Sperm quality assessment in mammals by flow cytometry In: T.R. Tiersch and C.C. Green (eds.) Cryopreservation in Aquatic Species, 2nd Edition. World Aquaculture Society, Baton Rouge, LA.

Authors: Purdy, Phil

Submitted to: Book Chapter
Publication Type: Book / Chapter
Publication Acceptance Date: 9/10/2010
Publication Date: 3/1/2011
Citation: Purdy, P.H. 2011. Sperm quality assessment in mammals by flow cytometry pp. 219-226. In: T.R. Tiersch and C.C. Green (eds.) Cryopreservation in Aquatic Species, 2nd Edition. World Aquaculture Society, Baton Rouge, LA.

Interpretive Summary: The fertility of a semen sample can not be predicted whereas the potential for poor fertility can be estimated by evaluating as many physiologic and morphologic factors as possible (Amann and Hammerstedt, 2002). This rationale is based on the ideology that while a significant amount of information is known about sperm function, greater still is the unknown information, and consequently all the mechanisms that are required for achieving successful fertilization. Because of this lack of knowledge, the ability to evaluate multiple sperm characteristics simultaneously is the exact reason why flow cytometry can be of such tremendous value. Therefore, this chapter will provide an overview of flow cytometry which will include descriptions of standard procedures for analyzing aquatic species sperm. In addition, the concept of multiplexing will be explained, whose applications can provide unlimited potential for future, varied analyses of sperm quality and fertilizing potential.

Technical Abstract: The fertility of a semen sample can not be predicted whereas the potential for poor fertility can be estimated by evaluating as many physiologic and morphologic factors as possible (Amann and Hammerstedt, 2002). This rationale is based on the ideology that while a significant amount of information is known about sperm function, greater still is the unknown information, and consequently all the mechanisms that are required for achieving successful fertilization. Because of this lack of knowledge, the ability to evaluate multiple sperm characteristics simultaneously is the exact reason why flow cytometry can be of such tremendous value. Therefore, this chapter will provide an overview of flow cytometry which will include descriptions of standard procedures for analyzing aquatic species sperm. In addition, the concept of multiplexing will be explained, whose applications can provide unlimited potential for future, varied analyses of sperm quality and fertilizing potential.