ANALYSIS OF SPERM DNA FRAGMENTATION (DAMAGE) USING THE COMET ASSAY
In accordance with the Instruction for Use “Diagnostics Method for Genetically Determined Forms of Male Infertility” (the Instruction approved by the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Belarus in 2016; Registration No. 96/1115) developed jointly with the Republican Scientific and Practical Centre “Mother & Child.”
Based on the analysis results, medical specialists prescribe therapeutic treatment if necessary. After the course of treatment, the amount of DNA damage reduces significantly (by 50% on average), which indicates an improvement in the reproductive health of patients.
The Comet assay is one of the most advanced and sensitive methods for assessing the integrity (or damage) of DNA molecules. The alkaline version of the Comet assay we use allows us to identify a wide range of DNA damage (single- and double-strand DNA breaks, apurinic-apyrimidinic sites etc.), which are highly likely to be the cause of male infertility.
Moreover, sperm DNA fragmentation analysis is recommended by international experts as one of the methods for diagnosing genetically determined causes of decreased male fertility.
Recommended indications for the comet assay:
- Idiopathic infertility (infertility for the unknown reason)
- Noncarrying of pregnancy
- Unsuccessful attempts of artificial insemination
- Preparation for the use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART)
- Freezing of sperm for long-term storage and donation
- Spermogram deviations
- Age of a man exceeds 45 years
- Inflammatory disorders of the male urogenital system
- Acute and chronic diseases of general nature
- Smoking, regular alcohol consumption, the intake of medications and drugs, chemo- and radiotherapy and exposure to harmful chemicals.
No contradictions to the method use.
Full test fee:
140,00 BYN
Please contact us to book an appointment:
+ 375 17 385 97 39 (landline); +375 33 380 50 40 (Viber, WhatsApp, Telegram)
We are waiting for you at the following address: 27 Akademicheskaya St., Room 119, Minsk
We take samples on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, from 9 a.m. till 12:30 p.m.
Material for the test: sperm (ejaculate).
Before concluding an agreement for test services, please read the instructions ATTENTIVELY.
DNA damage, which is registered by specialists as DNA molecule fragments.
DNA structure impairments arise as a result of the damaging effects of unfavorable physical and chemical environmental factors, health problems, unfavorable lifestyle (sedentary, smoking, alcohol etc.), molecular genetic errors in the formation of germ cells and other failures.
Sperm DNA fragmentation is one of the main genetic causes of a fertilization and implantation failure, as well as pregnancy loss.
We made our choice when looking for the most sensitive and reproducible test to assess DNA damage in various human cells, and we settled on the alkaline version of the DNA comet assay. It allows us to take into account a wide range of DNA damage, as well as determine the DNA damage level in each individual cell.
These are two independent tests that complement each other.
Increased DNA fragmentation levels with normal spermogram parameters may be among the main infertility reasons.
Where the sperm concentration is less than 0.1 million per ml, the test may be difficult to perform.
Infectious diseases, especially those with elevated body temperature, have a negative impact on DNA damage levels. Normal level recovery can be expected within 2-3 months.
Regularly during family planning (optimally once every 2-3 months). In preparation for the use of assisted reproductive technologies.
Increased sperm DNA fragmentation is not the only cause of infertility. However, maintaining low DNA fragmentation levels will contribute to the conception of a healthy child.
The higher the levels of fragmentation, the lower the probability of conceiving a child and the higher the probability of a spontaneous abortion. Consultation with a medical specialist is necessary.
DNA damage can be significantly reduced if you strictly follow the recommendations of an attending medical specialist.
| Patients’ satisfaction criteria | Satisfaction | |
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1.
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Compliance of the quality of our work with the terms and conditions of an agreement |
100% |
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2. |
Compliance with the lead time for our services |
100 % |
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3. |
Attitude of our employees to you during the implementation of contractual relations |
100 % |
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4. |
Accessibility of information on the analysis results |
94 % |
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5. |
Availability of promotional information on our services |
72 % |
