DESC:F O R M 2

THE PATENTS ACT, 1970 (39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10 and rule 13]

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION: METHODS FOR IMPROVING SPERM FUNCTIONALITY AND APPLICATIONS THEREOF

2. APPLICANT (A) NAME: SERAGEN BIOTHERAPEUTICS PRIVATE LIMITED

(B) ADDRESS: #677, 1ST FLOOR, 27TH MAIN, 13TH CROSS, HSR LAYOUT, SECTOR 1, BANGALORE
KARNATAKA, INDIA 560 102

3. NATIONALITY (C) INDIA

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE NATURE OF THIS INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED

[001] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[002] The present invention is in the technical field of a sperm shipment medium/kit that can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity, more particularly, invention describes a synthesized biocompatible polymer/s for transport of biological materials.
[003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[004] Over recent decades a global decline in human sperm quality has been observed due to environmental, occupational and lifestyle factors. The diagnostic industry is undergoing a surge in infertility market.
[005] For the male infertility, development of reliable method for shipment of semen samples at ambient temperature from remote areas to specialized labs is highly desirable. Semen samples are mostly transported either on dry ice, -80°C temperature, or in liquid nitrogen containing cryogenic storage tanks (-196°C).
[006] One of the most conventional method for shipment and storage of semen samples is cryopreservation. However it causes a significant loss of sperm motility, viability and DNA damage (50 to 80% loss of sperm). The fertilizing ability of the human spermatozoa decreases after cryopreservation.
[007] In addition, these methods may cause temperature fluctuations during sample transportation (Til et al 2017). Time and temperature play an important role in shipping of the sperms as they lose viability very quickly. Mitochondrial membrane integrity is another important factor in sperm viability analysis (Til et al 2016). Mitochondria provide the necessary energy to the sperm in the form of adenosine triphosphate (ATP). Mitochondrial DNA also transcribes several proteins for oxidative phosphorylation. Sperm characteristics and male fertility may be affected by changes in mitochondrial membrane potential or mutations in mtDNA(Camara et al 2008).
[008] Newer tests methods have been established to investigate sperm physiology and functions by monitoring characteristics such as motility, capacitation, the acrosome reaction, reactive oxygen species, sperm DNA damage, chromatin structure, zona pellucida binding, and sperm-oocyte fusion. The major problem with these assays is that they are complex to perform, difficult to standardize and are only available in a few academic centres.
[009] Moreover, since the quality of fresh human semen deteriorates rapidly, patients requiring analysis are subjected to the inconvenience of physically delivering a freshly produced sample to the diagnostic laboratory.
[010] Semen collection in the laboratory or hospital environment has its own advantages and disadvantages. Although it provides labs with a quick transit of the sample and more authenticated proof, many men do find it extremely difficult produce a semen sample in unfamiliar surroundings.
[011] When such men are coerced into providing it in the laboratory only, there is a high probability that they will either fail to do so or will give an incomplete sample. Studies have confirmed that a man who is more sexually aroused can give better quality semen. Thus it is very important that these men are identified and asked to collect semen from their home.
[012] However, a major hindrance to this type is the duration it takes to report the sample to the laboratory after collection. Usually labs ask patients to deliver it in 30 - 45 minutes. But it is quite difficult for patients who stay quite far away from the hospital.
[013] Samples that are brought delayed will lead to temperature changes and attenuation of motility along with other parameters. This can lead to drastic variations in the reporting of the semen analysis.
[014] Current availability: For the male infertility, development of reliable method for shipment of semen samples at ambient temperature from remote areas to specialized labs is highly desirable. Semen samples are mostly transported either on dry ice, -80°C temperature, or in liquid nitrogen containing cryogenic storage tanks (-196°C). One of the most conventional method for shipment and storage of semen samples is cryopreservation however it causes a significant loss of sperm motility, viability and DNA damage (50 to 80% loss of sperm). The fertilizing ability of the human spermatozoa decreases after cryopreservation. Sperm cell post-cryopreservation motility rates and vitality may be decreased by 25% to 75%, mainly due to the stress to which these cells are subjected during the cryopreservation process, derived chiefly from cell dehydration, high solute concentrations, recrystallization and changes in plasma membrane integrity, thus leading to sperm cell functional and structural changes affects the functionality of sperms by inducing structural damage and functional changes to sperm, such as decreased vitality, motility, speed, and reduced fertilization potential, partly due to plasma membrane integrity disorders and other still unclear factors.
[015] In addition to these factors, storage conditions also play an important role, since these samples are often transported and exposed to temperature variations, quick exposure to ambient temperature during tank changes, and longer exposures to higher temperatures when they are shipped over long distances in dry ice (-80ºC) results in huge variations in the rates of recovery of sperm cell vitality and motility. This ultra-low temperature storage remains a costly process that entails complicated logistical and technical implications.
[016] Therefore, there is an urgent need in the art to overcome such a scenario and to effectively use home collection as well, there is an urgent need of a new technique that can provide patients with the comfort of collecting semen at their home and not worry about rushing to the laboratory within the stipulated time.
