The Effect of Molecular Hydrogen on the Functional Parameters of Spermatozoa

The effect of molecular hydrogen (H₂) on the functional state of spermatozoa through signaling pathways was studied. In the work, drugs that affect elements of intracellular signaling cascades were used to study the mechanisms of action of H₂. We used the adenylatecyclase stimulator – forskolin, the Ca²⁺-channel blocker – verapamil, and the proteinkinase C inhibitor – staurosporine. We studied concentrations of MDA, ATP, the percentage of total motility and the average speed of spermatozoa under the action of H₂ against the background of the action of drugs and without the action of drugs. It was shown that the concentration of MDA in all series did not change. Forskolin causes an increase in sperm motility and velocity. The use of H₂ increased the effects stimulated by forskolin: sperm motility and average velocity increased. The concentration of ATP, the percentage of motility and the velocity of sperm decreased under the action of staurosporine and verapamil. The combined action of H₂ and verapamil as well as the combined action of H₂ and staurosporine determined an increase in sperm motility and velocity. Thus, H₂ had a modulating effect through signaling pathways and caused an increase in the functional indices of sperm.