Can reduced testicular blood supply cause gene mutations?

Question

Hello doctor,

Can a slight reduction in blood supply and poor circulation in both testes increase the risk of a de novo single-gene mutation in a normal, motile sperm? If fertilization occurs with such a sperm, could the resulting child have a de novo single-gene disorder solely due to the reduced supply of oxygen, nutrients, and hormones to the testes?

Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

What you mentioned is correct.

However, since the paternal DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) is normal, the mutation would likely affect a single sperm or those derived from a single germ cell in the case of a single-gene mutation. It is impossible to determine whether the genetic mutation has any functional significance. While the scenario you described is possible, given the large number of sperm in the ejaculate, the probability of such an event occurring is low.

I hope this helps you.

Thank you.