Effects Of Probiotics on Sperm Quality, Spermatogenesis, and Germinal Cell Count in Depression-Induced Male Mice

Introduction: Male infertility is a major reproductive problem, with depression recognised as a contributing factor. Fluoxetine, a commonly prescribed antidepressant, is well known for having spermicidal properties. Objective: This study aims to investigate the impact of Bifidobacterium spp. supplementation on sperm quality and spermatogenesis in depression-induced mouse model of male infertility. Methodology: Fifty Male Mus musculus mice were randomly divided into five groups for seven weeks experiments. Depression was induced in four groups using corticosterone injection for four weeks, followed by a two-weeks intervention with either fluoxetine of Bifidobacterium spp. The groups included: negative control (CTR), positive control (DEP), fluoxetine-treated (FLX), Bifidobacterium spp.-treated (BFD), and Bifidobacterium spp.-prevention (pBFD), which received probiotic before corticosterone exposure. Sperm quality parameters (concentration, motility, morphology) and spermatogenesis markers (Johnsen’s score and germinal cell count) were analysed. Results: The preventive Bifidobacterium spp. group showed significantly superior sperm quality, with higher concentration, motility, morphology, Johnsen’s score, and spermatid cell count compared to other groups. Conclusion: Bifidobacterium spp. Supplementation demonstrates potential as a probiotic intervention to improve sperm quality and spermatogenesis in depression-related male infertility, suggesting its potential role in infertility management.