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Sperm DNA fragmentation: Key test for male fertility
What is Sperm DNA Fragmentation?
Sperm DNA fragmentation refers to damage to the DNA strand within spermatozoa. This problem can affect male fertility by hindering egg fertilisation or compromising embryo development, increasing the risk of implantation failure in assisted reproduction treatments or recurrent miscarriages.
In this article, Dr. Beatriz Lozano, laboratory director of Vida Fertility, talks about the causes of this disorder, how it is diagnosed and how to improve the chances of achieving a successful pregnancy.
Importance of sperm DNA fragmentation in male fertility
Sperm DNA contains the genetic information necessary for an embryo to develop properly. However, if this genetic material is damaged, problems can arise such as:
- Fertilisation failure
- Embryos of poor morphological quality
- Lower implantation rate
- Recurrent miscarriages
Causes of DNA Fragmentation
Several factors (internal and external) contribute to sperm DNA damage:
Internal causes:
- Impaired sperm maturation during sperm production.
- Failures in apoptosis
- Oxidative stress: Imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants.
External causes:
- Increased testicular temperature: This can be caused by episodes of high fever, the presence of a varicocele, or even wearing clothes that are too tight.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins, radiation or pollutants.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, alcohol, poor diet and sedentary lifestyle.
- Infections: Problems in the male reproductive tract.
- Older age: Sperm quality declines with advancing age.
- Problems such as varicocele.
- Damage from cancer treatments.
Diagnosis: the Sperm DNA Fragmentation test
The sperm DNA fragmentation test is a specialised test that evaluates the genetic quality of spermatozoa.
Testing steps
- Sample collection: The patient provides a semen sample with a maximum abstinence of 1 day.
- Laboratory preparation: The sample is prepared for transport and analysis by the genetics laboratory.
- DNA analysis: Methods used include:
- TUNEL: fluorescently marks DNA fragments for analysis.
- SCD: Sperm chromatin test. It consists of decondensing the sperm DNA to check its integrity.
- SCSA: Assesses DNA damage by flow cytometry.
- Comet Assay: Allows visualisation of the migration pattern of damaged DNA.
- Results: Expressed as a percentage of sperm with fragmented DNA.
A high level of fragmentation suggests fertility problems and may require supplementation with antioxidants or the use of techniques that decrease the likelihood of selecting damaged sperm at fertilisation.
Benefits of performing the Sperm DNA Fragmentation Test
The sperm DNA fragmentation test offers multiple advantages:
- More accurate diagnosis: Detects alterations not visible in a semen analysis.
- Personalisation of treatment: Allows the use of sperm selection techniques, trying to reduce the number of altered spermatozoa.
- Prevention of treatment failures: Minimises fertilisation failures, implantation failures or early miscarriages.
Treatment to Improve Sperm DNA Fragmentation
If a high percentage of fragmentation is detected, specialists may recommend:
- Improve lifestyle: balanced diet, antioxidants, regular exercise.
- Antioxidant treatments: To reduce oxidative stress.
- Opt for ICSI to select the best sperm.
- Use sperm selection techniques that decrease the likelihood of selecting sperm with altered sperm DNA fragmentation.
- TESA is a minimally invasive technique in which a percutaneous biopsy is performed to obtain sperm directly from the testicle. In this way, spermatozoa with a lower rate of altered DNA fragmentation are obtained.
- Diagnosis of infections: Some infections and their treatment can damage sperm DNA.
Why take the test at Vida Fertility?
At Vida Fertility, we have the most advanced technology to diagnose and treat sperm DNA fragmentation. Our team of specialists evaluates each case individually, ensuring the best treatment to achieve a successful pregnancy.
Frequently Asked Questions on Sperm DNA Fragmentation
Who should take this test?
Dr. Beatriz Lozano responds:
It is recommended for men with any seminal pathology, and especially in those cases where miscarriages, low embryo quality or negative IVF have occurred in previous assisted reproduction treatments.
What results are considered normal?
Dr. Beatriz Lozano responds:
Depending on the technique used, the reference values may vary and have different diagnoses. It is therefore important to consult a reproductive specialist to facilitate the understanding of these values.
This is particularly important when using the internet to assess results, which can give biased or erroneous information.
How is sperm DNA fragmentation reduced?
Dr. Beatriz Lozano responds:
Primarily by improving lifestyle. Sometimes supplements such as antioxidants can be prescribed for periods of at least 3 months and, in the face of treatment, sperm selection techniques aimed at reducing DNA fragmentation prior to fertilisation can be used.
Sperm DNA fragmentation is a key factor in male infertility that can go undetected in a conventional semen analysis. Detecting it in time and applying the appropriate treatment can be decisive in achieving a successful pregnancy.
If you have any doubts about your fertility, at Vida Fertility we are here to help you, contact us and take the first step towards your dream of becoming a parent!
