The Effect of Vitamin E and Selenium on Sperm Chromatin Quality in Couples with Recurrent Miscarriage

Background and Aims: Due to the paucity of studies, association between the morphology and function of sperm and recurrent miscarriage (RM) is not yet completely known. Increased reactive oxygen species and decreased antioxidant levels in men have been shown to be associated with RM. Recently it has been accepted that antioxidant therapy can approve sperm parameters. The goal of this study was to evaluate the effect of paternal factor and antioxidant therapy on sperm parameters in the couples with RM. Materials and Methods: Sixty ejaculate samples with RM patients were analyzed before and after 3 months of vitamin E and selenium therapy. Sperm chromatin assay was assessed by cytochemical tests including aniline blue, chromomycin A3, and toluidine blue. To measure DNA fragmentation index, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) test was used. Data were analyzed by SPSS software. Results: Patients had significantly higher percentage of sperm parameters (p < 0.001) compared to the time before treatment. TUNEL positive spermatozoa were decreased in post treatment compared to pre-treatment phase (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that antioxidants can improve sperm parameters and chromatin condensation in recurrent miscarriage male partner.