P-088 The Paternal Clock: Shedding Light on the Relationship Between Paternal Age and Sperm DNA Fragmentation

Abstract Study question What is the impact of advanced paternal age (APA) on sperm DNA fragmentation index (DFI)? Summary answer Sperm DFI levels remain relatively stable until 35 and increase progressively beyond that age. known already APA can have a negative male fertility health offspring. Previous studies shown linked to poor conventional parameters, including decreased semen volume, count, motility, morphology, as well integrity. Additionally, has been associated with reduced natural or assisted reproduction perinatal outcomes higher risk genetic chromosomal abnormalities in design, size, duration A retrospective cohort study 4250 consecutive samples from men undergoing infertility evaluation at OVO clinic, Montreal, Canada, between April 2016 December 2022. Participants were stratified into seven groups: <26 (n = 36; 0,8%), 26-30 500; 11,8%), 31-35 1269; 29,9%), 36-40 1268; 29,8%), 41-45 732; 17,2%), 46-50 304; 7,2%), >50 years 141; 3,3%). The mean was 37.4 ± 6.4 (range 18-71 years). Participants/materials, setting, methods population-based included patients all ages, ethnicities, medical histories. Semen collected after 2-3 days abstinence. For who underwent more than one testing, only first sample included, any duplicates excluded. evaluated by flow-cytometry based TUNEL assay using APO-Direct Kit. Data analyzed one-way ANOVA T3 Dunnett post-hoc multiple comparison test, Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Main results role chance show significant positive %DFI (r 0.19, p < 0.001). Mean aged (17.9%, 18.1% <26, 31-35, respectively), increasing (20.7%, 22.5%, 25.7% 27.9% 36-40, 41-45, >50, respectively). group significantly (p 0,001). Our uncovered follows an exponential curve starting 35, indicating accelerates their mid-30s. Limitations, reasons for caution This analysis inherent limitations may introduce confounding variables. patient clinical background, such history lifestyle factors not assessed. Also, studied consisted population under investigation be representative general population. Wider implications findings demonstrates age-related suggests there cut-off below which increases. information useful specialists offer testing infertile couples. Trial registration number applicable