[017] In addition, there have been attempts in recent studies towards addressing these issues, cells or tissues can be embedded in liquid gel solution at lower temperatures and stored, shipped or cultured three-dimensionally in a hydrogel state at 37°C. A number of new in vitro and in vivo applications of thermoresponive gel have been reported. For example, these have been used for wound dressing, microcapsules for pancreatic islets, a drug delivery system, and three-dimensional culture matrices for various cells. Extracellular matrices, including collagen and Matrigel, have been used as scaffolds for clonal expansion of cells in three-dimensional culture.
[018] However, materials from biological sources, cannot be absolutely free from contamination with unknown substances, including pathogens.
[019] In summary, there is a need in the art to develop a sperm shipment medium that can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity. Moreover, such biocompatible polymer should be devoid of biological contaminants. In addition, there is a need for home collection of semen and not worry about rushing to the laboratory within the stipulated time.
[020] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[021] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a sperm shipment medium that can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity.
[022] In one of the embodiment, the present invention describes a synthesized biocompatible polymer, SeraGel® that has no biological contaminants. SeraGel® is a proprietary mark of Seragen.
[023] In one of the embodiment, the present invention describes SeraGel®, which is a copolymer composed of thermoresponsive polymer blocks [poly(Nisopropylacrylamide-co-n-butyl methacrylate) poly(NIPAAm-co-BMA)] and hydrophilic polymer blocks (polyethylene glycol [PEG]) and is characterized by its temperature-dependent dynamic viscoelastic properties. The thermoresponsive blocks are hydrophilic at temperatures below the sol-gel transition temperature and are hydrophobic at temperatures above the sol-gel transition temperature. The hydrophobic interaction results in formation of a homogenous three-dimensional polymer network in water. The sol-gel transition temperature can be controlled by altering the chemical composition of NIPAAm-co-BMA and PEG.
[024] In another embodiment, SeraGel® helps in shipping and improving functionality of sperm of a subject. Sperm viability can be prolonged if they are allowed to be immotile. A sperm is highly dynamic and keeps moving and spends its stored energy during the movement while additional energy cannot be synthesised. Hence, they lose their viability and quality due to lack of energy. So if there is a way to arrest their motility and at the same time immobilisation can be reversed with mechanical methods without chemical based or enzyme based methods, then this could solve the issue of maintaining sperm viability and can be transported at ambient temperatures.
[025] In an embodiment, a medium for storage and/or transportation of sperm at ambient temperature comprising; a biocompatible polymer, wherein the medium can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity, wherein the medium comprises a thermoreversible biocompatible polymer in phosphate buffered saline, along with acceptable additives.
[026] In a further embodiment, a method for shipping and improving functionality of sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of: mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®; leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade; packing (b) in a cover provided with the container; and delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment; wherein the sperm sample is not immobilized, or subjected to freezing and/or thawing.
[027] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for preparing a sperm shipment medium, comprising the acts of: a) combining an amount of the thermoreversible polymer or a combination of two polymers with an amount of a suitable aqueous solvent fortified with sugars, vitamins, micro nutrients, anti-oxidants, proteins and growth factors (synthetic and biological, natural), wherein the amount of polymer(s) is sufficient to form a solution having upto 40% w/w of polymer(s) or more; b) stirring the mixture at a sufficiently medium speed at about or below 10 °C at for a first period of time; and c) rocking the mixture for a second period of time there by forming a solution.
[028] In an aspect of invention, a method for transporting sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of: mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®; leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade; packing (b) in a cover (meant for shipment) provided with the container; and delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment.
[029] As will be appreciated by a person skilled in the art the present invention provides a variety of following advantages,
[030] Improving the functionality of sperm, by providing a sperm shipment medium that can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity.
[031] A synthesized biocompatible polymer that has no biological contaminants.
[032] Such methods may be used in artificial insemination to reduce the number of sperm needed for insemination and to improve conception rates.
[033] Invention also provided the compositions and uses of such sperm shipment medium.
[034] In one of the embodiment, invention can be used to ship any biomaterial such as, embryos, eggs (oocytes), cells, biopsies, tissues and similar items where temperature controlled shipping is very important.
[035] The possible uses of this invention include but not limited to, Individual or combination of biopolymers can be used for biomaterial transportation medium/kit.
[036] The invention provides compositions, kits and integrated systems for transportation of biological samples using biopolymers especially thermoreversible polymers. In addition, the kits may include several transport materials, components, binding agents, containers for the transport as part of the embodiments of the invention.
[037] In summary, the present invention deals with methods for improving the functionality of sperm, by providing a sperm shipment medium proposed that can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity, more particularly, invention describes a synthesized biocompatible polymer that has no biological contaminants. Such methods may be used in artificial insemination to reduce the number of sperm needed for insemination and to improve conception rates. Invention also provided the compositions and uses of such sperm shipment medium.
[038] Several aspects of the invention are described below with reference to examples for illustration. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the features of the invention. Furthermore, the features/aspects described can be practiced in various combinations, though only some of the combinations are described herein for conciseness.
[039] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[040] Example embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings briefly described below.
[041] FIG 1 illustrates the structure of polymer [poly(Nisopropylacrylamide-co-n-butyl methacrylate) poly(NIPAAm-co-BMA)] and hydrophilic polymer blocks (polyethylene glycol 1(A) Following pictures represents chemical formula of PNIPAAm and 1(B) Representation of volume phase transition between coil (left) and globular (right) hydrogel conformations, , according to the aspects of present invention.
