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Hodge MJ, de Las Heras-Saldana S, Rindfleish SJ, Stephen CP, Pant SD. QTLs and Candidate Genes Associated with Semen Traits in Merino Sheep. Animals (Basel) 2023; 13:2286. [PMID: 37508063 PMCID: PMC10376747 DOI: 10.3390/ani13142286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2023] [Revised: 07/06/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Ram semen traits play a significant role in conception outcomes, which in turn may influence reproductive efficiency and the overall productivity and profitability of sheep enterprises. Since hundreds of ewes may be inseminated from a single ejaculate, it is important to evaluate semen quality prior to use in sheep breeding programs. Given that semen traits have been found to be heritable, genetic variation likely contributes to the variability observed in these traits. Identifying such genetic variants could provide novel insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying variability in semen traits. Therefore, this study aimed to identify quantitative trait loci (QTLs) associated with semen traits in Merino sheep. A genome-wide association study (GWAS) was undertaken using 4506 semen collection records from 246 Merino rams collected between January 2002 and May 2021. The R package RepeatABEL was used to perform a GWAS for semen volume, gross motility, concentration, and percent post-thaw motility. A total of 35 QTLs, located on 16 Ovis aries autosomes (OARs), were significantly associated with either of the four semen traits in this study. A total of 89, 95, 33, and 73 candidate genes were identified, via modified Bonferroni, within the QTLs significantly associated with volume, gross motility, concentration, and percent post-thaw motility, respectively. Among the candidate genes identified, SORD, SH2B1, and NT5E have been previously described to significantly influence spermatogenesis, spermatozoal motility, and high percent post-thaw motility, respectively. Several candidate genes identified could potentially influence ram semen traits based on existing evidence in the literature. As such, validation of these putative candidates may offer the potential to develop future strategies to improve sheep reproductive efficiency. Furthermore, Merino ram semen traits are lowly heritable (0.071-0.139), and thus may be improved by selective breeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marnie J Hodge
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Apiam Animal Health, Apiam Genetic Services, Dubbo, NSW 2830, Australia
| | - Sara de Las Heras-Saldana
- Animal Genetics and Breeding Unit, a Joint Venture of NSW Department of Primary Industries and University of New England, Armidale, NSW 2351, Australia
| | | | - Cyril P Stephen
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
| | - Sameer D Pant
- School of Agricultural, Environmental and Veterinary Sciences, Charles Sturt University, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
- Gulbali Institute, Charles Sturt University, Boorooma Street, Wagga Wagga, NSW 2678, Australia
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Yu K, Xiao K, Sun QQ, Liu RF, Huang LF, Zhang PF, Xu HY, Lu YQ, Fu Q. Comparative proteomic analysis of seminal plasma exosomes in buffalo with high and low sperm motility. BMC Genomics 2023; 24:8. [PMID: 36624393 PMCID: PMC9830767 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-022-09106-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 12/30/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exosomes are nanosized membranous vesicles secreted by various types of cells, which facilitate intercellular communication by transporting bioactive compounds. Exosomes are abundant in biological fluids including semen, and their protein composition and the potential of seminal plasma exosomes (SPEs) as fertility biomarkers were elucidated in humans, however, little information is available regarding buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Here, we examined protein correlation between spermatozoa, seminal plasma (SP), and SPEs, and we compared and analyzed protein differences between high-motility (H-motility) and low-motility (L-motility) SPEs in buffalo. RESULTS SPEs were concentrated and purified by ultracentrifugation combined with sucrose density gradient centrifugation, followed by verification using western blotting, nanoparticle tracking analysis, and transmission electron microscopy. Protein composition in spermatozoa, SP and SPEs, and protein difference in H- and L-motility SPEs were identified by LC-MS/MS proteomic analysis and were functionally analyzed through comprehensive bioinformatics. Many SPEs proteins originated from spermatozoa and SP, and nearly one third were also present in spermatozoa and SP. A series of proteins associated with reproductive processes including sperm capacitation, spermatid differentiation, fertilization, sperm-egg recognition, membrane fusion, and acrosome reaction were integrated in a functional network. Comparative proteomic analyses showed 119 down-regulated and 41 up-regulated proteins in L-motility SPEs, compared with H-motility SPEs. Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment of differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) showed that most differential proteins were located in sperm and vesicles, with activities of hydrolase and metalloproteinase, and were involved in sperm-egg recognition, fertilization, single fertilization, and sperm-zona pellucida binding processes, etc. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) analysis showed that differential proteins were mainly involved in the PPRP signaling pathway, calcium signaling pathway, and cAMP signaling pathway, among others. Furthermore, 6 proteins associated with reproduction were validated by parallel reaction monitoring analysis. CONCLUSION This study provides a comprehensive description of the seminal plasma exosome proteome and may be of use for further screening of biomarkers associated with male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Yu
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Kai Xiao
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Qin-qiang Sun
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Run-feng Liu
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Liang-feng Huang
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Peng-fei Zhang
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Hui-yan Xu
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Yang-qing Lu
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China ,grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798College of Animal Science and Technology, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
| | - Qiang Fu
- grid.256609.e0000 0001 2254 5798State Key Laboratory for Conservation and Utilization of Subtropical Agro-Bioresources, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004 China
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Shan MM, Sun SC. The multiple roles of RAB GTPases in female and male meiosis. Hum Reprod Update 2021; 27:1013-1029. [PMID: 34227671 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmab019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND RAB GTPases constitute the largest family of small GTPases and are found in all eukaryotes. RAB GTPases regulate components of the endomembrane system, the nucleus and the plasma membrane, and are involved in intracellular actin/tubulin-dependent vesicle movement, membrane fusion and cell growth in mitosis. