Sperm DNA fragmentation Test

What is Sperm DNA fragmentation? 

Everyone knows that DNA is the unique ladder-like hereditary strands in humans where information is stored as a code made up of four types of molecules called bases. Sperm DNA fragmentation occurs when there is a change in the bases or a physical break in one or both of the DNA strands of the chromosomes contained within the sperm.  In other words, sperm DNA fragmentation denotes abnormal genetic material within the sperm, leading to infertility, IVF failure and miscarriage.

These are the factors that influence sperm DNA fragmentation

• infection

• high fever

• elevated testicular temperature

• varicocoele

• advanced age

• obesity

• poor diet

• drug use

• cigarette smoking

• exposure to environmental and occupational pollutants

• increased length of sexual abstinence

How to treat sperm DNA fragmentation?

One major contributor to sperm DNA fragmentation is oxidative stress as a result of the built-up damage caused by atoms with unpaired electrons that is not adequately neutralized by antioxidants.

• Varicoceles should be evaluated by a urologist to check if surgical repair is necessary.

• Testicular aspiration of sperm

• Avoid hot tubs and tight-fitting underwear.

• A healthy diet full of fruits and vegetables, rich in antioxidants.

• Exercise regularly.

• Avoid smoking and illicit drugs. Limit alcohol intake.

• Consider the use of supplements containing vitamins and antioxidants.

Diagnosis: Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test

How is Sperm DNA Fragmentation test done?

Sperm DNA Fragmentation is an effective method to measure single and double stranded DNA breaks in thousands of sperms in an ejaculate. It measures the susceptibility of sperm DNA to denaturation when it is exposed to heat or acids. Sperm are stained with a fluorescent probe that interacts with the DNA molecule. The fluorescence signal changes when the DNA is fragmented, and this is monitored using a flow cytometer. During the test, around 500 sperm cells are analyzed and graded as per size of their halos. A normal sample is thought to hold less than 15 per cent of sperm with DNA damage.

Advantages of the sperm DNA fragmentation test

• Provides a reliable analysis of sperm DNA integrity that may help to identify men who are at risk of subfertility

• Provides information that helps in the clinical diagnosis, management and treatment of male fertility

• Provides prognostic value in assessing the outcome of assisted conception treatment