SpermPrep Viscolytic System (VLS)

Fresh ejaculated human semen is distinctly coagulated and the coagulum does not liquefy for at least 20 to 30 minutes. Commonly, semen samples are rather viscous even after 30-45 minutes, but beyond this, if liquefaction is not complete and the semen remains viscous, the indications are that some abnormality of the normal semen producing mechanisms exists and more specifically lack of an enzymatic process catalyzed by a proteolytic enzyme present in the prostatic secretions.

With the development of the various forms of assisted reproductive techniques (ART) and the need to extract the maximum numbers and quality of spermatozoa from the ejaculated semen has brought the semen viscosity into focus again. Viscous specimens are extremely difficult to manipulate in-vitro and may not allow the proper separation and isolation either the appropriate numbers, quality of sperm or both, necessary to achieve the in-vitro results. It is because of these reasons that the SpermPrep® Viscolytic System (VLS) is introduced in the market to enable the proper in-vitro manipulation of viscous semen. For diagnostic purposes only.

For evaluating viscous specimens, please use the Viscolytic System (VLS).

[PDF] For more information, please click here.

Sample Methodology for Using SpermPrep® (VLS)

• Semen is collected by masturbation or other method such as using a special condom at intercourse².
• Sample should liquefy within 15-30 minutes of collection. If not, then employ the SpermPrep® VLS¹
• Add 2.0 ml of SpermPrep® medium to VLS. Add the VLS to the semen, mix gently and allow the mixture to set for 30 minutes.
• Wash the treated semen twice and process the sperm for evaluation.

If the reconstituted sample is to be filtered then follow protocol for use of SpermPrep® II.

References:

• Zavos, P.M., Correa, J.R., Zarmakoupis-Zavos, P.N.: Effect of treatment of seminal viscosity difficulties with -chymotrypsin on the recovery of spermatozoa for assisted reproductive technologies: comparisons between the SpermPrep® filtration and Percoll gradient centrifugation methods. Middle East Fertility Society Journal,2 (3):223-29, 1997.
  (read abstract)
• Honea, Houserman, Merryman, Free and Stringfellow: Effect of limited proteolysis with alpha-chymotrypsin on semen with an abnormal sperm penetration assay and possible application for IVF or intrauterine insemination. J. Assist. Reprod. Genetics: 10(4): 255-260, 1993.
• Zavos, PM: Characteristics of human ejaculates collected via masturbation and a new Silastic seminal fluid collection device. Fertil Steril 43:491, 1985.
• Zavos, PM: Preparation of human frozen-thawed seminal specimens using the SpermPrep® filtration method: improvements over the conventional swim-up method. Fertility and Sterility; 57:1326-1330, 1992.