Use of the mixed erythrocyte-spermatozoa antiglobulin reaction (MAR test) and the heterologous ovum penetration test in the assessment of human spermatozoa

Abstract

SummarySpermatozoa from 269 male partners of infertile couples were assessed using both the mixed erythrocyte-spermatozoa antiglobulin reaction (MAR test) against IgG and the heterologous ovum penetration test. Penetration of zona-free hamster ova occurred with spermatozoa from 39 out of 60 men (65 per cent) with a positive MAR (IgG) test result, and statistical analysis demonstrated that the penetration of zona-free hamster ova is not related to the result of the MAR (IgG) test.