[042] FIG 2 illustrates the chemical formula of PNIPAAm and 2(B) Representation of volume phase transition between coil (left) and globular (right) hydrogel conformations. Following pictures shows representation of 2(A) the swollen PNIPAAm hydrosol in aqueous solution below Tc (32 °C) and 2(B) the shrunken dehydrated PNIPAAm hydrogel above Tc (32 °C). Adapted with permission from Reference [64]. Copyright © 2015 Springer Science & Business Media Singapore, according to the aspects of present invention.
[043] FIG 3 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps for improving the functionality of sperm (including use of biopolymer), according to the aspects of present invention.
[044] FIG 4 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps of producing a sperm shipment medium/ Methods of invention, according to the aspects of present invention.
[045] FIG 5 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps/ methods to employ the use of biocompatible polymers during artificial insemination, according to the aspects of present invention.
[046] FIG 6 shows components of Kit (1. Shipment box, 2. Sample collection container filled/coated with Seragel, 3. Glass slides, 4. Pasteur pipette), according to the aspects of present invention.
[047] In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The drawing in which an element first appears is indicated by the leftmost digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.
[048] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[049] It is to be understood that the present disclosure is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The present disclosure is capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
[050] In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The drawing in which an element first appears is indicated by the leftmost digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.
[051] The use of “including”, “comprising” or “having” and variations thereof herein is meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof as well as additional items. The terms “a” and “an” herein do not denote a limitation of quantity, but rather denote the presence of at least one of the referenced item. Further, the use of terms “first”, “second”, and “third”, and the like, herein do not denote any order, quantity, or importance, but rather are used to distinguish one element from another.
[052] As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. By way of example, “a dosage” refers to one or more than one dosage.
[053] The terms “comprising”, “comprises” and “comprised of” as used herein are synonymous with “including”, “includes” or “containing”, “contains”, and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps.
[054] All documents cited in the present specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their totality. In particular, the teachings of all documents herein specifically referred to are incorporated by reference.
[055] Example embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the accompanying figures.
[056] In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The drawing in which an element first appears is indicated by the leftmost digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.
[057] Definitions
[058] The following terms are used as defined below throughout this application unless otherwise indicated.
[059] The terms "polypeptide," "peptide" and "protein" are used interchangeably herein to refer to a polymer of amino acid residues. "Polypeptide," "peptide" and "protein” can be modified, e.g., by the addition of carbohydrate residues to form glycoproteins.
[060] The terms "subject", "patient" or "individual" generally refer to a human or mammals.
[061] "Sample" refers to a polynucleotides, antibodies fragments, polypeptides, peptides, genomic DNA, RNA, or cDNA, polypeptides, a cell, a tissue, and derivatives thereof may comprise a bodily fluid or a soluble cell preparation, or culture media, a chromosome, an organelle, or membrane isolated or extracted from a cell.
[062] “Body fluid” refers to, but is not limited to, plasma, serum, urine, peripheral blood, sera, plasma, ascites, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), sputum, saliva, bone marrow, synovial fluid, aqueous humor, amniotic fluid, cerumen, breast milk, broncheoalveolar lavage fluid, semen, prostatic fluid, cowper's fluid or pre-ejaculatory fluid, female ejaculate, sweat, fecal matter, hair, tears, cyst fluid, pleural and peritoneal fluid, pericardial fluid, lymph, chyme, chyle, bile, interstitial fluid, menses, pus, sebum, vomit, vaginal secretions, mucosal secretion, stool water, pancreatic juice, lavage fluids from sinus cavities, bronchopulmonary aspirates, blastocyl cavity fluid, or umbilical cord blood.
[063] EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION
[064] In an embodiment, a medium for storage and/or transportation of sperm at ambient temperature comprising; a biocompatible polymer, wherein the medium can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity, wherein the medium comprises a thermoreversible biocompatible polymer in phosphate buffered saline, along with acceptable additives.
[065] In a further embodiment, a method for shipping and improving functionality of sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of: mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®; leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade; packing (b) in a cover provided with the container; and delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment; wherein the sperm sample is not immobilized, or subjected to freezing and/or thawing.
[066] In an exemplary embodiment, a method for preparing a sperm shipment medium, comprising the acts of: a) combining an amount of the thermoreversible polymer or a combination of two polymers with an amount of a suitable aqueous solvent fortified with sugars, vitamins, micro nutrients, anti-oxidants, proteins and growth factors (synthetic and biological, natural), wherein the amount of polymer(s) is sufficient to form a solution having upto 40% w/w of polymer(s) or more; b) stirring the mixture at a sufficiently medium speed at about or below 10 °C at for a first period of time; and c) rocking the mixture for a second period of time there by forming a solution.
[067] In an aspect of invention, a method for transporting sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of: mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®; leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade; packing (b) in a cover (meant for shipment) provided with the container; and delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment.
[068] In a further aspect, a process for inseminating a female subject with an enriched sperm cell population, the process comprising the acts of: mixing Sperm sample with pre-cooled SeraGel®, wherein the SeraGel® is liquid at 4 degrees; allowing the mix (a) to become gel incubating at 37 degrees; cooling the gel; centrifuging the contents (c) to pellet the sperm sample; and using for further analysis and insemination.
