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Priego Espinosa D, Espinal-Enríquez J, Aldana A, Aldana M, Martínez-Mekler G, Carneiro J, Darszon A. Reviewing mathematical models of sperm signaling networks. Mol Reprod Dev 2024; 91:e23766. [PMID: 39175359 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/22/2024] [Indexed: 08/24/2024]
Abstract
Dave Garbers' work significantly contributed to our understanding of sperm's regulated motility, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. These key sperm functions involve complex multistep signaling pathways engaging numerous finely orchestrated elements. Despite significant progress, many parameters and interactions among these elements remain elusive. Mathematical modeling emerges as a potent tool to study sperm physiology, providing a framework to integrate experimental results and capture functional dynamics considering biochemical, biophysical, and cellular elements. Depending on research objectives, different modeling strategies, broadly categorized into continuous and discrete approaches, reveal valuable insights into cell function. These models allow the exploration of hypotheses regarding molecules, conditions, and pathways, whenever they become challenging to evaluate experimentally. This review presents an overview of current theoretical and experimental efforts to understand sperm motility regulation, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. We discuss the strengths and weaknesses of different modeling strategies and highlight key findings and unresolved questions. Notable discoveries include the importance of specific ion channels, the role of intracellular molecular heterogeneity in capacitation and the acrosome reaction, and the impact of pH changes on acrosomal exocytosis. Ultimately, this review underscores the crucial importance of mathematical frameworks in advancing our understanding of sperm physiology and guiding future experimental investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jesús Espinal-Enríquez
- Computational Genomics Division, National Institute of Genomic Medicine (INMEGEN), Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Andrés Aldana
- Network Science Institute, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Maximino Aldana
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, México
- Instituto de Ciencias Físicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Gustavo Martínez-Mekler
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Mexico City, México
- Instituto de Ciencias Físicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
| | - Jorge Carneiro
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica, Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, México
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2
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Oliver EI, Jabloñski M, Buffone MG, Darszon A. Two-pore channel 1 and Ca 2+ release-activated Ca 2+ channels contribute to the acrosomal pH-dependent intracellular Ca 2+ increase in mouse sperm. J Physiol 2023; 601:2935-2958. [PMID: 37278367 DOI: 10.1113/jp284247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The acrosome is a lysosome-related vesicular organelle located in the sperm head. The acrosomal reaction (AR) is an exocytic process mediated by Ca2+ and essential for mammalian fertilization. Recent findings support the importance of acrosomal alkalinization for the AR. Mibefradil (Mib) and NNC 55-0396 (NNC) are two amphipathic weak bases that block the sperm-specific Ca2+ channel (CatSper) and induce acrosomal pH (pHa ) increase by accumulating in the acrosomal lumen of mammalian sperm. This accumulation and pHa elevation increase the intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+ ]i ) and trigger the AR by unknown mechanisms of Ca2+ transport. Here, we investigated the pathways associated with the pHa increase-induced Ca2+ signals using mouse sperm as a model. To address these questions, we used single-cell Ca2+ imaging, the lysosomotropic agent Gly-Phe-β-naphthylamide (GPN) and pharmacological tools. Our findings show that Mib and NNC increase pHa and release acrosomal Ca2+ without compromising acrosomal membrane integrity. Our GPN results indicate that the osmotic component does not significantly contribute to acrosomal Ca2+ release caused by pHa rise. Inhibition of two-pore channel 1 (TPC1) channels reduced the [Ca2+ ]i increase stimulated by acrosomal alkalinization. In addition, blockage of Ca2+ release-activated Ca2+ (CRAC) channels diminished Ca2+ uptake triggered by pHa alkalinization. Finally, our findings contribute to understanding how pHa controls acrosomal Ca2+ efflux and extracellular Ca2+ entry during AR in mouse sperm. KEY POINTS: The acrosomal vesicle is a lysosome-related organelle located in the sperm head. The acrosome reaction (AR) is a highly regulated exocytic process mediated by Ca2+ , which is essential for fertilization. However, the molecular identity of Ca2+ transporters involved in the AR and their mechanisms to regulate Ca2+ fluxes are not fully understood. In mammalian sperm, acrosomal alkalinization induces intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+ ]i ) increase and triggers the AR by unknown molecular mechanisms of Ca2+ transport. In this study, we explored the molecular mechanisms underlying Ca2+ signals caused by acrosomal alkalinization using mouse sperm as a model. TPC1 and CRAC channels contribute to [Ca2+ ]i elevation during acrosomal alkalinization. Our findings expand our understanding of how the acrosomal pH participates in the physiological induction of the AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrique I Oliver
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
- Centro de Investigación en Dinámica Celular, Instituto de Investigación en Ciencias Básicas y Aplicadas, Universidad Autónoma del Estado de Morelos, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Martina Jabloñski
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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3
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Uemura KI, Miyazono Y, Hiroshige T, Ohta K, Ueda K, Nishihara K, Nakiri M, Hirashima S, Igawa T, Nakamura KI. Three-Dimensional Ultrastructural and Volume Analysis of the Redundant Nuclear Envelope of Developing and Matured Sperm in Mice. MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF MICROSCOPY SOCIETY OF AMERICA, MICROBEAM ANALYSIS SOCIETY, MICROSCOPICAL SOCIETY OF CANADA 2023; 29:832-840. [PMID: 37749734 DOI: 10.1093/micmic/ozad003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2022] [Revised: 12/14/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2023] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
Abstract
The ultrastructure of the nuclear envelope (NE) and redundant NE (RNE) of the spermatozoon cannot be observed in detail using conventional electron microscopy. Thus, this study aimed to employ transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy (FIB/SEM) tomography to fill this research gap. Male mice aged 13 weeks were deeply anesthetized, and the testes and vas deferens were extracted and processed for electron microscopy. In round spermatids, the acrosomal vesicle compressed the nucleus, and the acrosomal center was depressed. The nucleoli concentrated on the contralateral side of the acrosome formation site. In mature spermatozoa, the RNE accumulated in the neck with the residual bodies. The NE pores exhibited a hexagonal pattern. The body surface area and volume of the nuclei of spermatids and spermatozoa in each maturation phase were analyzed using FIB/SEM tomography. The body surface area and volume of the nuclei decreased during spermatid maturation into spermatozoa. The RNE converged at the sperm neck and possessed a honeycomb structure. The method used revealed that the nuclei of spermatids gradually condense as they mature into spermatozoa. This method may be used to analyze small tissues, such as RNE, and detect morphological abnormalities in microtissues, such as spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei-Ichiro Uemura
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Miyazono
- Dental and Oral Medical Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Tasuku Hiroshige
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Keisuke Ohta
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Kosuke Ueda
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Kiyoaki Nishihara
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Makoto Nakiri
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Shingo Hirashima
- Dental and Oral Medical Center, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
- Division of Microscopic and Development Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Igawa
- Department of Urology, Kurume University School of Medicine, Kurume, Japan
| | - Kei-Ichiro Nakamura
- Division of Microscopic and Development Anatomy, Department of Anatomy, Kurume University School of Medicine, 67 Asahi-machi, Kurume 830-0011, Japan
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4
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The stallion sperm acrosome: Considerations from a research and clinical perspective. Theriogenology 2023; 196:121-149. [PMID: 36413868 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.012] [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: 08/30/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
During the fertilization process, the interaction between the sperm and the oocyte is mediated by a process known as acrosomal exocytosis (AE). Although the role of the sperm acrosome on fertilization has been studied extensively over the last 70 years, little is known about the molecular mechanisms that govern acrosomal function, particularly in species other than mice or humans. Even though subfertility due to acrosomal dysfunction is less common in large animals than in humans, the evaluation of sperm acrosomal function should be considered not only as a complementary but a routine test when individuals are selected for breeding potential. This certainly holds true for stallions, which might display lower levels of fertility in the face of "acceptable" sperm quality parameters determined by conventional sperm assays. Nowadays, the use of high throughput technologies such as flow cytometry or mass spectrometry-based proteomic analysis is commonplace in the research arena. Such techniques can also be implemented in clinical scenarios of males with "idiopathic" subfertility. The current review focuses on the sperm acrosome, with particular emphasis on the stallion. We aim to describe the physiological events that lead to the acrosome formation within the testis, the role of very specific acrosomal proteins during AE, the methods to study the occurrence of AE under in vitro conditions, and the potential use of molecular biology techniques to discover new markers of acrosomal function and subfertility associated with acrosomal dysfunction in stallions.
