Potentials of electron microscopic examination in the diagnosis of genetically determined disorders related to morphology and motility of human spermatozoa

Abstract

Despite infertility is known as a serious medical and social issue, commercial panels for the determination of genetically caused disorders of morphology and motility of spermatozoa are not available in the territory of the Eurasian Economic Union. Electron microscopic examination of spermatozoa (EMIS) represents a promising method that allows to visualize and analyze structural anomalies in spermatozoa at a level which is not accessible by other methods. The study included transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of spermatozoa. Native sperm was diluted and fixed with 2.5% glutaraldehyde. Ultrathin sections were obtained on an UltraCut III microtome. Analysis was performed at magnifications of x4000, x25000. Spermatozoa were analyzed on a JEM-1011 electron microscope at different magnifications to identify the general appearance, axonemal anomalies, chromatin of the nucleus, and mitochondria. EMIS serves as a tool for detailed analysis of the morphology of spermatozoa in patients with asthenozoospermia (AZS) and teratozoospermia (TZS), and their combination. The obtained data provide a basis for more accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment approaches, contributing to increased effectiveness in overcoming infertility.