[Sperm hyperactivated motility: influence of the capacitation medium]. / Cinétique spermatique d'hyperactivation: influence du milieu de capacitation.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Hyperactivation-associated motility is an important marker of capacitation and a prerequisite to fertilization. Computer-Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) is a reproducible method that can be used to predict fertilization success, in addition to the migration and survival test. However, published data are contradictory and preparation methods are heterogeneous. Changing one element in the sperm preparation (capacitation medium) may alter its kinetic parameter values. MATERIAL AND METHOD: This prospective study with two paired series was performed on sperm considered as normal. The sperm preparation was identical up to the second centrifugation, and there after the centrifugate was divided into two groups and suspended either in the capacitating medium Upgraded B2 INRA Medium(R), or in Ferticult Flushing Medium. Measurements were carried out with a Hamilton Thorne Research Analyzer (IVOS v10.9i). RESULTS: The analysis of the 87 sperm samples included in the study showed differences between the averages of Straight Line Velocity (SLV, p=0.02), Curvilinear Velocity (CLV, p<0.0001), Amplitude of Lateral Head Displacement (ALH, p<0.0001), and algorithmic calculation of the examined hyperactivation (Hyper 5, p<0.0001). CONCLUSION: The diagnostic validity of hyperactivation motility cannot be dissociated from the preparation conditions. A standardised preparation is a prerequisite for scientific evaluation and validation of this technique. Although higher motility characteristics seem to be desirable in a therapeutic environment, results will have to be validated by clinical tests.