Molecular Biology in Spermatogenesis

Abstract

Molecular biology techniques have suffered important advances in the past decade and its practical applications are getting more present each day.The studies involving male gametogenesis show a subtle relationship between molecular fi ndings and clinical features and fenotypes.Genetic alterations are related to male infertility like spermatogenesis failure, impaired gondotropin releasing and deferent duct agenesia.The molecular study of the spermatic cells shows that impairment of DNA packing and its integrity leads to defects in the pro-nucleus formation and, thus, interferes with in vitro fertilization outcome.These studies also show that there is an increase in DNA anomalies and increased apoptosis in spermatozoids from thawed semen.Flow cytometry can identify enriched cell populations and allow their selection before an ICSI treatment.Through these techniques, it will be possible to develop the palliative or assisted reproduction treatments needed for the couples where there is a male factor to achieve pregnancy without risks.