Integrated analytical workflow for cell-free DNA (cfDNA)-based assessment of testicular function in severe male infertility (SPERMFREE)

Severe male infertility affects approximately 1% of men worldwide. Currently, to assess testicular function and determine whether sperm are being produced, doctors often rely on hormonal tests, medical imaging, and sometimes invasive procedures such as testicular biopsy. These methods can be expensive, time-consuming, and do not always provide clear answers, which means patients often have to undergo multiple examinations or even unnecessary surgical procedures.

The SPERMFREE project proposes the development of a new, non-invasive approach for assessing testicular function in cases of severe male infertility. The method is based on the analysis of cell-free DNA found in semen. Various molecular indicators are examined, and information about cellular activity and possible inflammatory processes is integrated using a computational model. This will allow physicians to determine more accurately whether sperm production is preserved, impaired, or absent, and to select the most appropriate treatment approach.

This diagnostic approach is expected to reduce the number of unnecessary invasive procedures, shorten the diagnostic process, and help couples make informed decisions about family planning more quickly. At the same time, it will reduce the costs of examinations and treatment for both patients and the healthcare system, while also lessening the emotional and time burden associated with prolonged infertility diagnostics.

Project Team

• Marija Lazovska
• Dr. med. Linda Gailīte
• Dr. Juris Ērenpreiss
• Agnese Viļuma
• Līga Brasliņa