Adeno-associated virus (AAV) in semen and testis: a role in infertility? An overview

In the past decade, infection of the female genital tract with the ubiquitous adeno-associated viruses (AAV) has been reported by a number of authors. Though the virus is thought to be non-pathogenic, there were hints on an association of AAV with miscarriage and problems in pregnancy. In more recent years it has been discovered that there is also a rather frequent infection of male genital tissues supporting the hypothesis that this virus may be sexually transmitted and may play a role in infertility.