[069] In an embodiment, the insemination may be artificial insemination or in vitro fertilisation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection or a combination thereof, wherein the process may further comprises introducing the fertilized egg into the uterus of a female subject.
[070] In a further embodiment, the subject is a humans or animals including, mammals, caprine, ovine, porcine, bovine, equine or any wild animal species; wherein the method of shipping and/or improving and/or transporting is for any the biological material including sperm, oocytes and/or embryos, or any combination of biological materials.
[071] In an embodiment a method for preserving sperm by freezing which comprises the steps of diluting sperm in a sperm dilution medium comprising: the pre-cooled SeraGel®, comprising components suited to diluting sperm of the determined species; native phosphocaseinate; egg yolk or egg yolk plasma; and glycerol; and freezing the diluted sperm.
[072] In an embodiment a kit for storage and/or transportation of sperm at ambient temperature, wherein the kit comprising of: a) shipment box; b) sample collection container filled/coated with Seragel; c) glass slides; and d) pasteur pipette; wherein the kit can preserve biomolecule quality, motility and
membrane integrity.
[073] Inventor’s objective was to design and standardize a remote sperm shipping medium that allows patients/donors/diagnostic centre or IVF clinics to collect semen sample and ship it overnight to a sperm bank or diagnostic centre or an IVF clinic at room temperature without cold chain logistics while preserving the semen quality parameters intact.
[074] SeraGel® is a copolymer composed of thermoresponsive polymer blocks [poly(Nisopropylacrylamide-co-n-butyl methacrylate) poly(NIPAAm-co-BMA)] and hydrophilic polymer blocks (polyethylene glycol [PEG]) and is characterized by its temperature-dependent dynamic vise oelastic properties. The thermoresponsive blocks are hydrophilic at temperatures below the sol-gel transition temperature and are hydrophobic at temperatures above the sol-gel transition temperature. The hydrophobic interaction results in formation of a homogenous three-dimensional polymer network in water. The sol-gel transition temperature can be controlled by altering the chemical composition of NIPAAm-co-BMA and PEG. Cells or tissues can be embedded in liquid gel solution at lower temperatures and stored, shipped or cultured three-dimensionally in a hydrogel state at 37°C. SeraGel® is a purely synthesized biocompatible polymer that has no biological contaminants.
[075] Mode of Action: Sperm sample are mixed with pre-cooled SeraGel® which are liquid at 4 degrees and allowed to become gel when incubated at 37 degrees. Upon receiving the sample the end user coolsthe gel and centrifuge the contents to pellet the sperm sample and use it for further analysis.
[076] The compositions of the present invention provide a single sample collection, transport, and storage reagent that facilitate: 1) procuring high quality sample at the convenient of a patients residence or the current location 2) Safe handling and transport of specimens, and 3) Stabilization and preservation of sample quality and prevents degradation for prolonged periods (upto 2 weeks) at ambient temperatures. The results of such studies are presented in the following methodologies and examples.
[077] METHODOLOGY
Hydrogel-forming polymer
The hydrogel-forming polymer constituting the hydrogel according to the present invention refers to a polymer has a property such that it can form a hydrogel which has a crosslinking or network structure by retaining water (in the inside thereof) on the basis of such a structure. Further, the "hydrogel" refers to a gel, which comprises, at least a crosslinked or network structure comprising a polymer, and water (as a dispersion liquid) supported or retained by such a structure.
The "dispersion liquid" retained in the crosslinked or network structure is not particularly limited, as long as it is a liquid comprising water as a main or major component. More specifically, the dispersion liquid may for example be either of water per se, an aqueous solution and/or water-containing liquid. The water-containing liquid may preferably contain 80 parts or more, more preferably 90 parts or more of water, based on the total 100 parts of the water-containing liquid.
(Sol-gel transition temperature)
In the present invention, the terms "sol state", "gel state" and "sol-gel transition temperature" are defined in the following manner. With respect to these definitions, a paper (Polymer Journal, 18(5), 411-416 (1986)) may be referred to.
[078] FIG 1 illustrates the structure of polymer [poly(Nisopropylacrylamide-co-n-butyl methacrylate)
poly(NIPAAm-co-BMA)] and hydrophilic polymer blocks (polyethylene glycol
[079] 1(A) Following pictures represents chemical formula of PNIPAAm and 1(B) Representation of volume phase transition between coil (left) and globular (right) hydrogel conformations, , according to the aspects of present invention. FIG 2 illustrates the chemical formula of PNIPAAm and 2(B) Representation of volume phase transition between coil (left) and globular (right) hydrogel conformations. Following pictures shows representation of 2(A) the swollen PNIPAAm hydrosol in aqueous solution below Tc (32 °C) and 2(B) the shrunken dehydrated PNIPAAm hydrogel above Tc (32 °C). Adapted with permission from Reference [64]. Copyright © 2015 Springer Science & Business Media Singapore, according to the aspects of present invention.
[080] For the present invention commercially available thermoreversible polymer(S) have been used as one of the key ingredient in the semen storage and shipment medium.
