Determination of the ultrastructural pathology of human sperm by atomic force microscopy

Objective: To investigate ultrastructural changes, particularly at the surf ace, that occur in pathological spermatozoa by using atomic force microscop y (AFM) and to examine the morphological alterations responsible for infert ile sperm. Design: Normal fertile and pathological spermatozoa were examined by using a conventional AFM in a noncontact mode. Setting: Andrology clinic at Los Andes University Hospital. Patient(s): Sperm of patients with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) and a sthenozoospermia were obtained from the Los Andes University Hospital, Meri da. Venezuela. Intervention(s): Main Outcome Measure(s): Morphological details, topological information, an d three-dimensional images of the head. neck, and flagellum are presented f or both normal and pathological sperm. Result(s): The obtained images clearly show dramatic alterations in the mor phology of the head. neck. and flagellum of pathological sperm. Even the ul trastructure at the top of the flagellum and the region of the acrosome cap are clearly distinguishable. Conclusion(s): This study has significant importance not only for identifyi ng spermatozoa alterations but also For understanding morphological defects and their effects on infertility. If properly exploited, this technique co uld be an important research tool. (Fertil Steril(R) 2001,75:961-5. (C) 200 1 by American Society for Reproductive Medicine.).