Work

Associations between routine systemic biochemical indices and semen quality: a cross-sectional study in men undergoing health examination

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background To evaluate associations between routinely measured systemic biochemical indices and semen quality parameters in a real-world health-check population. Methods This cross-sectional observational study included 264 men aged 21–60 years who underwent standardized health examinations, including semen analysis and comprehensive biochemical testing. Semen parameters were evaluated according to WHO reference limits (2010 edition), and all outcomes were analyzed as continuous variables. Biochemical indices were categorized into predefined domains reflecting metabolic status, oxidative/antioxidant balance, and electrolyte–osmotic homeostasis. Associations were assessed using correlation analyses with false discovery rate (FDR) adjustment to control for multiple testing. Results Weak inverse correlations were observed between semen volume or motility and age, BMI, diastolic blood pressure, glucose, and triglycerides. Serum magnesium showed a modest positive association with progressive motility, and unconjugated bilirubin was positively associated with normal morphology. Serum globulin levels demonstrated a small positive correlation with normal morphology. Serum osmolality exhibited consistent associations with DNA fragmentation index (DFI), high DNA stainability (HDS), and morphology. Most effect sizes were small, and associations not surviving FDR adjustment were interpreted as exploratory. Conclusion In this health-check population, routine systemic biochemical indices showed modest correlations with semen parameters. Given the cross-sectional design, findings should be interpreted as associative rather than causal. These results are hypothesis-generating and warrant longitudinal validation to clarify temporal relationships and biological mechanisms.

Source: Scientific Reports

DOI: 10.1038/s41598-026-76251-z

Authors: Xihuan Ren, Lin Ni, Yun Fu, Gang An, Xiangqun Fan, Dianliang Lin

Institution: Fujian Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Sperm and Testicular Function

Subfield: Reproductive Medicine

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,690