METHOD OF DETERMINING SPERM CAPACITATION

摘要

This invention describes unique patterns of distribution of ganglioside GM1, in non-capacitated sperm and demonstrates that the pattern of distribution o f GM1 undergoes changes that can be correlated with the process of capacitatio n and/or with acrosornal exocytolsis. Accordingly, the present invention discloses a method for determining the ability of sperm to respond to capacitation and/or acrosomal exocytosis stimuli. The method comprises determination of distribution pattern for GM1. The method can be used for bo th diagnostic and predictive purposes when assessing male reproductive fitness, and can also be used to assess the effects on sperm of cryoprotective agents and protocols, and contraceptive agents.