Sperm DNA fragmentation and microfluidics: A new era in human sperm selection

Abstract

The male factor plays a decisive role in reproduction and, despite being an area that has been extensively studied, there are events that remain unknown, such as sperm DNA fragmentation. This cause of infertility has been the subject of study during the last decades and has been associated with poor semen parameters and low reproductive outcomes. Among the techniques that have emerged to mitigate this problem is the innovative field of microfluidics. Microfluidic-based devices have been developed to be applied as sperm selection methods, reporting promising results in the non-invasive selection of sperm of higher quality, and less DNA fragmentation. The nature of these devices lies in sperm self-selection by simulating an in vivo environment. The present review discusses the mechanisms responsible for sperm DNA fragmentation and its implication in the field of assisted reproduction introducing, in addition, microfluidics as a potential application for human sperm selection.