Effects of keeping semen samples in 4-6 °C on sperm motility, viability and DNA denaturation

Abstract

Background: Mammalian sperm DNA is the most compacted eukaryotic DNA and this compacted DNA can resist against different environmental and chemical factors. The aim of this study was to assess the effects of keeping washed semen sample in refrigerator (4-6 °C) on sperm viability, total motility and DNA integrity in normozoospermic men. Methods: In this experimental study, 13 semen samples of normozoospermic men were washed twice in modified Ham's F10 medium. These samples were kept in refrigerator (4-6 °C) up to 12 days. On the 0 (immediately after sampling), 1st, 2nd, 5th, 7th and 12th days, the proportion of viable, motile, double stranded DNA spermatozoa were examined. Viability and DNA integrity of sperm cells were examined consecutively using eosin-nigrosin and acridine orange staining. Findings: The viability and total motility of sperm cells significantly decreased (P < 0.05) during 12 days of storage in refrigerator (4-6 °C). In contrast with sperm viability and motility, DNA integrity was without significant changes up to 12 days of storage. Conclusion: This study suggests that sperm DNA integrity is preserved even after 12 days of keeping semen sample in refrigerator. © 2016, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.