Functional motion changes during sperm transit to the site of fertilization and in-vitro applications: a review

Int J Androl. 1995 Jun:18 Suppl 1:1-6. doi: 10.1111/j.1365-2605.1995.tb00630.x.

Abstract

Continued research to define the parameters of sperm function should aid the evaluation of various approaches in infertility as well as the efficacy of contraceptives for men which do not necessarily achieve azoospermia. Many treatment forms have been advocated for male factor infertility but have yielded little effect. These included, for example, gonadotrophins, clomiphene citrate, the weakly androgenic steroid, mesterolone. Often, improvements in oligoasthenozoospermia that are not related to genital infection, do not attain normozoospermic levels. Owing to lack of success with various treatment modalities, assisted reproductive technology encompassing artificial insemination by husband or donor following in vitro enhancement of sperm function have assumed an important role in male infertility. Agents that have been shown to induce and support sperm capacitation processes such as hyperactivation, could serve an important role. These include human follicular fluid (HFF), maternal serum, fetal cord serum and methyl xanthine derivatives.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anabolic Agents / therapeutic use
  • Clomiphene / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Fertility Agents, Female / therapeutic use
  • Fertilization in Vitro*
  • Fertilization*
  • Fetal Blood
  • Follicular Fluid / physiology
  • Gonadotropins / therapeutic use
  • Humans
  • Infertility, Male / physiopathology
  • Male
  • Mesterolone / therapeutic use
  • Oligospermia / therapy*
  • Sperm Motility / drug effects
  • Sperm Motility / physiology
  • Sperm-Ovum Interactions
  • Spermatozoa / physiology*
  • Xanthines / therapeutic use

Substances

  • Anabolic Agents
  • Fertility Agents, Female
  • Gonadotropins
  • Xanthines
  • Mesterolone
  • Clomiphene