Confocal Raman microspectroscopy as an analytical tool to assess the mitochondrial status in human spermatozoa

Analyst. 2010 Jun;135(6):1370-4. doi: 10.1039/b927012d. Epub 2010 Apr 13.

Abstract

Confocal Raman microspectroscopy was used to investigate human sperm cells. Raman mapping with a 532 nm excitation laser allowed to unambiguously characterize the nucleus, the neck, and, in particular, the mitochondria-rich middle piece of a human sperm cell. The effect of ultraviolet radiation on different organelles of the sperm was quantified by localized spectral Raman signatures obtained within milliseconds. Chemical changes within the sub-cellular structure of the sperm cells were recorded as a function of ultraviolet light exposure time, showing the proof-of-principle that Raman microspectroscopy can be a fast diagnostic method for detecting the mitochondrial and motility status of human spermatozoa.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Humans
  • Male
  • Microscopy, Confocal / methods*
  • Mitochondria / chemistry
  • Mitochondria / physiology*
  • Spectrum Analysis, Raman / methods*
  • Spermatozoa / chemistry
  • Spermatozoa / physiology*
  • Ultraviolet Rays