DNA fragmentation and immunohistochemical evaluation of sperm cells of infertile individuals with normospermia who smoke

Aim: Smoking is a significant environmental factor contributing to male infertility. This study aims to evaluate the effects of smoking on reproductive health by analyzing DNA fragmentation levels and immunohistochemical changes in sperm cells of normospermic infertile males who smoke. Materials and Methods: A total of 40 participants were included in the study. The study group consisted of normospermic infertile men who smoked, while the control group included non-smokers. Semen samples were analyzed for sperm count, motility, morphology, and vitality. DNA fragmentation levels were measured using acridine orange staining, and caspase-3 levels were assessed through immunohistochemical analyses. Results: The control group exhibited normal sperm parameters. In contrast, the DNA fragmentation rates in the smoking group were significantly higher, indicating compromised genetic integrity of sperm cells. Negative effects on sperm motility and morphology were also observed. Conclusion: Smoking significantly disrupts sperm DNA integrity, contributing to male infertility. These findings confirm the detrimental impact of smoking on male reproductive health and emphasize the importance of smoking cessation as a critical component of infertility treatment. Health policies should focus on strategies to reduce smoking prevalence. Keywords: DNA fragmentation, sperm, immunohistochemistry, cigarette