Detrimental effects of polyvinylpyrrolidone on the ultrastructure of spermatozoa (Notulae seminologicae 13)

The effect of in-vitro treatment by polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) on the ultrastructure of human spermatozoa has been tested previously with the statistical analysis of B. Baccetti et al. (1995, J. Androl., 16, 356-371). PVP had a primary detrimental action on the plasma membrane, as well as on acrosomal and mitochondrial membranes. Furthermore, membrane damage induces deterioration of the chromatin, axonemal tubules, fibrous sheath, and accessory fibres.