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE RAB GTPases play multiple critical roles during both female and male meiosis. This review summarizes the progress made in our understanding of the role of RAB GTPases in female and male meiosis in different species. We also discuss the potential relationship between RAB GTPases and oocyte/sperm quality, which may help in understanding the mechanisms underlying oogenesis and spermatogenesis and potential genetic causes of infertility. SEARCH METHODS The PubMed database was searched for articles published between 1991 and 2020 using the following terms: 'RAB', 'RAB oocyte', 'RAB sperm' and 'RAB meiosis'. OUTCOMES An analysis of 126 relevant articles indicated that RAB GTPases are present in all eukaryotes, and ten subfamilies (almost 70 members) are expressed in human cells. The roles of 25 RAB proteins and orthologues in female meiosis and 12 in male meiosis have been reported. RAB proteins are essential for the accurate continuity of genetic material, successful fertilization and the normal growth of offspring. Distinct and crucial functions of RAB GTPases in meiosis have been reported. In oocytes, RAB GTPases are involved in spindle organization, kinetochore-microtubule attachment, chromosome alignment, actin filament-mediated spindle migration, cytokinesis, cell cycle and oocyte-embryo transition. RAB GTPases function in mitochondrial processes and Golgi-mediated vesicular transport during female meiosis, and are critical for cortical granule transport during fertilization and oocyte-embryo transition. In sperm, RAB GTPases are vital for cytoskeletal organization and successful cytokinesis, and are associated with Golgi-mediated acrosome formation, membrane trafficking and morphological changes of sperm cells, as well as the exocytosis-related acrosome reaction and zona reaction during fertilization. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Abnormal expression of RAB GTPases disrupts intracellular systems, which may induce diverse diseases. The roles of RAB proteins in female and male reproductive systems, thus, need to be considered. The mechanisms underlying the function of RAB GTPases and the binding specificity of their effectors during oogenesis, spermatogenesis and fertilization remain to be studied. This review should contribute to our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of oogenesis and spermatogenesis and potential genetic causes of infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng-Meng Shan
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Shao-Chen Sun
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Mańkowska A, Brym P, Paukszto Ł, Jastrzębski JP, Fraser L. Gene Polymorphisms in Boar Spermatozoa and Their Associations with Post-Thaw Semen Quality. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21051902. [PMID: 32164368 PMCID: PMC7084667 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21051902] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2020] [Revised: 03/04/2020] [Accepted: 03/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Genetic markers have been used to assess the freezability of semen. With the advancement in molecular genetic techniques, it is possible to assess the relationships between sperm functions and gene polymorphisms. In this study, variant calling analysis of RNA-Seq datasets was used to identify single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in boar spermatozoa and to explore the associations between SNPs and post-thaw semen quality. Assessment of post-thaw sperm quality characteristics showed that 21 boars were considered as having good semen freezability (GSF), while 19 boars were classified as having poor semen freezability (PSF). Variant calling demonstrated that most of the polymorphisms (67%) detected in boar spermatozoa were at the 3’-untranslated regions (3’-UTRs). Analysis of SNP abundance in various functional gene categories showed that gene ontology (GO) terms were related to response to stress, motility, metabolism, reproduction, and embryo development. Genomic DNA was isolated from sperm samples of 40 boars. Forty SNPs were selected and genotyped, and several SNPs were significantly associated with motility and membrane integrity of frozen-thawed (FT) spermatozoa. Polymorphism in SCLT1 gene was associated with significantly higher motility and plasma membrane integrity of FT spermatozoa from boars of the GSF group compared with those of the PSF group. Likewise, polymorphisms in MAP3K20, MS4A2, and ROBO1 genes were significantly associated with reduced cryo-induced lipid peroxidation and DNA damage of FT spermatozoa from boars of the GSF group. Candidate genes with significant SNP associations, including APPL1, PLBD1, FBXO16, EML5, RAB3C, OXSR1,PRICKLE1, and MAP3K20 genes, represent potential markers for post-thaw semen quality, and they might be relevant for future improvement in the selection procedure of boars for cryopreservation. The findings of this study provide evidence indicating that polymorphisms in genes expressed in spermatozoa could be considered as factors associated with post-thaw semen quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Mańkowska
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Paweł Brym
- Department of Animal Genetics, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
| | - Łukasz Paukszto
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (Ł.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Jan P. Jastrzębski
- Department of Plant Physiology and Biotechnology, Faculty of Biology and Biotechnology, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland; (Ł.P.); (J.P.J.)
| | - Leyland Fraser
- Department of Animal Biochemistry and Biotechnology, Faculty of Animal Bioengineering, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, 10-719 Olsztyn, Poland;
- Correspondence:
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Singh R, Junghare V, Hazra S, Singh U, Sengar GS, Raja TV, Kumar S, Tyagi S, Das AK, Kumar A, Koringa P, Jakhesara S, Joshi CJ, Deb R. Database on spermatozoa transcriptogram of catagorised Frieswal crossbred (Holstein Friesian X Sahiwal) bulls. Theriogenology 2019; 129:130-145. [PMID: 30844654 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.01.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2018] [Revised: 01/11/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Bull spermatozoa contain different functional genes and many of them plays important roles in different stages of spermatogenesis, spermatozoa kinetics, fertilization as well as embryonic development. RNA deep sequencing is one of the preferred tools for absolute quantification of messenger RNA. The intention of the current study was to investigate the abundance of spermatozoal transcripts in categorized Frieswal (Holstein-Friesian X Sahiwal) crossbred bull semen through RNA deep sequencing. A total 1546561 and 1019308 numbers of reads were identified among good and poor quality bull spermatozoa based on their conception rate. Post mapping with Bos taurus reference genome identified 1,321,236 and 842,022 number of transcripts among good and poor quality RNA libraries, respectively. However, a total number of 3510 and 6759 functional transcripts were identified among good and poor quality bull spermatozoa, respectively. Most of the identified transcripts were related to spermatozoa functions, embryonic development and other functional aspects of fertilization. Wet laboratory validation of the top five selected transcripts (AKAP4, PRM1, ATP2B4, TRIM71 and SLC9B2) illustrated the significant (p < 0.01) level of expression in the good quality crossbred bull semen than the poor quality counterparts. The present study with comprehensive profiling of spermatozoal transcripts provides a useful non-invasive tool to understand the causes of as well as an effective way to predict male infertility in crossbred bulls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rani Singh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
| | - Vivek Junghare
- Department of Biotechnology, Center of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Saugata Hazra
- Department of Biotechnology, Center of Nanotechnology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, Uttarakhand, India
| | - Umesh Singh
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Gyanendra Singh Sengar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - T V Raja
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Sushil Kumar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Shrikant Tyagi
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - A K Das
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Ashish Kumar
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India
| | - Prakash Koringa
- Ome Research Laboratory, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - Subhash Jakhesara
- Ome Research Laboratory, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - C J Joshi
- Ome Research Laboratory, Anand Agricultural University, Anand, Gujarat, India
| | - Rajib Deb
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cattle, Meerut, 250001, Uttar Pradesh, India.
