Catalase activity in human spermatozoa and seminal plasma

Abstract

Catalase activity was determined in human semen by measuring the oxygen burst with a Clark electrode, after H₂O₂ addition. Significant catalase activities (mean ± SD) were found in migrated, motile spermatozoa (44 ± 17 nmoles O₂/min/10⁸ cells) and in seminal plasma of normozoospermic men (129 ± 59 nmoles O₂/min/ml). It has been demonstrated that seminal catalase originated from prostate; however, its activity was not correlated with the usual prostatic markers (such as citric acid and zinc). Our data suggest a multiglandular function secreted by this organ. The catalase activities measured in seminal samples from asthenozo-ospermic, infertile men were found lower than those from normozoospermic subjects. The understanding of the relative contribution of the different enzyme systems against O₂ toxicity (superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione peroxidase) seem to be a priority area of research to understand disturbances of sperm function.