[Flow cytometry and its application in andrological studies]

Abstract

As an advanced technology, flow cytometry has its unique advantages in detecting single cells quantitatively and rapidly. So it has been used more and more widely in clinical examination. FCM offers a powerful tool and exciting opportunities for accurately evaluation of semen quality and sperm functions. And it's a new idea to apply this technology in andrological studies. This review introduces its basic principles, summaries its present and potential application in andrology studies, including separating and identifying spermatozoa, analyzing spermids structure and function, examining the biological active substances in semen and on the surface of spermids.