The Use of Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) in Domestic Animal Reproduction: A Review

Abstract

Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) was developed in the late 1980s to study the sperm movement characteristics or kinematics. Since then, CASA is becoming among the most important tools in reproductive biotechnologies laboratories and research centers related to animal breeding although the doubt about its effectiveness. This review aimed to investigate the different studies and reports performed by the scientific community recently regarding CASA system, as well as to suggest new areas of use and improvement for this automated device to better interpret the complexity surrounding the sperm sample. The main problem is related to the standardization and optimization of the equipment and procedures. CASA system has evolved dramatically over the past two decades to become powerful tool for the rapid and objective assessment of sperm concentration, motility and kinematics, as well as morphology, in almost all mammals, including humans. Despite the lack of full universal standardization, the various CASA instruments have all currently demonstrated high levels of accuracy and reliability.