Decreased expression of SOX2 and SOX2-OT in oligozoospermia: Correlations with spermogram parameters

Oligozoospermia represents one of the most prevalent causes of male infertility, while a substantial proportion of cases also remain idiopathic. Recent studies have highlighted the role of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), such as SOX2-OT , in regulation of reproductive genes. This study investigates SOX2-OT and SOX2 expression in Semen-derived cell pellet of oligozoospermic men and their correlation with semen parameters and hormone levels. This case-control study involved 26 oligozoospermic and 26 normozoospermic men. Semen parameters including count, motility, and morphology were analyzed. After semen centrifugation, total RNA was extracted from semen pellet. SOX2-OT and SOX2 gene expression levels were quantified via qRT-PCR using GAPDH as the internal control. gene expression data were analyzed using the 2 −ΔCT method. Serum levels of testosterone, free testosterone, luteinizing hormone, and follicle-stimulating hormone were measured using ELISA. Gene expression of SOX2-OT and SOX2 were significantly downregulated in oligozoospermic samples. Semen analysis showed notably reduced sperm count, concentration, motility, and normal morphology in the oligozoospermic group. SOX2OT gene expression positively correlated with sperm count, concentration, and Non-progressive motility. An inverse correlation was found between SOX2-OT expression and serum testosterone and free testosterone levels. Moreover, SOX2 expression was positively associated with age and SOX2-OT levels. Downregulation of SOX2 and SOX2-OT may contribute to impaired spermatogenesis and lower sperm quality in oligozoospermic men. The association between SOX2-OT expression and semen analysis parameters suggests its potential as a molecular target in male infertility.