Levels of Interferon α and γ in Seminal Plasma of Normozoospermic, Oligozoospermic, and Azoospermic Men

Abstract

The functions of the interferons in the testis are unclear. We investigated the role of interferon α and γ in the seminal plasma on spermatogenesis. The levels of interferon a and γ were determined in the seminal plasma of 101 males including normozoospermic (n= 31), oligozoospermic (n= 57) and azoospermic men (n= 13). The correlation between such levels and clinical parameter (seminogram and serum hormone levels) was evaluated. The seminal plasma level of interferon α (92.0 + 110.3 ng/mL) in the normozoospermic men was significantly lower than that of oligozoospermic men (162.4 ± 130.3 ng/mL) (p<. 05). The three groups (normozoospermic, oligozoospermic, and azoospermic group) did not differ as to the level of interferon γ. No significant correlations were observed between the levels of interferon α or γ in seminal plasma and the serum levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, prolactin, or estradiol. Theses results suggest that the level of interferon a in the seminal plasma may be related to sperm production.

Key Words:

• interferon α
• interferon γ
• male infertility
• seminal plasma