Devyser AZF
Analysis of the Y chromosome in men with azoospermia or severe oligozoospermia has resulted in the identification of three regions in the euchromatic part of the long arm of the human Y chromosome (Yq11) that are frequently deleted in men with otherwise unexplained spermatogenic failure. PCR analysis of microdeletions in the AZFa, AZFb and AZFc (AZF: Azoospermia Factor) regions of the human Y chromosome is an important screening tool in the work-up of infertile males opting for assisted reproductive techniques. Y chromosome microdeletions are the most common genetic cause of male infertility and screening for these microdeletions in azoospermic or severely oligospermic men is now standard practice in many infertility centres.Diagnostic testing using the Devyser AZF kit relies on PCR amplification of sequence-tagged sites (STS) of the AZFa, AZFb and AZFc regions of the Y-chromosome.All loci, including control sequences, recommended by the European Academy of Andrology (EAA) and the European Quality Monitoring Network Group (EMQN) are included in the analysis. The use of fluorescently labeled primers for all markers in one multiplex PCR reaction allows automated visualization and identification of the STS markers using a Genetic Analyzer. Thus, eliminating multiple PCR reactions, use of toxic chemicals associated with the use of EtBr stained Agarose gels, and the guesswork associated with fragment identification.
