P-11: Differential Expression of mRNA Aromatase in Ejaculated Spermatozoa from Infertile Men in Relation to either Asthenozoospermia or Teratozoospermia

Background Estrogens biosynthesis in ejaculated spermatozoa is an autonomous process that may influence sperm functions. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the expression of aromatase, sperm quality and seminal neutral α–glucosidase marker in semen of Tunisian infertile men. MaterialsAndMethods Fifty seven men were investigated: they were composed of two groups: normospermic (n=18) and infertile men divided into : asthenozoospermia (n=16), teratozoospermia (n=12) and asthenoteratozoospermia (n=11). All the patients underwent semen analysis and measurements of neutral-alpha glucosidase. The aromatase mRNA levels transcription was estimated by Real time PCR. Results Aromatase mRNA levels were reduced in groups T (52%) and AT (67%) compared to control one and inversely correlated with the percentage of normal forms. A higher coefficient of correlation was noted in presence of microcephaly or acrosome malformations (r=-0.64). Asthenozoospermic group was divided in two subgroups according to the relative amount of aromatase. The subgroup (A2) with higher aromatase transcript level was associated with an increased seminal pH, a decreased sperm viability, low sperm percentage motility and low neutral α–glucosidase semen levels. Conclusion Our data highlights the involvement of aromatase in motility and morphology of spermatozoa. Thus, this enzyme could bring new insights about quality and fertilizing capacity of human spermatozoa.