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5
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Gao DD, Lan CF, Cao XN, Chen L, Lei TL, Peng L, Xu JW, Qiu ZE, Wang LL, Sun Q, Huang ZY, Zhu YX, Zhou WL, Zhang YL. G protein-coupled estrogen receptor promotes acrosome reaction via regulation of Ca2+ signaling in mouse sperm. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1026-1034. [PMID: 35774023 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac136] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 05/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
G protein-coupled estrogen receptor (GPER), a seven-transmembrane G protein-coupled receptor, mediates the rapid pre-genomic signaling actions of estrogen and derivatives thereof. The expression of GPER is extensive in mammal male reproductive system. However, the functional role of GPER in mouse sperm has not yet been well recognized. This study revealed that GPER was expressed at the acrosome and the mid-flagellum of the mouse sperm. The endogenous GPER ligand 17β-estradiol and the selective GPER agonist G1 increased intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) in mouse sperm, which could be abolished by G15, an antagonist of GPER. In addition, the G1-stimulated Ca2+ response was attenuated by interference with the phospholipase C (PLC) signaling pathways or by blocking the cation sperm channel (CatSper). Chlortetracycline staining assay showed that the activation of GPER increased the incidence of acrosome-reacted sperm. Conclusively, GPER was located at the acrosome and mid-flagellum of the mouse sperm. Activation of GPER triggered the elevation of [Ca2+]i through PLC-dependent Ca2+ mobilization and CatSper-mediated Ca2+ influx, which promoted the acrosome reaction in mouse sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dong-Dong Gao
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China.,Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Physical Activity and Health Promotion, Scientific Research Center, Guangzhou Sport University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Chong-Feng Lan
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Xiao-Nian Cao
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Lei Chen
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Tian-Lun Lei
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Lei Peng
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Jia-Wen Xu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zhuo-Er Qiu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Long-Long Wang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Qing Sun
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Zi-Yang Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yun-Xin Zhu
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Wen-Liang Zhou
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
| | - Yi-Lin Zhang
- School of Life Sciences, Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, P.R. China
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6
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Cohen R, Mukai C, Nelson JL, Zenilman SS, Sosnicki DM, Travis AJ. A genetically targeted sensor reveals spatial and temporal dynamics of acrosomal calcium and sperm acrosome exocytosis. J Biol Chem 2022; 298:101868. [PMID: 35346690 PMCID: PMC9046242 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbc.2022.101868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Secretion of the acrosome, a single vesicle located rostrally in the head of a mammalian sperm, through a process known as "acrosome exocytosis" (AE), is essential for fertilization. However, the mechanisms leading to and regulating this complex process are controversial. In particular, poor understanding of Ca2+ dynamics between sperm subcellular compartments and regulation of membrane fusion mechanisms have led to competing models of AE. Here, we developed a transgenic mouse expressing an Acrosome-targeted Sensor for Exocytosis (AcroSensE) to investigate the spatial and temporal Ca2+ dynamics in AE in live sperm. AcroSensE combines a genetically encoded Ca2+ indicator (GCaMP) fused with an mCherry indicator to spatiotemporally resolve acrosomal Ca2+ rise (ACR) and membrane fusion events, enabling real-time study of AE. We found that ACR is dependent on extracellular Ca2+ and that ACR precedes AE. In addition, we show that there are intermediate steps in ACR and that AE correlates better with the ACR rate rather than absolute Ca2+ amount. Finally, we demonstrate that ACR and membrane fusion progression kinetics and spatial patterns differ with different stimuli and that sites of initiation of ACR and sites of membrane fusion do not always correspond. These findings support a model involving functionally redundant pathways that enable a highly regulated, multistep AE in heterogeneous sperm populations, unlike the previously proposed "acrosome reaction" model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Cohen
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA.
| | - Chinatsu Mukai
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Jacquelyn L Nelson
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Shoshana S Zenilman
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Danielle M Sosnicki
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
| | - Alexander J Travis
- Baker Institute for Animal Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA; Department of Public and Ecosystem Health, College of Veterinary Medicine, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York, USA
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7
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Mata-Martínez E, Sánchez-Cárdenas C, Chávez JC, Guerrero A, Treviño CL, Corkidi G, Montoya F, Hernandez-Herrera P, Buffone MG, Balestrini PA, Darszon A. Role of calcium oscillations in sperm physiology. Biosystems 2021; 209:104524. [PMID: 34453988 DOI: 10.1016/j.biosystems.2021.104524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 08/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+ is a key regulator of cell signaling and sperm are not the exception. Cells often use cytoplasmic Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]i) oscillations as a means to decodify external and internal information. [Ca2+]i oscillations faster than those usually found in other cells and correlated with flagellar beat were the first to be described in sperm in 1993 by Susan Suarez, in the boar. More than 20 years passed before similar [Ca2+]i oscillations were documented in human sperm, simultaneously examining their flagellar beat in three dimensions by Corkidi et al. 2017. On the other hand, 10 years after the discovery of the fast boar [Ca2+]i oscillations, slower ones triggered by compounds from the egg external envelope were found to regulate cell motility and chemotaxis in sperm from marine organisms. Today it is known that sperm display fast and slow spontaneous and agonist triggered [Ca2+]i oscillations. In mammalian sperm these Ca2+ transients may act like a multifaceted tool that regulates fundamental functions such as motility and acrosome reaction. This review covers the main sperm species and experimental conditions where [Ca2+]i oscillations have been described and discusses what is known about the transporters involved, their regulation and the physiological purpose of these oscillations. There is a lot to be learned regarding the origin, regulation and physiological relevance of these Ca2+ oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Esperanza Mata-Martínez
- Laboratorio de Fusión de Membranas y Exocitosis Acrosomal, Instituto de Histología y Embriología Dr. Mario H. Burgos (IHEM) Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, CONICET, Mendoza, Argentina.
| | - Claudia Sánchez-Cárdenas
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Julio C Chávez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Adán Guerrero
- Laboratorio Nacional de Microscopía Avanzada, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
| | - Gabriel Corkidi
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Fernando Montoya
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Paul Hernandez-Herrera
- Departamento de Ingeniería Celular y Biocatálisis, Laboratorio de Imágenes y Visión por Computadora, IBT, UNAM, Mexico.
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico.
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8
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Kato Y, Kumar S, Lessard C, Bailey JL. ACRBP (Sp32) is involved in priming sperm for the acrosome reaction and the binding of sperm to the zona pellucida in a porcine model. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251973. [PMID: 34086710 PMCID: PMC8177411 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In boar sperm, we have previously shown that capacitation is associated with the appearance of the p32 tyrosine phosphoprotein complex. The principal tyrosine phosphoprotein involved in this complex is the acrosin-binding protein (ACRBP), which regulates the autoconversion of proacrosin to intermediate forms of acrosin in both boar and mouse sperm. However, the complete biological role of ACRBP has not yet been elucidated. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that tyrosine phophorylation and the presence of the ACRBP in the sperm head are largely necessary to induce capacitation, the acrosome reaction (AR) and sperm-zona pellucida (ZP) binding, all of which are necessary steps for fertilization. In vitro fertilization (IVF) was performed using matured porcine oocytes and pre-capacitated boar sperm cultured with anti-phosphotyrosine antibodies or antibodies against ACRBP. Anti-ACRBP antibodies reduced capacitation and spontaneous AR (P<0.05). Sperm-ZP binding declined in the presence of anti-phosphotyrosine or anti-ACRBP antibodies. The localisation of anti-ACRBP antibodies on the sperm head, reduced the ability of the sperm to undergo the AR in response to solubilized ZP or by inhibiting the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase. These results support our hypothesis that tyrosine phosphorylated proteins and ACRBP are present upon the sperm surface in order to participate in sperm-ZP binding, and that ACRBP upon the surface of the sperm head facilitates capacitation and the AR in the porcine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yoku Kato
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Satheesh Kumar
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Christian Lessard
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
| | - Janice L Bailey
- Département des sciences animales, Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Université Laval, Québec, Canada
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9
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Li YY, Jia YP, Duan LY, Li KM. Participation of the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channel in the zona pellucida- and progesterone-induced acrosome reaction and calcium influx in human spermatozoa. Asian J Androl 2021; 22:192-199. [PMID: 31169139 PMCID: PMC7155789 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_44_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The acrosome reaction is a prerequisite for fertilization, and its signaling pathway has been investigated for decades. Regardless of the type of inducers present, the acrosome reaction is ultimately mediated by the elevation of cytosolic calcium. Inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channels are important components of the acrosome reaction signaling pathway and have been confirmed by several researchers. In this study, we used a novel permeabilization tool BioPORTER® and first demonstrated its effectiveness in spermatozoa. The inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate type-1 receptor antibody was introduced into spermatozoa by BioPORTER® and significantly reduced the calcium influx and acrosome reaction induced by progesterone, solubilized zona pellucida, and the calcium ionophore A23187. This finding indicates that the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate type-1 receptor antibody is a valid inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor inhibitor and provides evidence of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channel involvement in the acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa. Moreover, we demonstrated that the transfer of 1,4,5-trisphosphate into spermatozoa induced acrosome reactions, which provides more reliable evidence for this process. In addition, by treating the spermatozoa with inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate/BioPORTER® in the presence or absence of calcium in the culture medium, we showed that the opening of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate-gated calcium channels led to extracellular calcium influx. This particular extracellular calcium influx may be the major process of the final step of the acrosome reaction signaling pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying-Ya Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Yan-Ping Jia
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Li-Yan Duan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
| | - Kun-Ming Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 201204, China
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10
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Rackow AR, Nagel DJ, McCarthy C, Judge J, Lacy S, Freeberg MAT, Thatcher TH, Kottmann RM, Sime PJ. The self-fulfilling prophecy of pulmonary fibrosis: a selective inspection of pathological signalling loops. Eur Respir J 2020; 56:13993003.00075-2020. [PMID: 32943406 PMCID: PMC7931159 DOI: 10.1183/13993003.00075-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Pulmonary fibrosis is a devastating, progressive disease and carries a prognosis worse than most cancers. Despite ongoing research, the mechanisms that underlie disease pathogenesis remain only partially understood. However, the self-perpetuating nature of pulmonary fibrosis has led several researchers to propose the existence of pathological signalling loops. According to this hypothesis, the normal wound-healing process becomes corrupted and results in the progressive accumulation of scar tissue in the lung. In addition, several negative regulators of pulmonary fibrosis are downregulated and, therefore, are no longer capable of inhibiting these feed-forward loops. The combination of pathological signalling loops and loss of a checks and balances system ultimately culminates in a process of unregulated scar formation. This review details specific signalling pathways demonstrated to play a role in the pathogenesis of pulmonary fibrosis. The evidence of detrimental signalling loops is elucidated with regard to epithelial cell injury, cellular senescence and the activation of developmental and ageing pathways. We demonstrate where these loops intersect each other, as well as common mediators that may drive these responses and how the loss of pro-resolving mediators may contribute to the propagation of disease. By focusing on the overlapping signalling mediators among the many pro-fibrotic pathways, it is our hope that the pulmonary fibrosis community will be better equipped to design future trials that incorporate the redundant nature of these pathways as we move towards finding a cure for this unrelenting disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley R Rackow
- Dept of Environmental Medicine, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.,Authors contributed equally to this work
| | - David J Nagel
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.,Authors contributed equally to this work
| | | | | | - Shannon Lacy
- US Army of Veterinary Corps, Fort Campbell, KY, USA
| | | | - Thomas H Thatcher
- Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
| | - R Matthew Kottmann
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA
| | - Patricia J Sime
- Division of Pulmonary Diseases and Critical Care, University of Rochester Medical Center, Rochester, NY, USA.,Department of Medicine, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, VA, USA
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11
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Finkelstein M, Etkovitz N, Breitbart H. Ca 2+ signaling in mammalian spermatozoa. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 516:110953. [PMID: 32712383 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.110953] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2020] [Revised: 06/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Calcium is an essential ion which regulates sperm motility, capacitation and the acrosome reaction (AR), three processes necessary for successful fertilization. The AR enables the spermatozoon to penetrate into the egg. In order to undergo the AR, the spermatozoon must reside in the female reproductive tract for several hours, during which a series of biochemical transformations takes place, collectively called capacitation. An early event in capacitation is relatively small elevation of intracellular Ca2+ (in the nM range) and bicarbonate, which collectively activate the soluble adenylyl cyclase to produce cyclic-AMP; c-AMP activates protein kinase A (PKA), leading to indirect tyrosine phosphorylation of proteins. During capacitation, there is an increase in the membrane-bound phospholipase C (PLC) which is activated prior to the AR by relatively high increase in intracellular Ca2+ (in the μM range). PLC catalyzes the hydrolysis of phosphatidyl-inositol-4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2) to diacylglycerol and inositol-trisphosphate (IP3), leading to activation of protein kinase C (PKC) and the IP3-receptor. PKC activates a Ca2+- channel in the plasma membrane, and IP3 activates the Ca2+- channel in the outer acrosomal membrane, leading to Ca2+ depletion from the acrosome. As a result, the plasma-membrane store-operated Ca2+ channel (SOCC) is activated to increase cytosolic Ca2+ concentration, enabling completion of the acrosome reaction. The hydrolysis of PIP2 by PLC results in the release and activation of PIP2-bound gelsolin, leading to F-actin dispersion, an essential step prior to the AR. Ca2+ is also involved in the regulation of sperm motility. During capacitation, the sperm develops a unique motility pattern called hyper-activated motility (HAM) which is essential for successful fertilization. The main Ca2+-channel that mediates HAM is the sperm-specific CatSper located in the sperm tail.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nir Etkovitz
- Sperm Bank, Sheba Hospital, Tel-Hashomer, Israel
| | - Haim Breitbart
- The Mina & Everard Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan, 5290002, Israel.
