Functions of essential nutrition for high quality spermatogenesis

Abstract

The process of sperm production is well understood, but the studies of essential nutritional elements which are necessary for successful spermatogenesis are not deeply studied as yet. Our review focuses on integrating available information of various nutritional elements involved in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation and male reproductive system development, such as Zinc, Selenium, Folate, Vitamins and others. Antioxidants protect sperm from further oxidative damage during the entire sperm production. Other nutrients assist to improve sperm quality through different ways. The important roles of macronutrients like lipids, amino acids and proteins are emphasized here. These macronutrients constitute major components of the spermatozoa. Effects of nutritional elements on the development of Sertoli cells and Leydig cells, sperm motility and semen quality, capacity of capacitation and fertilization are discussed. A review of these areas will provide researchers with a better understanding of the compulsory participation of these nutrients in male reproductive processes. This review also pointed out gaps in current studies which will require further investigations.