
SP-10 is a protein found in seminal plasma, the fluid that is ejaculated during sexual activity. SP-10 is a marker of sperm count, and its concentration in semen can be used to determine male fertility.
A high concentration of SP-10 protein in semen is generally associated with a higher sperm count, while a low concentration of SP-10 protein may indicate a lower sperm count. However, it is important to note that SP-10 levels alone are not a definitive measure of male fertility and other factors, such as sperm motility and morphology, should also be considered.
The SP-10 protein is used in some male fertility test kits, such as the SP10 Male Fertility Test Kit, which is designed to provide a quick and easy way to determine male fertility based on the concentration of SP-10 protein in semen. However, it is important to note that these test kits should not be used as the sole means of determining male fertility, and professional medical advice should be sought if there are concerns about fertility.
This male fertility kit tests a fresh semen sample by quantitatively detecting the Acrosomal protein SP-10 found on the surface membranes of human sperm. It is the first rapid chromatographic immunoassay to utilise this protein as an accurate indicator of viable sperm concentrations.
The accuracy of SP10 tests, like any diagnostic test kit, can vary depending on the specific test and the circumstances in which it is used. The ALLTEST SP10 Male Fertility Test Kit, for example, is designed to provide a quick and easy way to determine male fertility based on the concentration of SP-10 protein in semen. Its accuracy in doing this is just over 98%.
Studies have shown that SP10 tests can be a useful screening tool in assessing male fertility, particularly when used in conjunction with other measures. However, it is important to note that these tests should not be used as the sole means of determining male fertility, and professional medical advice should be sought if you have any concerns about your fertility.
Sperm concentrations are one of the primary factors used by doctors to diagnose male infertility. Abnormally low production of viable sperm cells accounts for close to 40% of total infertility which in turn affects 15% of couples at any one time while trying to conceive. SP-10 is a protein specific to male germ cells and cannot be found in other cells, making it a very specific marker for measuring sperm.
The test immunoassay is set to give a positive result when sperm concentrations exceed 15 million sperm per ml of ejaculate.
15 million / ml sperm concentration is the level currently agreed by the World Health Organisation as the minimum level or concentration of sperm required for normal fertility in a man.
Sperm counts are dropping globally for a variety of factors. Male fertility is a rising contributor to overall infertility, especially in Europe. Most fertility clinics will not investigate sub-fertility or infertility concerns before couples have tried to conceive for at least 12 months.