Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 5, 2026

Exploring X Chromosomal Aberrations in Ovarian Cells by Using Fluorescence In Situ Hybridization
Published on: April 7, 2023
Y-chromosomal microdeletions among infertile Finnish men
M Aho1, K Härkönen, A M Suikkari
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Huddinge University Hospital, Huddinge, Sweden.
Background:
Microdeletions in the Y-chromosome are known to cause a significant proportion of azoo- and oligozoospermia in men. The reported frequency of deletions varies greatly between the studies. Probable reasons for this variation are different selection criteria and number of patients included, and possibly also methodological aspects, whereas the contribution of environmental and genetic factors is not known. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of Y-chromosome microdeletions among infertile Finnish men.
Methods:
Two hundred and one men showing azoospermia (n=68) or severe oligozoospermia (n=133) were included. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction method was used to amplify specific sequence tagged sites (STS) along the Y chromosome.
Results:
Microdeletions were observed in 18 men (9%), of whom four were azoospermic and 14 oligozoospermic.
Conclusions:
The incidence of Y-deletions in the study population of infertile Finnish men falls within the range published in other countries.
Related Concept Videos
Infertility in Males
The Y Chromosome Determines Maleness
Evolution
Around 300 million years ago, the two sex chromosomes diverged from two identical autosomal chromosomes. Over time, the Y chromosome has lost most of its genes, shrinking in size. Today,...
Sex-linked Disorders
Nondisjunction
Nondisjunction
Nondisjunction
