Spermatogenic ability is different among males in different Y chromosome lineage

Abstract

It is a controversial question whether sperm concentrations in humans are changing. Several researchers have reported on environmental factors affecting sperm quality, but the influence of genetic factors is still not fully understood. In this study, we examined the relationship between Y chromosome haplotypes and sperm concentration in fertile males. In addition, we determined the haplotypes of azoospermic patients. The results show that the mean sperm concentration correlates with Y chromosome type. Moreover, the occurrence of azoospermia is related to one particular Y chromosome lineage. Thus, males with a certain haplotype are at a disadvantage for fathering children. The difference of spermatogenic ability among men is important not only in pursuing male competition as in the past but also as relates to the future of modern human males.