And about the bone – it seemed...

The condition of the bones affects the quality of sperm
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American scientists have found out that the quality of sperm depends on the condition of bones, reports New Scientist (Low sperm count? Your bones might be to blame). The study was conducted by a group of specialists led by Gerard Karsenty from Columbia University in New York City.

The researchers studied the effect of the hormone osteocalcin on the reproductive system of mice. This hormone is synthesized by young bone cells (osteoblasts) and is involved in the formation of bone tissue, as well as regulates the production of insulin and increases the sensitivity of cells to it.

The scientists placed osteoblasts in cell cultures taken from the testicles and ovaries of mice. As a result, a threefold increase in the production of the male sex hormone testosterone, necessary for normal sperm maturation, was recorded in the testicular cells. At the same time, osteoblasts did not affect the hormonal function of the ovaries of mice.

At the second stage of the study, the Karsenti group bred rodents with the gene responsible for osteocalcin synthesis turned off. The testicle size in these mice was significantly below normal. In addition, the sperm of genetically modified animals contained fewer sperm than the sperm of healthy rodents.

Scientists have suggested that osteocalcin may increase fertility (the ability to conceive) in men. In the course of further research, Karsenti and his colleagues intend to find out whether this hormone can be used to treat male infertility.

Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru21.02.2011