Mikrodelece faktoru azoospermie jako jednaz příčin mužské infertility

Microdeletion of Azoospermia Factor as one of the Possible Causes of MaleInfertility

One of the possible causes of male infertility is microdeletion of the Y chromosome in the Yq11.23 region – namedthe azoospermia factor. These deletions are associated with azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia. In these cases,testicular histopathological findings comprise a wide spectrum, from total absence of germ cells, through arrest oftheir maturation to decreased sperm production. Most Y-chromosome microdeletions arise de novo but transmissionfrom the father is also possible, either by the natural way or by assisted reproduction. In relation to the assistedreproduction, the relationship between the Y-deletions and presence of spermatozoa in testis, fertilization capabilityand embryo quality were examined. Heredity of the deleted Y chromosome is holandric and therefore all sons ofmales with deletions will carry the same defect and will probably have fertility problems. Another negative influenceof deletions on a man’s health has not yet been identified.

Key words:
AZF, infertility, azoospermia, oligozoospermia.