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12
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Santella L, Limatola N, Chun JT. Cellular and molecular aspects of oocyte maturation and fertilization: a perspective from the actin cytoskeleton. ZOOLOGICAL LETTERS 2020; 6:5. [PMID: 32313685 PMCID: PMC7158055 DOI: 10.1186/s40851-020-00157-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
ABSTRACT Much of the scientific knowledge on oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryonic development has come from the experiments using gametes of marine organisms that reproduce by external fertilization. In particular, echinoderm eggs have enabled the study of structural and biochemical changes related to meiotic maturation and fertilization owing to the abundant availability of large and transparent oocytes and eggs. Thus, in vitro studies of oocyte maturation and sperm-induced egg activation in starfish are carried out under experimental conditions that resemble those occurring in nature. During the maturation process, immature oocytes of starfish are released from the prophase of the first meiotic division, and acquire the competence to be fertilized through a highly programmed sequence of morphological and physiological changes at the oocyte surface. In addition, the changes in the cortical and nuclear regions are essential for normal and monospermic fertilization. This review summarizes the current state of research on the cortical actin cytoskeleton in mediating structural and physiological changes during oocyte maturation and sperm and egg activation in starfish and sea urchin. The common denominator in these studies with echinoderms is that exquisite rearrangements of the egg cortical actin filaments play pivotal roles in gamete interactions, Ca2+ signaling, exocytosis of cortical granules, and control of monospermic fertilization. In this review, we also compare findings from studies using invertebrate eggs with what is known about the contributions made by the actin cytoskeleton in mammalian eggs. Since the cortical actin cytoskeleton affects microvillar morphology, movement, and positioning of organelles and vesicles, and the topography of the egg surface, these changes have impacts on the fertilization process, as has been suggested by recent morphological studies on starfish oocytes and eggs using scanning electron microscopy. Drawing the parallelism between vitelline layer of echinoderm eggs and the zona pellucida of mammalian eggs, we also discuss the importance of the egg surface in mediating monospermic fertilization. GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
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Affiliation(s)
- Luigia Santella
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
| | - Nunzia Limatola
- Department of Research Infrastructures for Marine Biological Resources, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
| | - Jong Tai Chun
- Department of Biology and Evolution of Marine Organisms, Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Napoli 80121, Italy
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13
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Yoshida K, Shiba K, Sakamoto A, Ikenaga J, Matsunaga S, Inaba K, Yoshida M. Ca 2+ efflux via plasma membrane Ca 2+-ATPase mediates chemotaxis in ascidian sperm. Sci Rep 2018; 8:16622. [PMID: 30413746 PMCID: PMC6226504 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-35013-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 10/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
When a spermatozoon shows chemotactic behavior, transient [Ca2+]i increases in the spermatozoon are induced by an attractant gradient. The [Ca2+]i increase triggers a series of stereotypic responses of flagellar waveforms that comprise turning and straight-swimming. However, the molecular mechanism of [Ca2+]i modulation controlled by the attractants is not well defined. Here, we examined receptive mechanisms for the sperm attractant, SAAF, in the ascidian, Ciona intestinalis, and identified a plasma membrane Ca2+-ATPase (PMCA) as a SAAF-binding protein. PMCA is localized in sperm flagella membranes and seems to interact with SAAF through basic amino acids located in the second and third extracellular loops. ATPase activity of PMCA was enhanced by SAAF, and PMCA inhibitors, 5(6)-Carboxyeosin diacetate and Caloxin 2A1, inhibited chemotactic behavior of the sperm. Furthermore, Caloxin 2A1 seemed to inhibit efflux of [Ca2+]i in the sperm, and SAAF seemed to competitively reduce the effect of Caloxin 2A1. On the other hand, chemotactic behavior of the sperm was disordered not only at low-Ca2+, but also at high-Ca2+ conditions. Thus, PMCA is a potent candidate for the SAAF receptor, and direct control of Ca2+ efflux via PMCA is a fundamental mechanism to mediate chemotactic behavior in the ascidian spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaoru Yoshida
- Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Toin University of Yokohama, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 225-8503, Japan
| | - Kogiku Shiba
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, School of Science, the University of Tokyo, Miura, Kanagawa, 238-0225, Japan
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Shimoda, 415-0025, Japan
| | - Ayako Sakamoto
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, School of Science, the University of Tokyo, Miura, Kanagawa, 238-0225, Japan
- Division of Structural and Synthetic Biology, RIKEN Center for Life Science Technologies, Yokohama, Kanagawa, 230-0045, Japan
| | - Jumpei Ikenaga
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, School of Science, the University of Tokyo, Miura, Kanagawa, 238-0225, Japan
| | - Shigeru Matsunaga
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, School of Science, the University of Tokyo, Miura, Kanagawa, 238-0225, Japan
- Central Research Laboratory, Hamamatsu Photonics K.K., Hamamatsu, Shizuoka, 434-8601, Japan
| | - Kazuo Inaba
- Shimoda Marine Research Center, University of Tsukuba, Shimoda, 415-0025, Japan
| | - Manabu Yoshida
- Misaki Marine Biological Station, School of Science, the University of Tokyo, Miura, Kanagawa, 238-0225, Japan.
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14
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Ageing reduces the reproductive performance of male white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei by altering sperm intracellular Ca 2+ concentrations and interfering with sperm apoptosis. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 198:74-81. [PMID: 30217679 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2018] [Revised: 08/28/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Although the effects of age on the reproductive performance of various invertebrates, including white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei are increasingly well documented, the mechanisms manifesting these impacts remain poorly understood. To ascertain the mechanisms of age on reproductive performance, the sperm quality, intracellular contents of Ca2+, insemination and hatching rates, and status of sperm apoptosis in terms of the expression of key regulatory genes were investigated in 11 and 16 month old male L. vannamei. The aged male individuals (16 months) had lesser reproductive performance in terms of fertilization and hatching rates. In addition, fewer and less viable sperm were detected in aged shrimp, which may be due to the altered expression of apoptosis-related genes. Furthermore, the aged males had lesser intracellular contents of Ca2+ in the sperm which may decrease the capacity of these gametes to undergo a complete acrosome reaction. In general, due to the decrease in intracellular contents of Ca2+ and alterations in the process of apoptosis, aged L. vannamei have relatively lesser quality sperm and may, therefore, have lesser reproductive performance.
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15
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Simons J, Fauci L. A Model for the Acrosome Reaction in Mammalian Sperm. Bull Math Biol 2018; 80:2481-2501. [PMID: 30094771 DOI: 10.1007/s11538-018-0478-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2017] [Accepted: 07/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
The acrosome reaction is a complex, calcium-dependent reaction that results in an exocytotic event required for successful fertilization of the egg. It has long been thought that the acrosome reaction occurs upon sperm binding to the zona pellucida, a viscoelastic layer surrounding the oocyte. Recent studies have suggested that the reaction may even occur before the sperm encounters the zona, perhaps mediated by progesterone or some other agonist. It has been particularly difficult to understand differences between progesterone-induced and zona-induced reactions experimentally and whether one substance is the more biologically relevant trigger. Until this present work, there has been little effort to mathematically model the acrosome reaction in sperm as a whole. Instead, attention has been paid to modeling portions of the pathways involved in other cell types. Here we present a base model for the acrosome reaction which characterizes the known biochemical reactions and behaviors of the system. Our model allows us to analyze several pathways that may act as a stabilizing mechanism for avoiding sustained oscillatory calcium responses often observed in other cell types. Such an oscillatory regime might otherwise prevent acrosomal exocytosis and therefore inhibit fertilization. Results indicate that the acrosome reaction may rely upon multiple redundant mechanisms to avoid entering an oscillatory state and instead maintain a high resting level of calcium, known to be required for successful acrosomal exocytosis and, ultimately, fertilization of the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julie Simons
- Department of Sciences and Mathematics, California Maritime Academy, 200 Maritime Academy Dr., Vallejo, CA, 95490-8181, USA.
| | - Lisa Fauci
- Department of Mathematics and Center for Computational Science, Tulane University, 6823 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA, 70118, USA
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16
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Balbach M, Beckert V, Hansen JN, Wachten D. Shedding light on the role of cAMP in mammalian sperm physiology. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2018; 468:111-120. [PMID: 29146556 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2017.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2017] [Revised: 11/10/2017] [Accepted: 11/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Mammalian fertilization relies on sperm finding the egg and penetrating the egg vestments. All steps in a sperm's lifetime crucially rely on changes in the second messenger cAMP (cyclic adenosine monophosphate). In recent years, it has become clear that signal transduction in sperm is not a continuum, but rather organized in subcellular domains, e.g. the sperm head and the sperm flagellum, with the latter being further separated into the midpiece, principal piece, and endpiece. To understand the underlying signaling pathways controlling sperm function in more detail, experimental approaches are needed that allow to study sperm signaling with spatial and temporal precision. Here, we will give a comprehensive overview on cAMP signaling in mammalian sperm, describing the molecular players involved in these pathways and the sperm functions that are controlled by cAMP. Furthermore, we will highlight recent advances in analyzing and manipulating sperm signaling with spatio-temporal precision using light.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie Balbach
- Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Department of Molecular Sensory Systems, Bonn, Germany
| | - Vera Beckert
- Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Jan N Hansen
- Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany
| | - Dagmar Wachten
- Institute of Innate Immunity, University Hospital, University of Bonn, Bonn, Germany; Center of Advanced European Studies and Research (caesar), Minerva Max Planck Research Group, Molecular Physiology, Bonn, Germany.
