The Administration of the Secretome from Mesenchymal Stem Cells Derived from the Umbilical Cord into the Medium used for Sperm Preparation

Abstract

This study investigates the potential of the secretome of mesenchymal stem cells produced from the umbilical cord (UC-MSCs), which are renowned for their ability to prevent damage caused by oxidation, to improve the quality of sperm.   Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) is an essential antioxidant enzyme present in UC-MSCs that neutralizes reactive oxygen species (ROS).   Our objective is to examine the influence of UC-MSCs secretome, which includes SOD, on spermatozoa. This research has the potential to significantly transform strategies for enhancing sperm quality. Methods: Thirty couples with primary male infertility (asthenozoospermia) and a good DNA fragmentation index (DFI) participated in the study.   The semen samples were subjected to differential gradient centrifugation (DGC) to prepare the sperm. This was followed by the addition of secretome in a 1:1 ratio and incubated for 30 minutes.   Before and after the incubation, the sperm concentration, velocity, and DNA fragmentation index (DFI) were evaluated.   The growth factors in the secretome of UC-MSCs were examined using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).   The application of secretome therapy in a 1:1 ratio resulted in a substantial enhancement in both sperm concentration and velocity.   The treatment group had a significant decrease in DFI in comparison to the control group.   Nevertheless, the experimental group exhibited a substantial decrease in SOD levels, suggesting a decline in antioxidant capacity.   The decline in levels of Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) indicates a reduction in the ability to counteract harmful free radicals, which may lead to increased oxidative stress in sperm cells and ultimately result in male infertility. Additional research is essential to comprehend the consequences and mechanisms underlying this decrease and investigate its therapeutic possibilities.  Results: The addition of UC-MSCs secretome to the sperm preparation media improves sperm quality by reducing DNA fragmentation.   Nevertheless, the significant reduction in SOD levels underscores the necessity for additional investigation to fully grasp its impact on male infertility and the possibility for its therapeutic application. Conclusion: The findings of this research point to the possibility that the secretome of UC-MSCs could be useful as an additional component in the development of strategies that aim to increase sperm quality.