Approximately 50% of the problems in couples unable to conceive are caused by male infertility. Something like two percent of all men have sub-optimal sperm parameters [Kumar and Singh 2015]:
- low sperm concentration
- poor sperm motility
- abnormal sperm cell morphology
- or combinations thereof
Selenium Status and Male Infertility
The role of selenium in male infertility has not been fully explained. However, some data show that selenium plays a role in the protection of sperm cells against oxidative stress [Buhling 2019].
In particular, the selenoproteins glutathione peroxidase GPx4 and selenoprotein P are essential to the process of sperm development and male fertility [Rayman 2012].
- In the testes, the GPx4 selenoproteins protect immature spermatozoa cells against oxidative damage.
- GPx4 selenoproteins are also important for good sperm motility.
- Selenoprotein P supplies selenium to the testes.
Selenium is a trace mineral that is essential for many important processes in the human body. Selenium is incorporated into enzymes that function as antioxidants. The balance between protective antioxidants and harmful free radicals in cells plays a decisive role in the prevention of disease [Rayman 2002].