Seminal Hemostatic Factors: Then and Now

ABSTRACT

Human semen spontaneously coagulates and subsequently liquefies following ejaculation. The exact reasons for this phenomenon are not entirely understood. Research has resulted in the discovery of several seminal proteins that are already known from another major domain of human physiology (i.e., blood coagulation and fibrinolysis). Some believe that regulation of seminal coagulation and fibrinolytic liquefaction may bear analogies to the well-described pathways operational in blood. We here attempt to summarize the subject, revisiting earlier findings and covering the more recent and extensive data on hemostatically functional seminal proteins, including the findings of our own group. Evidence for the existence of each key hemostatic factor in semen is presented along with any correlation with indices of male fertility. Several probably possess alternative functions including anti-inflammatory action, aiding sperm capacitation and classic hemostasis following intercourse-induced bleeding. Established mechanisms such as the high molecular weight seminal vesicle system are also considered as potentially interacting with conventional hemostatic pathways to regulate seminal coagulation and liquefaction. Although our grasp of this subject continues to evolve, there still remain many unanswered questions. A more complete understanding may one day prove useful in designing technologies for improved diagnostics in male infertility and potentially aiding assisted human reproductive therapies.

KEYWORDS

Human semen - coagulation - liquefaction - hemostatic factors

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