[081] Product composition/preparation: Thermoreversible polymer (Henceforth will be referred as “Polymer” suspended in phosphate buffered saline with more than one of the following opponents as additives, such as, Thermoreversible polymer (1%-50%) (For eg: Poloxamers, Poly caprolactane, NIPAAM etc), Glycerol (1.1%-30%), Calcium chloride (0.1mM-20 mM), Hepes (1mM-40 mM), Sodium dihydrogen phosphate (0.01mM-10mM), Sodium hydrogen carbonate (1mM-50mM), Sodium chloride (1mM-1000 mM), Glycine (1mM-30mM), Potassium chloride (1mM-50 mM), Magnesium Chloride (0.01mM-10mM), Sodium lactate (1mM-40mM), Glucose (0.5mM-20mM)/Sucrose (10mM-500mM),Gentamicin sulfate (1ug/ml-100ug/ml), Ultra-filtered egg yolk (1%-50%), Vascular endothelial growth factors -VEGF(0.0001ug/ml-10ug/ml), Nerve Growth Factor-NGF(0.0001ug/ml-10ug/ml), Epithelial Growth Facotr-EGF(0.0001ug/ml-10ug/ml), Platelet rich plasma-lysate (0.1%-50%), Vitamin C(0.01mg/ml-100mg/ml),Vitamin E (1IU-200IU/ml),CoQ10 (0.001ug/ml-100ug/ml), L-carnitine (0.001ug/ml-100ug/ml), Selenium (0.0001ug/ml-10ug/ml), N-acetyl-cysteine (0.001ug/ml-100ug/ml), Zinc Sulfate (0.001mg/ml-10mg/ml), Folic acid(0.01mg/ml-100mg/ml), Ubiquinone(0.01mg/ml-100mg/ml), Vitamin B12 (0.0001ug/ml-10ug/ml) or any combination of acceptable additives.
[082] This invention provides a thermoreversible sol-gel composition having unique properties for use in the methods of this invention for storage and transportation of semen and sperm samples including but not limited. A general method of preparing the compositions of this invention can be described as the following:
[083] combining an amount of the thermoreversible polymer or a combination of two polymers with similar characteristics and an amount of a suitable aqueous solvent, wherein the amount of polymer(S) is sufficient to form a solution having more than or equal to 40% % w/w of polymer(s); stirring the mixture at a sufficiently medium speed at about or below 10 °C at for a first period of time; and rocking the mixture for a second period of time there by forming a solution. It is to be understood that the above steps may be combined and that the sequence of the steps may be altered. For example, the aqueous solvent may be cooled /or stirred when combining with the polymer(s). The polymer may be added in small potions. One polymer(s) may be added before the other polymer is added. Alternatively, a cold aqueous solvent may be poured to the polymer(s). The stirring and/or rocking may or may not be continuous although continuous stirring at medium speeds is preferred for steady dissolution of the polymer(s). Further, a period of stirring may alternate with a period of rocking.
[084] FIG 3 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps for improving the functionality of sperm (including use of biopolymer), according to the aspects of present invention. FIG 4 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps of producing a sperm shipment medium/ Methods of invention, according to the aspects of present invention.
[085] Nature/characteristics of the product: The term "thermoreversible sol-gel" refers to a composition, which undergoes a phase transition from a liquid phase to gel phase or vice versa when the temperature is raised above or reduced below a critical value, which is referred to as "transition temperature." The term "liquid phase" or "liquid state" refers to a liquid or flowable form with a viscosity of less than 2000 Pascal-seconds. The term "gel phase" or "gel state" refers to a gel or relatively solid form with a viscosity of greater than 10,000 Pascal-seconds. As is well known in the science of rheology, complex viscosities of compositions are reported in Pascal-seconds and all viscosities reported in this application are reported as complex viscosities. Such phase transition is reversible. Thus, a thermoreversible sol-gel composition changes from a liquid state to a gel state when the temperature is raised to or above the critical value, or transition temperature, and undergoes a phase transition from the gel state to the liquid state when the temperature is lowered to or below the critical value, or transition temperature. Preferably the phase transition from a liquid to a gel and vice versa occurs in less than 10 minutes, more preferably in less than 5 minutes and even more preferably in less than 1 minute.
[086] The term "aqueous solvent" refers to water or a water based solution, e.g. an aqueous salt solution, such as a saline solution, phosphate buffered saline, and other aqueous solutions suitable for dissolving the poloxamers described herein. An aqueous salt solution may contain one or more biocompatible salts selected from sodium chloride (NaCl), potassium chloride (KC1), sodium sulfate (Na2S04 ), sodium bisulfate (NaHS04), sodium phosphate (Na HP04 ),monosodium phosphate (NaH2P04), disodium phosphate (Na2HP04), potassium phosphate(K3PO4), monopotassium phosphate (KH2P04), dipotassium phosphate (K2HPO4), various soluble calcium and magnesium salts, such as calcium chloride (CaCl2), magnesium chloride (MgCl2) and other salts formed by a combination of a cation selected from the group consisting of sodium, potassium, calcium, magnesium, ammonium, and tetraalkylammonium, with an anion selected from the group consisting of chloride, bromide, tartrate, mesylate, acetate, maleate, and oxalate and other biocompatible, water soluble salts including those described in P . Heinrich Stahl, Camille G. Wermuth (Eds.), Handbook of Pharmaceutical Salts Properties, Selection, and Use; 2002. The term "phosphate buffered saline" or "PBS" refers to a buffer solution which help to maintain a physiological pH and a physiological ionic strength (i.e. isotonic). The final salt concentration of PBS is approximately 137 millimolar (mM) sodium chloride (NaCl), 10 mM phosphate, 2.7 mM potassium chloride, with a pH of 7.4. It may be prepared by diluting a stock solution ten times, which stock solution is prepared by dissolving 800 g sodium chloride (KC1), 20 g potassium chloride, 144 g disodium phosphate (Na2HP04) and 24g monopotassium phosphate (KH2P04 ) in 8 liters (L) of distilled water, and topping up to 10 L. PBS can have additional ions such as Calcium (Ca2+) or Magnesium (Mg 2+).
