Impact of SARS-CoV-2 on the male reproductive tract: insights from semen analysis and cryopreservation.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), the virus behind the COVID-19 pandemic, affects multiple organs, including the male reproductive system. While viral infections can harm male fertility through cytokine storms, the effects of SARS-CoV-2 on fertility are still unclear. Thus, this study aimed to examine the persistence of viral RNA and inflammatory responses in semen following SARS-CoV-2 infection and the safety of conventional freezing and vitrification techniques.

Methods

Semen samples from 20 patients were collected 3 months post-SARS-CoV-2 infection. Samples underwent freezing and vitrification. Molecular and cellular analysis separated seminal plasma and pellets. Flow cytometry characterized immune cells. Viral RNA was extracted from pl

SUBMITTER: Giugliano S 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11871218 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature