Insights Into the Scenario of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Male Reproductive Toxicity

February 2023 in “ Vaccines ”

Anirban Goutam Mukherjee, Uddesh Ramesh Wanjari, Abilash Valsala Gopalakrishnan, Sandra Kannampuzha, Reshma Murali, Arunraj Namachivayam, Raja Ganesan, Kaviyarasi Renu, Abhijit Dey, Balachandar Vellingiri, D. S. Prabakaran

SARS-CoV-2 ACE2 receptor testicular cells autophagy autoimmune responses blood-testis barrier erectile dysfunction penile tissue endothelial cell dysfunction testosterone levels primary testicular damage COVID-19 testosterone

Studysummary This review discusses the potential impact of COVID-19 on the male reproductive system and highlights unanswered questions regarding its mechanisms and implications for men's health and fertility, reporting no new clinical results.

Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer

The review "Insights into the Scenario of SARS-CoV-2 Infection in Male Reproductive Toxicity" discusses the potential impact of SARS-CoV-2 on male reproductive health. The virus may enter cells via the ACE2 receptor, which is highly present in testicular cells, potentially causing damage. The virus may also affect male fertility by restricting autophagy, inducing autoimmune responses, and compromising the blood-testis barrier. The review also mentions a link between COVID-19 and erectile dysfunction, as the virus can persist in penile tissue and cause endothelial cell dysfunction. A study of 81 male COVID-19 patients showed lower testosterone levels, indicating potential primary testicular damage. The review concludes that more research is needed to understand the full impact of SARS-CoV-2 on male fertility.

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