Protective effect of zinc oxide nanoparticles on sperm parameters after freezing

Abstract

Aims: Sperm freezing is most usable of method for the protection of reproductive performance in men who undergo gonadotoxic therapy such as chemotherapy or radiation treatment, or for the treatment of diseases such as infertility, autoimmune diseases and/or diabetes. Zinc oxide (ZnO) nanoparticle has potent anticancer and antioxidant effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the protective effects of various concentrations of this nanoparticle on sperm freezing. Methods: sixteen semen samples of normal human referred to Royan Center, were evaluated in 8 Fresh and Freeze and control groups. Groups included: Three fresh experimental groups were only exposed to ZnO nanoparticle with concentrations of 40, 80 and 100 ppm and were analyzed half an hour later. Three freezing experimental groups were frozen after included concentrations of ZnO nanoparticle and thawed and analyzed half an hour later. Two control groups including control 1: were analyzed half an hour after exposure in culture and control 2: half an hour after freezing were thawed and analyzed. Count, morphology, motility, viability and PH of sperm were evaluated. Findings: The results showed that 100 ppm concentration of ZnO nanoparticle had the best protective effect on sperm pH, survival, and motility in freezing process. Conclusion: ZnO nanoparticle at a concentration of 100 ppm can maintain pH, motility and survival of sperm in the freezing process.