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Antisperm immunity in natural and assisted reproduction
F Lombardo1, L Gandini, F Dondero
1Department of Medical Physiopathology, University of Rome La Sapienza, Italy. francesco.lombardo@uniromal.it
Human Reproduction Update
|September 15, 2001
Summary
Antisperm antibodies (ASA) negatively impact human sperm function and fertility. Evaluating ASA is crucial for couples undergoing assisted reproductive technologies like IVF, with ICSI being the preferred treatment for severe cases.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Immunology
- Human Fertility Research
- Spermatozoa Biology
Background:
- Antisperm antibodies (ASA) have been recognized for 40 years as a factor impairing human spermatozoa fertilizing capacity.
- ASA can target various sperm antigens, affect sperm motility, and hinder cervical mucus penetration.
- Recent advancements in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques have enabled the demonstration of ASA's impact on gamete interaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the established evidence on the role of antisperm antibodies in male infertility.
- To highlight the limitations of traditional treatments for immunological infertility.
- To emphasize the importance of ASA evaluation and the current primary treatment option for severe cases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of research on antisperm antibodies and their effects on fertility over the past 40 years.
- Analysis of the impact of ASA on sperm parameters and in-vitro fertilization techniques.
- Evaluation of treatment outcomes for immunological infertility.
Main Results:
- ASA negatively affect sperm motility and cervical mucus penetration.
- Antibody-bound spermatozoa impair in-vitro gamete interaction.
- Previous treatments like medical therapy, AIH, and IVF have shown limited success rates.
Conclusions:
- Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the primary treatment for immunological infertility, particularly in severe cases involving sperm head antibodies.
- Routine ASA evaluation is imperative for all couples undergoing insemination or IVF procedures.