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17
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Chávez JC, De la Vega-Beltrán JL, José O, Torres P, Nishigaki T, Treviño CL, Darszon A. Acrosomal alkalization triggers Ca 2+ release and acrosome reaction in mammalian spermatozoa. J Cell Physiol 2018; 233:4735-4747. [PMID: 29135027 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.26262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
The sperm acrosome reaction (AR), an essential event for mammalian fertilization, involves Ca2+ permeability changes leading to exocytosis of the acrosomal vesicle. The acrosome, an intracellular Ca2+ store whose luminal pH is acidic, contains hydrolytic enzymes. It is known that acrosomal pH (pHacr ) increases during capacitation and this correlates with spontaneous AR. Some AR inducers increase intracellular Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+ ]i ) through Ca2+ release from internal stores, mainly the acrosome. Catsper, a sperm specific Ca2+ channel, has been suggested to participate in the AR. Curiously, Mibefradil and NNC55-0396, two CatSper blockers, themselves elevate [Ca2+ ]i by unknown mechanisms. Here we show that these compounds, as other weak bases, can elevate pHacr , trigger Ca2+ release from the acrosome, and induce the AR in both mouse and human sperm. To our surprise, μM concentrations of NNC55-0396 induced AR even in nominally Ca2+ free media. Our findings suggest that alkalization of the acrosome is critical step for Ca2+ release from the acrosome that leads to the acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julio C Chávez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - José L De la Vega-Beltrán
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - Omar José
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - Paulina Torres
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, CP, México
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18
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Shmukler YB, Nikishin DA. Ladder-Shaped Ion Channel Ligands: Current State of Knowledge. Mar Drugs 2017; 15:E232. [PMID: 28726749 PMCID: PMC5532674 DOI: 10.3390/md15070232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2017] [Revised: 07/07/2017] [Accepted: 07/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Ciguatoxins (CTX) and brevetoxins (BTX) are polycyclic ethereal compounds biosynthesized by the worldwide distributed planktonic and epibenthic dinoflagellates of Gambierdiscus and Karenia genera, correspondingly. Ciguatera, evoked by CTXs, is a type of ichthyosarcotoxism, which involves a variety of gastrointestinal and neurological symptoms, while BTXs cause so-called neurotoxic shellfish poisoning. Both types of toxins are reviewed together because of similar mechanisms of their action. These are the only molecules known to activate voltage-sensitive Na⁺-channels in mammals through a specific interaction with site 5 of its α-subunit and may compete for it, which results in an increase in neuronal excitability, neurotransmitter release and impairment of synaptic vesicle recycling. Most marine ciguatoxins potentiate Nav channels, but a considerable number of them, such as gambierol and maitotoxin, have been shown to affect another ion channel. Although the extrinsic function of these toxins is probably associated with the function of a feeding deterrent, it was suggested that their intrinsic function is coupled with the regulation of photosynthesis via light-harvesting complex II and thioredoxin. Antagonistic effects of BTXs and brevenal may provide evidence of their participation as positive and negative regulators of this mechanism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuri B Shmukler
- Group of Embryophysiology, N.K. Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26, Vavilov st, 119334 Moscow, Russia.
| | - Denis A Nikishin
- Group of Embryophysiology, N.K. Koltzov Institute of Developmental Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 26, Vavilov st, 119334 Moscow, Russia.
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19
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Bellezza I, Minelli A. Adenosine in sperm physiology. Mol Aspects Med 2017; 55:102-109. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mam.2016.11.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2016] [Revised: 11/23/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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20
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Tosti E, Ménézo Y. Gamete activation: basic knowledge and clinical applications. Hum Reprod Update 2016; 22:420-39. [PMID: 27278231 PMCID: PMC4917743 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmw014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2015] [Accepted: 04/01/2016] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The first clues to the process of gamete activation date back to nearly 60 years ago. The mutual activation of gametes is a crucial event during fertilization. In the testis and ovaries, spermatozoa and oocytes are in a state of meiotic and metabolic quiescence and require reciprocal signals in order to undergo functional changes that lead to competence for fertilization. First, the oocyte activates sperm by triggering motility, chemoattraction, binding and the acrosome reaction, culminating with the fusion of the two plasma membranes. At the end of this cascade of events, collectively known as sperm capacitation, sperm-induced oocyte activation occurs, generating electrical, morphological and metabolic modifications in the oocyte. Objective and rationale The aim of this review is to provide the current state of knowledge regarding the entire process of gamete activation in selected specific animal models that have contributed to our understanding of fertilization in mammals, including humans. Here we describe in detail the reciprocal induction of the two activation processes, the molecules involved and the mechanisms of cell interaction and signal transduction that ultimately result in successful embryo development and creation of a new individual. Search methods We carried out a literature survey with no restrictions on publication date (from the early 1950s to March 2016) using PubMed/Medline, Google Scholar and Web of Knowledge by utilizing common keywords applied in the field of fertilization and embryo development. We also screened the complete list of references published in the most recent research articles and relevant reviews published in English (both animal and human studies) on the topics investigated. Outcomes Literature on the principal animal models demonstrates that gamete activation is a pre-requisite for successful fertilization, and is a process common to all species studied to date. We provide a detailed description of the dramatic changes in gamete morphology and behavior, the regulatory molecules triggering gamete activation and the intracellular ions and second messengers involved in active metabolic pathways in different species. Recent scientific advances suggest that artificial gamete activation may represent a novel technique to improve human IVF outcomes, but this approach requires caution. Wider implications Although controversial, manipulation of gamete activation represents a promising tool for ameliorating the fertilization rate in assisted reproductive technologies. A better knowledge of mechanisms that transform the quiescent oocyte into a pluripotent cell may also provide new insights for the clinical use of stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabetta Tosti
- Stazione Zoologica Anton Dohrn, Villa Comunale, Naples 80121, Italy
| | - Yves Ménézo
- London Fertility Associates, 104 Harley Street, London WIG7JD, UK
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21
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Keshtgar S, Iravanpour F, Gharesi-Fard B, Kazerooni M. Combined Effect of Trolox and EDTA on Frozen-Thawed Sperm Quality. IRANIAN JOURNAL OF MEDICAL SCIENCES 2016; 41:230-7. [PMID: 27217608 PMCID: PMC4876302] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/29/2022]
Abstract
The freezing and thawing process not only is associated with serious damage to sperm such as damage to the plasma membrane and the acrosomal membrane but also changes the membrane permeability to some ions including calcium. Also, the generation of oxygen free radicals is increased during the freezing-thawing process. The purpose of this study was to evaluate of the effects of Trolox as an antioxidant and edetic acid (EDTA) as a calcium chelator on frozen-thawed (FT) sperm and compare these effects with those on fresh sperm. This study was done on these men of 25 healthy men, who referred to Shiraz Infertility Centerbetween2012 and2013. Normal samples were transferred to the ReproductivePhysiology Laboratory, Department of Physiology, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz. The samples were divided into two groups randomly: fresh and FT sperm groups. Each group was divided into five subgroups: control group, the solvent group (0.1%dimethyl sulfoxide [DMSO]), Trolox group (200μM), EDTA group (1.1mM), and Trolox+EDTA group. The percentages of motility, viability, and acrosome-reacted sperm were tested. The percentages of motility and viability in the FT sperm were lower than those in the fresh sperm. The progressive motility of the FT sperm was improved nonsignificantly with Trolox+EDTA. However, the effect of Trolox+EDTA on the progressive motility of the FT sperm was much more than that on the fresh sperm. The fewest acrosome-reacted sperm were observed in the EDTA-containingFT sperm. Antioxidant supplementation or omission of extracellular calcium may partly improve motility and also reduce acrosomal damage in FT sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Keshtgar
- Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Correspondence: Sara Keshtgar, PhD; Department of Physiology, School of Medicine, Zand St, Postal code: 71348-45794, Shiraz, Iran Tel/Fax: +98 71 32302026
| | - Farideh Iravanpour
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
| | - Behrooz Gharesi-Fard
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran,Infertility Research Center, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
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22
