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Sperm DNA fragmentation test

The sperm DNA fragmentation test is performed to analyse the fragmentation of sperm DNA. Since the integrity of DNA is partially independent of other values examined in semen analysis, the test provides additional information about the quality of semen. Increased DNA fragmentation has been found to adversely affect male fertility. High fragmentation can complicate the onset of pregnancy spontaneously or during fertility treatments and cause an early miscarriage.

Single- and double-strand fragmentation

DNA consists of two strands. The test determines whether the fragmentation is due to single (ssDF, single-strand DNA fragmentation) or double (dsDF, double-strand DNA fragmentation) strand fragmentation. Different fragmentation types have different effects on fertility and require different treatment methods.

Single-strand fragmentation affect the sperm’s motility and impair their fertilisation ability. Indications of single-strand fragmentation can be detected in a motility assessment conducted as part of regular semen analysis. With microfertilisation (intracytoplasmic sperm injection), the sperm with the best motility can be selected for fertilisation.

Double-strand fragmentation is significant because it affects the development and attachment of embryos and increases the risk of miscarriages. Double-strand fragmentation cannot be deduced from the properties examined in regular semen analysis.

Explanatory factors behind DNA fragmentation

A high rate of DNA fragmentation can be caused by oxidative stress or problems in sperm development. Oxidative stress in semen, which particularly affects single-strand fragmentation, can be measured with the MiOXSYS test.

Factors that increase the fragmentation of DNA include, for example, lifestyles such as heavy smoking and poor nutrition, certain medications and diseases, old age, environmental toxins and infections. If your DNA fragmentation test result is abnormal, your doctor will explain its significance to you and give you instructions on how to correct the situation.