Telomere Length and Mitochondrial Copy Number as Potential Biomarkers for Male Infertility in Iraqi Men.

ABSTRACT: Background/Objectives: Male infertility is one of the major problems in Iraqi health and society; it is caused by several factors, such as acquired, environmental, and genetic factors. Awareness of the crucial role of telomeres and mitochondria in sperm production and fertility has increased in recent years. This study aimed to evaluate the association between mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and telomere length in sperm and the degree of infertility in Iraqi males. Methods: Of the 200 study participants, 50 were healthy controls and 150 were infertile. Sperm count, motility, and morphology were assessed by collecting and analyzing semen samples. After DNA extraction, the mitochondrial ND1 gene and the reference nuclear gene GAPDH were analyzed by quantitative PCR (qPCR)

SUBMITTER: Kadhim MF 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12733125 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature