Trummer H, Tucker K, Young C, Kaula N, Meacham RB. Effect of storage temperature on sperm cryopreservation.
Fertil Steril 1998;
70:1162-4. [PMID:
9848311 DOI:
10.1016/s0015-0282(98)00349-5]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE
To evaluate the influence of cryopreservation temperature on human sperm motility and morphology.
DESIGN
Controlled study, investigator was blinded to the type of cryopreservation.
SETTING
University-based andrology laboratory.
PATIENT(S)
Sixteen semen samples with normal motility and sperm count from men after a fertility work up.
INTERVENTION(S)
Semen aliquots were either stored in a mechanical freezer at -70 degrees C or in liquid nitrogen at -196 degrees C for 7 days or 3 months. Test yolk buffer was used as a cryoprotectant. With use of a programmable freezing unit, all samples were cooled at a controlled rate.
MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)
Sperm motility and morphology.
RESULT(S)
After 7 days of cryopreservation, there was a greater decrease in sperm motility among specimens maintained at -70 degrees C than among those maintained at -196 degrees C (47% versus 39% decrease). The difference in sperm motility was even greater after 3 months of cryopreservation (72% versus 39% decrease). No difference in postthaw sperm morphology was detected among sperm preserved at -70 degrees C versus -196 degrees C.
CONCLUSION(S)
Sperm cryopreservation at -196 degrees C is superior to cryopreservation at -70 degrees C. Sperm can be stored at -70 degrees C for a short period of time with a relatively modest loss of motility.
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