Role of microRNAs in etiology of azoospermia and their application as non-invasive biomarkers in diagnosis of azoospermic patients

Azoospermia is a common cause of male infertility without any sperm in the semen and consists of similar to 1% of all males and similar to 15% of infertile ones. Currently, no accurate non-invasive diagnostic method exists for patients with azoospermia and testis biopsy is mandatory to determine if any spermatozoa exist in the testes. Studies have clarified that the expression of some distinct microRNAs shows alterations in azoospermic patients. MicroRNAs play critical roles during spermatogenesis and their dysregulation can defect this process. Here, we review studied microRNAs involved in the pathogenesis of azoospermia and their target genes. Moreover, we will imply the utility of seminal plasma microRNAs as non-invasive diagnostic biomarkers for azoospermia. We hope such studies could help patients with azoospermia in both diagnosis and treatment, in order that they could father their own biological children. (C) 2021 Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

Azoospermia is a common cause of male infertility, and there is currently no accurate non-invasive diagnostic method available. Testis biopsy is necessary to determine the presence of spermatozoa. Studies have shown alterations in microRNA expression in azoospermic patients, which can lead to defects in spermatogenesis.