Does myoinositol improve sperm quality in patients with after cryopreservation?

This study investigated if myoinositol (MYO) improves semen parameters after sperm cryopreservation (sperm freezing). They found that MYO improved semen parameters in these patients.

Male infertility (MI) affects about 50% of infertile couples. Oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) is a common cause of MI. Men with OAT have low sperm count and motility. Assisted reproduction can be used to treat MI. Sperm cryopreservation (CP) is often used to obtain and store sperm. Sperm CP involves freezing sperm to a low temperature. In some cases, this can lead to sperm damage. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) can be produced and cause damage. Damaged sperm are less likely to achieve pregnancy. Sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) can also reduce fertility. Improving sperm parameters after sperm CP is important.

Myoinositol (MYO) is a vitamin-like substance. It is involved in a number of cellular processes. It also has a function in the male reproductive system. MYO regulates several semen parameters during production. It is unclear if MYO treatment improves semen parameters during freezing.

This study included 40 men with OAT. Semen samples were provided by the men. The samples were divided into two portions. One portion was preserved in a solution with MYO. The second portion was preserved in a standard solution. The samples were then frozen. The samples were defrosted after one month. Semen parameters were measured before and after freezing. These included sperm count, ROS and SDF. 

Sperm shape was not affected by MYO treatment. Sperm motility was better in samples treated with MYO. ROS levels were similar in both samples. Sperm were tested to measure how well they can withstand ROS. This is called total antioxidant capacity (TAC). Higher TAC levels were measured in MYO-treated samples. The level of SDF was significantly lower in MYO-treated samples (22.4% vs. 29.67%).  

The authors concluded that MYO improved semen parameters after sperm freezing.

The number of patients in this study was relatively low. The effect of MYO on fertility outcomes is unclear. Larger studies are needed. 

If you have any concerns regarding infertility please consult with your doctor.