PCR analysis of Yq microdeletions in infertile males,a study from South India

Aim: To estimate the frequency of microdeletions in the long arm of Y-chromosome of 20 infertile males from South India. Methods: Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification using Y-specific STS of azoospermJa factor (AZF) regions i.e., SY 84 for AZFa, SY 127 for AZFb and SY 254 for AZFc. Results: Of the 20 infertile subjects 3 (15%), one azoospermic and two oligozoospermic, showed microdeletions in the AZF region of Ychromosome. Conclusion: The frequency of deletions involving AZF region of the Y-chromosome is 15% in azoospermic and severely oligozoospermic infertile men. PCR amplification of AZF locus is useful for the diagnosis of microdeletions in the Y-chromosome. (Asian J Androl 2002 Dec; 4: 265-268)