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Factors influencing maintenance of sperm motility during in vitro processing
D de Ziegler1, M I Cedars, F Hamilton
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Medicine.
Abstract:
Addition of serum to culture medium during washing of sperm was shown to significantly improve sperm motility upon subsequent 24-hour incubation, distinct from the beneficial effects of adding serum after washing. Commercial sources of human and bovine albumen tested did not preserve motility as well as serum, but addition to serum showed that the lesser effect was probably due to toxic contaminants. One of the most commonly available disposable plastic syringes was found to be markedly toxic to sperm. The materials found to have sperm toxicity also manifested toxicity to mouse embryos. These findings show that a similar degree of caution is advisable in testing of materials contacting sperm in vitro to that which has become standard practice for culture of human embryos.
Insights
Adding serum during sperm washing significantly improves sperm motility. However, some materials, like certain plastic syringes, are toxic to both sperm and embryos, requiring careful in vitro testing.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- In vitro fertilization (IVF)
- Toxicology
Background:
- Sperm preparation is crucial for assisted reproductive technologies.
- Identifying optimal conditions for sperm handling is essential for successful outcomes.
- Potential toxicity of materials used in sperm processing is a concern.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effect of serum addition during sperm washing on sperm motility.
- To assess the toxicity of commercial albumen and common laboratory materials on sperm and embryos.
- To establish guidelines for material testing in reproductive contexts.
Main Methods:
- Sperm were washed with culture medium supplemented with or without serum.
- Sperm motility was assessed after 24-hour incubation.
- Commercial human and bovine albumen were tested for their effects on sperm motility.
- Sperm and mouse embryos were exposed to commonly used disposable plastic syringes to evaluate toxicity.
Main Results:
- Serum addition during sperm washing significantly enhanced sperm motility compared to other methods.
- Commercial albumen was less effective than serum and likely contained toxic contaminants.
- Disposable plastic syringes demonstrated significant toxicity to both sperm and mouse embryos.
- Materials toxic to sperm also exhibited toxicity to mouse embryos.
Conclusions:
- Serum supplementation during the washing step is beneficial for maintaining sperm motility.
- Care must be taken to avoid toxic contaminants in albumen preparations.
- Standard laboratory materials, such as certain plastic syringes, can be toxic to reproductive cells and early embryos.
- Rigorous testing of materials contacting gametes and embryos in vitro is recommended, similar to practices for human embryo culture.