• The Effect of Seizures on Sperm Parameters, Chromatin Maturation, and DNA Damage via Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal Axis Dysfunction in Men
  • Ramin Ahmadzadeh,1,*
    1. Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran


  • Introduction: Seizures, as a neurological disorder, can impair male reproductive health. These impairments include direct effects on sperm and indirect effects through hormonal interactions. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the impact of seizures on sperm parameters, chromatin maturation, and sperm DNA damage, as well as its relationship with dysfunction of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Gonadal (HPG) axis and elevated cortisol levels.
  • Methods: In this study, data from 20 men with a history of frequent seizures and high cortisol levels were examined. Sperm samples were collected from the participants. Sperm parameters including count, motility, viability, and morphology were assessed using standard methods. Sperm chromatin maturation was evaluated using the Aniline Blue staining method, and sperm DNA damage was assessed using the Sperm Chromatin Dispersion (SCD) assay. The results were then compared to those of a healthy control group.
  • Results: The results showed that men with seizures had significantly poorer sperm parameters, including a reduction in count, motility, and viability, as well as an increase in the percentage of abnormal morphology compared to the control group. Furthermore, sperm chromatin maturation was markedly reduced in the seizure group, and the level of sperm DNA damage and fragmentation was significantly higher. A positive correlation was observed between the frequency of seizures and the degree of DNA damage. Additionally, a strong negative correlation was found between cortisol levels and chromatin maturation, while a strong positive correlation was observed between cortisol levels and the degree of sperm DNA damage.
  • Conclusion: This study concludes that the damage to male fertility in patients with seizures is a multifactorial process involving hormonal effects and direct sperm damage. Elevated cortisol levels resulting from frequent seizures can suppress the HPG axis, reduce testosterone levels, and increase oxidative stress, leading to decreased chromatin maturation and, ultimately, severe sperm DNA damage. These findings emphasize the importance of stress management, seizure control, and appropriate therapeutic interventions to preserve fertility in men with epilepsy.
  • Keywords: Seizures, Male Fertility, Sperm Parameters, Sperm DNA Damage, Chromatin Maturation