The Transcript Integrity Index (TII) provides a standard measure of sperm RNA

Human sperm RNA-seq was performed and sequences used for the generation of a RNA integrity index capable of assessing samples with high RNA fragmentation. A two-prong approach was used including both manual and computational analysis. This identified a series of sperm RNAs that are consistently intact, and acceptable for use in determining sample RNA quality. These RNAs function in roles related to spermatogenesis and/or fertilization. Overall design: Samples were human sperm from the male partner of couples seeking fertility treatment.