Magnetic sperm separation (MACS) is a sperm processing method that uses a magnetic field to remove damaged or dying sperm from the sample. This allows sperm with better genetic quality and a higher potential for successful fertilisation and healthy embryo development to be used for assisted reproduction.
MACS is a laboratory sperm processing procedure based on magnetic separation. It enables the selective removal of damaged or degenerating sperm entering the process of so-called apoptosis, meaning programmed cell death.
The method primarily focuses on removing damaged sperm that could negatively affect the outcome of treatment, rather than only selecting motile sperm. The MACS method is therefore also suitable for sperm that are only motile in place.
Sperm entering the process of apoptosis, meaning programmed cell death, carry specific signalling molecules, known as markers, on their surface. These are an early sign of cellular damage and DNA fragmentation, which may not be visible during standard microscopic assessment. During processing using the MACS method, the sperm sample is first mixed with special magnetic microparticles that specifically bind to the marker present on the surface of damaged and dying sperm.
These labelled sperm are then retained as they pass through a special column in a magnetic field, while vital and high-quality sperm without signs of DNA fragmentation pass freely through the column. The result is a sperm sample with better genetic and functional quality, which increases the probability of successful fertilisation and subsequent embryo development.
in cases of low sperm quality and motility
in cases of increased DNA fragmentation in sperm
in cases of recurrent miscarriages
in cases of poor embryo quality in a previous IVF cycle
if there was a low fertilisation rate of eggs in a previous IVF cycle
MACS is a targeted sperm selection method that makes it possible to obtain sperm with better quality and a lower degree of DNA damage for assisted reproduction. This increases the chance of forming a healthy embryo and achieving a successful pregnancy. The method can also be used for sperm with low motility and is particularly beneficial in samples with a higher proportion of DNA fragmentation, where it can significantly contribute to improving treatment outcomes.
Hlinky 144, 603 00 Brno, CZ
Hlinky 144, 603 00 Brno, CZ
