Effect of Protamine Deficiency on Fertilization Outcome and Incidence of Sperm Premature Chromosomal Condensation Post ICSI

Purpose: After aneuploidy,sperm premature chromatin condensation (PCC) is the next most important cause of fertilization failure. Therefore the aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of sperm protamine deficiency on sperm PCC formation post ICSI. Materials and Methods: Cytogenetic analysis was carried out on unfertilized oocytes post ICSI and incidence of sperm PCC was evaluated. The results were compared with the extent of protamine deficiency assessed by chromomycin A3. Results: Incidence of sperm PCC and fertilization rate were significantly different in unfertilized oocytes injected from semen samples with greater than 30% CMA3 positivity compared to those injected with less than 30% CMA3 positivity. Significant correlation was also observed between sperm protamine deficiency with fertilization rate. Conclusion: Sperm protamine deficiency effects fertilization rate and most likely it prones sperms to PCC post ICSI.