Abstract

CORTES-GUTIERREZ, E.I. et al. Assessing sperm DNA damage. Actas Urol Esp [online]. 2007, vol.31, n.2, pp.120-131. ISSN 0210-4806.

Infertility affects almost 20% of couples in reproductive age and the male factor being responsible of 50% of this infertility. Among the classic parameters that determine a good seminal quality such as sperm motility, sperm morphology or the quality of the of acrosomes and/or sperm membranes, the integrity of the DNA molecule is crucial to carry out a successful fertilization. Nevertheless, the study of this parameter has not been straightforward approached. This fact has shunned its incorporation, as a routine technique, within a standard seminogram. The aim of the present review is to summarize and update those technologies that are considered more successful to study sperm DNA fragmentation with special emphasis to: 1) the levels of technological complexity and the possibility of its use in laboratories of andrology, according with the equipment and the resources available, and 2) the effects and possible implications of high level of sperm DNA fragmentation for fecundation, embryo development and fertility.

Keywords : Sperm DNA fragmentation; Male sterility; Fertility; Semen quality.

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