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Updated: Jul 15, 2026
03:28
Sperm Collection of Differential Quality Using Density Gradient Centrifugation
Published on: November 29, 2018
Semen processing by density gradient centrifugation does not improve sperm apoptotic deoxyribonucleic acid
Juliana Stevanato1, Ricardo Pimenta Bertolla, Valeria Barradas
1Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, Sao Paulo Federal University, Sao Paulo, Brazil.
Fertility and Sterility
|May 8, 2007
Summary
Semen processing using density gradient centrifugation did not reduce sperm DNA fragmentation, despite improving sperm motility. This finding is crucial for assisted reproduction settings.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Sperm Biology
- Assisted Reproductive Technology
Background:
- Sperm DNA fragmentation is a key factor affecting male fertility.
- Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) aim to improve pregnancy outcomes.
- Density gradient centrifugation (DGC) is a common semen processing technique.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of discontinuous double-layered density gradient centrifugation (DGC) in reducing sperm DNA fragmentation.
- To assess the impact of DGC on sperm apoptotic DNA fragmentation rates in men undergoing ART.
Main Methods:
- Semen samples from 35 men undergoing ART were processed using DGC.
- Sperm apoptotic DNA fragmentation was measured using a deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine triphosphate nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay.
Main Results:
- Sperm motility significantly improved after DGC processing.
- No significant reduction in sperm apoptotic DNA fragmentation rates was observed post-DGC.
Conclusions:
- Discontinuous double-layered DGC does not improve sperm apoptotic DNA fragmentation rates.
- The routine use of DGC in ART should consider its limited impact on sperm DNA integrity.
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