Characterization of Hyperactivated Motility by Human Spermatozoa During Capacitation: Comparison of Fertile and Oligozoospermic Sperm Populations

Abstract

Suspensions of capacitating human spermatozoa were analyzed for potential hyperactivated movements using videomicrographic methods. Analysis was carried out on aliquots of 22 sperm suspensions, which were proved fertile several hours later during human in vitro fertilization. After approximately 3 h of capacitation, 22.1% of the fertile spermatozoa displayed motility patterns designated as hyperactivated. Over 80% of these hyperactivated spermatozoa moved with a wide-amplitude, two-dimensional whiplash pattern, displaying marked lateral displacement of the head. Only 8.4% of capacitating spermatozoa from oligozoospermic patients showed these hyperactivated movements. The incidence of hyperactivated movements by fertile and oligozoospermic spermatozoa could be significantly increased after exposure to various motility stimulants. The clinical significance of hyperactivation as a functional assay of fertilizing capacity is discussed.

Key Words:

• Hyperactivation
• Capacitation
• Oligozoospermia
• Motility stimulation