Expression of IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, IL-10, HSP-60, anti-HSP-60 antibodies, and anti-sperm antibodies, in semen of men with leukocytes and/or bacteria

Abstract

Problem: Different cellular and biochemical markers have been proposed as indicators of infection-inflammation of male genital tract. Method of study: Semen samples from 80 men attending an andrologic clinic were evaluated to determine the presence of leukocyte, bacteria, antibodies against Chlamydia trachomatis, levels of IL-6, IL-8, IL-10, and TNF-α, HSP-60, anti-HSP-60 antibodies, and anti-sperm antibodies. Results: Leukocytes in semen significantly correlated with an increase in IL-6, IL-8, and TNF-α. The simultaneous presence of pathogens and leukocytes was associated with high levels of IL-8 and TNF-α, whereas IL-6 was more associated with the presence of leukocytes. Anti-HSP-60 antibodies positively correlated with IL-6 and IL-8. The presence of anti-sperm antibodies highly associated with an increase in anti-HSP-60 antibodies. Conclusions: The type of cytokines present in the semen will depend on the single or simultaneous presence of leukocytes and/or pathogens. Chronic male genital tract infections could be associated with the development of anti-HSP-60 antibodies and anti-sperm antibodies. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.