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 Vitrification of spermatozoa

 

 

 

 

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After the extreme success of vitrification for cryopreservation embryos and oocytes, everybody wanted to replace the obsolete and boring slow-rate freezing for cryopreservation of spermatozoa, as well.

However, the seemingly easy step has become more demanding than supposed, as permeable cryoprotectants that have worked beautifully for embryos and oocytes had detrimental effect on sperm cells.

 

A handful of scientists tried to overcome this problem. Eventually the most systematic and uncompromising approach has resulted in the breakthrough.

 

Thirteen years after his initial publication dealing with this approach, Dr. Vladimir Isachenko and his group (Cologne, Germany) have announced recently that the method works, is ready for clinical use, and hands-on workshops (see flyer below) are now offered for those who are interested.

The method is simple, rapid, elegant, easy to use, and allows high level of standardization.

The method is essentially the same as in the attached publication. The difference is - as emphasized in the recent announcements in Embryo Mail, see hotlinks - that OPS (with the current, highly standardized production method) was found to be suitable for the purpose, with similar outcome as with hydrophobic capillaries - and consequently better motility, membrane integrity and long-term survival than with traditional slow-rate freezing.

Currently, OPS is the only vitrification tool that can be successfully used for both embryos, oocytes and spermatozoa.

Eight years ago, with Zsolt Peter Nagy we had a question:

"Are traditional freezers still needed in the embryo laboratory?"  (RBM Online, 2008). 

Today, everybody knows the answer: No.

 

Let me ask now:

"Are traditional freezers still needed at all in human IVF clinics?"

I bet the answer will be evident in less than 8 years...

 

A practical request: please indicate in your orders if you want to use OPS kits for vitrification of spermatozoa.

We may provide you additional help (if needed) and updates about outcomes worldwide.

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