Introduction: Although sperm cryopreservation is a common method to preserve fertility, it may affect the spermatogenesis and male infertility by changing the expression of miRNAs transcripts. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between the expression of miRNAs 34c (mir 34C) and miRNAs 15b (mir15b) with sperm parameters in infertile oligoasthenoteratozoospermia men during the sperm freezing-thawing process. Materials and Methods: In this experimental study, 25 semen samples in terms of oligoasthenoteratozoospermia parameters were collected from individuals referred to infertility treatment Center Qom. Each sample was divided into two, non-frozen (Fresh) and frozen groups. After rapid freezing and three-day storage in liquid nitrogen, samples were thawed in tap water and incubated for 2 hours in a CO2 incubator. Sperm parameters were evaluated using WHO criteria. The expression level of miRNAs (34c and 15b) was assessed by Real-time PCR technique. The results were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA and the difference was considered significant at the level (p<0.05). Results: The expression of miRNAs 34c decreased and miRNAs 15b increased significantly in the frozen group compared to the fresh group (P≤0.05). There was a significant decrease in sperm concentration, total motility and morphology in the frozen group compared to the fresh group (P≤0.05). A decrease in the level of GPx, SOD and TAC and an increase in the level of MDA and DNA fragmentation were observed during the freeze-thaw process in oligoasthenotratozoospermia. (P≤0.05). Sperm concentration, motility and morphology as well as oxidative stress factors and DNA integrity were correlated with the expression level of miRNAs (34c and 15b) (P≤0.05). Conclusion: Our study suggested that cryopreservation of sperm can change the expression of miRNAs that can be involved in sperm quality. These non-coding RNAs may be considered as fertility biomarkers for developing freeze-thaw strategies.
