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Guseva EA, Buev VS, Mirzaeva SE, Pletnev PI, Dontsova OA, Sergiev PV. Structure and Composition of Spermatozoa Fibrous Sheath in Diverse Groups of Metazoa. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:7663. [PMID: 39062905 PMCID: PMC11276731 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25147663] [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: 05/29/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The proper functioning and assembly of the sperm flagella structures contribute significantly to spermatozoa motility and overall male fertility. However, the fine mechanisms of assembly steps are poorly studied due to the high diversity of cell types, low solubility of the corresponding protein structures, and high tissue and cell specificity. One of the open questions for investigation is the attachment of longitudinal columns to the doublets 3 and 8 of axonemal microtubules through the outer dense fibers. A number of mutations affecting the assembly of flagella in model organisms are known. Additionally, evolutionary genomics data and comparative analysis of flagella morphology are available for a set of non-model species. This review is devoted to the analysis of diverse ultrastructures of sperm flagellum of Metazoa combined with an overview of the evolutionary distribution and function of the mammalian fibrous sheath proteins.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina A. Guseva
- Center of Life Sciences, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 143025 Skolkovo, Russia; (E.A.G.); (O.A.D.)
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
| | - Vitaly S. Buev
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
- Faculty of Bioengeneering and Bioinformatics, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
| | - Sabina E. Mirzaeva
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
| | - Philipp I. Pletnev
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
| | - Olga A. Dontsova
- Center of Life Sciences, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 143025 Skolkovo, Russia; (E.A.G.); (O.A.D.)
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
- Shemyakin–Ovchinnikov Institute of Bioorganic Chemistry, 117997 Moscow, Russia
| | - Petr V. Sergiev
- Center of Life Sciences, Skolkovo Institute of Science and Technology, 143025 Skolkovo, Russia; (E.A.G.); (O.A.D.)
- Belozersky Institute of Physico-Chemical Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia
- Faculty of Chemistry, Lomonosov Moscow State University, 119991 Moscow, Russia; (V.S.B.); (S.E.M.); (P.I.P.)
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Tavares-Bastos L, Cunha LD, França FGR, Diele-Viegas LM, Vieira GHC, Santos MG, Vaqueiro AC, Gower DJ, Colli GR, Báo SN. Comparative electron microscopy study of spermatozoa in snakes (Lepidosauria, Squamata). Micron 2024; 182:103637. [PMID: 38688142 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2024.103637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 02/17/2024] [Accepted: 04/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024]
Abstract
The ultrastructure of snake sperm has received substantial attention primarily because snakes exhibit considerable variability in reproductive characteristics between species, with a wide range of mating systems and reproductive behaviors. Variability of sperm morphology among snake species may be associated with the reproductive strategies of each taxon, such as competition or sperm storage. We provide a detailed description of the sperm ultrastructure of nine snake species (Anilius scytale, Tropidophis paucisquamis, Bothrops jararaca, Oxyrhopus guibei, Dipsas mikanii, Micrurus corallinus, Xenopholis scalaris, Acrochordus javanicus, and Cylindrophis ruffus) and compared this with sperm data from the literature for the following taxa: Liotyphlops beui, Amerotyphlops reticulatus, Trilepida koppesi, Anilios waitii, Anilios endoterus, Aspidites melanochephalus, Boa constrictor amarali, Corallus hortulana, Epicrates cenchria, Boa constrictor occidentalis, Eryx jayakari, Micrurus corallinus, Micrurus surinamensis, Micrurus frontalis, Micrurus altirostris, Oxyuranus microlepidotus, Bothrops alternatus, Bothrops diporus, Crotalus durissus, Agkistrodon contortrix, Vipera aspis, Boiga irregularis, Zamenis schrenckii, Zamenis scalaris, Stegonotus cuculatus, Nerodia sipedon, Liodytes pygaea, and Myrrophis chinensis. We found twelve polymorphic characters in the ultrastructure of sperm among the described snakes. Our work supports the importance of ultrastructural analysis of sperm morphology to understand snake reproduction, and provides sperm-derived morphological characters for phylogenetic analysis.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Tavares-Bastos
- Setor de Histologia e Embriologia, Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Alagoas, Maceió, AL 57072-970, Brazil.
| | - L D Cunha
- Departamento de Biologia Celular e Molecular e Bioagentes Patogênicos, Faculdade de Medicina de Ribeirão Preto, Universidade de São Paulo, Ribeirão Preto, SP, Brazil.
| | - F G R França
- Centro de Ciências Aplicadas e Educação, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, Rio Tinto, PB 58297-000, Brazil.
