How Path Works

How to get a Path Sperm Quality Test

Physician Order. SpermQT is a clinical diagnostic and requires a physician order. If you are a physician please go here to download a requisition form. If you are a patient and do not have a physician please contact us at info@pathfertility.com or (801) 477-7284.
Receive Kit. Once the test is ordered by a physician, we send a discreet and easy to use at-home semen collection kit. The kit contains instructions and a pre-paid shipping label for easy shipment back to our lab.
Processing of semen samples. When a sample is received at our CAP accredited and CLIA certified laboratory, the sperm cells are counted and the DNA is extracted from the sperm cells.
Molecular Analysis. Sperm DNA is then analyzed for specific DNA methylation modifications on genes specific for sperm function.
Get Results. Upon completion of the SpermQT DNA methylation analysis, results will be sent to the ordering physician for review and to share directly with their patient.

DNA methylation is a common modification found on DNA where a CH3 (Methyl) molecule binds to the cytosine base of DNA (5-Methylcytosine). This modification changes the expression of your genes.
Numerous studies have reported abnormal sperm DNA methylation patterns associated with infertility.
Path Fertility has identified specific DNA methylation patterns on genes associated with important biological functions such as spermatogenesis (the production or development of sperm) and embryo development.
Specific DNA methylation patterns on these genes are associated with poor sperm quality
1. Increased time to pregnancy
2. Lower pregnancy and live birth rate associated with natural and artificial insemination
The SpermQT test analyzes the DNA methylation pattern at these genes on sperm DNA and assess if the man is at high risk for low sperm quality based on DNA methylation.