Role of Caspase 3, Caspase 8 and Caspase 9 in Male Infertility and Sperm Cryoinjury: A Review

Apoptosis is an integral part of sperm development, quality control and differentiation. Caspases are proteolytic enzymes that play a key role in apoptosis. The aim of this review article is to analyze the role of caspases 3, 8 and 9 in male infertility and sperm cryopreservation. The review also discusses the effect of cryopreservation on the activation of caspases in sperm, leading to apoptosis and decreased sperm quality. Finally, the article explores the use of caspase inhibitors as a strategy to improve sperm cryopreservation protocols and preserve sperm quality. Caspase 3 is the dominant effector caspase, while caspase 8 and 9 are involved in the extrinsic and intrinsic apoptotic pathways, respectively. Increased activity of these caspases has been associated with various sperm quality issues, such as teratozoospermia, asthenozoospermia, oligozoospermia and reduced cryostability. The review emphasizes the importance of understanding the role of caspases in sperm apoptosis and their potential as diagnostic markers and therapeutic targets for male infertility and sperm cryopreservation.