| | - L M Diele-Viegas
- Laboratório de (Bio)Diversidade no Antropoceno (BioDivA), Instituto de Biologia, Universidade Federal da Bahia, Salvador, Bahia 40170-115, Brazil.
| | - G H C Vieira
- Departamento de Sistemática e Ecologia, Centro de Ciências Exatas e da Natureza, Universidade Federal da Paraíba, João Pessoa, PB, Brazil.
| | - M G Santos
- Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70919-900, Brazil.
| | - A C Vaqueiro
- Pós-graduação em Ciências da Saúde, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70919-900, Brazil.
| | - D J Gower
- Natural History Museum, London SW7 5BD, UK.
| | - G R Colli
- Departamento de Zoologia, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70919-900, Brazil.
| | - S N Báo
- Departamento de Biologia Celular, Universidade de Brasília, Brasília, DF 70919-900, Brazil.
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3
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Teves ME, Roldan ERS. Sperm bauplan and function and underlying processes of sperm formation and selection. Physiol Rev 2022; 102:7-60. [PMID: 33880962 PMCID: PMC8812575 DOI: 10.1152/physrev.00009.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
The spermatozoon is a highly differentiated and polarized cell, with two main structures: the head, containing a haploid nucleus and the acrosomal exocytotic granule, and the flagellum, which generates energy and propels the cell; both structures are connected by the neck. The sperm's main aim is to participate in fertilization, thus activating development. Despite this common bauplan and function, there is an enormous diversity in structure and performance of sperm cells. For example, mammalian spermatozoa may exhibit several head patterns and overall sperm lengths ranging from ∼30 to 350 µm. Mechanisms of transport in the female tract, preparation for fertilization, and recognition of and interaction with the oocyte also show considerable variation. There has been much interest in understanding the origin of this diversity, both in evolutionary terms and in relation to mechanisms underlying sperm differentiation in the testis. Here, relationships between sperm bauplan and function are examined at two levels: first, by analyzing the selective forces that drive changes in sperm structure and physiology to understand the adaptive values of this variation and impact on male reproductive success and second, by examining cellular and molecular mechanisms of sperm formation in the testis that may explain how differentiation can give rise to such a wide array of sperm forms and functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Eugenia Teves
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Virginia Commonwealth University, Richmond, Virginia
| | - Eduardo R S Roldan
- Department of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales (CSIC), Madrid, Spain
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4
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Hook KA, Fisher HS. Methodological considerations for examining the relationship between sperm morphology and motility. Mol Reprod Dev 2020; 87:633-649. [PMID: 32415812 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23346] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2020] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Sperm cells of all taxa share a common goal to reach and fertilize an ovum, yet sperm are one of the most diverse cell types in nature. While the structural diversity of these cells is well recognized, the functional significance of variation in sperm design remains elusive. An important function of spermatozoa is a need to migrate toward the ova, often over long distances in a foreign environment, which may include a complex and hostile female reproductive tract. Several comparative and experimental studies have attempted to address the link between sperm morphology and motility, yet the conclusions drawn from these studies are often inconsistent, even within the same taxa. Much of what we know about the functional significance of sperm design in internally fertilizing species has been gleaned from in vitro studies, for which experimental parameters often vary among studies. We propose that discordant results from these studies are in part due to a lack of consistency of methods, conditions that do not replicate those of the female reproductive tract, and the overuse of simple linear measures of sperm shape. Within this review, we provide a toolkit for imaging, quantifying, and analyzing sperm morphology and movement patterns for in vitro studies and discuss emerging approaches. Results from studies linking morphology to motility enhance our understanding of the evolution of adaptive sperm traits and the mechanisms that regulate fertility, thus offering new insights into methods used in assisted reproductive technologies in animal science, conservation and public health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin A Hook
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
| | - Heidi S Fisher
- Department of Biology, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland
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5
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Verdú-Ricoy J, Matla T, Gregory M, Lambiris A, Jordaan A, Zhao Z, Heideman N. A comparative analysis of testicular sperm morphology in fossorial and surface-living skinks in South Africa. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2018. [DOI: 10.1111/azo.12249] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Joaquín Verdú-Ricoy
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Tankiso Matla
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | | | | | - Adriaan Jordaan
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Zhongning Zhao
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
| | - Neil Heideman
- Department of Zoology & Entomology; University of the Free State; Bloemfontein South Africa
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6
