Effect of alpha-lipoic acid antioxidant on sperm parameters and treatment of infertile men

Background: Today, infertility is a problem that affects about 15% of couples due to male factors, female factors or both. High levels of oxidative stress, because of an imbalance between the reactive oxygene species and the antioxidant capacity, have been repeatedly reported in infertile men, which can have a destructive effect on the spermatogenesis process. Antioxidant treatment can improve the effects of oxidative stress in spermatozoa. In this paper, the effect of alpha-lipoic acid as a water and fat-soluble antioxidant and its effect on sperm quality and treatment outcomes on infertile men is discussed. Materials and methods: Published articles in Elseviour data-base, Iran doc, Scopus, Mag iran, Pubmed and google scular between 1988 and 2018 were collected baesd on key words. Repeated articles or ones with unsufficient content were omitted. Results: Alpha-lipoic acid is considered as a new antioxidant in the infertility-treatment field, due to its unique aptitude compare to other common antioxidants, such as vitamin E and C. This antioxidant can improve sperm motility, DNA damage and effective treatment results by removing free radicals and restoring antioxidant enzymes. Conclusion: The use of alpha-lipoeic acid through applying assisted reproductive techniques such as culture medium, freezing, or varicocele therapy have satisfactory results in treatment