[Monoclonal antibody production against human spermatozoal surface antigens]

As monoclonal antibodies are potential tools for characterization of soluble or cellular surface antigens, use of these proteins has always been considered in infertility and reproduction research. Therefore, in this study, monoclonal antibodies against human sperm surface antigens were produced. To produce specific clones against human sperm surface antigens, proteins were extracted using solubilization methods. Balb/c mice were immunized intraperitoneally with the proteins using complete Freund's adjuvant in the first injection and incomplete Adjuvant in the following booster injections. Hybridoma cells producing ASA were cloned by limiting dilution. Five stable ASA producing hybridoma clones were achieved and their antibody isotypes were determined by ELISA. All the isotypes were of IgG class. Their cross reactivity with rat and mice spermatozoa was examined but they did not have any cross reactivity. The produced antibodies can be used in further studies to characterize and evaluate each of the antigens present on human sperm surface and determining their role in fertilization

[Diagnosis methods of clamydia trachomatis]

Chlamydia trachomatis is the most prevalent sexually transmitted bacterial infection, with an estimated annual worldwide incidence of 50 million cases. A large proportion of those infected, particularly women, are asymptomatic, and these individuals serve as a major reservoir of infection. Women are also at risk for serious reproductive tract complications with significant morbidity. In an effort to prevent spread of these infections, increased attention is being paid to early diagnosis and treatment. The introduction of sensitive and highly specific nucleic acid amplification tests for detection of C. trachomatis has made the use of noninvasive testing feasible in women. Recent studies have found that nucleic acid amplification tests are sufficiently sensitive to detect C. trachomatis in first-void urine in women. Sensitivities have exceeded 95% in most studies when compared to detection with non culture tests of endocervical specimens as a standard, while at the same time preserving high specificities