Comparing different sperm separation techniques for ART, through quantitative evaluation of p53 protein

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Environmental Health
• Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs)

Background:

• Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) offer solutions for infertility, but high failure rates persist.
• Reproductive system complexity and suboptimal conditions in ART contribute to decreased success.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate sperm deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) damage before and after selection procedures.
• To quantify sperm DNA damage using a novel technique.

Main Methods:

• 43 males (aged 24-31) from high (HEI) and low (LEI) environmental impact areas participated.
• Semen samples underwent processing: control, swim-up (SUP), classic SUP, and density gradient centrifugation (DGC).
• Quantitative p53 protein levels were measured pre- and post-processing.

Main Results:

• Density gradient centrifugation (DGC) and swim-up (SUP) showed superior quality in motility, vitality, and apoptosis compared to other methods.
• Group B (SUP) had comparable apoptosis to DGC but slightly lower motility and vitality.
• p53 protein levels were significantly higher in DGC samples, conflicting with apoptosis data.

Conclusions:

• Sperm separation techniques are crucial in ART.
• Spermatozoa from high environmental impact areas exhibit greater DNA fragility.
• Environmental factors may negatively influence sperm quality and ART outcomes.