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    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00
    • 8:00 - 18:00

    Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA)

    The Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay (SCSA) is a diagnostic test that evaluates the integrity of sperm DNA. It provides insight into the quality of sperm by measuring the susceptibility of sperm DNA to denaturation or breakage. DNA integrity is vital for fertilization and the subsequent proper development of an embryo.

    Principle

    SCSA uses a dye called Acridine Orange (AO) that binds to sperm DNA. When bound to double-stranded (intact) DNA, the dye fluoresces green. When bound to single-stranded (denatured/broken) DNA, it fluoresces red. The ratio of red to green fluorescence indicates the proportion of sperm with fragmented DNA.

    Procedure

    Sample Collection: A semen sample is collected from the patient.
    Sample Preparation: The semen sample undergoes processing to isolate the sperm.
    Staining: The sperm cells are treated with a mild acid solution, causing DNA with breaks to denature. Acridine Orange (AO) dye is then added.
    Flow Cytometry: The stained sperm are analyzed using flow cytometry, measuring the green (intact DNA) and red (fragmented DNA) fluorescence.
    Data Analysis: The proportion of sperm exhibiting DNA fragmentation is represented by the DNA Fragmentation Index (DFI). A higher DFI suggests a greater percentage of sperm with damaged DNA.

    Clinical Implications

    Fertility Assessment: Elevated DNA fragmentation has been associated with decreased fertility. Men with a high DFI may experience issues with fertilization, even if other sperm parameters (like count and motility) are normal.
    Recurrent Pregnancy Loss: High sperm DNA fragmentation may also be linked to increased risk of miscarriage.
    Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) Success: High DFI may impact the success rates of ART methods like in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).

    Advantages

    Offers insight into sperm quality beyond traditional parameters (e.g., count, motility, morphology).
    Helps guide treatment decisions for couples undergoing fertility treatments.

    Limitations

    The clinical thresholds for DFI can vary among laboratories.
    Not all fertility clinics may use or consider SCSA results in their evaluations.

    Conclusion

    SCSA provides valuable information about sperm DNA integrity, a crucial aspect of sperm quality. While sperm count, motility, and morphology are essential, DNA fragmentation can be a hidden cause of infertility or recurrent pregnancy loss. As with all diagnostic tools, SCSA results should be interpreted in the context of a comprehensive clinical evaluation.

    Onco-Genomics is the first in-house DNA & oncological testing Centre in West Africa. We specialize in advanced genetic testing across various life stages, ensuring your family’s health and well-being are always at the forefront.

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