Difference between revisions of "Semen Sexing - Anatomy & Physiology"
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== Flow Cytometry == | == Flow Cytometry == | ||
| + | |||
| + | * Ejaculated spermatozoa are treated with a DNA dye (fluorochrome). | ||
| + | * X-bearing sperm absorb more dye than Y-bearing sperm. | ||
| + | * X-bearing sperm thus emit more intense light when excited by a laser. | ||
| + | * Sperm are also treated with a dye that greatly suppresses the signal from dead sperm. | ||
| + | ** Dead sperm are therefore identified and rejected. | ||
| + | |||
| + | * Once spermatozoa enter the flow cytometer chamber | ||
Revision as of 10:19, 17 July 2008
Principle
- X and Y chromosomes contain different quantities of DNA.
- X-bearing sperm contain 2.8-4.2% more DNA (species dependent) than Y-bearing sperm.
- This allows them to be sorted into two subpopulations.
- Separation requires the uptake of DNA stain/dye called Fluorochrome into living and dead sperm.
- X-bearing sperm take up more dye than Y-bearing sperm.
- Vital dyes emit light at a specific wavelength when excited or activated.
- X-bearing sperm will emit a larger signal than Y-bearing sperm.
- This allows the sperm to be sorted by flow cytometry.
Flow Cytometry
- Ejaculated spermatozoa are treated with a DNA dye (fluorochrome).
- X-bearing sperm absorb more dye than Y-bearing sperm.
- X-bearing sperm thus emit more intense light when excited by a laser.
- Sperm are also treated with a dye that greatly suppresses the signal from dead sperm.
- Dead sperm are therefore identified and rejected.
- Once spermatozoa enter the flow cytometer chamber