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Hirohashi N. Site of Mammalian Sperm Acrosome Reaction. ADVANCES IN ANATOMY EMBRYOLOGY AND CELL BIOLOGY 2016; 220:145-58. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30567-7_8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/17/2023]
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Rodríguez F, Bustos MA, Zanetti MN, Ruete MC, Mayorga LS, Tomes CN. α-SNAP prevents docking of the acrosome during sperm exocytosis because it sequesters monomeric syntaxin. PLoS One 2011; 6:e21925. [PMID: 21789195 PMCID: PMC3138754 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0021925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2011] [Accepted: 06/09/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
α-SNAP has an essential role in membrane fusion that consists of bridging cis SNARE complexes to NSF. α-SNAP stimulates NSF, which releases itself, α-SNAP, and individual SNAREs that subsequently re-engage in the trans arrays indispensable for fusion. α-SNAP also binds monomeric syntaxin and NSF disengages the α-SNAP/syntaxin dimer. Here, we examine why recombinant α-SNAP blocks secretion in permeabilized human sperm despite the fact that the endogenous protein is essential for membrane fusion. The only mammalian organism with a genetically modified α-SNAP is the hyh mouse strain, which bears a M105I point mutation; males are subfertile due to defective sperm exocytosis. We report here that recombinant α-SNAP-M105I has greater affinity for the cytosolic portion of immunoprecipitated syntaxin than the wild type protein and in consequence NSF is less efficient in releasing the mutant. α-SNAP-M105I is a more potent sperm exocytosis blocker than the wild type and requires higher concentrations of NSF to rescue its effect. Unlike other fusion scenarios where SNAREs are subjected to an assembly/disassembly cycle, the fusion machinery in sperm is tuned so that SNAREs progress uni-directionally from a cis configuration in resting cells to monomeric and subsequently trans arrays in cells challenged with exocytosis inducers. By means of functional and indirect immunofluorescense assays, we show that recombinant α-SNAPs — wild type and M105I — inhibit exocytosis because they bind monomeric syntaxin and prevent this SNARE from assembling with its cognates in trans. Sequestration of free syntaxin impedes docking of the acrosome to the plasma membrane assessed by transmission electron microscopy. The N-terminal deletion mutant α-SNAP-(160–295), unable to bind syntaxin, affects neither docking nor secretion. The implications of this study are twofold: our findings explain the fertility defect of hyh mice and indicate that assembly of SNAREs in trans complexes is essential for docking.
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Affiliation(s)
- Facundo Rodríguez
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Matías A. Bustos
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María N. Zanetti
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - María C. Ruete
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Luis S. Mayorga
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Claudia N. Tomes
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
- * E-mail:
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Hermo L, Pelletier RM, Cyr DG, Smith CE. Surfing the wave, cycle, life history, and genes/proteins expressed by testicular germ cells. Part 2: changes in spermatid organelles associated with development of spermatozoa. Microsc Res Tech 2010; 73:279-319. [PMID: 19941292 DOI: 10.1002/jemt.20787] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis is a long process whereby haploid spermatids derived from the meiotic divisions of spermatocytes undergo metamorphosis into spermatozoa. It is subdivided into distinct steps with 19 being identified in rats, 16 in mouse and 8 in humans. Spermiogenesis extends over 22.7 days in rats and 21.6 days in humans. In this part, we review several key events that take place during the development of spermatids from a structural and functional point of view. During early spermiogenesis, the Golgi apparatus forms the acrosome, a lysosome-like membrane bound organelle involved in fertilization. The endoplasmic reticulum undergoes several topographical and structural modifications including the formation of the radial body and annulate lamellae. The chromatoid body is fully developed and undergoes structural and functional modifications at this time. It is suspected to be involved in RNA storing and processing. The shape of the spermatid head undergoes extensive structural changes that are species-specific, and the nuclear chromatin becomes compacted to accommodate the stream-lined appearance of the sperm head. Microtubules become organized to form a curtain or manchette that associates with spermatids at specific steps of their development. It is involved in maintenance of the sperm head shape and trafficking of proteins in the spermatid cytoplasm. During spermiogenesis, many genes/proteins have been implicated in the diverse dynamic events occurring at this time of development of germ cells and the absence of some of these have been shown to result in subfertility or infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Louis Hermo
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada H3A 2B2.
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MURASE T, IMAEDA N, YAMADA H, TAKASU M, TAGUCHI K, KATOH T. Dilution of Boar Ejaculates with BTS Containing HEPES in Place of Bicarbonate Immediately After Ejaculation Can Reduce the Increased Inducibility of the Acrosome Reaction by Treatment with Calcium and Calcium Ionophore A23187, Which is Potentially Associated with Boar Subfertility. J Reprod Dev 2010; 56:309-14. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-157n] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuma MURASE
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Division of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University
| | - Noriaki IMAEDA
- Laboratory of Internal Medicine, Division of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University
- Swine Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
| | - Hiroto YAMADA
- Swine Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
| | - Masaki TAKASU
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Division of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University
| | - Kazuo TAGUCHI
- Swine Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
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Branham MT, Bustos MA, De Blas GA, Rehmann H, Zarelli VEP, Treviño CL, Darszon A, Mayorga LS, Tomes CN. Epac activates the small G proteins Rap1 and Rab3A to achieve exocytosis. J Biol Chem 2009; 284:24825-39. [PMID: 19546222 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m109.015362] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Exocytosis of the acrosome (the acrosome reaction) relies on cAMP production, assembly of a proteinaceous fusion machinery, calcium influx from the extracellular medium, and mobilization from inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-sensitive intracellular stores. Addition of cAMP to human sperm suspensions bypasses some of these requirements and elicits exocytosis in a protein kinase A- and extracellular calcium-independent manner. The relevant cAMP target is Epac, a guanine nucleotide exchange factor for the small GTPase Rap. We show here that a soluble adenylyl cyclase synthesizes the cAMP required for the acrosome reaction. Epac stimulates the exchange of GDP for GTP on Rap1, upstream of a phospholipase C. The Epac-selective cAMP analogue 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP induces a phospholipase C-dependent calcium mobilization in human sperm suspensions. In addition, our studies identify a novel connection between cAMP and Rab3A, a secretory granule-associated protein, revealing that the latter functions downstream of soluble adenylyl cyclase/cAMP/Epac but not of Rap1. Challenging sperm with calcium or 8-pCPT-2'-O-Me-cAMP boosts the exchange of GDP for GTP on Rab3A. Recombinant Epac does not release GDP from Rab3A in vitro, suggesting that the Rab3A-GEF activation by cAMP/Epac in vivo is indirect. We propose that Epac sits at a critical point during the exocytotic cascade after which the pathway splits into two limbs, one that assembles the fusion machinery into place and another that elicits intracellular calcium release.
