A simple zeta method for sperm selection based on membrane charge.
OBJECTIVE
The objectives were: [1] to develop a simple zeta potential method for sperm isolation; and [2] to analyze the sperm maturity, morphology, kinematic, and DNA parameters.


METHODS
The phenomenon of sticky sperm adhering to slide surfaces was adapted for collecting charged sperm.


METHODS
Clinical and academic research environment.


METHODS
Discarded colloid-washed sperm from routine laboratory testing (n = 8).


METHODS
Sperm were centrifuged in serum-free medium and collected for analyses.


METHODS
Kinematic parameters, DNA integrity, and maturity.


RESULTS
The percentages of mature (73.0% +/- 0.5% vs. control 63.5% +/- 0.5% SEM) and DNA intact sperm (85.0% +/- 0.3% vs. 69.5% +/- 0.5%) increased in the male factor subgroup. Strict normal morphology (19.3% +/- 0.1% vs. 10.0% +/- 0.1%), hyperactivation (7.0% +/- 0.1% vs. 3.6% +/- 0.1%), and progressive motility (29.1% +/- 0.1% vs. 19.9% +/- 0.1%) increased by twofold.


CONCLUSIONS
The zeta method improved sperm parameters associated with increased fertilization and pregnancy after assisted reproduction procedures. Manipulation from the attaching-detaching process stimulated sperm metabolism without causing premature acrosome reactions. Total motility was unchanged suggesting a lack of association between total motility and zeta potential.
Chan
Philip J
PJ
Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Center for Fertility and In Vitro Fertilization, Loma Linda University School of Medicine, Loma Linda, California, USA. pchann@yahoo.com
Jacobson
John D
JD
Corselli
Johannah U
JU
Patton
William C
WC
D020101:Acrosome Reaction; D002462:Cell Membrane / Q000502:physiology*; D002469:Cell Separation / Q000379:methods*; D053938:DNA Fragmentation; D004594:Electrophysiology; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D013081:Sperm Motility; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*