Relationship Between Protamine Deficiency and Acrosin Activity With Fertilization Rate Post ICSI

Purpose: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between some events that simultaneously occur during spermiogenesis, related to protamine deficiency,and acrosomal integrity with fertilization rate post ICSI. Materials and Methods: Semen samples from 68 infertile couples undergoing ICSI at Isfahan Fertility and Infertility center were assessed during this study. Semen analysis was carried out according to WHO criteria. Protamine deficiency and acrosin activity were assessed by Chromomycin A3 (CMA3) staining, and gelatinolyisis test. The fertilization rate in two CMA3 groups showed +/- 40 distinctive difference using t-test. Moreover, in this survey, mean of halo dimension and percentage of positive CMA3 sperms showed =/- 25 distinctive difference (deviation from the mean) with the fertilization rate. Results: Percentage CMA3 positivity and mean halo diameter show a significant correlation with fertilization rate. Fertilization rate was significantly different when patients were grouped for CMA3 positivity of 40%.Indeed mean on halo and CMA3 positivity were significantly different when patients were grouped for percentage of fertilization rate of 25%. Conclusion: Protamine deficiency appears to have a more significant effect on fertilization compared to the other variables evaluated.