Male Infertility: The Overlooked Half of the Fertility Equation

The conversation surrounding infertility has often leaned heavily towards women’s reproductive health, yet studies show that male infertility plays a significant role in nearly half of all infertility cases. At the center of male infertility is a concerning decline in sperm quality—a factor shaped by modern lifestyle, environmental influences, and potential genetic factors. This decline not only challenges couples' abilities to conceive naturally but also highlights an urgent need for innovative solutions. Enter Paterna Biosciences, a pioneering company leading advancements in addressing male infertility.

The Crisis in Sperm Health

Sperm health has faced a substantial decline in recent decades. Studies indicate that sperm counts have dropped by more than 50% globally in the past 40 years. Beyond sperm count, sperm motility (movement) and morphology (shape)—both crucial for successful conception—are also declining. Lifestyle factors, including diet, exposure to environmental toxins, stress, and sedentary habits, alongside genetic predispositions, are contributing to this deterioration, yet options to reverse or mitigate these factors remain limited.

Rethinking Male Infertility: Paterna Biosciences’ Innovative Approach

Paterna Biosciences is emerging as a leader in tackling male infertility. Focused on in vitro spermatogenesis (IVS), Paterna is developing technology that generates viable sperm from stem cells, offering a breakthrough for individuals facing infertility due to low or absent sperm counts. Founded by top reproductive health experts—including Dr. Alex Pastuzak, Brad Cairns, Ph.D., and Dr. Jim Hotaling—Paterna is combining genetic insights with pioneering bioengineering techniques to replicate the natural sperm maturation process. This approach holds significant promise, especially for men with genetic or other irreversible conditions impacting their fertility.

Beyond Count: Quality and Genetic Factors in Male Infertility

While traditional interventions have primarily targeted sperm count, quality and genetic integrity are increasingly recognized as critical for healthy conception. Paterna’s technology enables the maturation of sperm cells with an eye towards genetic health, enhancing the likelihood of conception and a healthy pregnancy. By emphasizing genetic integrity and natural maturation in the lab, this technology offers a solution with far-reaching implications for male fertility.

Final Thoughts

The role of male fertility in conception is critical, and as Paterna Biosciences advances its research and technology, it signals a future where male infertility is met with targeted, effective solutions. With breakthroughs like IVS on the horizon, the pathway to parenthood may soon become a viable reality for many couples facing infertility challenges—ultimately balancing the equation in reproductive health and expanding fertility science.

—Ryan Roddy | Managing Partner at Seaside Ventures