Novel Morphological Findings of Human Sperm Removal by Leukocytes in In Vivo and In Vitro Conditions: Preliminary Study

作者：Piasecka Malgorzata^*; Fraczek Monika; Gaczarzewicz Dariusz; Gill Kamil; Szumala Kakol Anna; Kazienko Anna; Laszczynska Maria; Lenart Stanislaw; Beutin Lothar; Kurpisz Maciej

来源：American Journal of Reproductive Immunology, 2014, 72(4): 348-358.

DOI：10.1111/aji.12284

• Escherichia coli
• extracellular traps
• leukocytospermia
• sperm phagocytosis

Problem
Biological significance of increased number of leukocytes in ejaculate remains a subject of controversy. The aim of this research was to describe the morphological characteristics of the sperm elimination by leukocytes in in vivo and in vitro conditions using natural stimulator of the immune systemuropathogenic Escherichia coli, O75:HNT, isolated from semen.
Method of studyThe study was performed on ejaculated spermatozoa from normozoospermic men with leukocytospermia (n=10, in vivo experiment) or without leukocytospermia (n=15, in vitro experiment). Morphological observations were performed using light and scanning electron microscopy.
ResultsSperm removal by active leukocytes mediated by traditional phagocytosis and generation of extracellular traps were observed in in vivo and in vitro experiments.
ConclusionOur morphological data suggest that human germ cells activate leukocytes triggering both traditional phagocytosis and a novel trapping mechanism, followed by extensive sperm elimination.

• 出版日期2014-10