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Nguyen TMD, Duittoz A, Praud C, Combarnous Y, Blesbois E. Calcium channels in chicken sperm regulate motility and the acrosome reaction. FEBS J 2016; 283:1902-20. [PMID: 26990886 DOI: 10.1111/febs.13710] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular cytoplasmic calcium ([Ca(2+) ]i ) has an important regulatory role in gamete functions. However, the biochemical components involved in Ca(2+) transport are still unknown in birds, an animal class that has lost functional sperm-specific CatSper channels. Here, we provide evidence for the presence and expression of various Ca(2+) channels in chicken sperm, including high voltage-activated channels (L and R types), the store-operated Ca(2+) channel (SOC) component Orai1, the transient receptor potential channel (TRPC1) and inositol-1,4,5-trisphosphate receptors (IP3 R1). L- and R-type channels were mainly localized in the acrosome and the midpiece, and T-type channels were not detected in chicken sperm. Orai1 was found in all compartments, but with a weak, diffuse signal in the flagellum. TRCP1 was mainly localized in the acrosome and the midpiece, but a weak diffuse signal was also observed in the nucleus and the flagellum. IP3 R1 was mainly detected in the nucleus. The L-type channel inhibitor nifedipine, the R-type channel inhibitor SNX-482 and the SOC inhibitors MRS-1845, 2-APB and YM-58483 decreased [Ca(2+) ]i sperm motility and acrosome reaction capability, with the SOC inhibitors inhibiting these functions most efficiently. Furthermore, we showed that Ca(2+) -mediated induction of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) phosphorylation was blocked by SOC inhibition. Our identification of important regulators of Ca(2+) signaling in avian sperm suggests that SOCs play a predominant role in gamete function, whereas T-type channels may not be involved. In addition, Ca(2+) entry via SOCs appears to be the most likely pathway for AMPK activation and energy-requiring sperm functions such as motility and the acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thi Mong Diep Nguyen
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR 85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 7247, Nouzilly, France.,Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France.,Faculty of Biology-Agricultural Engineering, Quy Nhon University, Quy Nhon, Vietnam
| | - Anne Duittoz
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR 85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 7247, Nouzilly, France.,Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Christophe Praud
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UR083 Recherches Avicoles, Nouzilly, France
| | - Yves Combarnous
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR 85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 7247, Nouzilly, France.,Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
| | - Elisabeth Blesbois
- Institut National de la Recherche Agronomique, UMR 85, Physiologie de la Reproduction et des Comportements, Nouzilly, France.,Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique, UMR 7247, Nouzilly, France.,Université François Rabelais de Tours, Tours, France
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Zhang Z, Liu J, Meriano J, Ru C, Xie S, Luo J, Sun Y. Human sperm rheotaxis: a passive physical process. Sci Rep 2016; 6:23553. [PMID: 27005727 PMCID: PMC4804285 DOI: 10.1038/srep23553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/02/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
A long-standing question in natural reproduction is how mammalian sperm navigate inside female reproductive tract and finally reach the egg cell, or oocyte. Recently, fluid flow was proposed as a long–range guidance cue for sperm navigation. Coitus induces fluid flow from oviduct to uterus, and sperm align themselves against the flow direction and swim upstream, a phenomenon termed rheotaxis. Whether sperm rheotaxis is a passive process dominated by fluid mechanics, or sperm actively sense and adapt to fluid flow remains controversial. Here we report the first quantitative study of sperm flagellar motion during human sperm rheotaxis and provide direct evidence indicating that sperm rheotaxis is a passive process. Experimental results show that there is no significant difference in flagellar beating amplitude and asymmetry between rheotaxis-turning sperm and those sperm swimming freely in the absence of fluid flow. Additionally, fluorescence image tracking shows no Ca2+ influx during sperm rheotaxis turning, further suggesting there is no active signal transduction during human sperm rheotaxis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhuoran Zhang
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jun Liu
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Jim Meriano
- LifeQuest Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Changhai Ru
- Jiangsu Provincial Key Laboratory of Advanced Robotics &Collaborative Innovation Center of Suzhou Nano Science and Technology, Soochow University, China
| | - Shaorong Xie
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Shanghai University, China
| | - Jun Luo
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Mechatronic Engineering, Shanghai University, China
| | - Yu Sun
- Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada.,Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Shawki HH, Kigoshi T, Katoh Y, Matsuda M, Ugboma CM, Takahashi S, Oishi H, Kawashima A. Identification, localization, and functional analysis of the homologues of mouse CABS1 protein in porcine testis. Exp Anim 2016; 65:253-65. [PMID: 26960363 PMCID: PMC4976239 DOI: 10.1538/expanim.15-0104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Previously, we have identified a calcium-binding protein that is specifically expressed in spermatids and localized to the flagella of the mature sperm in mouse, so-called mCABS1. However, the physiological roles of CABS1 in the male reproductive system have not been fully elucidated yet. In the current study, we aimed to localize and clarify the role of CABS1 in porcine (pCABS1). We determined for the first time the full nucleotides sequence of pCABS1 mRNA. pCABS1 protein was detected on SDS-PAGE gel as two bands at 75 kDa and 70 kDa in adult porcine testis, whereas one band at 70 kDa in epididymal sperm. pCABS1 immunoreactivity in seminiferous tubules was detected in the elongated spermatids, and that in the epididymal sperm was found in the acrosome as well as flagellum. The immunoreactivity of pCABS1 in the acrosomai region disappeared during acrosome reaction. We also identified that pCABS1 has a transmembrane domain using computational prediction of the amino acids sequence. The treatment of porcine capacitated sperm with anti-pCABS1 antiserum significantly decreased acrosome reactions. These results suggest that pCABS1 plays an important role in controlling calcium ion signaling during the acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hossam H Shawki
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biochemistry, Graduate School of Comprehensive Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8575, Japan
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25
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Sosa CM, Zanetti MN, Pocognoni CA, Mayorga LS. Acrosomal Swelling Is Triggered by cAMP Downstream of the Opening of Store-Operated Calcium Channels During Acrosomal Exocytosis in Human Sperm. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:57. [PMID: 26792943 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133231] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Acrosomal exocytosis in mammalian sperm is a regulated secretion with unusual characteristics. One of its most striking features is the postfusion loss of the outer acrosomal membrane and the overlying plasma membrane as hybrid vesicles. We have previously reported in human sperm that, by preventing the release of calcium from the acrosome, the exocytic process can be arrested at a stage where the acrosomes are profusely swollen, with invaginations of the outer acrosomal membrane. In this report, we show by transmission electron microcopy swelling with similar characteristics without arresting the exocytic process. Acrosomal swelling was observed when secretion was promoted by pharmacological and physiological inducers of the acrosome reaction that trigger exocytosis by different mechanisms. We show that progesterone- and thapsigargin-induced swelling depended on a calcium influx from the extracellular medium through store-operated calcium channels. However, calcium was dispensable when sperm were stimulated with cAMP analogs. KH7, an inhibitor of the soluble adenylyl cyclase, blocked progesterone-induced swelling. Our results indicate that swelling is a required process for acrosomal exocytosis triggered by activation of an adenylyl cyclase downstream of the opening of store-operated calcium channels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia M Sosa
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - M Natalia Zanetti
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Cristian A Pocognoni
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Luis S Mayorga
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología de Mendoza (IHEM/CONICET-UNCuyo), School of Medicine, National University of Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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26
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Beltrán C, Treviño CL, Mata-Martínez E, Chávez JC, Sánchez-Cárdenas C, Baker M, Darszon A. Role of Ion Channels in the Sperm Acrosome Reaction. SPERM ACROSOME BIOGENESIS AND FUNCTION DURING FERTILIZATION 2016; 220:35-69. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-30567-7_3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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27
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Abi Nahed R, Martinez G, Escoffier J, Yassine S, Karaouzène T, Hograindleur JP, Turk J, Kokotos G, Ray PF, Bottari S, Lambeau G, Hennebicq S, Arnoult C. Progesterone-induced Acrosome Exocytosis Requires Sequential Involvement of Calcium-independent Phospholipase A2β (iPLA2β) and Group X Secreted Phospholipase A2 (sPLA2). J Biol Chem 2015; 291:3076-89. [PMID: 26655718 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m115.677799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase A2 (PLA2) activity has been shown to be involved in the sperm acrosome reaction (AR), but the molecular identity of PLA2 isoforms has remained elusive. Here, we have tested the role of two intracellular (iPLA2β and cytosolic PLA2α) and one secreted (group X) PLA2s in spontaneous and progesterone (P4)-induced AR by using a set of specific inhibitors and knock-out mice. iPLA2β is critical for spontaneous AR, whereas both iPLA2β and group X secreted PLA2 are involved in P4-induced AR. Cytosolic PLA2α is dispensable in both types of AR. P4-induced AR spreads over 30 min in the mouse, and kinetic analyses suggest the presence of different sperm subpopulations, using distinct PLA2 pathways to achieve AR. At low P4 concentration (2 μm), sperm undergoing early AR (0-5 min post-P4) rely on iPLA2β, whereas sperm undergoing late AR (20-30 min post-P4) rely on group X secreted PLA2. Moreover, the role of PLA2s in AR depends on P4 concentration, with the PLA2s being key actors at low physiological P4 concentrations (≤2 μm) but not at higher P4 concentrations (~10 μm).
