Sperm Agglutinins in Human Semen and Blood

Abstract

Sperm agglutinins were found in the seminal plasma and blood serum of 2 sterile men whose spermatozoa agglutinated in ejaculate. The sera had antibody titers of 1:80 and 1:20, respectively. Head, tail, and mixed vars. of agglutination are seen in the early stages, but tail agglutination predominates in the larger clumps. Agglutination occurs only in the presence of motile spermatozoa and none is seen in the fresh ejaculate until liquefaction begins and active sperm movement develops. Temp. influences agglutination by its effect on sperm motility. Clumped spermatozoa lose the ability to penetrate cervical mucus. The clumps can be completely dispersed by mechanical agitation after which the spermatozoa reagglutinate, but not quite to the original extent. Complement inactivation does not affect agglutination. The antibody can be removed by absorption.