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Affiliation(s)
- María T Branham
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología-Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, CC 56, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina
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11
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Signal transduction pathways that regulate sperm capacitation and the acrosome reaction. Arch Biochem Biophys 2009; 485:72-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.abb.2009.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2008] [Revised: 02/06/2009] [Accepted: 02/07/2009] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
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12
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Baker MA, Hetherington L, Reeves GM, Aitken RJ. The mouse sperm proteome characterized via IPG strip prefractionation and LC-MS/MS identification. Proteomics 2008; 8:1720-30. [PMID: 18340633 DOI: 10.1002/pmic.200701020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Proteomic profiling of the mouse spermatozoon has generated a unique and valuable inventory of candidates that can be mined for potential contraceptive targets and to further our understanding of the PTMs that regulate the functionality of this highly specialized cell. Here we report the identification of 858 proteins derived from mouse spermatozoa, 23 of which demonstrated testis only expression. The list contained many proteins that are known constituents of murine spermatozoa including Izumo, Spaca 1, 3, and 5, Spam 1, Zonadhesin, Spesp1, Smcp, Spata 6, 18, and 19, Zp3r, Zpbp 1 and 2, Spa17, Spag 6, 16, and 17, CatSper4, Acr, Cylc2, Odf1 and 2, Acrbp, and Acrv1. Certain protein families were highly represented in the proteome. For example, of the 42 gene products classified as proteases, 26 belonged to the 26S-proteasome. Of the many chaperones identified in this proteome, eight proteins with a TCP-1 domain were found, as were seven Rab guanosine triphosphatases. Finally, our list yielded three putative seven-transmembrane proteins, two of which have no known tissue distribution, an extragenomic progesterone receptor and three unique testis-specific kinases all of which may have some potential in the future regulation of male fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark A Baker
- The ARC Centre of Excellence in Biotechnology and Development, Reproductive Science Group, School of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Newcastle, NSW, Australia.
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13
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Lopez CI, Belmonte SA, De Blas GA, Mayorga LS. Membrane-permeant Rab3A triggers acrosomal exocytosis in living human sperm. FASEB J 2007; 21:4121-30. [PMID: 17625073 DOI: 10.1096/fj.06-7716com] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
The acrosome reaction is a regulated Ca2+-dependent secretion event required for sperm-egg interaction. Previous studies indicate that the process requires Rab3-dependent tethering of membranes, SNARE complex assembly, and Ca2+-mediated activation of synaptotagmin. Sperm are transcriptionally and translationally inactive; hence, most studies of the exocytosis mechanism are limited to membrane-permeant reagents. The effect of proteins involved in exocytosis has been assessed only in permeabilized cells. Polyarginine peptides are a powerful tool for delivering macromolecules to cells. Most reports indicate that membrane translocation of arginine-containing proteins requires endocytosis; therefore, this strategy might not be useful in sperm. However, our results indicate that GST and Rab3A, when fused with an arginine-rich peptide, were able to translocate into sperm. Moreover, membrane-permeant Rab3A initiated exocytosis when prenylated and activated with GTP. We show here that a key event after the cytoplasmic Ca2+ increase caused by progesterone is the activation of Rab3A. When active Rab3A is introduced into sperm, Ca2+ in the extracellular medium and in the cytoplasm is dispensable. However, a Ca2+ efflux from inside the acrosome is still required to achieve exocytosis. In conclusion, arginine-containing proteins can penetrate the sperm plasma membrane and thus are valuable tools to study sperm physiology in intact cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia I Lopez
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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14
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Ackermann F, Zitranski N, Heydecke D, Wilhelm B, Gudermann T, Boekhoff I. The Multi-PDZ domain protein MUPP1 as a lipid raft-associated scaffolding protein controlling the acrosome reaction in mammalian spermatozoa. J Cell Physiol 2007; 214:757-68. [PMID: 17894389 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.21272] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The success of acrosomal exocytosis, a complex process with a variety of interrelated steps, relies on the coordinated interaction of participating signaling molecules. Since scaffolding proteins are known to spatially organize sequential signaling pathways, we examined whether the Multi-PDZ domain protein MUPP1, recently identified in mammalian spermatozoa, is functionally active in controlling acrosomal secretion in mammalian sperm cells. To address this question, permeabilized mouse sperm were loaded with inhibitory antibodies against MUPP1 as well as with a photosensitive Ca(2+) chelator which allows a controlled release of acrosomal Ca(2+). The results revealed that MUPP1 controls initial tethering and docking of the acrosomal vesicle, whereas syntaxin 2, a t-SNARE protein also expressed in the acrosomal cap of mammalian spermatozoa, appears to take part in the final process of acrosomal fusion. Interestingly, using immunogold electron microscopy, it was found that MUPP1 is detectable in the region of the periacrosomal membrane. Furthermore, in isolated detergent-insoluble glycolipid-enriched membrane domains from epididymal spermatozoa, MUPP1 was found to show a striking association with the Triton X-100 insoluble membrane fraction, which did not change significantly upon sperm capacitation or partial chemical extraction of cholesterol. This evidence points to a role of MUPP1 as a membrane raft-associated molecular organizer, and suggests that mammalian spermatozoa may use a scaffolding protein and distinct membrane subdomains to spatially organize components involved in the process of acrosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Ackermann
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Philipps-University Marburg, Germany
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15
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Chen WY, Ni Y, Pan YM, Shi QX, Yuan YY, Chen AJ, Mao LZ, Yu SQ, Roldan ERS. GABA, progesterone and zona pellucida activation of PLA2 and regulation by MEK-ERK1/2 during acrosomal exocytosis in guinea pig spermatozoa. FEBS Lett 2005; 579:4692-700. [PMID: 16098515 DOI: 10.1016/j.febslet.2005.06.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2005] [Revised: 06/22/2005] [Accepted: 06/28/2005] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
We investigated whether GABA activates phospholipase A2 (PLA2) during acrosomal exocytosis, and if the MEK-ERK1/2 pathway modulates PLA2 activation initiated by GABA, progesterone or zona pellucida (ZP). In guinea pig spermatozoa prelabelled with [14C]arachidonic acid or [14C]choline chloride, GABA stimulated a decrease in phosphatidylcholine (PC), and release of arachidonic acid and lysoPC, during exocytosis. These lipid changes are indicative of PLA2 activation and appear essential for exocytosis since inclusion of aristolochic acid (a PLA2 inhibitor) abrogated them, along with exocytosis. GABA activation of PLA2 seems to be mediated, at least in part, by diacylglycerol (DAG) and protein kinase C since inclusion of the DAG kinase inhibitor R59022 enhanced PLA2 activity and exocytosis stimulated by GABA, whereas exposure to staurosporine decreased both. GABA-, progesterone- and ZP-induced release of arachidonic acid and exocytosis were prevented by U0126 and PD98059 (MEK inhibitors). Taken together, our results suggest that PLA2 plays a fundamental role in agonist-stimulated exocytosis and that MEK-ERK1/2 are involved in PLA2 regulation during this process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen-Ying Chen
- Zhejiang Academy of Medical Science, 310013 Hangzhou, China
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16
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Meizel S. The sperm, a neuron with a tail: 'neuronal' receptors in mammalian sperm. Biol Rev Camb Philos Soc 2005; 79:713-32. [PMID: 15682867 DOI: 10.1017/s1464793103006407] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
A number of plasma membrane receptor types originally thought to be specific to neurons have been found in other somatic cells. More surprisingly, the mammalian sperm and neuron appear to share many of these 'neuronal' receptors. The morphology, chromosome number, genomic activity, and functions of those two cell types are as unlike as any two cells in the body, but they both achieve their highly disparate goals with the aid of a number of the same receptors. Exocytosis in neurons and sperm is essential to the functions of these cells and is strongly influenced by similar receptors. 'Neuronal' receptor types in sperm may also play a role in the control of sperm motility (a function of course not shared by neurons). This review will consider the evidence for the presence of sperm plasma membrane 'neuronal' receptors and for their significance to mammalian sperm function. The persuasiveness of the evidence varies depending on the receptor being considered, but there is strong experimental support for the presence and importance of a number of 'neuronal' receptors in sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stanley Meizel
- Department of Cell Biology and Human Anatomy, University of California, Davis School of Medicine, Davis, California, USA.
