[Chromosome Y microdeletions in the pathogenesis of male infertility]

Since over 10 years the Y chromosome has been the subject of interest of geneticists. Until now its role has been proven in in male sex determination and development but the function of the remaining genes located on it is still within the sphere of intense research. Studies for identification of location of sequences responsible for normal course of spermatogenesis process in men have been performed since 1970s. It is believed that the factor responsible for these disorders is the gene conventionally called AZF (azoospermia factor) located probably in the euchromatic part of the long arm in Yq11.23 locus. The incidence of Y microdeletion in infertile males ranges from 1 to 55%, according to various authors. Estimated data demonstrate that about 10-15% of cases of azoospermia and about 5-10% of cases of severe oligospermia are caused by Y chromosome microdeletion.