Leader: Dr Sally Catt

Offered

Clayton Second semester (extended) 2008 (Day)

Synopsis

This unit provides information and training in the preparation of sperm for use in in vitro fertilization techniques, the nature and causes of male infertility, micromanipulation methods for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), the identification of spermatids, spermatocytes and other cell types recovered from testicular biopsies, genetic variants and immunity in male infertility, and the assessment of fertilization. The theoretical basis of these techniques is presented in lectures, tutorials, seminars and journal reviews. The unit provides the theoretical knowledge required for understanding, assessing and treating male infertility by established IVF and ICSI techniques.

Objectives

On completion of this unit students will:

1. possess a sound theoretical knowledge and understanding of human male infertility and the options for its treatment by hormonal and IVF based therapies;
2. be familiar with the methods used for sperm preparation from ejaculates and testicular biopsy samples;
3. have competence in determining the most appropriate methods to used for achieving fertilization for couples with male infertility;
4. demonstrate an ability to correct problems that may arise in an IVF laboratory;
5. have shown ability to communicate this knowledge.

Assessment

Written examination (3 hours): 50%
Presentation of journal review: 20%
Essay (3000 words): 30%

Contact hours

6 weeks (first 5 weeks - two 1-hour lectures, 1-hour tutorial, 1.5-hour seminar, 1.5-hour journal review), 2 hours revision in week 6