Related Experiment Videos
Fine structure of spermatozoa retrieved from retrograde ejaculates
Archives of Andrology
|January 1, 1986
Summary
Spermatozoa from retrograde ejaculation show significant structural damage, including head and midpiece lesions, leading to low viability and motility. Electron microscopy confirms extensive ultrastructural abnormalities, explaining high sperm wastage in these cases.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Andrology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Retrograde ejaculation results in low retrieval of viable, motile spermatozoa.
- Previous studies indicate poor sperm quality in retrograde ejaculates.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural integrity of spermatozoa from retrograde ejaculates using electron microscopy.
- To correlate observed sperm morphology with functional deficits.
Main Methods:
- Spermatozoa were collected from retrograde ejaculates using Baker's buffer.
- Sperm samples were washed in Ham's F10 medium with 2% human serum albumin.
- Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to examine sperm ultrastructure.
Main Results:
- Significant ultrastructural lesions were observed in the sperm head and midpiece.
- Plasma membrane swelling, loss, or disruption was common.
- Acrosomal abnormalities, including swelling and absence, were prevalent.
- Mitochondrial swelling and lysis indicated cytotoxic injury in the midpiece.
Conclusions:
- Electron microscopy reveals severe ultrastructural damage to spermatozoa in retrograde ejaculation.
- Observed lesions explain the low viability and motility of sperm in these ejaculates.
- Findings are consistent with significant sperm wastage in men with retrograde ejaculation.