SpermSlow™
SpermSlow™ is used to slow down the movement and to select the most viable sperm as required for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
Background
SpermSlow™ is a new natural alternative for sperm immobilisation and selection prior to ICSI. SpermSlow™ is based on the principle of Hyaluronate (HA) slowing down the movement of the spermatozoon as shown by Barak et al. (1999). Prof. Yves Ménézo has developed the specific dilution medium in SpermSlow™.
HA is the naturally occurring major component of the matrix in between the cumulus cells of the mature oocyte. The structure of the molecule of HA is a polymeric chain that belongs to the family of glycoseaminoglycans. HA has been shown to be able to replace PVP for the immobilisation of sperm during ICSI.
SpermSlow™ does not contain phenol red, and presents itself as a very convenient, natural alternative medium to PVP with no risk for the developing oocyte.
SpermSlow™ can also be used as a selection medium for the most viable and mature spermatozoa, which binds to HA as reported by Huszar et al. (2003).
SpermSlow™ does not have any toxic or immunological effects on sperm or eggs. It possesses different characteristics in comparison with PVP but like PVP, it is simple to use.
 | Two main factors distinguish HA from PVP:
1) Increased safety factor: HA is a part of the natural environment of the oocyte and is completely biodegradable.
2) Quality-based selection: The selection principle in SpermSlow™is based on sperm binding to HA via receptors on the sperm heads. Only fully mature spermatozoa will effectively bind, therefore it is possible to select only competent sperm with better developmental maturity and DNA integrity (Huszar et al. 2003a + b) |
SpermSlow™ is CE marked.
| Description | Cat.no. | Size | Shelf life |
| SpermSlow™ | 10944000 | 4x0.1 ml | 8 weeks |