The effect of alpha-amylase on the acrosomal membrane of human sperm.

Purpose: Sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction are prerequisites to accomplishing fertilization. The object of this research was to induce capacitation and the acrosome reaction of human sperm, comparing the acrosome status of fertile and infertile men, using alpha-amylase.

Methods: Acrosome status was measured using indirect immunofluorescence (IIF; monoclonal antibody GB24, Thèramex), hemizona assay (HZA), and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

Micromanipulation at an infertility centre.

Aim: Human in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and gamete intrafallopian transfer have been used in the management of various forms of infertility. In cases of severe male-factor infertility, fertilisation can be a factor. In this study micromanipulation was used to increase fertilisation in such cases.

A comparative study on the diagnostic sensitivity of rodent sperm and embryos in the detection of endotoxin in Earle's balanced salt solution.

Purpose: The bioassay used by most IVF units to assess culture media is the mouse embryo test. The limitations of this assay are well known. The objective of this study was therefore to evaluate the in vitro bioassay potential of rodent sperm, in terms of relative sensitivities to endotoxins, and to compare the results with the routine mouse embryo and human sperm tests.