DNA biobank for male infertility
The reproductive system is particularly vulnerable to the effects of a certain group of chemicals, endocrine disruptors. This broad spectrum of chemicals can have an effect on the development and function of male and female reproductive organs. By definition, testes and ovaries are endocrine organs whose function is to produce hormones. As part of the study, the research company, Neocodex has organised a five-centre country-wide DNA bank in Spain. The project comes under the wing of the EC-funded project, GENDISRUPT. The collection, treatment and genetic tests have all been conducted in accordance with international regulations from the International Bioethics Committee. Tissue samples have been collected from infertile patients and patients with testicular tumours. Healthy control testicular tissue has also been collected from members of the public unrelated to the donors. The criteria as to whether the tissue is eligible for inclusion in the bank has been carefully defined. Infertility includes those never having been able to conceive, a low or a zero sperm count and absence of the Y, or male chromosome. Certain microdeletions on the Y chromosome have also been included according to standards previously drawn up by researchers at Oxford University. Furthermore, sample donors should not have been subject to radio- or chemotherapy. The effects of oestrogen mimics on reproductive function are of particular concern and well documented. By the establishment of tissue banks of this nature, the aim is to understand the mechanisms involved. Only then can the effects of these xeno-compounds be controlled and the reproductive health of present and future generations be safeguarded.
