A group of researchers from the National University of Singapore (NUS) Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine has discovered that hydrogen sulphide (H₂S), when applied from an external source, may protect male reproductive cells from heat damage. This breakthrough could lead to new treatments for male infertility, especially in cases where heat stress is a major factor.
The study, led by Associate Professor Bian Jinsong from the Department of Pharmacology and Professor P. C. Wong from the Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, was published in the scientific journal Nitric Oxide in May 2015.
A New Role for a Familiar Gas
Hydrogen sulphide is a colorless gas known for its strong smell, similar to rotten eggs. Despite its unpleasant odor, it plays several important roles in the human body. Small amounts of H₂S are naturally produced by cells and have been shown to have protective effects in the brain, heart, kidneys, and bones due to its antioxidant properties.
In this new study, the NUS research team found that low levels of H₂S in the body could harm the function of testicular germ cells, which are the cells responsible for producing sperm. However, when a small amount of H₂S was applied using a slow-releasing compound, the sperm cells were better able to survive and function under heat stress.
The Threat of Heat Stress to Male Fertility
Male infertility is a global health issue that affects about 7% of men. It is becoming more common and rising faster than female infertility. One of the key contributors to male infertility is heat stress. This can result from environmental or lifestyle factors such as working in hot conditions, spending time in saunas, or intense physical activity.
Heat stress can damage the cells in the testes that are involved in sperm production. Currently, treatment options for male infertility caused by heat are limited, which makes this discovery even more important.
Insights from the Researchers
Assoc Prof Bian said, “In this study, we revealed both the natural and drug-based effects of H₂S on testicular germ cells. Our results showed that H₂S might have potential as a treatment for male infertility. By understanding how externally applied H₂S protects these cells, we may be able to develop new medicines that slowly release H₂S in the body.”
Professor Wong added, “Although this is still early research, the findings are exciting. They provide a clear direction for future research into male infertility. The next step is to study how reduced H₂S production affects sperm cells and whether external H₂S can reverse these effects.”
He also noted the need for further work: “Since our current research is based on mammalian tissue, we now need to test on human tissue to confirm if the same protective mechanisms are at work.”
Looking Ahead
This study marks the first time that the protective effects of H₂S against heat-induced damage to male germ cells have been demonstrated. If future research confirms these findings in humans, it could lead to a new class of drugs that support male fertility by targeting cellular responses to heat stress.
The researchers plan to continue their work by studying the exact mechanisms involved and testing the effects of H₂S-based treatments on human tissues. With more understanding, they hope to offer better solutions for men struggling with infertility due to environmental or occupational heat exposure.
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