Sperm chromatin dispersion test in the assessment of DNA fragmentation and aneuploidy in human spermatozoa

DNA damage in the male germ line may result in adverse clinical outcomes and the pathophysiology and clinical consequences of sperm DNA damage are being actively researched. Many DNA fragmentation assays such as the Halosperm Kit have been developed recently and are now available at a commercial level. Unfortunately, aimed at vulnerable couples with difficulty conceiving, many of these tests have not been clinically validated. Despite its plausible appeal and fervour of its supporters, the benefits of widespread DNA testing that only achieves the distressing of couples with the knowledge that effectual therapeutic strategies are absent are questionable. Commercially, however, it is no doubt lucrative. Analysis of gametes prior to the initiation of an IVF cycle may improve the quality of embryos transferred. The clinical and scientific community considers it a matter of urgency to translate the basic science behind how a cell prepares for fertilization into routine clinical practice. However, it is equally important, if not more, to allow the science behind such applications to draw level with its practice before its widespread implementation.