Toxicological Research

Korean Society of Toxicology & Korea Environmental Mutagen Society (한국독성학회)
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Environmental Exposure of Sperm Sex-Chromosomes: A Gender Selection Technique

  • Oyeyipo, Ibukun P. (Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University) ;
  • van der Linde, Michelle (Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University) ;
  • du Plessis, Stefan S. (Division of Medical Physiology, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University)
  • Received : 2017.06.05
  • Accepted : 2017.07.17
  • Published : 2017.10.15
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Abstract

Preconceptual sex selection is still a highly debatable process whereby X- and Y-chromosome-bearing spermatozoa are isolated prior to fertilization of the oocyte. Although various separation techniques are available, none can guarantee 100% accuracy. The aim of this study was to separate X- and Y-chromosome-bearing spermatozoa using methods based on the viability difference between the X- and Y-chromosome-bearing spermatozoa. A total of 18 experimental semen samples were used, written consent was obtained from all donors and results were analysed in a blinded fashion. Spermatozoa were exposed to different pH values (5.5, 6.5, 7.5, 8.5, and 9.5), increased temperatures ($37^{\circ}C$, $41^{\circ}C$, and $45^{\circ}C$) and ROS level ($50{\mu}M$, $750{\mu}M$, and $1,000{\mu}M$). The live and dead cell separation was done through a modified swim-up technique. Changes in the sex-chromosome ratio of samples were established by double-label fluorescent in situ hybridization (FISH) before and after processing. The results indicated successful enrichment of X-chromosome-bearing spermatozoa upon incubation in acidic media, increased temperatures, and elevated $H_2O_2$. This study demonstrated the potential role for exploring the physiological differences between X-and Y-chromosome-bearing spermatozoa in the development of preconceptual gender selection.

Keywords

References

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