Proteomic and Metabolomic Fingerprinting in Male Infertility

Abstract

Male infertility is a major concern among men in the reproductive age group. Conventional semen analysis provides fundamental information about sperm parameters but not sperm function. Analysis of the semen using advanced omic tools such as proteomics and metabolomic elucidates molecular pathways that are defective in infertile men. In this chapter, we have discussed about the use of proteomic and metabolomic platforms for profiling of the proteome and metabolome of the spermatozoa and seminal plasma. Furthermore, we have highlighted the findings of major proteomics and metabolomics studies in the infertile male. We have also placed emphasis on the proteins and metabolites present in the human semen and their potential use as biomarkers in the diagnosis and therapeutics of male infertility.