Human sperm DNA damage in the context of assisted reproductive techniques

Fertilization involves direct interaction of the sperm andoocyte, fusion of the cell membranes and union of male and femalegamete genomes. The completion of this process and subsequentembryo development depend in part on the inherent integrityof the sperm DNA. Sperm genomequality has been emphasized for several years as playing a majorrole in early embryogenesis. There is clinical evidence showing that human sperm DNA damage may adversely affectreproductive outcomes and that spermatozoa of infertile menpossess substantially more DNA damage than do spermatozoa offertile men. Testing DNA integrity may help selecting spermatozoa with intact DNA or with the least amount of DNA damage for use in assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). This review will focus onhow sperm DNA is organized, what causes sperm DNA damage and whatimpact this damage may have on reproductive outcome.

Keywords
Fertilization, Sperm DNA damage, Assisted reproductive technique (ART).