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Journal Article Review Ppublish 1 citation

PubMed: 39028130 DOI: 10.5534/wjmh.240072

Adverse Effects of Nicotine on Human Sperm Nuclear Proteins.

World J Mens Health 43(2):291-303

Authors: Amir Masoud Firouzabadi, Ralf Henkel, Maryam Tofighi Niaki, Farzaneh Fesahat

Affiliations

  • Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
  • Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.
  • LogixX Pharma Ltd. Berkshire, UK.
  • Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London, UK.
  • Health Reproductive Research Center, Sari Branch, Islamic Azad University, Sari, Iran.
  • Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.

Abstract

The effects of smoking on human health have long been documented. However, only a few studies have highlighted the direct effects of nicotine on sperm function. Nicotine, as a chemical compound found in tobacco, has been shown to modulate different aspects of spermatogenesis and sperm functions. Nicotine can lead to a reduction in the number of sperm, their motility and functionality. It can change the molecular expressions involved in sperm function, including genes encoding sperm nuclear proteins. The most important nuclear proteins that play a critical role in sperm function are known as H2B histone family, member W, testis-specific (H2BFWT), transition protein 1 (TNP1), transition protein 2 (TNP2), protamine-1 (PRM1), and protamine-2 (PRM2). These proteins are involved in sperm chromatin condensation, which in turn affects fertilization and embryonic development. Any alteration in the expression of these genes due to nicotine exposure/usage may lead to adverse implications in couples' fertility and the health of future generations. Since research in this area is still relatively new, it underscores the importance of understanding the potential side effects of environmental factors such as nicotine on reproductive health.

MeSH

Protamines, Genes, Nuclear Proteins, Nicotine, Spermatozoa

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