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17
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Shi QX, Chen WY, Yuan YY, Mao LZ, Yu SQ, Chen AJ, Ni Y, Roldan ERS. Progesterone primes zona pellucida-induced activation of phospholipase A2 during acrosomal exocytosis in guinea pig spermatozoa. J Cell Physiol 2005; 205:344-54. [PMID: 15965949 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.20426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
We investigated, using guinea-pig spermatozoa as a model, whether phospholipase A2 (PLA2) is involved in progesterone or zona pellucida (ZP)-stimulated acrosomal exocytosis, if progesterone enhances ZP-induced activation of PLA2, and mechanisms underlying PLA2 regulation. Spermatozoa were capacitated and labeled in low Ca2+ medium with [14C]choline chloride or [14C]arachidonic acid, washed, and then exposed to millimolar Ca2+ and progesterone and/or ZP. Each agonist stimulated decrease of phosphatidylcholine (PC) and release of arachidonic acid and lysoPC, indicative of PLA2 activation. Aristolochic acid (a PLA2 inhibitor) abrogated lipid changes and exocytosis, indicating that these lipid changes are essential for exocytosis. Exposure of spermatozoa to submaximal concentrations of both progesterone and ZP resulted in a synergistic increase of arachidonic acid and lysoPC releases, and exocytosis, suggesting that, under natural conditions, both agonists interact to bring about acrosomal exocytosis. Progesterone-induced PLA2 activation appears to be mediated by a GABA(A)-like receptor, because bicuculline (a GABA(A) receptor antagonist) blocked arachidonic acid release and exocytosis. In agreement with this, GABA mimicked progesterone actions. ZP-induced activation of PLA2 seemed to be transduced via G(i) proteins because pertussis toxin blocked arachidonic acid release and acrosomal exocytosis. PLA2 may be regulated by PKC because progesterone- or ZP-induced release of arachidonic acid was blocked by the PKC inhibitors staurosporine or chelerythrine chloride. PLA2 could also be regulated by the cAMP-PKA pathway; inclusion of the PKA inhibitor 14-22 amide or H-89 led to a reduction in arachidonic acid release or exocytosis after progesterone or ZP. Taken together, these results suggest that PLA2 plays an essential role in progesterone or ZP-stimulated exocytosis with progesterone priming ZP action.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi-Xian Shi
- Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China.
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18
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Murase T, Imaeda N, Kondoh N, Tsubota T. Ceramide Enhances Acrosomal Exocytosis Triggered by Calcium and the Calcium Ionophore A23187 in Boar Spermatozoa. J Reprod Dev 2004; 50:667-74. [PMID: 15647619 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.50.667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mammalian spermatozoa must undergo acrosomal exocytosis prior to penetration of the oocyte at fertilization. The mechanisms underlying acrosomal exocytosis have not yet been fully elucidated. This study explored the possible involvement of ceramide in exocytosis of the boar sperm acrosome. Ejaculated boar spermatozoa, stored with the Beltsville TS extender at 17 degrees C for up to 3 days, were washed and preincubated for 10 min with C2-ceramide, an analogue of endogenous ceramide, C2-dihydroceramide (C2-DH-ceramide), a negative control to C2-ceramide, or with (1S,2R)-D-erythro-2-(N-myristoylamino)-1-phenyl-1-propanol (D-erythro-MAPP), an inhibitor of alkaline ceramidase, followed by incubation and stimulation with 3 mM Ca2+ and 0.3 microM A23187 (Ca2+/A23187) at 37 degrees C in air in a water bath. Spermatozoa fixed at specific intervals were examined, and the % of acrosomal exocytosis was monitored. Stimulation of spermatozoa with Ca2+/A23187 resulted in a time-dependent increase. There were no obvious changes at 5 min, but this was followed by a rapid increase at 10 min, reaching nearly a maximum level after 15 min or more of incubation. Preincubation with C2-ceramide or D-erythro-MAPP enhanced acrosomal exocytosis triggered by Ca2+/A23187 in a dose-dependent manner, whereas C2-DH-ceramide was without effect. These results suggest the possibility that ceramide may be involved in the mechanisms underlying acrosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuma Murase
- Laborartoty of Veterinary Theriogenology, Division of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Applied Biological Sciences, Gifu University, Japan.
