Sperm: Physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection (PICSI)
Hyaluronic acid is a polymer of glycosaminoglycan. This is a major component of the cumulus cells surrounding the egg. Studies have shown that hyaluronic acid is able to select sperms with better quality for fertilization with an egg. When mature sperms bind to hyaluronic acid, the sperm membrane remodels, which leads to the zona pellucida binding sites and formation of cytoplasmic extrusion. These sperms contain intact DNA, but not apoptotic caspase-3. Only sperms with normal morphology, normal chromosomes and intact DNA can bind with hyaluronic acid.
More than 80% of sperms binding with hyaluronic acid indicates full maturity and normal physiological function of sperms. These couples can perform IUI, IVF and/or ICSI. For sperm-hyaluronic acid binding less than 65%, a second binding test may be required. If the results of the two tests are similar, PICSI can be used for the selection of mature sperm.
Additional charge is required for doctor’s consultation.
Fee: HK$800
