Sperm breakthrough could help future fertility treatments

Scientists have identified a specific protein that keeps sperm swimming in a straight line. Called “VSP”, the protein is responsible for controlling the influx of calcium ions to the tail or flagellum of the sperm which helps the sperm swim towards to egg.

Sperm motility is an important factor that is required for fertilisation, but without motility, sperm can’t make its way up to the fallopian tube and to the egg. When the sperm is close to its destination, it will become turbo-charged (also known as capacitation) and will ultimately race towards the egg.

The sudden enhanced motility of the sperm is caused by an influx of calcium ions to the sperm’s tail, which is controlled by VSP. Without VSP, the sperm will lose its ability to effectively race towards the egg.

When observed closely, the researchers noticed that sperm deficient in VSP were in fact swimming around in circles during that final leg of their journey, making it harder for them to reach the egg.

A Beacon of Hope for Fertility Treatments

This discovery of VSP’s role in sperm motility is a significant breakthrough. By understanding the mechanisms that regulate sperm movement, researchers can now explore potential avenues for developing novel fertility treatments. These treatments could target VSP or its associated pathways to improve sperm motility in men experiencing infertility due to motility issues.

The hope is that by optimizing sperm motility, these future treatments will lead to increased fertilisation rates, offering new hope for couples on their path to parenthood.

While further research is needed to translate this discovery into clinical applications, it represents a significant step forward in the field of reproductive medicine. The identification of VSP offers a promising target for future therapies, potentially aiding countless couples increse their chances of fertility treatment success.

Interested in learning more about new fertility research? Stay up-to-date with current research, news and important information with our fertility blog.

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FAQ

How does Fertility First keep fertility treatment and IVF costs down?

As a Doctor-owned Medical Practice, our fertility and IVF treatment costs do not need to cover overheads and/or shareholder dividends, all of which have to come out of the income derived from patients’ treatment cycle fees at other fertility clinics in Sydney.

What is the NSW fertility treatment rebates?

From the 1st October 2022, the NSW Government announced a rebate of $2,000 in OOP expenses for all eligible patients. Fertility First is pleased to support the NSW Government’s fertility rebate at our Sydney fertility clinic.

What makes Fertility First different to other Sydney fertility clinics?

Fertility First is privately owned, which means we can place more focus on our patients. We offer a holistic approach to fertility and believe that it’s important to minimise the invasiveness of the fertility testing process and only carry out the necessary investigations, maximising your chance of a successful outcome. We offer extensive preliminary fertility testing, including Halosperm Assay.

We were one of the first Sydney fertility clinics to offer a donor sperm and donor egg program, thanks to our partnership with Central IVF.

How do I choose the best fertilty clinic for me?

Choosing the right fertility clinic in Sydney is a very important decision. You should consider factors like success rates, clinic location and appointment times, fertility treatment costs, repor with the Fertility Specialist and what treatment options are available.

Does Fertility First offer preliminary fertility testing?

Yes. We offer a range of fertility testing for both males and females. We aim to have fertility test results back within 2 to 3 weeks, which means, unless any assessment of the fallopian tubes is required, fertility treatment options can then be considered.

Does Fertility First offer treatment for same sex couples and singles?

Yes. Fertility First offers a range of fertility treatments that are suitable for same sex couples and singles, including our donor sperm program. See our fertility treatment page for a full guide.

Does Fertility First offer Medicare rebates?

Yes. In order to assist you with a Medicare rebate for your fertility treatment, you will need a current referral to Fertility First.

Note: GP referrals are valid for 12 months, and specialist referrals are valid for 3 months.

Does Fertility First offer IVF treatment?

Yes. IVF treatment is offered to suitable patients after preliminary testing.

Sperm breakthrough could help future fertility treatments