A procedure in which sperm is directly injected into the ovum is

Options

A. ICSI
B. Artificial insemination
C. GIFT
D. ZIFT

Answer

To solve the question, we need to identify the procedure in which sperm is directly injected into the ovum. Let's analyze each option step by step:

1. **ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)**:
- This is a specialized form of in vitro fertilization (IVF) where a single sperm is injected directly into the cytoplasm of an ovum (egg).
- This technique is particularly useful in cases of male infertility where sperm quality or quantity is an issue.
- Therefore, this option is correct.

2. **Artificial Insemination**:
- In this procedure, semen is collected from a male (either the husband or a donor) and is introduced into the female reproductive tract (either the vagina or uterus).
- Sperm is not directly injected into the ovum; rather, it is placed in the reproductive tract to allow natural fertilization.
- Hence, this option is incorrect.

3. **GIFT (Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer)**:
- In GIFT, both sperm and eggs are collected and then placed directly into the fallopian tubes, allowing fertilization to occur naturally inside the body.
- This procedure does not involve direct injection of sperm into the ovum.
- Therefore, this option is incorrect.

4. **ZIFT (Zygote Intrafallopian Transfer)**:
- ZIFT involves fertilizing the egg in the laboratory to form a zygote and then transferring that zygote into the fallopian tube.
- Similar to GIFT, this does not involve direct injection of sperm into the ovum.
- Thus, this option is also incorrect.

Based on the analysis, the correct answer to the question is **ICSI (Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection)**.