DNA Fragmentation Kit
DNA damage in human sperm is associated with impaired conception; disrupted embryonic development; increased rate of miscarriages; and morbidity in the offspring. Damage may involve single stranded breaks of nicks, double stranded breaks or fragments, deletion / additions and base modifications.
The cause of DNA damage seen in human sperm is not precisely understood; however, three main theories have been proposed:
- Defective/immature sperm chromatic packaging
- Apoptosis (Cell Death Physiological / Programmed)
- Oxidative Stress
Since high levels of Sperm DNA Fragmentation are positively correlated with lower fertilization rate, impaired implantation rate, and an increased incidence of abortion, it is expected that tests that access sperm quality should identify not only the ability of sperm to reach the oocyte with an intact DNA molecule but also their ability to fertilize the oocyte and activate embryo growth. Thus, the inclusion of an assessment of DNA damage is more comprehensive for semen quality and important:
- For couples planning to undergo IVF or ICSI, these tests evaluate the impact of sperm DNA damage on reproductive outcomes (Fertilization, Embryo Development, Pregnancy, Miscarriage, PostNatal Development).
- Unexplained Infertility. Based on evidence, test of sperm DNA damage may be predictors of failed natural pregnancy.
- Recurrent Pregnancy Loss. Based on evidence, high levels of DNA damage are associated with recurrent pregnancy loss.
- IUI Failures. Based on evidence, high level of DNA damage are associated with Repeated IUI Failures. These couples have to be advised for ICSI.
- Couples with a history of spontaneous miscarriages.
- Selection of the best donor.
- Selection of the best seminal sample prior to vasectomy or oncology treatment or varicose repair.
- Assessing Men over 40 years old, smokers, those exposed to toxics and pollutants fertility.
- Evaluation of Men treated for cancer, on certain prescription medications; Men who have had repeated urogenital infections; Men with infectious disease, fever, and varicocele indicators.