10th U6+ Consortium of African Universities International Conference

Malaria remains a major parasitic disease of global health importance, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa, where it is endemic. Emerging evidence suggests that beyond its systemic effects, malaria infection may adversely affect male reproductive function through inflammatory injury, endocrine disruption, and oxidative stress. However, the mechanisms linking malaria to male fertility impairment remain incompletely understood. This study investigated the effects of malaria infection on male fertility parameters, with particular focus on sperm quality, reproductive hormone levels, oxidative stress status, and testicular histoarchitecture. Experimental malaria infection was induced in male animal models using Plasmodium berghei via intraperitoneal inoculation. Following confirmation of parasitemia, reproductive and biochemical assessments were carried out. Sperm parameters (count, motility, and morphology) were evaluated using standard microscopic and staining techniques. Serum levels of testosterone, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and luteinizing hormone (LH) were quantified using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Oxidative stress markers, including malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), were measured in testicular tissue homogenates. Histological examination of testicular tissues was performed using hematoxylin and eosin staining to assess structural integrity of seminiferous tubules. Malaria infection was associated with a significant decline in sperm quality, evidenced by reduced sperm count, impaired motility, and increased morphological abnormalities. Hormonal analysis revealed decreased serum testosterone levels with dysregulation of gonadotropins (FSH and LH). Also, oxidative stress markers were markedly elevated, as indicated by increased MDA levels and reduced activities of antioxidant enzymes. Histological evaluation demonstrated degenerative changes in the seminiferous epithelium, including reduced germ cell populations and disruption of normal testicular architecture. Malaria infection exerts deleterious effects on male reproductive function through oxidative stress-mediated damage, hormonal imbalance, and structural disruption of testicular tissue. These findings suggest that malaria may contribute to temporary or potentially long-term impairment of male fertility, highlighting the need for reproductive monitoring in infected individuals.