaves presented lower life expectancy. The reproductive ability of the "sons" who came from "dads" who had gone through heatwaves was also problematic, as the offspring found it difficult to fertilize female beetles.

At Diagnostiki Athinon, the total antioxidant capacity of sperm can be measured, an extremely important test that allows us to give answers if the sperm exhibits oxidative stress that has been associated with idiopathic male infertility. Climate change may be one of the causes of oxidative stress. Book your appointment today at 210-7777654.