Overview of Myo-inositol

Biosynthesis and elimination

Biosynthesis of Myo-inositol occurs mainly in the kidneys and it can be found in high concentrations in the thyroid, testes, liver, brain, spleen and pituitary gland.

It is catabolised in the kidney to produce O-glucuronic acid and oxylulose-5-phosphate, which enter the pentose phosphate pathway and are eliminated via urine.

Role of Myo-inositol in human physiology

1. It is crucial for various cellular processes, including signal transduction, osmoregulation and phospholipid synthesis.
2. Myo-inositol derivatives such as phosphatidylinositol and inositol triphosphates, participate in intracellular signalling.

Myo-inositol in reproductive health

Effect of Myo-inositol on semen parameters

Sperm Motility

• Supplementation with Myo-inositol has been shown to improve sperm motility
• Improvements have been observed in both fresh and frozen-thawed semen samples

Sperm performance

• Myo-inositol supplementation is associated with improved sperm performance in both natural conception and assisted reproduction contexts

Other parameters

Myo-inositol also has a positive effect in the following outcomes:

• Significant increase in antioxidant activity
• Decrease in lipid peroxidation
• Reduced DNA fragmentation

Additional Benefits of Myo-inositol

Several clinical and experimental studies suggest that Myo-inositol improves sperm parameters in men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia.

Supplementation with Myo-inositol has also been associated with improved fertilisation rates and embryo quality in assisted reproductive technology.

Conclusion

Myo-inositol is a promising supplementation option for male infertility, with benefits extending to various sperm-related parameters including motility, performance and antioxidant activity.