Chromatin packing in normal and teratozoospermic human ejaculated spermatozoa

Normal shaped (oval) and teratozoospermic spermatozoa have been compared by several techniques, including the use of "in vitro" S-S agents, cytofluorometry determination of DNA, total proteins, and ultracytochemical analysis of the presence and localization of SH proteins present in human sperm nuclei. A close relationship between S-S stability and chromatin packing is inferred from the differential sensitivity to S-S reduction agents exhibited by normal sperm nuclei which shows a lower Feulgen reactivity and special distribution of SH proteins compared to teratozoospermic cells. Both, S-S stability and chromatin packing are higher in normal sperms.