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19
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Yuan YY, Chen WY, Shi QX, Mao LZ, Yu SQ, Fang X, Roldan ERS. Zona pellucida induces activation of phospholipase A2 during acrosomal exocytosis in guinea pig spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2003; 68:904-13. [PMID: 12604641 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.102.005777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase A(2) (PLA(2)) is activated in spermatozoa in response to progesterone and Ca(2+) ionophores, but to our knowledge, no study has yet reported zona pellucida (ZP)-induced activation of PLA(2). We investigated whether PLA(2) is involved in ZP-stimulated acrosomal exocytosis, if Ca(2+) is required for activation of PLA(2), and signal transduction pathways modulating PLA(2) using guinea pig sperm as a model. Spermatozoa were capacitated and labeled in low-Ca(2+) medium with [(14)C]choline chloride or [(14)C]arachidonic acid and were then exposed to millimolar Ca(2+) and various reagents and stimulated with ZP. Precapacitated spermatozoa exposed to millimolar Ca(2+) and stimulated with ZP experienced increases in arachidonic acid (AA) and lysophosphatidylcholine (lysoPC) levels and a parallel decrease in phosphatidylcholine level; these changes are indicative of PLA(2) activation. Simulation with ZP also led to acrosomal exocytosis in a high proportion of spermatozoa. Lipid changes and exocytosis were prevented if spermatozoa were exposed to aristolochic acid, a PLA(2) inhibitor, before treatment with ZP. Stimulation with ZP in medium without added Ca(2+) or in medium with millimolar Ca(2+) and EGTA or La(3+) resulted in no lipid changes or exocytosis. Pretreatment with pertussis toxin, a G(i) protein inhibitor, before stimulation with ZP blocked the release of AA and lysoPC as well as acrosomal exocytosis. Exposure of spermatozoa to the diacylglycerol (DAG) kinase inhibitor R59022 before ZP stimulation led to a significant increase in generation of lysoPC and exocytosis. Taken together, these results indicate very strongly that PLA(2) plays an essential role in ZP-induced exocytosis in spermatozoa, that PLA(2) activation requires Ca(2+) internalization, and that PLA(2) activation is regulated by signal transduction pathways involving G proteins and DAG.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Y Yuan
- Zhejiang Academy of Medical Sciences, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310013, People's Republic of China
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20
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Mizuno-Kamiya M, Inokuchi H, Kameyama Y, Yashiro K, Fujita A. Ca2+-independent phospholipase A2 activity in apical plasma membranes from the rat parotid gland. Arch Oral Biol 2001; 46:789-99. [PMID: 11420051 DOI: 10.1016/s0003-9969(01)00050-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
An apical-enriched plasma membrane fraction (A-PM) was prepared from rat parotid gland by Mn2+ precipitation. In this fraction, phosphatidylcholine (PC) labelled at the sn-2 position was mainly decomposed into two labelled compounds (free fatty acid and 1,2-diacylglycerol) under Ca2+-free conditions. Studies using double-labelled PC and 2,3-diphosphoglycerate (as a phospholipase D inhibitor) showed that they were produced through different pathways: free fatty acid was released by phospholipase A2 (PLA2) while 1,2-diacylglycerol may be produced by sequential action of phospholipase D and phosphatidate phosphatase. The PLA2 in A-PM did not require Ca2+ for its activity and was highly activated by Triton X-100 and ATP. The inhibitor of the well-documented Ca2+-independent PLA2, bromoenol lactone, did not inhibit the PLA2 activity in A-PM. Although PLA2 activity was detected in other subcellular fractions, the highest specific activity was in A-PM. Its distribution among various fractions was roughly similar to that of the marker enzyme of apical plasma membranes. These findings suggested that Ca2+-independent PLA2 activity is present in apical plasma membranes from rat parotid gland. In addition, to clarify the involvement of the PLA2 in exocytosis, the fusion of exogenous PLA2-treated membranes with secretory granules was examined by fluorescence dequenching assay. This study clearly demonstrated the facilitation of fusion by PLA2 treatment, which suggests some involvement of apical PLA2 in saliva secretion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mizuno-Kamiya
- Department of Oral Biochemistry, Asahi University School of Dentistry, 1851 Hozumi, Motosu, 501-0296, Gifu, Japan.
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21
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Ramalho-Santos J, Moreno RD, Wessel GM, Chan EK, Schatten G. Membrane trafficking machinery components associated with the mammalian acrosome during spermiogenesis. Exp Cell Res 2001; 267:45-60. [PMID: 11412037 DOI: 10.1006/excr.2000.5119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Active trafficking from the Golgi apparatus is involved in acrosome formation, both by delivering acrosomal contents to the nascent secretory vesicle and by controlling organelle growth and shaping. During murine spermiogenesis, Golgi antigens (giantin, beta-COP, golgin 97, mannosidase II) are detected in the acrosome until the late cap-phase spermatids, but are not found in testicular spermatozoa (maturation-phase spermatids). This suggests that Golgi-acrosome flow may be relatively unselective, with Golgi residents retrieved before spermiation is complete. Treatment of spermatogenic cells with brefeldin A, a drug that causes the Golgi apparatus to collapse into the endoplasmic reticulum, disrupted the Golgi in both pachytene spermatocytes and round spermatids. However, this treatment did not affect the acrosomal granule, and some beta-COP labeling on the acrosome of elongating spermatids was maintained. Additionally, N-ethylmaleimide sensitive factor, soluble NSF attachment proteins, and homologues of the t-SNARE syntaxin and of the v-SNARE VAMP/synaptobrevin, as well as members of the rab family of small GTPases, are associated with the acrosome (but not the acrosomal granule) in round and elongated spermatids. This suggests that rab proteins and the SNARE machinery for membrane recognition/docking/fusion may be involved in trafficking during mammalian acrosome biogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramalho-Santos
- Oregon Regional Primate Research Center, Oregon Health Sciences University, Beaverton, Oregon, 97006, USA
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22
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Bendahmane M, Lynch C, Tulsiani DR. Calmodulin Signals Capacitation and Triggers the Agonist-Induced Acrosome Reaction in Mouse Spermatozoa. Arch Biochem Biophys 2001; 390:1-8. [PMID: 11368508 DOI: 10.1006/abbi.2001.2364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Capacitated acrosome-intact spermatozoa interact with specific sugar residues on neoglycoproteins (ngps) or solubilized zona pellucida (ZP), the egg's extracellular glycocalyx, prior to the initiation of a signal transduction cascade that results in the fenestration and fusion of the sperm plasma membrane and the outer acrosomal membrane at multiple sites and exocytosis of acrosomal contents (i.e., induction of the acrosome reaction (AR)). The AR releases acrosomal contents at the site of sperm-zona binding and is thought to be a prerequisite event that allows spermatozoa to penetrate the ZP and fertilize the egg. Since Ca(2+)/calmodulin (CaM) plays a significant role in several cell signaling pathways and membrane fusion events, we have used a pharmacological approach to examine the role of CaM, a calcium-binding protein, in sperm capacitation and agonist-induced AR. Inclusion of CaM antagonists (calmodulin binding domain, calmidazolium, compound 48/80, ophiobolin A, W5, W7, and W13), either in in vitro capacitation medium or after sperm capacitation blocked the npg-/ZP-induced AR. Purified CaM largely reversed the AR blocking effects of antagonists during capacitation. Our results demonstrate that CaM plays an important role in priming (i.e., capacitation) of mouse spermatozoa as well as in the agonist-induced AR. These data allow us to propose that CaM regulates these events by modulating sperm membrane component(s).
