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Both cytoplasmic and surface-membrane antigens of human spermatozoa were detected by means of monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs) and of the alkaline phosphatase anti-alkaline phosphatase- (APAAP-) technique. Several advantages of this technique for the identification of sperm could be demonstrated. The labeling of cytocentrifuge preparations from 16 ejaculates proved the presence of glycosphingolipids, nuclear and mitochondrial antigens of spermatozoa. However, there were no HLA-molecules and other leukocyte antigens on sperm cells.

Round cells of 42 ejaculates were characterized by their surface antigens using monoclonal antibodies and the immunocytochemical APAAP-technique. In this way immature germ cells, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, lymphocytes and their subpopulations could be distinguished. It was also attempted to correlate the incidence of these cells, sperm parameters and other clinical data.