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Affiliation(s)
- Roland Abi Nahed
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Guillaume Martinez
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Jessica Escoffier
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Sandra Yassine
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Thomas Karaouzène
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - Jean-Pascal Hograindleur
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France
| | - John Turk
- the Division of Endocrinology, Metabolism and Lipid Research, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, Missouri 63110
| | - George Kokotos
- the Department of Chemistry, University of Athens, Panepistimiopolis, Athens 15771, Greece
| | - Pierre F Ray
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Unité Fonctionnelle de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Serge Bottari
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Plate-forme de Radioanalyse, IBP, CS10217, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Gérard Lambeau
- the Université de Nice-Sophia Antipolis, Valbonne 06560, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Centre d'AMP-CECOS, CS1021, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Sylviane Hennebicq
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France, the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Grenoble, Centre d'AMP-CECOS, CS1021, Grenoble F-38000, France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- From the Université Grenoble Alpes, F-38000 Grenoble, France, the Institut Albert Bonniot, INSERM U823, La Tronche F-38700, France,
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28
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Sumigama S, Mansell S, Miller M, Lishko PV, Cherr GN, Meyers SA, Tollner T. Progesterone Accelerates the Completion of Sperm Capacitation and Activates CatSper Channel in Spermatozoa from the Rhesus Macaque. Biol Reprod 2015; 93:130. [PMID: 26490839 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.129783] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/12/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
During transit through the female reproductive tract, mammalian spermatozoa are exposed to increasing concentrations of progesterone (P4) released by the cumulus oophorus. P4 triggers massive calcium influx into human sperm through activation of the sperm-specific calcium channel CatSper. These properties of human spermatozoa are thought to be unique since CatSper is not progesterone sensitive in rodent sperm. Here, by performing patch clamp recording from spermatozoa from rhesus macaque for the first time, we report that they express P4-sensitive CatSper channel identically to human sperm and react to P4 by inducing responsiveness to zona pellucida, unlike human sperm, which respond directly to P4. We have also determined the physiologic levels of P4 capable of inducing capacitation-associated changes in macaque sperm. Progesterone (1 μM) induced up to a 3-fold increase in the percentage of sperm undergoing the zona pellucida-induced acrosome reaction with the lowest threshold as low as 10 nM of P4. Submicromolar levels of P4 induced a dose-dependent increase in curvilinear velocity and lateral head displacement, while sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation was not altered. Macaque spermatozoa exposed to 10 μM of P4 developed fully hyperactivated motility. Similar to human sperm, on approaching cumulus mass and binding to zona pellucida, macaque spermatozoa display hyperactivation and undergo an acrosome reaction that coincides with the rise in the sperm intracellular calcium. Taken together, these data indicate that P4 accelerates the completion of capacitation and provides evidence of spermatozoa "priming" as they move into a gradient of progesterone in search for the oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiho Sumigama
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Steven Mansell
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Melissa Miller
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Polina V Lishko
- Department of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of California, Berkeley, California
| | - Gary N Cherr
- Bodega Marine Laboratory, Departments of Environmental Toxicology and Nutrition, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Stuart A Meyers
- Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Cell Biology, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of California, Davis, California
| | - Theodore Tollner
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, University of California, Davis, California Center for Health and the Environment, University of California, Davis, California
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29
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Al-Dossary AA, Bathala P, Caplan JL, Martin-DeLeon PA. Oviductosome-Sperm Membrane Interaction in Cargo Delivery: DETECTION OF FUSION AND UNDERLYING MOLECULAR PLAYERS USING THREE-DIMENSIONAL SUPER-RESOLUTION STRUCTURED ILLUMINATION MICROSCOPY (SR-SIM). J Biol Chem 2015; 290:17710-17723. [PMID: 26023236 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m114.633156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Oviductosomes ((OVS), exosomes/microvesicles), which deliver the Ca(2+) efflux pump, plasma membrane Ca(2+)ATPase 4 (PMCA4), to sperm are likely to play an important role in sperm fertilizing ability (Al-Dossary, A. A., Strehler, E. E., and Martin-DeLeon, P. A. (2013) PloS one 8, e80181). It is unknown how exosomes/microvesicles deliver transmembrane proteins such as PMCA4 to sperm. Here we define a novel experimental approach for the assessment of the interaction of OVS with sperm at a nanoscale level, using a lipophilic dye (FM4-64FX) and three-dimensional SR/SIM, which has an 8-fold increase in volumetric resolution, compared with conventional confocal microscopy. Coincubation assays detected fusion of prelabeled OVS with sperm, primarily over the head and midpiece. Immunofluorescence revealed oviductosomal delivery of PMCA4a to WT and Pmca4 KO sperm, and also endogenous PMCA4a on the inner acrosomal membrane. Fusion was confirmed by transmission immunoelectron microscopy, showing immunogold particles in OVS, and fusion stalks on sperm membrane. Immunofluorescence colocalized OVS with the αv integrin subunit which, along with CD9, resides primarily on the sperm head and midpiece. In capacitated and acrosome reacted sperm, fusion was significantly (p < 0.001) inhibited by blocking integrin/ligand interactions via antibodies, exogenous ligands (vitronectin and fibronectin), and their RGD recognition motif. Our results provide evidence that receptor/ligand interactions, involving αvβ3 and α5β1integrins on sperm and OVS, facilitate fusion of OVS in the delivery of transmembrane proteins to sperm. The mechanism uncovered is likely to be also involved in cargo delivery of prostasomes, epididymosomes, and uterosomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amal A Al-Dossary
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716
| | - Pradeepthi Bathala
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716
| | - Jeffrey L Caplan
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware 19716; Delaware Biotechnology Institute, Newark, Delaware 19711
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30
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Correia J, Michelangeli F, Publicover S. Regulation and roles of Ca2+ stores in human sperm. Reproduction 2015; 150:R65-76. [PMID: 25964382 PMCID: PMC4497595 DOI: 10.1530/rep-15-0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2015] [Accepted: 05/11/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
[Ca(2)(+)]i signalling is a key regulatory mechanism in sperm function. In mammalian sperm the Ca(2)(+)-permeable plasma membrane ion channel CatSper is central to [Ca(2)(+)]i signalling, but there is good evidence that Ca(2)(+) stored in intracellular organelles is also functionally important. Here we briefly review the current understanding of the diversity of Ca(2)(+) stores and the mechanisms for the regulation of their activity. We then consider the evidence for the involvement of these stores in [Ca(2)(+)]i signalling in mammalian (primarily human) sperm, the agonists that may activate these stores and their role in control of sperm function. Finally we consider the evidence that membrane Ca(2)(+) channels and stored Ca(2)(+) may play discrete roles in the regulation of sperm activities and propose a mechanism by which these different components of the sperm Ca(2)(+)-signalling apparatus may interact to generate complex and spatially diverse [Ca(2)(+)]i signals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao Correia
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | | | - Stephen Publicover
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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31
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Ru Y, Zhou Y, Zhang Y. Transient receptor potential-canonical 3 modulates sperm motility and capacitation-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation via [Ca2+]i mobilization. Acta Biochim Biophys Sin (Shanghai) 2015; 47:404-13. [PMID: 25910575 DOI: 10.1093/abbs/gmv025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2014] [Accepted: 02/02/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Ca(2+) signaling is pivotal for sperm maturation, including the processes of motility, capacitation, and the acrosome reaction. As a Ca(2+) conductor, transient receptor potential-canonical 3 (TRPC3) plays an important role in somatic cells. However, the function of TRPC3 in sperm is not well understood. Here, a pharmacological approach was used to investigate the role and mechanism of TPRC3 in sperm function. The TRPC3 antagonist Pyr3 could inhibit sperm motility and accelerate capacitation-associated protein tyrosine phosphorylation in a time- and dose-dependent manner, regardless of the presence or absence of Ca(2+) in the incubation medium. Further investigation revealed that sperm [Ca(2+)]i fell immediately once Pyr3 was added to Ca(2+)-free medium, and then gradually increased and returned to baseline levels. Moreover, the [Ca(2+)]i levels markedly elevated when sperm were incubated for 30 min in the presence of Pyr3; this change was subsequently accompanied by a significant reduction in sperm mitochondrial membrane potential. This study suggested that TRPC3 can modulate sperm function via mobilization of sperm [Ca(2+)]i.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfei Ru
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100864, China
| | - Yuchuan Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China
| | - Yonglian Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Molecular Andrology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research, Shanghai 200032, China
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32
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Singh AP, Rajender S. CatSper channel, sperm function and male fertility. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 30:28-38. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 68] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2014] [Revised: 09/03/2014] [Accepted: 09/16/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Land SC, Scott CL, Walker D. mTOR signalling, embryogenesis and the control of lung development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 36:68-78. [PMID: 25289569 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.09.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2014] [Revised: 09/07/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
The existence of a nutrient sensitive "autocatakinetic" regulator of embryonic tissue growth has been hypothesised since the early 20th century, beginning with pioneering work on the determinants of foetal size by the Australian physiologist, Thorburn Brailsford-Robertson. We now know that the mammalian target of rapamycin complexes (mTORC1 and 2) perform this essential function in all eukaryotic tissues by balancing nutrient and energy supply during the first stages of embryonic cleavage, the formation of embryonic stem cell layers and niches, the highly specified programmes of tissue growth during organogenesis and, at birth, paving the way for the first few breaths of life. This review provides a synopsis of the role of the mTOR complexes in each of these events, culminating in an analysis of lung branching morphogenesis as a way of demonstrating the central role mTOR in defining organ structural complexity. We conclude that the mTOR complexes satisfy the key requirements of a nutrient sensitive growth controller and can therefore be considered as Brailsford-Robertson's autocatakinetic centre that drives tissue growth programmes during foetal development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen C Land
- Division of Cardiovascular and Diabetes Medicine, Medical Research Institute, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee DD1 9SY, UK.