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Affiliation(s)
- M Bendahmane
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Room D-3243 MCN, Nashville, Tennessee, 37232-2633, USA
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23
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MURASE T, MUKOHJIMA K, SAKAGUCHI SI, OHTANI T, TSUBOTA T. Generation of Diacylglycerol during the Acrosome Reaction Induced by Ca2+ and Ca2+ Ionophore A23187 in Frozen-Thawed Spermatozoa from Fertile and Subfertile Japanese Black Bulls. J Reprod Dev 2001. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.47.311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuma MURASE
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Agriculture, Gifu University
| | - Koji MUKOHJIMA
- Hida Beef Cattle Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
| | - Shin-ichi SAKAGUCHI
- Hida Beef Cattle Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
| | - Tsuyoshi OHTANI
- Hida Beef Cattle Research Department, Gifu Prefectural Livestock Research Institute
| | - Toshio TSUBOTA
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Faculty of Agriculture, Gifu University
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Ramalho-Santos J, Moreno RD, Sutovsky P, Chan AW, Hewitson L, Wessel GM, Simerly CR, Schatten G. SNAREs in mammalian sperm: possible implications for fertilization. Dev Biol 2000; 223:54-69. [PMID: 10864460 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.2000.9745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 94] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Soluble N-ethylmalameide-sensitive factor attachment protein receptor (SNARE) proteins are present in mammalian sperm and could be involved in critical membrane fusion events during fertilization, namely the acrosome reaction. Vesicle-associated membrane protein/synaptobrevin, a SNARE on the membrane of a vesicular carrier, and syntaxin 1, a SNARE on the target membrane, as well as the calcium sensor synaptotagmin I, are present in the acrosome of mammalian sperm (human, rhesus monkey, bull, hamster, mouse). Sperm SNAREs are sloughed off during the acrosome reaction, paralleling the release of sperm membrane vesicles and acrosomal contents, and SNARE antibodies inhibit both the acrosome reaction and fertilization, without inhibiting sperm-egg binding. In addition, sperm SNAREs may be responsible, together with other sperm components, for the asynchronous male DNA decondensation that occurs following intracytoplasmic sperm injection, an assisted reproduction technique that bypasses normal sperm-egg surface interactions. The results suggest the participation of sperm SNAREs during membrane fusion events at fertilization in mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Ramalho-Santos
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon Regional Primate Research Center, Beaverton, Oregon 97006, USA
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25
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Yunes R, Michaut M, Tomes C, Mayorga LS. Rab3A triggers the acrosome reaction in permeabilized human spermatozoa. Biol Reprod 2000; 62:1084-9. [PMID: 10727281 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod62.4.1084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The acrosome reaction is a regulated exocytotic process leading to a massive fusion between the outer acrosomal membrane and the cell membrane. In spite of the great amount of information available related to the acrosome reaction in several species, there is a remarkable paucity about the role of monomeric guanosine triphosphatases (GTPases) of the Rab family-well-established participants in exocytosis in other cell types-in the acrosome reaction. Western blot and immunofluorescence analysis indicate that Rab3A is present in human spermatozoa and localizes to the acrosomal region in the sperm head. One difficulty in studying the role of proteins in intact cells is the fact that they are unable to cross the cell membrane. Therefore, we established a working model of streptolysin O-permeabilized human spermatozoa. Permeabilized spermatozoa were able to respond in a regulated way to different stimuli, such as G protein activators and calcium. An acrosomal reaction was also triggered by a Rab3A peptide corresponding to the effector region. More important, recombinant Rab3A protein in the GTP-bound form caused acrosome exocytosis. The same protein loaded with GDP or Rab11 in the GTP-bound form was inactive. Also, recombinant GDI (GDP dissociation inhibitor)-a protein that releases Rab proteins from membrane-inhibited a GTPgammaS-stimulated acrosome reaction. Our results indicate that 1) permeabilized spermatozoa can be used to study the role of macromolecules in the acrosome reaction, 2) Rab3A is present in human spermatozoa, and 3) Rab3A or another Rab3 isoform is involved in the exocytosis of the acrosomal granule in human spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Yunes
- Laboratorio de Biología Celular y Molecular, Instituto de Histología y Embriología (IHEM-CONICET), Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, 5500 Mendoza, Argentina.
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26
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Abstract
Exocytosis of the sperm acrosome is an obligate precursor to successful egg penetration and subsequent fertilization. In most mammals, acrosomal exocytosis occurs at a precise time, after sperm binding to the zona pellucida of the egg, and is induced by a specific component of the zona pellucida. It may be considered an example of regulated secretion with the acrosome of the sperm analogous to a single secretory vesicle. Monomeric G proteins of the rab3 subfamily, specifically rab3a, have been shown to be important regulators of exocytosis in secretory cells, and we hypothesized that these proteins may regulate acrosomal exocytosis. Using alpha[32P] GTP binding to Immobilon blotted mouse sperm proteins, the presence of three or more monomeric GTP binding proteins was identified with Mr = 22, 24, and 26 x 10(3). Alpha[32P] GTP binding could be competed by GTP and GDP, but not GMP, ATP, or ADP. Anti-peptide antibodies specific for rab3a were used to identify the 24 kDa G protein as rab3a. Using immunocytochemistry, rab3a was localized to the head of acrosome-intact sperm and was lost during acrosomal exocytosis. It was identified in membrane and cytosolic fractions of sperm with the predominant form being membrane-bound, and its membrane association did not change upon capacitation. Immunogold labeling and electron microscopy demonstrated a subcellular localization in clusters to the periacrosomal membranes and cytoplasm. These data identify the presence of rab3a in acrosomal membranes of mouse sperm and suggest that rab3a plays a role in the regulation of zona pellucida -induced acrosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- C R Ward
- Department of Clinical Studies, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104-6010, USA.
