Effects of Silver Nanoparticles on Sperm Parameters, Serum and Seminal plasma Reactive Oxygen Species

Due to the role of silver nanoparticles on elevation of reactive oxygen species، and high sensitivity of spermatozoa to these agents، it is possible that silver nanoparticles reduce the fertility potential of spermatozoa. The aim of present study was to evaluate the effects of silver nanoparticles on sperm parameters and the concentration of reactive oxygen species in mouse serum and seminal fluid. In this experimental study، 24 adult male Syrian mice were divided into a control and three experimental groups. The experimental groups received silver nanoparticles orally at different doses (0. 05، 0. 1 and 0. 2 ml orally) for 5 weeks. Then blood samples were taken from hearts to examine the Malondialdehyde (MDA) concentration by spectrophotometry. In addition، to analyze the sperm parameter cauda epididymis was dissected and swim-out spermatozoa were analyzed. The 3rd experimental group (highest dose) significantly showed the lowest mean of sperm count (16±2. 6)، the lowest percentage of rapid progressive motile spermatozoa (18. 16±5. 45)، the highest rates of abnormal spermatozoa (35. 83±4. 4) and the highest concentrations of MDA in serum and seminal plasma compared to the control and other experimental groups. The silver nanoparticles as a factor which increase the effects of free radicals and reactive oxygen species in serum and seminal fluid caused reduction of sperm parameters.