Ultrastructural Characteristics of Idiopathic Spermatidic Arrest

Abstract

Previous studies on some cases of idiopathic spermatidic arrest showed an anomaly in glucose metabolism, in particular decreased utilization of glycogen at stage 3 of spermatogenesis, when condensation of the spermatid head commences. Histological patterns seen on light microscopy confirmed the reduced utilization of glycogen at stage 3 of spermatogenesis. Electron microscopy revealed an arrest at stage 3 of spermiogenesis and, at the cytoplasm level of the Sertoli cell, a modification in the smooth endoplasmic reticulum characterized by the presence of dilated cisternae. From a morphological viewpoint, the equivalent of a biochemical modification which characterizes this maturation disorder in the germinal epithelium is hypothesized.

Shedding of Immature Germ Cells

“…The presence of an elevated number of immature germ cells in semen are re¯ecting an altered spermatogenesis [12]. Dispermia are usually the consequence of arrested spermatogenesis, an alteration that could arise from endocrine, circulatory disorders, or toxic substances [8]. This event should not be misinterpreted while considering conventional sperm analysis.…”

Immature germ cell conception—in vitro germ cell manipulation

“…In spite of the enthusiasm created by these early reports, immature germ cell conception still remains a challenging technical achievement rather than a practical solution to be routinely applied in clinical practice. One reason for this was the limitation of the technique to post-meiotic maturation arrest, which, although well documented by several authors 8,9 , is a relatively infrequent condition in the wide spectrum of maturation arrest in human males. 10 The diculty in distinguishing round spermatids from somatic cells, experienced by many workers, is another factor contributing to failures of the technique.…”