| | - Claire L Scott
- Prostrakan Pharmaceuticals, Galabank Business Park, Galashiels TD1 1PR, UK
| | - David Walker
- School of Psychology & Neuroscience, Westburn Lane, St Andrews KY16 9JP, UK
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34
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Vias de sinalização reguladoras das funções do espermatozoide. Rev Int Androl 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.androl.2014.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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35
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T-type Ca2+ channels in spermatogenic cells and sperm. Pflugers Arch 2014; 466:819-31. [DOI: 10.1007/s00424-014-1478-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
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36
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Karaouzène T, El Atifi M, Issartel JP, Grepillat M, Coutton C, Martinez D, Arnoult C, Ray PF. Comparative testicular transcriptome of wild type and globozoospermic Dpy19l2 knock out mice. Basic Clin Androl 2013; 23:7. [PMID: 25780569 PMCID: PMC4346239 DOI: 10.1186/2051-4190-23-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2013] [Accepted: 07/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Globozoospermia is a male infertility phenotype characterized by the presence in the ejaculate of near 100% acrosomeless round-headed spermatozoa with normal chromosomal content. Following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) these spermatozoa give a poor fertilization rate and embryonic development. We showed previously that most patients have a 200 kb homozygous deletion, which includes DPY19L2 whole coding sequence. Furthermore we showed that the DPY19L2 protein is located in the inner nuclear membrane of spermatids during spermiogenesis and that it is necessary to anchor the acrosome to the nucleus thus performing a function similar to that realized by Sun proteins within the LINC-complex (Linker of Nucleoskeleton and Cytoskeleton). SUN1 was described to be necessary for gametogenesis and was shown to interact with the telomeres. It is therefore possible that Dpy19l2 could also interact, directly or indirectly, with the DNA and modulate gene expression during spermatogenesis. In this study, we compared the transcriptome of testes from Dpy19l2 knock out and wild type mice in order to identify a potential deregulation of transcripts that could explain the poor fertilization potential of Dpy19l2 mutated spermatozoa. METHODS RNA was extracted from testes from DPY19L2 knock out and wild type mice. The transcriptome was carried out using GeneChip® Mouse Exon 1.0 ST Arrays. The biological processes and molecular functions of the differentially regulated genes were analyzed with the PANTHER software. RESULTS A total of 76 genes were deregulated, 70 were up-regulated and 6 (including Dpy19l2) were down-regulated. These genes were found to be involved in DNA/RNA binding, structural organization, transport and catalytic activity. CONCLUSIONS We describe that an important number of genes are differentially expressed in Dpy19l2 mice. This work could help improving our understanding of Dpy19l2 functions and lead to a better comprehension of the molecular mechanism involved in spermatogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Karaouzène
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; Laboratoire AGIM, CNRS FRE3405, Equipe "Génétique, Infertilité et Thérapeutiques", La Tronche, F-38700 France
| | - Michèle El Atifi
- Team7 Nanomedicine and Brain, INSERM U836, Grenoble, France ; Institut des Neurosciences, Université Joseph Fourier Grenoble, Kragujevac, France ; Clinical Transcriptomics and Proteomics Platform, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire et Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences, Grenoble, CNRS, Grenoble, France
| | - Jean-Paul Issartel
- Team7 Nanomedicine and Brain, INSERM U836, Grenoble, France ; Institut des Neurosciences, Université Joseph Fourier Grenoble, Kragujevac, France ; Clinical Transcriptomics and Proteomics Platform, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire et Grenoble Institut des Neurosciences, Grenoble, CNRS, Grenoble, France
| | - Marianne Grepillat
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; Laboratoire AGIM, CNRS FRE3405, Equipe "Génétique, Infertilité et Thérapeutiques", La Tronche, F-38700 France ; CHU de Grenoble, UF de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble cedex 9, F-38043 France
| | - Charles Coutton
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; Laboratoire AGIM, CNRS FRE3405, Equipe "Génétique, Infertilité et Thérapeutiques", La Tronche, F-38700 France ; CHU de Grenoble, Département de Génétique et Procréation, Grenoble cedex 9, F-38043 France
| | - Delphine Martinez
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; CHU de Grenoble, UF de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble cedex 9, F-38043 France
| | - Christophe Arnoult
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; Laboratoire AGIM, CNRS FRE3405, Equipe "Génétique, Infertilité et Thérapeutiques", La Tronche, F-38700 France
| | - Pierre F Ray
- Université Joseph Fourier, Grenoble, F-38000 France ; Laboratoire AGIM, CNRS FRE3405, Equipe "Génétique, Infertilité et Thérapeutiques", La Tronche, F-38700 France ; CHU de Grenoble, UF de Biochimie et Génétique Moléculaire, Grenoble cedex 9, F-38043 France
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Alasmari W, Costello S, Correia J, Oxenham SK, Morris J, Fernandes L, Ramalho-Santos J, Kirkman-Brown J, Michelangeli F, Publicover S, Barratt CLR. Ca2+ signals generated by CatSper and Ca2+ stores regulate different behaviors in human sperm. J Biol Chem 2013; 288:6248-58. [PMID: 23344959 PMCID: PMC3585060 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m112.439356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
[Ca2+]i signaling regulates sperm motility, enabling switching between functionally different behaviors that the sperm must employ as it ascends the female tract and fertilizes the oocyte. We report that different behaviors in human sperm are recruited according to the Ca2+ signaling pathway used. Activation of CatSper (by raising pHi or stimulating with progesterone) caused sustained [Ca2+]i elevation but did not induce hyperactivation, the whiplash-like behavior required for progression along the oviduct and penetration of the zona pellucida. In contrast, penetration into methylcellulose (mimicking penetration into cervical mucus or cumulus matrix) was enhanced by activation of CatSper. NNC55-0396, which abolishes CatSper currents in human sperm, inhibited this effect. Treatment with 5 μm thimerosal to mobilize stored Ca2+ caused sustained [Ca2+]i elevation and induced strong, sustained hyperactivation that was completely insensitive to NNC55-0396. Thimerosal had no effect on penetration into methylcellulose. 4-Aminopyridine, a powerful modulator of sperm motility, both raised pHi and mobilized Ca2+ stored in sperm (and from microsomal membrane preparations). 4-Aminopyridine-induced hyperactivation even in cells suspended in Ca2+-depleted medium and also potentiated penetration into methylcellulose. The latter effect was sensitive to NNC55-039, but induction of hyperactivation was not. We conclude that these two components of the [Ca2+]i signaling apparatus have strikingly different effects on sperm motility. Furthermore, since stored Ca2+ at the sperm neck can be mobilized by Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release, we propose that CatSper activation can elicit functionally different behaviors according to the sensitivity of the Ca2+ store, which may be regulated by capacitation and NO from the cumulus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wardah Alasmari
- From the Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, University of Dundee, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee DD1 9SY, Scotland, United Kingdom
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Guzmán-Grenfell AM, González-Martínez MT. Lack of Voltage-Dependent Calcium Channel Opening During the Calcium Influx Induced by Progesterone in Human Sperm. Effect of Calcium Channel Deactivation and Inactivation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 25:117-22. [PMID: 14662794 DOI: 10.1002/j.1939-4640.2004.tb02766.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Progesterone induces calcium influx and acrosomal exocytosis in human sperm. Pharmacologic evidence suggests that voltage-dependent calcium channels (VDCCs) are involved. In this study, membrane potential (Vm) and intracellular calcium concentration ([Ca(2+)](i)) were monitored simultaneously to assess the effect of VDCC gating on the calcium influx triggered by progesterone. Holding the Vm to values that maintained VDCCs in a deactivated (-71 mV) closed state inhibited the calcium influx induced by progesterone by approximately 40%. At this Vm, the acrosomal reaction induced by progesterone, but not by A23187, was inhibited. However, when the Vm was held at -15 mV (which maintains VDCCs in an inactivated closed state), the progesterone-induced calcium influx was stimulated. Furthermore, the progesterone and voltage-dependent calcium influxes were additive. These findings indicate that progesterone does not produce VDCC gating in human sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Martín Guzmán-Grenfell
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad Universitaria, México, D.F., México
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Jaldety Y, Glick Y, Orr-Urtreger A, Ickowicz D, Gerber D, Breitbart H. Sperm epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mediates α7 acetylcholine receptor (AChR) activation to promote fertilization. J Biol Chem 2012; 287:22328-40. [PMID: 22577141 PMCID: PMC3381193 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m111.292292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2011] [Revised: 05/09/2012] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
To attain fertilization the spermatozoon binds to the egg zona pellucida (ZP) via sperm receptor(s) and undergoes an acrosome reaction (AR). Several sperm receptors have been described in the literature; however, the identity of this receptor is not yet certain. In this study, we suggest that the α7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (α7nAChR) might be a sperm receptor activated by ZP to induce epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)-mediated AR. We found that isolated ZP or α7 agonists induced the AR in sperm from WT but not α7-null spermatozoa, and the induced AR was inhibited by α7 or EGFR antagonists. Moreover, α7-null sperm showed very little binding to the egg, and microfluidic affinity in vitro assay clearly showed that α7nAChR, as well as EGFR, interacted with ZP3. Induction of EGFR activation and the AR by an α7 agonist was inhibited by a Src family kinase (SFK) inhibitor. In conclusion we suggest that activation of α7 by ZP leads to SFK-dependent EGFR activation, Ca(2+) influx, and the acrosome reaction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yael Jaldety
- From The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Yair Glick
- From The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Avi Orr-Urtreger
- the Genetics Institute, Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel, and
- the Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv 69978, Israel
| | - Debby Ickowicz
- From The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Doron Gerber
- From The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
| | - Haim Breitbart
- From The Mina and Everard Goodman Faculty of Life Sciences, Bar-Ilan University, Ramat-Gan 52900, Israel
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Arnoult C, Escoffier J, Munch L, Pierre V, Hennebicq S, Lambeau G, Ray P. Les phospholipases, enzymes clés de la physiologie spermatique. Med Sci (Paris) 2012; 28:512-8. [DOI: 10.1051/medsci/2012285016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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41
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Lopez CI, Pelletán LE, Suhaiman L, De Blas GA, Vitale N, Mayorga LS, Belmonte SA. Diacylglycerol stimulates acrosomal exocytosis by feeding into a PKC- and PLD1-dependent positive loop that continuously supplies phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Cell Biol Lipids 2012; 1821:1186-99. [PMID: 22609963 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbalip.2012.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2011] [Revised: 04/04/2012] [Accepted: 05/07/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Acrosomal exocytosis involves a massive fusion between the outer acrosomal and the plasma membranes of the spermatozoon triggered by stimuli that open calcium channels at the plasma membrane. Diacylglycerol has been implicated in the activation of these calcium channels. Here we report that this lipid promotes the efflux of intraacrosomal calcium and triggers exocytosis in permeabilized human sperm, implying that diacylglycerol activates events downstream of the opening of plasma membrane channels. Furthermore, we show that calcium and diacylglycerol converge in a signaling pathway leading to the production of phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP(2)). Addition of diacylglycerol promotes the PKC-dependent activation of PLD1. Rescue experiments adding phosphatidic acid or PIP(2) and direct measurement of lipid production suggest that both PKC and PLD1 promote PIP(2) synthesis. Inhibition of different steps of the pathway was reverted by adenophostin, an agonist of IP(3)-sensitive calcium channels, indicating that PIP(2) is necessary to keep these channels opened. However, phosphatidic acid, PIP(2), or adenophostin could not trigger exocytosis by themselves, indicating that diacylglycerol must also activate another factor. We found that diacylglycerol and phorbol ester stimulate the accumulation of the GTP-bound form of Rab3A. Together our results indicate that diacylglycerol promotes acrosomal exocytosis by i) maintaining high levels of IP(3) - an effect that depends on a positive feedback loop leading to the production of PIP(2) - and ii) stimulating the activation of Rab3A, which in turn initiates a cascade of protein interactions leading to the assembly of SNARE complexes and membrane fusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia I Lopez