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Iida H, Yoshinaga Y, Tanaka S, Toshimori K, Mori T. Identification of Rab3A GTPase as an acrosome-associated small GTP-binding protein in rat sperm. Dev Biol 1999; 211:144-55. [PMID: 10373312 DOI: 10.1006/dbio.1999.9302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The acrosome reaction is a membrane fusion event that is prerequisite for sperm penetration through the zona pellucida. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms involved in membrane fusion, the expression and localization of Rab proteins, a subfamily of small GTPases that have been shown to play key roles in regulation of intracellular membrane traffic and exocytosis, were examined in rat testis and sperm. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, immunoblot analysis, and immunofluorescence microscopy revealed that Rab3A protein, which is thought to be involved in regulation of exocytosis in neurons and endocrine cells, is associated with the sperm acrosome. The protein was undetectable in acrosome-free heads prepared by sucrose density gradient centrifugation. Immunogold electron microscopy performed on ultrathin cryosections provided further evidence that Rab3A protein is associated with the acrosomal membrane. Acrosome reaction assays revealed that synthetic peptide of the Rab3 effector domain inhibited acrosomal exocytosis triggered by calcium ionophore A23187 in a concentration-dependent fashion, suggesting that Rab3A acts as an inhibitory regulator in the acrosome reaction. In view of the putative role of Rab3A protein in membrane fusion systems, these results suggest that Rab3A could be involved in regulating the mammalian acrosome reaction by controlling the membrane fusion system in sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Iida
- Faculty of Agriculture, Kyushu University, Higashi-ku, Fukuoka, 812-8581, Japan.
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Upreti GC, Hall EL, Koppens D, Oliver JE, Vishwanath R. Studies on the measurement of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) and PLA2 inhibitor activities in ram semen. Anim Reprod Sci 1999; 56:107-21. [PMID: 10463398 DOI: 10.1016/s0378-4320(99)00033-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Extraction with Tris-citrate or Tris-NaCl-EGTA improved the yield of phospholipase A2 (PLA2) from ram semen by 40-50 fold over the previously recommended method of extraction by dilute (0.18 N) sulphuric acid. The enzyme activity in the citrate extract deteriorated more rapidly than in Tris-NaCl-EGTA. The semen PLA2 activity was optimum at pH 8.0, heat sensitive at 70 degrees C for 30 min, activated by Ca2+ (although approximately 60% activity was also found in the absence of calcium) and did not exist as a pro-enzyme. The semen PLA2 activity was equally distributed among the sperm and seminal plasma (SP) components of ram semen. However, the low levels of PLA2 activity in the SP of vasectomised rams tend to suggest that PLA2 in the SP fraction may have originated from testicular or epididymal secretions or leakage, from sperm. PLA, in sperm exists as a large molecular weight aggregate, whereas in SP it is present as a smaller aggregate. In addition to PLA2, semen also contained PLA2 inhibitor activities. Inhibition was observed against PLA2s from bee venom, pig pancreas and oviductal extracts. The inhibitory activity is presumed to be due to a large molecular weight protein as the inhibitor activity was not extracted in a chloroform:methanol (2:1; v/v) mixture, it was non-dialysable, precipitated by 10% trichloroacetic acid and destroyed by proteases. The inhibitor activity was distributed in various molecular weight fractions of sperm, SP and SP from vasectomised rams.
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Affiliation(s)
- G C Upreti
- AgResearch, Dairy and Beef Division, Ruakura Research Centre, Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Tulsiani DR, Abou-Haila A, Loeser CR, Pereira BM. The biological and functional significance of the sperm acrosome and acrosomal enzymes in mammalian fertilization. Exp Cell Res 1998; 240:151-64. [PMID: 9596988 DOI: 10.1006/excr.1998.3943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
The mammalian spermatozoon undergoes continuous modifications during spermatogenesis, maturation in the epididymis, and capacitation in the female reproductive tract. Only the capacitated spermatozoa are capable of binding the zona-intact egg and undergoing the acrosome reaction. The fertilization process is a net result of multiple molecular events which enable ejaculated spermatozoa to recognize and bind to the egg's extracellular coat, the zona pellucida (ZP). Sperm-egg interaction is a species-specific event which is initiated by the recognition and binding of complementary molecule(s) present on sperm plasma membrane (receptor) and the surface of the ZP (ligand). This is a carbohydrate-mediated event which initiates a signal transduction cascade resulting in the exocytosis of acrosomal contents. This step is believed to be a prerequisite which enables the acrosome reacted spermatozoa to penetrate the ZP and fertilize the egg. This review focuses on the formation and contents of the sperm acrosome as well as the mechanisms underlying the induction of the acrosome reaction. Special emphasis has been laid on the synthesis, processing, substrate specificity, and mechanism of action of the acid glycohydrolases present within the acrosome. The hydrolytic action of glycohydrolases and proteases released at the site of sperm-zona binding, along with the enhanced thrust generated by the hyperactivated beat pattern of the bound spermatozoon, are important factors regulating the penetration of ZP. We have discussed the most recent studies which have attempted to explain signal transduction pathways leading to the acrosomal exocytosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- D R Tulsiani
- Center for Reproductive Biology Research, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, Tennessee 37232-2633, USA
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Vazquez JM, Roldan ER. Diacylglycerol species as messengers and substrates for phosphatidylcholine re-synthesis during Ca2+-dependent exocytosis in boar spermatozoa. Mol Reprod Dev 1997; 48:95-105. [PMID: 9266766 DOI: 10.1002/(sici)1098-2795(199709)48:1<95::aid-mrd12>3.0.co;2-v] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
We have investigated pathways of lipid metabolism in spermatozoa and generation of various metabolites with potential messenger functions during exocytosis stimulated with A23187/Ca2+. Stimulation of boar spermatozoa resulted in a considerable rapid increase in saturated/unsaturated 1,2-diacylglycerol (1,2-SU-DAG) and, concomitantly, a substantial reduction in disaturated 1,2-diacylglycerol (1,2-DS-DAG), and in phosphatidylcholine (PC). These changes preceded the onset of exocytosis. Phosphatidic acid was sometimes generated in parallel, but usually rose later, suggesting that 1,2-SU-DAG may be formed directly by phospholipase C action. Lipid changes observed in stimulated spermatozoa that have been prelabelled with several lipid precursors ([14C]palmitic acid, [14C]glycerol, [14C]choline, or [14C]arachidonic acid) suggested the existence of a unique process involving the utilization of the high basal levels of 1,2-DS-DAG to form 1,2-SU-DAG, with the latter being subsequently employed to replenish the PC pool. An ensuing generation of lysoPC and arachidonic acid, which paralleled the occurrence of exocytosis, revealed that the newly synthesized PC was hydrolyzed by phospholipase A2. The highest levels of 1,2-SU-DAG, minimum levels of 1,2-DS-DAG, and the regeneration of the PC pool were tightly coupled to the beginning of visible exocytosis. These results suggest that changes in these lipid metabolites may be fundamental processes during acrosomal exocytosis occurring in response to physiological agonists.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Vazquez
- Department of Development and Signalling, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, U.K
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