DNA fragmentation in spermatozoa

DNA fragmentation is a phenomenon that occurs as a result of breaks or lesions in the genetic material of the spermatozoid. There is scientific evidence that these lesions of the genetic material of the spermatozoa may be the cause of infertility or infertility in some cases and depending on the degree to which they occur.

The fragmentation of sperm DNA is related to the capacity of fertilization and the rate of abortion. Thus, the greater the degree of fragmentation of an individual, the lower their fertility and the risk of miscarriages.

 

These lesions can occur in only one of the DNA strands or in both. If the damage occurs at the double-chain level, it is very difficult to repair. If the lesion is at the simple chain level, there are intrinsic sperm and egg mechanisms that can attempt to repair these lesions. Although the degree of fragmentation is very high, the mechanisms of cell destruction are set in motion and the spermatozoon will no longer have the ability to fertilize or give rise to a viable embryo .

 

There are several causes of sperm DNA fragmentation and can be differentiated into two types.

 

Causes within the spermatozoid itself and its mechanism of formation:

 

- Presence of oxidizing molecules in the semen