Evaluation of Relationship between Oocyte and Sperm Membrane Binding Protein with the Success of Intrauterine Insemination

Fertilization in mammals is dependent on successful connection between the sperm and oocyte plasma membrane. Gametes Binding largely been studied in mice and the crucial role of CD9 a member of tetraspanin family in gametes binding is shown in mice. CD9 found in the inner membrane of the acrosome. And only a small amount of CD9 is expressed on the plasma membrane of mid piece. Inner sperm membrane proteins play an important role in the fertilization process. The aim of this study was to obtain correlation between the percentages of CD9 positive sperm with outcome of intra uterine insemination (IUI).

A total of 120 semen samples from infertile couples referred to Royan Institute who were undergoing IUI treatment were collected. Semen parameters such as motility, morphology, sperm concentration and viscosity were analyzed according to WHO 2010 guidelines. Sperm washed and stained by using anti-CD9 monoclonal antibody. The samples were analyzed by flow cytometry technique.

This study shows that CD9 is detected only in 19% of mature sperm. The result of the ROC area under the curve is equal to 0.446 therefore CD9 is not a good variable predictor for fertility status. (Area=0.446, P=0.482).

There was not a significant difference between semen parameters of Fertile and infertile groups. The results didn’t show correlation between CD9 expression and fertilization in patients who are candidates for IUI.