What type of study is this?

This is a Literature Review study.

August 25, 2025Open Access

Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants, Gut Microbiota and Male Fertility

Key Points

Oxidative stress significantly impacts male infertility, leading to compromised sperm quality and DNA issues.
Findings indicate that reactive oxygen species contribute to sperm DNA fragmentation, affecting reproductive health.
The review utilizes an extensive literature search across major databases to consolidate current knowledge on the topic.
Integrating dietary changes and antioxidants with gut microbiota modulation may enhance male fertility outcomes.

Abstract

It is imperative to comprehend the multifactorial causes of male infertility and to identify effective treatment methods, to enhance male reproductive health, and to develop more personalised and effective therapeutic interventions. This review discusses the multifactorial aspects contributing to male infertility, focusing on oxidative stress (OS), sperm quality, gut microbiota, and the potential role of adaptogens. A comprehensive literature search was conducted across several major databases, including the Cochrane Library, Medline, Embase, SciSearch, PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Google Scholar. The findings from the studies included in the databases highlight the significant role of oxidative stress in male infertility, with reactive oxygen species (ROS) contributing to sperm DNA fragmentation and impairment of spermatogenesis. The review further elucidates the influence of both endogenous and exogenous sources of ROS, including lifestyle factors and environmental exposures, on male reproductive health. Emerging research also highlights the involvement of key molecular pathways, such as Nrf2, AMPK/PGC-1α, and NF-κB, in regulating OS within the male reproductive system. Additionally, the review outlines the relationship between endothelial dysfunction, cardiovascular health, and male infertility, identifying OS as a common underlying factor. In addition to the OS, the gut microbiota has been identified as a pivotal factor in male fertility, influencing inflammation and hormonal regulation. This review underscores the potential merits of a synergistic strategy that integrates dietary interventions, antioxidants, gut microbiota modulation, and adaptogens to enhance fertility outcomes. Adaptogens, recognised for their capacity to assist the body in coping with stress and re-establishing equilibrium, may confer protective effects against OS and improve reproductive health. The review under discussion emphasises the importance of a holistic approach to male infertility, integrating molecular, clinical, and lifestyle factors to optimise reproductive health.

Oxidative Stress, Antioxidants, Gut Microbiota and Male Fertility

Key Points

Abstract

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