Correlation between Different Patterns of Hypo-Osmotic Swelling and Sperm Functional Tests.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Andrology
• Sperm Physiology

Background:

• Sperm membrane integrity is crucial for cellular function and serves as an indicator of DNA integrity.
• The hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) is a valuable tool for assessing sperm membrane integrity and overall sperm quality.
• HOST is often used in conjunction with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for treating male infertility, particularly asthenozoospermia.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the correlation between different patterns observed in the hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST).
• To assess the relationship between HOST patterns and key sperm parameters, including protamine deficiency and apoptosis.
• To evaluate the diagnostic value of HOST patterns in predicting sperm DNA integrity and maturity.

Main Methods:

• A case-control study involving sixteen semen samples from infertile normozospermic men.
• Semen samples were divided for assessment of standard sperm parameters (WHO-2010 criteria) and HOST procedure.
• Post-HOST analysis included sperm morphology, protamine deficiency, and early/late apoptosis assessment.

Main Results:

• The 'd-sperm' pattern showed the lowest odds ratio for abnormal sperm head morphology and acrosome.
• A significant correlation was found between the 'd-sperm' pattern and sperm concentration, as well as DNA damage.
• Increased sperm motility correlated significantly with reduced DNA fragmentation, and early apoptotic sperm correlated with protamine deficiency and lower sperm concentration.

Conclusions:

• The 'd-pattern' of the hypoosmotic swelling test (HOST) is significantly correlated with sperm DNA integrity.
• Semen samples with low sperm concentration exhibit a lower percentage of 'd-sperm', suggesting these are mature and intact spermatozoa.
• HOST patterns provide valuable insights into sperm maturity, DNA integrity, and potential for successful fertilization.