RNA in Human Sperm and Some Problems of Male Fertility

Abstract

The progress of genomic technologies has led to an increased understanding of the role of spermatozoa and spermioplasm RNA complex which is associated with male fertility. In this review, information about functional role of spermatozoal RNA such as messenger RNA and different types of noncoding RNAs is discussed. Data on the relationship between specific noncoding sperm RNAs and male infertility, oocyte fertilization, and early embryo development are discussed. The potential role of sperm RNAs as a predictor of outcome of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is highlighted. Accumulation and processing of data on a unique RNA pattern in human spermatozoa will improve the algorithm for examining infertile couples, make it possible to increase the efficiency of ART, and help to choose the best way to overcome infertility.