- Instituto de Histología y Embriología, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
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Wassarman PM. An MBoC Favorite: Ca 2+ entry through store-operated channels in mouse sperm is initiated by egg ZP3 and drives the acrosome reaction. Mol Biol Cell 2012. [PMCID: PMC3338424 DOI: 10.1091/mbc.e12-02-0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
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Darszon A, Nishigaki T, Beltran C, Treviño CL. Calcium Channels in the Development, Maturation, and Function of Spermatozoa. Physiol Rev 2011; 91:1305-55. [DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00028.2010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 243] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
A proper dialogue between spermatozoa and the egg is essential for conception of a new individual in sexually reproducing animals. Ca2+ is crucial in orchestrating this unique event leading to a new life. No wonder that nature has devised different Ca2+-permeable channels and located them at distinct sites in spermatozoa so that they can help fertilize the egg. New tools to study sperm ionic currents, and image intracellular Ca2+ with better spatial and temporal resolution even in swimming spermatozoa, are revealing how sperm ion channels participate in fertilization. This review critically examines the involvement of Ca2+ channels in multiple signaling processes needed for spermatozoa to mature, travel towards the egg, and fertilize it. Remarkably, these tiny specialized cells can express exclusive channels like CatSper for Ca2+ and SLO3 for K+, which are attractive targets for contraception and for the discovery of novel signaling complexes. Learning more about fertilization is a matter of capital importance; societies face growing pressure to counteract rising male infertility rates, provide safe male gamete-based contraceptives, and preserve biodiversity through improved captive breeding and assisted conception initiatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Carmen Beltran
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
| | - Claudia L. Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Morelos, México
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Bachmann S, Menéndez-Helman RJ, Zitta K, Wertheimer EV, Miranda PV. Replacement of calcium for strontium in hamster sperm incubation media: effect on sperm function. Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 18:22-32. [PMID: 21933847 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium (Ca(2+)) is an absolute requirement for a decisive sperm function event: the acrosome reaction (AR). Physiologically, sperm capacitation is a prerequisite for this specialized exocytosis and both events are intimately related. In an effort to separate capacitation from AR, we have been using a modified sperm incubation medium where Ca(2+) is replaced by Strontium (Sr(2+)). The aim of this report is to analyze with more detail the difference between sperm incubated with Ca(2+) or Sr(2+) in several events. We found that sperm undergo the capacitation-related changes in the chlortetracycline (CTC) pattern and tyrosine phosphorylation, and also bind to the zona pellucida (ZP) when using Sr(2+)-instead of Ca(2+)-containing media. However, the spontaneous AR typical of hamster sperm does not take place in Sr(2+)-medium, even if sperm are previously capacitated with Ca(2+). Nevertheless, Sr(2+) was able to sustain AR when cells were treated with thapsigargin or depolarized with K(+) in Na(+)-depleted medium. Considering that the absence of Na(+) increased spontaneous AR in Sr(2+)-medium, we tested whether Na(+)-transport systems could be involved in the inability of Sr(2+)-incubated sperm to undergo AR. We found that when sperm incubated in Sr(2+)-medium are treated with amiloride to inhibit epithelial Na(+) channel (ENaC), they are able to undergo spontaneous AR. The same result was obtained when analyzing AR on the ZP. On the contrary, addition of ouabain (a Na(+)/K(+)-ATPase inhibitor) or DIDS (a Na(+)/HCO3(-) co-transporter inhibitor) showed no effect. These results suggest that, differing from what happens in Ca(2+)-incubated sperm, cells incubated in Sr(2+)-modified medium would have an active ENaC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Bachmann
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IByME) - CONICET, Buenos Aires, Argentina
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45
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Monné M, Jovine L. A structural view of egg coat architecture and function in fertilization. Biol Reprod 2011; 85:661-9. [PMID: 21715714 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.092098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Species-restricted interaction between gametes at the beginning of fertilization is mediated by the extracellular coat of the egg, a matrix of cross-linked glycoprotein filaments called the zona pellucida (ZP) in mammals and the vitelline envelope in nonmammals. All egg coat subunits contain a conserved protein-protein interaction module-the "ZP domain"-that allows them to polymerize upon dissociation of a C-terminal propeptide containing an external hydrophobic patch (EHP). Recently, the first crystal structures of a ZP domain protein, sperm receptor ZP subunit zona pellucida glycoprotein 3 (ZP3), have been reported, giving a glimpse of the structural organization of the ZP at the atomic level and the molecular basis of gamete recognition in vertebrates. The ZP module is divided in two related immunoglobulin-like domains, ZP-N and ZP-C, that contain characteristic disulfide bond patterns and, in the case of ZP-C, also incorporate the EHP. This segment lies at the interface between the two domains, which are connected by a long loop carrying a conserved O-glycan important for binding to sperm in vitro. The structures explain several apparently contradictory observations by reconciling the variable disulfide bond patterns found in different homologues of ZP3 as well as the multiple ZP3 determinants alternatively involved in gamete interaction. These findings have implications for our understanding of ZP subunit biogenesis; egg coat assembly, architecture, and interaction with sperm; structural rearrangements leading to postfertilization hardening of the ZP and the block to sperm binding; and the evolutionary origin of egg coats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Magnus Monné
- Department of Biosciences and Nutrition and Center for Biosciences, Karolinska Institutet, Huddinge, Sweden
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46
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Olson SD, Fauci LJ, Suarez SS. Mathematical modeling of calcium signaling during sperm hyperactivation. Mol Hum Reprod 2011; 17:500-10. [PMID: 21606121 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gar040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian sperm must hyperactivate in order to fertilize oocytes. Hyperactivation is characterized by highly asymmetrical flagellar bending. It serves to move sperm out of the oviductal reservoir and to penetrate viscoelastic fluids, such as the cumulus matrix. It is absolutely required for sperm penetration of the oocyte zona pellucida. In order for sperm to hyperactivate, cytoplasmic Ca(2+) levels in the flagellum must increase. The major mechanism for providing Ca(2+) to the flagellum, at least in mice, are CatSper channels in the plasma membrane of the principal piece of the flagellum, because sperm from CatSper null males are unable to hyperactivate. There is some evidence for the existence of other types of Ca(2+) channels in sperm, but their roles in hyperactivation have not been clearly established. Another Ca(2+) source for hyperactivation is the store in the redundant nuclear envelope of sperm. To stabilize levels of cytoplasmic Ca(2+), sperm contain Ca(2+) ATPase and exchangers. The interactions between channels, Ca(2+) ATPases, and exchangers are poorly understood; however, mathematical modeling can help to elucidate how they work together to produce the patterns of changes in Ca(2+) levels that have been observed in sperm. Mathematical models can reveal interesting and unexpected relationships, suggesting experiments to be performed in the laboratory. Mathematical analysis of Ca(2+) dynamics has been used to develop a model for Ca(2+) clearance and for CatSper-mediated Ca(2+) dynamics. Models may also be used to understand how Ca(2+) patterns produce flagellar bending patterns of sperm in fluids of low and high viscosity and elasticity.
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Affiliation(s)
- S D Olson
- Department of Mathematics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70115 USA
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48
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Brandenburger T, Strehler EE, Filoteo AG, Caride AJ, Aumüller G, Post H, Schwarz A, Wilhelm B. Switch of PMCA4 splice variants in bovine epididymis results in altered isoform expression during functional sperm maturation. J Biol Chem 2011; 286:7938-7946. [PMID: 21187283 PMCID: PMC3048680 DOI: 10.1074/jbc.m110.142836] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2010] [Revised: 11/02/2010] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Ca(2+) and Ca(2+)-dependent signals are essential for sperm maturation and fertilization. In mouse sperm the plasma membrane Ca(2+)-ATPase (PMCA) isoform 4 plays a crucial role in Ca(2+) transport. The two major splice variants of PMCA4 are PMCA4a and PMCA4b. PMCA4a differs from PMCA4b in the mechanism of calmodulin binding and activation. PMCA4a shows a much higher basal activity and is more effective than PMCA4b in returning Ca(2+) to resting levels. Knock-out mice carrying a PMCA4-null mutation are infertile because their sperm cannot achieve a hyperactivated state of motility. As sperm reach functional maturity during their transit through the epididymis, the expression of PMCA4a and 4b was assessed in bull testis and epididymis. Quantitative PCR revealed that PMCA4b is the major splice variant in testis, caput, and corpus epididymidis. In contrast, PMCA4a is the major splice variant in cauda epididymidis, whereas sperm are transcriptionally silent. Immunohistochemical staining using a new antibody against bovine PMCA4a located the PMCA4a to the apical membrane of the epithelium of cauda epididymidis, whereas testis, caput, and corpus epididymidis were negative. Western blotting of testis, epididymis, and sperm isolated from caput and cauda epididymidis showed a much higher level of PMCA4a in cauda epididymidis and sperm from cauda epididymidis compared with testis membranes and sperm from caput epididymidis. These findings suggest that PMCA4a is transferred to bovine sperm membranes in cauda epididymidis. This isoform switch may facilitate a higher calcium turnover in sperm necessary to traverse the female genital tract.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timo Brandenburger
- From the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany,; the Department of Anesthesiology, University Hospital Düsseldorf, 40225 Düsseldorf, Germany, and.
| | - Emanuel E Strehler
- the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Adelaida G Filoteo
- the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Ariel J Caride
- the Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Mayo Clinic College of Medicine, Rochester, Minnesota 55905
| | - Gerhard Aumüller
- From the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Heidi Post
- From the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Anja Schwarz
- From the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany
| | - Beate Wilhelm
- From the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Philipps-University, 35037 Marburg, Germany
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49
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Kumar PG, Shoeb M. The Role of TRP Ion Channels in Testicular Function. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2011; 704:881-908. [DOI: 10.1007/978-94-007-0265-3_46] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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50
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Arredouani A, Yu F, Sun L, Machaca K. Regulation of store-operated Ca2+ entry during the cell cycle. J Cell Sci 2010; 123:2155-62. [PMID: 20554894 DOI: 10.1242/jcs.069690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Cytoplasmic Ca(2+) signals are central to numerous cell physiological processes, including cellular proliferation. Historically, much of the research effort in this area has focused on the role of Ca(2+) signals in cell-cycle progression. It is becoming clear, however, that the relationship between Ca(2+) signaling and the cell cycle is a 'two-way street'. Specifically, Ca(2+)-signaling pathways are remodeled during M phase, leading to altered Ca(2+) dynamics. Such remodeling probably better serves the large variety of functions that cells must perform during cell division compared with during interphase. This is clearly the case during oocyte meiosis, because remodeling of Ca(2+) signals partially defines the competence of the egg to activate at fertilization. Store-operated Ca(2+) entry (SOCE) is a ubiquitous Ca(2+)-signaling pathway that is regulated during M phase. In this Commentary, we discuss the latest advances in our understanding of how SOCE is regulated during cell division.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelilah Arredouani
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, Weill Cornell Medical College in Qatar (WCMC-Q), Education City, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
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