2014 年 52 巻 Supplement 号 p. O-551-O-552
We have demonstrated an inexpensive but robust and easy-to-handle device for monitoring the health status of human sperm made by patterning a piece of paper and measuring the activity of a specific enzyme. After applying semen to the hydrophilic center circle of our patterned paper, the thizain assay could suggest sperm concentration in semen, and MTT assay data could contribute to estimating the percentage of motile human sperm in semen. Using this paper-based device, we can evaluate fertility levels without consulting doctors, and use our assay to compare results with WHO reference values for sperm concentration (10-20M) and motility (more than 50%).We believe that this paper-based assay system would be useful for fertility checks based on WHO references, without need of a microscope, and at home. Using this assay method, males in developed or developing countries who are reluctant or unable to consult ART clinics can self-analyze their sperm characteristics.