Rahul Manoj: The Hidden Factor Behind Fertilization Failure
Rahul Manoj, Senior Embryologist at Best Life Fertility Center, shared a post on LinkedIn:
“Day 29: Understanding Sperm DNA Fragmentation – The Hidden Factor Behind Fertilization Failure
Even when sperm count, motlity, and morphology look normal, hidden DNA damage can silently reduce fertilization potential, embryo quality, and implantation success.
What is Sperm DNA Fragmentation (SDF)? It refers to breaks or damage in the sperm’s genetic material (DNA), often due to oxidative stress, apoptosis, or defective chromatin packaging.
Causes:
- Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress
- Varicocele
- High testicular temperature
- Smoking, toxins, and infections
- Repeated freeze–thaw cycles
- Advanced paternal age
Testing Methods:
- TUNEL Assay
- SCSA (Sperm Chromatin Structure Assay)
- COMET Assay
- SCD (Sperm Chromatin Dispersion test)
Clinical Impact:
- Reduced fertilization and blastocyst formation
- Poor embryo development
- Higher miscarriage rates
- Poor ICSI outcomes if high fragmentation persists
Key Insight:
Even with normal semen parameters, a high DNA fragmentation index (DFI > 30%) can be a critical indicator of male factor infertility.
How to Reduce DNA Damage:
Antioxidant therapy (Vit C, E, CoQ10, Zinc, L-carnitine)
Lifestyle modification (quit smoking, reduce stress, avoid heat exposure)
Use of testicular sperm for ICSI when ejaculated sperm shows high DFI
Optimization of lab conditions to minimize oxidative stress”
Stay updated on all scientific advances in the field of fertility with Fertility News.
-
Jun 19, 2026, 15:54Horace Roman: Sciatic Nerve Endometriosis – Prevent Muscle Atrophy Caused by Progressive Denervation
-
Jun 19, 2026, 15:36Why Does the Clock Read Older? – Fertility Plus
-
Jun 19, 2026, 15:28Asma Khalil: Study Raises Questions About Workplace Activities and Early Pregnancy Outcomes
-
Jun 19, 2026, 15:21Spindle Dynamics and Chromosome Segregation In Human Preimplantation Embryos – Fertility and Sterility
-
Jun 19, 2026, 15:12Today is World Sickle Cell Day – Preeclampsia Foundation
-
Jun 19, 2026, 14:59Marco Zaccaria: ESGE Webinar to Spotlight Advances in the Surgical Management of Parametrial Endometriosis
-
Jun 19, 2026, 14:46PMOS Does Not Make Conception Impossible – PCOS Awareness Association
-
Jun 19, 2026, 14:40Diana Kayal: Successful Fertility Programs Aren’t Built On Clinical Expertise Alone
-
Jun 19, 2026, 14:29Devyanshi Dixit: Call for Abstracts at GFWH 2026