[087] The present invention is further elaborated with the help of the following examples. However, these examples should not be construed to limit the scope of the present invention.
[088] EXAMPLE 1: METHODS TO EMPLOY THE USE OF BIOCOMPATIBLE POLYMERS DURING ARTIFICIAL INSEMINATION
[089] Sperm sample were mixed with pre-cooled SeraGel® which are liquid at 4 degrees and allowed to become gel when incubated at 37 degrees. Upon receiving the sample the end user will cool the gel and centrifuge the contents to pellet the sperm sample and use it for further analysis.
[090] FIG 5 illustrates the Flowchart describing steps/ methods to employ the use of biocompatible polymers during artificial insemination, according to the aspects of present invention.
[091]
[092] TABLE 1: Sperm quality of specimens shipped via SeraGel transport medium (n = 10)
Table 2
Experiment Group - Seragel suspended in phosphate buffered saline
Test Details - Storage of Semen (Human ) N=10 Cryo Freezing (7 days) SeraGel (Room temperature-7 days)
Pre-incubation Post-incubation Pre-incubation Post-incubation
Motility (%) 45.9 16.8 47.3 23
HOS (%) 53.6 37 49.1 27.8
TMS (x106) 17.6 5.2 24.3 8.4
TMS, Total motile spermatozoa.
HOS, Hypoosmotic swelling test
[093] TABLE 2: EXPERIMENT GROUP - SERAGEL SUSPENDED IN PHOSPHATE BUFFERED SALINE
[094] Experimental Data:
[095] A total of 12 semen samples and two transport methods SeraGel R media and Cryofreezing were tested for maintaining desired shipping temperature. Ten semen samples were assessed for pre- and post-shipment changes in sperm motility, membrane integrity, total motile spermatozoa and recovery of motile spermatozoa. Even though motility, membrane integrity and total motile spermatozoa declined in samples examined under cryogenic freezing conditions and in SeraGel loaded overnight-shipped samples, the observed motility and total motile spermatozoa were higher in SeraGel group and they were sufficient for use with assisted reproductive techniques.
[096] EXAMPLE 2: TEST THE EFFECTS ON SPERM VIABILITY OF TRANSPORTING SEMEN
[097] This innovation aimed to test the effects on sperm viability of transporting semen samples suspended in the proposed “Semen storage and transportation medium”. The growing use of donor semen means that more samples are being shipped over long geographical distances. In sperm donation programs and assisted reproduction technology procedures, safe sample transportation across the country is of the utmost importance. Semen specimens are most often transported either on dry ice, at a temperature of about -80ºC, or in cryogenic storage tanks containing liquid nitrogen (-196ºC). Other factors such as temperature fluctuations during sample transportation and handling may negatively affect the quality of thawed sperm. (Carrell et al., 1996). FIG 6 shows components of Kit (1. Shipment box, 2. Sample collection container filled/coated with Seragel, 3.Glass slides, 4.Pasteur pipette), according to the aspects of present invention.
[098] Methods
[099] Twenty semen samples sent for laboratory analysis were included in the study. Clarification on the study was provided at the time the patients came to schedule their semen collection appointments, and the individuals who agreed to join the study signed an informed consent form. Only the samples classified as normozoospermic according to the WHO criteria were included in the study (2010). Twenty normozoospermic semen samples were collected and divided into five groups.
[0100] The samples in Group 1 were immersed in liquid nitrogen throughout the experiment in cryogenic storage tanks,
[0101] The semen samples in Group 2 were suspended in commercially available semen storage media in Group 3 were placed in a Styrofoam box kept at 4 degree for 7 days
[0102] In Group 3, the semen samples suspended in proposed invention in Group 2 were placed in a Styrofoam box kept under room temperature for 7 days
[0103] In Group 4, the semen samples suspended in proposed invention in Group 2 were placed in a Styrofoam box kept at 37 degrees for 7 days
[0104] In Group5, samples belongs to Group 4 kept in the Styrofoam box containing the samples was shipped by on-road transportation to assess the effects of shipping;
[0105] End of 7th day, sperm parameters were analyzed for viability, vitality, and motility; spermatozoa were also tested for mitochondrial activity. The main variables assessed in semen preservation techniques are motility and vitality. Motility indicates the functional competence of sperm cells and vitality is a way to identify living and dead sperm (Cavalcante et al., 2006); the former is one of the most severely affected variables (Watson, 1995). Verza Jr et al. (2009) studied the resistance of human sperm to cryoinjury after repeated cycles of freezing and thawing, using the quick method with liquid nitrogen vapor; the authors described a sharp drop in sperm motility after each thawing cycle.
