High-throughput analysis of TUNEL-stained sperm using image cytometry

Cytometry A. 2017 Sep;91(9):854-858. doi: 10.1002/cyto.a.23164. Epub 2017 Jul 5.

Abstract

Sperm DNA integrity is an essential factor for successful fertilization and proper pregnancy progression. The terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end-labeling (TUNEL) assay is commonly used for the estimation of the DNA fragmentation index. Analysis of TUNEL-stained sperm is often performed by flow cytometry, an approach that allows high-throughput analysis but in which any morphological information is lost. In this study, results of an automated image cytometry estimation of TUNEL-stained sperms were presented. The results of visual counting and automatic analysis were closely correlated, indicating that image cytometry is suitable for such analysis and may be applied in a clinical setting. © 2017 International Society for Advancement of Cytometry.

Keywords: DNA fragmentation; TUNEL; image cytometry; spermatozoa.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • DNA / genetics
  • DNA Fragmentation
  • Female
  • Fertilization / physiology
  • Flow Cytometry / methods
  • Humans
  • Image Cytometry / methods
  • In Situ Nick-End Labeling / methods
  • Male
  • Pregnancy
  • Spermatozoa / physiology*
  • Staining and Labeling / methods

Substances

  • DNA