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DNA Fragmentation

Meaning

DNA fragmentation is the clinical term describing the physical breakage of the double-stranded DNA molecule within a cell’s nucleus, resulting in smaller, distinct pieces. This cellular event is a critical marker of genomic instability and cellular stress, often preceding or accompanying apoptosis, or programmed cell death. Elevated levels of fragmentation, particularly in germline cells like sperm, are directly associated with reduced fertility and compromised cellular health, warranting clinical investigation.