[0106] Results
[0107] Compared to fresh samples, all groups had reduced vitality and motility. Significant decreases in motility recovery rates (P=0.01) and vitality (P=0.001) were observed in group 2 when compared to the control group (Group 1-Cryopreservation). Mitochondrial activity was significantly decreased only in Group 2 (P=0.04), as evidenced by greater numbers of sperm cells not stained by reagent 3,3’-diaminobenzidine. The percentage of motility, morphology and count from Group 3, 4 and 5 were comparable with Group-1, served as control (Table 3). In terms of mitochondrial activity, no significant differences were observed between groups for cells in classes I, II and III, even when compared to fresh samples (Table 4).
Table 3
Test Details - Storage of Semen (Human ) N=20 Fresh Sample Experiment Group - Seragel suspended in commercial medium-Storage for 7 days (n=20)
GROUP 1
Cryopreservation GROUP 2
(Storage at 4 degree-degree-commercial medium) GROUP 3
(Room temperature +Invention) GROUP 4
(37 Degree +Invention) GROUP 5
(TRANSPORTED
+ (37 Degree +Invention))
MOTILITY
(%) 68.2 ± 3.4 48.7 ± 2.2 33.7 ± 2.7 41.2 ±2.6 49.1± 2.3 47.3± 3.3
VITALITY
(%) 83.6 ± 2.8 56.4 ± 3.2 46.6 ± 2.4 49.6 ± 2.5 49.4 ± 2.4 46.4 ± 3.6
[0108] TABLE 3: THE PERCENTAGE OF MOTILITY, MORPHOLOGY AND COUNT FROM GROUP 3, 4 AND 5 WERE COMPARABLE WITH GROUP-1, SERVED AS CONTROL
Table 4
Mean percent value (± standard error) of cells in Class I, II, III and IV, for 3,3’-diaminobenzida staining to assess mitochondrial activity in spermatozoa of fresh samples and different groups tested.
Test Details - Storage of Semen (Human ) N=3 Fresh Sample Experiment Group - Seragel suspended in commercial medium-Storage for 7 days (n=20)
GROUP 1
Cryopreservation GROUP 2
(Storage at 4 degree-degree-commercial medium) GROUP 3
(Room temperature +Invention) GROUP 4
(37 Degree +Invention) GROUP 5
(TRANSPORTED
+ (37 Degree +Invention))
Class I (%) 29.8 ± 2.2 27.3 ± 2.7 24.3 ± 1.7 27.4 ± 1.7 28.3 ± 1.5 27.9 ± 1.6
Class II (%) 48.9 ± 2.6 46.2 ± 2.6 44.4 ± 1.5 47.2 ± 2.1 48.4 ± 1.7 48.1 ± 1.2
Class III (%) 13.7 ± 2.2 13.2 ± 1.3 16.9 ± 1.3 13.1 ± 1.1 14.1 ± 1.0 14.2 ± 1.1
Class IV (%) 8.4 ± 1.2 11.8 ± 1.3 12.7 ± 0.9 12.7 ± 0.8 11.2 ± 0.9 11.1 ± 0.8
[0109] TABLE 4: MEAN PERCENT VALUE (± STANDARD ERROR) OF CELLS IN CLASS I, II, III AND IV, FOR 3,3’-DIAMINOBENZIDA STAINING TO ASSESS MITOCHONDRIAL ACTIVITY IN SPERMATOZOA OF FRESH SAMPLES AND DIFFERENT GROUPS TESTED.
[0110] Conclusions
[0111] Storage medium and transportation in the proposed invention did not affect the quality of semen samples stored in the proposed invention, but dry ice as a means to preserve the samples during transportation had detrimental effects upon the sperm parameters assessed in this study.
[0112] Major advantages of the invention over the available prior arts:
Available Techniques/Products Process/Advantages Disadvantages
NextGen Home Sperm Banking Service (Agarwal et al, 2016). Specially designed kit with refrigeration media, cooling sleeve and ice packs. Temperature variation from collection till transport causes loss of viability, osmotic and oxidative stress.
Cryopreservation Cooling the samples to very low temperatures. Freezing and thawing process causes loss of viability, osmotic and oxidative stress, toxicity from the cryoprotectant and the formation of intracellular ice crystals, Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Rozati et al 2017).
Semen extenders such as citrate-egg yolk buffer a liquid diluent which is added to semen,buffer to protect the sperm cells from their own toxic byproducts, protects the sperm cells from cold and osmotic shock during the chilling and shipping process.
Soy lecithin as a supplement for cryopreservation medium (Reed et al 2009). Cooling the samples to very low temperatures. Freezing and thawing process causes loss of viability, osmotic and oxidative stress, toxicity from the cryoprotectant and the formation of intracellular ice crystals, Production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) (Rozati et al 2017)..
SeraGel(R): Thermoreversible gel which is added to sperm and allowed to become gel at 37 degree which will simply immobilize the sperms and can be shipped as such thus protects the sperm cells preserved at physiological conditions No temperature shock
Significantly reduces osmotic and oxidative stress
Loss of viability is significantly low
As the sperm sample is preserved at physiological conditions, chromosomal damages are nil.
Semen can be sipped to any location without resource dependency Preservation upto 1 month is possible
[0113] Major advantage of the current invention are,
[0114] The new method will allow the laboratory also to report the exact motility without worrying about temperature changes.
