Zika-infected Mouse Sperm (IMAGE)

Washington University School of Medicine

Zika-infected Mouse Sperm

Caption

A new study shows that Zika targets the male reproductive system, at least in mice. Three weeks after Zika infection, male mice had shrunken testicles, low levels of sex hormones and reduced fertility, and their sperm remained infected with the virus, as shown above. The results suggest that Zika infection may interfere with men's ability to have children, but additional studies are needed.

Credit

Prabagaran Esakky/Eric Young

Usage Restrictions

None

License

Licensed content

Disclaimer: AAAS and EurekAlert! are not responsible for the accuracy of news releases posted to EurekAlert! by contributing institutions or for the use of any information through the EurekAlert system.