Abstract
The main goal of semen processing in Assisted Reproductive Techniques (ART) is to select sperm with good viability and, at the same time, remove Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) sources (such as leukocytes) and reduce the percentage of morphologically abnormal sperm for fertility treatment. We performed a comparative analysis on sperm DNA fragmentation after Density Gradient Centrifugation (DGC) using products sold by two competing companies. Our results showed comparable DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) after treatment with both DGC products. However, in both cases, a comparable number of samples do not benefit from the treatment. Interestingly, increasing evidences indicated that male age has a negative impact on sperm DNA fragmentation, but the mechanisms underlying age-dependent patterns of sperm decline have not yet been fully understood. Thus, we performed a comparative analysis of DFI before and after treatment with DGC products in age-stratified sample populations. Our results showed a worsening of the baseline DFI in the eldest group and the benefits of DGC on sperm DNA were compromised. In conclusion, our work consolidates the current evidences suggesting that both paternal and maternal aging, critically affects reproductive success.
Highlights
In somatic cells’ nuclei DNA molecules spiralize around histone proteins, reducing their volume; on the contrary, in spermatozoa, during the final postmeiotic phases of spermatogenesis, histones are replaced with protamines
We performed a comparative analysis on sperm DNA fragmentation after Density Gradient Centrifugation (DGC) using products sold by two competing companies
Our results showed a worsening of the baseline DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI) in the eldest group and the benefits of DGC on sperm DNA were compromised
Summary
In somatic cells’ nuclei DNA molecules spiralize around histone proteins, reducing their volume; on the contrary, in spermatozoa, during the final postmeiotic phases of spermatogenesis, histones are replaced with protamines. Oxidative stress is one of the main factors triggering sDF and it occurs when there is no balance between ROS concentration, which is required for many cell pathways, and antioxidant defenses.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
