POPLINE Document Number: 057641
Author(s):
Ben K
Hamilton MS
Alexander NJ
Source citation:
JOURNAL OF REPRODUCTIVE IMMUNOLOGY, 1988 Jun;13(1):73-84.
Abstract:
It has been noted that following the procedure of vasectomy, blockage of the vas deferens exposes the immune system to reproductive tract antigens, an antisperm autoimmune response occurs. This has been found to occur not only in humans, but other species as well. In a previous investigation on this subject monoclonal antisperm antibodies were discovered after the fusion of myeloma cells with cells from the spleen of vasectomized mice. A study was conducted on the effect that monoclonal antibodies have on sperm function and in vitro fertilization. The monoclonal antibodies were developed from the spleen cells of BDF 1 mice, vasectomized for 12 weeks, fused with NS-1 myeloma cells. 7 hybrid cell lines secreting mouse antisperm antibodies were recloned. The supernatants and ascites taken from these cell lines were employed in the study; all of these clones were IGM. The results are as follows: the clones when introduced to sperm reacted to different parts of the sperm - 4 with the tail; the antibodies when exposed to tissue antigen had different reactions as well - Vx13 reacted to extracted antigens of both testis and epididymis, Vx4, Vx8, and Vx13 reacted to testicular and epididymal extracts and Vx4 reacted only to testicular antigens. 4 of the monoclonal antibodies had an effect on in vivo and in vitro fertilization when added to either the sperm or used as an immunization.
Keywords:
VasectomyIndex page
Sperm Immobilizing Agents
Contraception Research
Contraception, Immunological
Antibodies
In Vitro
Clinical Research
Animals, Laboratory
Male Sterilization
Sterilization, Sexual
Family Planning
Spermicidal Contraceptive Agents
Contraceptive Agents
Contraception
Immunologic Factors
Immunity
Immune System
Physiology
Biology
Research Methodology