SemenMar

Detection of anti-sperm-antibodies (ASA). Indicates presence of IgG and/or IgA-antibodies on motile sperm cells. Detection with Anti-IgG and Anti-IgA-coated yellow microspheres

For screening tests combined anti-Ig beads can be used which are able to detect all Ig types. By using the immun beads tests (IBT) different types of antibodies against sperm can be detected in different biological samples, like blood, cervical mucus and sperm. The test may indicate the presence of antibodies and the severity of antibody formation, as well as which part of the sperm cells specifically is affected. The type of ASA has an influence on the function of spermatozoa only when complement fixing antibodies are present. A survey of reproductive medical centers in the UK showed (Krapež et al., 1998) that the MAR test („mixed antiglobulin reaction test“) or the IBT (immuno bead test) was used. Both tests are easy to perform. They work with beads which are coated with anti-immunoglobulins and bound on the surface of the spermatozoa attached by ASA.
The WHO referred the MAR test as compulsory screening test. The in vitro detection of antigens or antibodies is only possible when the antigen-antibody reaction is made visible or measurable. The selection of the detection technique is dependent on the properties of the antigen (size, number and structure of the antigenic determinants), the properties of the corresponding antibody (avidity and specificity) and the concentration of the analyte to be determined. Antigens or antibodies are in general determined by the following techniques:

• Direct readout
• Indirect readout
• Proof due to the marking of a reactant.