Sperm Function Test

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OXYGEN FREE RADICALS

Toxicity arising from excess exposure to oxygen (O2) is an inherent challenge to aerobic life. The harmful effects of O2 are attributed to its reduced form (superoxide radical: O2-) or its by-products combined with other highly unstable molecules (hydrogen peroxide: H2O2; hydroxyl radical: HO-). These substances, called oxygen free radicals (from English Reactive Oxygen Species; ROS) have harmful effects in cascade with the surrounding cells in an almost instantaneous way. Cell survival in the face of free radical attack depends, therefore, on the balance between the processes of production and elimination of ROS.

Any circumstance that unbalances these two processes can induce the installation of a condition called oxidative stress, in which the formation of free radicals (oxidizing agents) to antioxidants prevails.

ACROMOSOMIC REACTION

The acrosome is the region of the head of the sperm that is membrane-coated and composed of enzymes. These enzymes have the biological function of breaking down the cell layers that surround the oocyte (Cumulus oophorus and zona pellucida), thus allowing sperm penetration and fertilization. The release of these enzymes is called an acrosome reaction.

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LIPID PEROXIDATION

The sperm membrane is composed of polyunsaturated and target fatty acids (PUFAs) that guarantee the necessary fluidity for its movement during the fertilization process. Due to their chemical composition, PUFAs are targets of oxygen free radicals (ROS), small molecules from sperm metabolism and from external sources such as leukocytes present in genitourinary tract infections, drug abuse, or varicocele. Under normal conditions, ROS are countered by a defense system made up of antioxidants, however, several medical conditions can reduce the antioxidant capacity or increase the production of ROS. When the antioxidant capacity is ineffective, ROS initiate an attack on the sperm membrane and initiate a cascade of cellular changes that compromise their fertilization potential. Therefore, membrane changes are early markers of sperm changes.

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CREATINE KINASE

Spermatogenesis is the process by which sperm are produced and begins with the division of germline cells (the spermatogonia) and ends with the formation of mature sperm.

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MITOCHONDIAL ACTIVITY

Mitochondria are small organelles responsible for supplying energy to sperm through aerobic metabolism, in a process called oxidative phosphorylation. This process makes the sperm acquire motility and be able to reach the oocyte. Mitochondria are fundamental parts of sperm and dysfunctions in their structure can result in reduced sperm function. Furthermore, defects in its structure can compromise oxidative phosphorylation and, consequently, compromise the ability of sperm to move.

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BENEFITS OF TAKING THE TEST

It has high sensitivity, as it uses a chemiluminescent with high affinity for ROS;
Early marker of seminal changes and oxidative stress;
Assists the physician in treatment with antioxidant therapy;
Allows the correct clinical management of patients with seminal changes and male infertility;
Used in the monitoring of the treatment of patients with male infertility.

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