[0115] In cases of preparation for IUI-Intra Uterine Insemination, it allows for the maximum number of motile spermatozoa to be retrieved results in better pregnancy outcome
[0116] In case of preparations for IVF, quality sperms will lead to quality embryos and successful pregnancy and live birth
[0117] Because such logistical concerns are a major encumbrance when conducting studies in clinical andrology, there exists a need for the ambient temperature storage and transportation of unprocessed human semen.
[0118] With the aid of such a medium, samples could be mailed to a centralized, accredited, diagnostic laboratory in which the facilities and expertise for assessing the functional competence of human spermatozoa are concentrated.
[0119] Such an advance would not only improve the availability of such assays, but would also help standardize laboratory assessments of semen quality in the context of multicentre clinical trials. The present paper addresses this issue and describes the basis for creating a medium in which excellent preservation of sperm function is observed at ambient temperatures over a period of 24 h.
[0120] The invention provides compositions, kits and integrated systems for practicing the assays/methods/transportation described herein using biopolymers. In addition, the kits may include several transport materials, components, binding agents, containers for the transport of biological samples as part of the embodiments of the invention.
[0121] Those of skill in the art will appreciate that for use in the disclosed methods, the compositions and constructs disclosed herein may be present in compositions including one or more physiologically acceptable carriers or diluents, such as water or saline. Such compositions may additionally contain other components, such as preservatives, stabilizers, buffers and the like. Carriers, diluents and other components suitable for use in the present compositions.
[0122] Merely for illustration, only representative number/type of graph, chart, block, and sub-block diagrams were shown. Many environments often contain many more block and sub-block diagrams or systems and sub-systems, both in number and type, depending on the purpose for which the environment is designed.
[0123] While specific embodiments of the invention have been shown and described in detail to illustrate the inventive principles, it will be understood that the invention may be embodied otherwise without departing from such principles.
[0124] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0125] It should be understood that the figures and/or screen shots illustrated in the attachments highlighting the functionality and advantages of the present invention are presented for example purposes only. The present invention is sufficiently flexible and configurable, such that it may be utilized in ways other than that shown in the accompanying figures.
[0126] It should be understood that the examples and embodiments described herein are for illustrative purposes only and that various modifications or changes in light thereof will be suggested to persons skilled in the art and are to be included within the spirit and purview of this application and scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent applications cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.
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,CLAIMS:CLAIMS

I/We Claim,

1) A medium for storage and/or transportation of sperm at ambient temperature comprising; a biocompatible polymer, wherein the medium can preserve sperm quality, motility and membrane integrity.
2) The medium as claimed in claim 1, wherein the medium comprises a thermoreversible biocompatible polymer in phosphate buffered saline, along with acceptable additives.
3) A method for shipping and improving functionality of sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of:
a) mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®;
b) leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade;
c) packing (b) in a cover provided with the container; and
d) delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment;
wherein the sperm sample is not immobilized, or subjected to freezing and/or thawing.
4) A method for preparing a sperm shipment medium, comprising the acts of:
a) combining an amount of the thermoreversible polymer or a combination of two polymers with an amount of a suitable aqueous solvent fortified with sugars, vitamins, micro nutrients, anti-oxidants, proteins and growth factors (synthetic and biological, natural), wherein the amount of polymer(s) is sufficient to form a solution having upto 40% w/w of polymer(s) or more;
b) stirring the mixture at a sufficiently medium speed at about or below 10 °C at for a first period of time; and
c) rocking the mixture for a second period of time there by forming a solution.
5) A method for transporting sperm of a subject, comprising the acts of:
a) mixing Semen sample with a pre-cooled SeraGel®;
b) leaving the mix (a) undisturbed at room temperature or placing on top of a warmer maintaining at 37 degree centigrade;
c) packing (b) in a cover (meant for shipment) provided with the container; and
d) delivering (c) to the lab or IVF centre for screening, diagnosis or fertility treatment.
6) A process for inseminating a female subject with an enriched sperm cell population, the process comprising the acts of:
a) mixing Sperm sample with pre-cooled SeraGel®, wherein the SeraGel® is liquid at 4 degrees;
b) allowing the mix (a) to become gel incubating at 37 degrees;
c) cooling the gel;
d) centrifuging the contents (c) to pellet the sperm sample; and
e) using for further analysis and insemination.
7) A process for use of SeraGel® as claimed in claim 6, wherein the insemination may be artificial insemination or in vitro fertilisation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection or a combination thereof, wherein the process may further comprises introducing the fertilized egg into the uterus of a female subject.
8) The subject according to claim 3, claim 5 and claim 6, wherein the subject is a humans or animals including, mammals, caprine, ovine, porcine, bovine, equine or any wild animal species; wherein the method of shipping and/or improving and/or transporting according to claim 3, claim 5 and claim 6 is for any the biological material including sperm, oocytes and/or embryos, or any combination of biological materials.
9) A method for preserving sperm by freezing which comprises the steps of diluting sperm in a sperm dilution medium comprising:
a) the pre-cooled SeraGel®, comprising components suited to diluting sperm of the determined species;
b) native phosphocaseinate;
c) egg yolk or egg yolk plasma; and
d) glycerol; and
e) freezing the diluted sperm.
10) A kit for storage and/or transportation of sperm at ambient temperature, wherein the kit comprising of: a) shipment box; b) sample collection container filled/coated with Seragel; c) glass slides; and d) pasteur pipette; wherein the kit can preserve biomolecule quality, motility and
membrane integrity.