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Hao SL, Zhang YP. Ultrastructure of the spermatozoon of the Chinese water snake, Myrrophis ( Enhydris) chinensis (Reptilia: Homalopsidae). THE EUROPEAN ZOOLOGICAL JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.1080/24750263.2018.1506515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- S.-L. Hao
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
- The Sperm Laboratory, College of Life Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Y.-P. Zhang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Wenzhou University, Wenzhou, China
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7
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Ahmed M, Aldokhi O, Alenezy E. Ultrastructural differentiation of spermiogenesis in Scincus scincus ( Scincidae, Reptilia). Saudi J Biol Sci 2017; 24:1711-1721. [PMID: 30294239 PMCID: PMC6169513 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2016.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2016] [Revised: 10/09/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Knowledge of spermiogenesis in reptiles, especially in lizards, is very limited. Lizards found in Arabian deserts have not been considered for detailed studies due to many reasons and the paucity of these animals. Therefore, we designed a study on the differentiation and morphogenesis of spermiogenesis, at an ultrastructural level, in a rare lizard species, Scincus scincus. RESULTS The spermiogenesis process includes the development of an acrosomal vesicle, aggregation of acrosomal granules, formation of subacrosomal nuclear space, and nuclear elongation. A role for manchette microtubules was described in nuclear shaping and organelle movement. During head differentiation, the fine granular chromatin of the early spermatid is gradually replaced by highly condensed contents in a process called chromatin condensation. Furthermore, ultrastructural features of sperm tail differentiation in S. scincus were described in detail. The commencement was with caudal migration toward centrioles, insertion of the proximal centriole in the nuclear fossa, and extension of the distal centrioles to form the microtubular axoneme. Subsequently, tail differentiation consists of the enlargement of neck portion, middle piece, the main and end pieces. CONCLUSIONS This study aids in the understanding of different aspects of spermiogenesis in the lizard family and unfurls evolutionary links within and outside reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukhtar Ahmed
- Department of Zoology, College of Science, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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Gribbins KM, Freeborn LR, Sever DM. Ultrastructure of spermatid development within the testis of the Yellow-Bellied Sea Snake, Pelamis platurus (Squamata: Elapidae). SPERMATOGENESIS 2017; 6:e1261666. [PMID: 28144497 DOI: 10.1080/21565562.2016.1261666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Revised: 11/11/2016] [Accepted: 11/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Little is known about spermatid development during spermiogenesis in snakes, as there is only one complete study in ophidians, which details the spermatid ultrastructure within the viperid, Agkistrodon piscivorus. Thus, the following study will add to our understanding of the ontogenic steps of spermiogenesis in snakes by examining spermatid maturation in the elapid, Pelamis platurus, which were collected in Costa Rica in 2009. The spermatids of P. platurus share many similar ultrastructural characteristics to that described for other squamates during spermiogenesis. Three notable differences between the spermatids of P. platurus and those of other snakes is a round and shorter epinuclear lucent zone, enlarged caudal nuclear shoulders, and more prominent 3 and 8 peripheral fibers in the principal and endpieces. Also, the midpiece is much longer in P. platurus and is similar to that reported for all snakes studied to date. Other features of chromatin condensation and morphology of the acrosome complex are similar to what has been observed in A. piscivorus and other squamates. Though the spermatids in P. platurus appear to be quite similar to other snakes and lizards studied to date, some differences in subcellular details are still observed. Analysis of developing spermatids in P. platurus and other snakes could reveals morphologically conserved traits between different species along with subtle changes that could help determine phylogenetic relationships once a suitable number of species have been examined for ophidians and other squamates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, University of Indianapolis , Indianapolis, IN, USA
| | - Layla R Freeborn
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Pittsburgh , Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - David M Sever
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University , Hammond, LA, USA
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Rheubert JL, Sever DM, Siegel DS, Gribbins KM. Ultrastructural analysis of spermiogenesis in the Eastern Fence Lizard, Sceloporus undulatus (Squamata: Phrynosomatidae). Micron 2016; 81:16-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2015.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2015] [Revised: 11/10/2015] [Accepted: 11/11/2015] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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10
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Ultrastructural differentiation of sperm tail region in Diplometopon zarudnyi (an amphisbaenian reptile). Saudi J Biol Sci 2015; 22:448-52. [PMID: 26155090 PMCID: PMC4487791 DOI: 10.1016/j.sjbs.2015.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2015] [Revised: 05/03/2015] [Accepted: 05/04/2015] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Diplometopon zarudnyi, a worm lizard belongs to amphisbaenia under trogonophidae family. This species exists in limited areas of the Arabian Peninsula and is an oscillating digger found in sub-surface soils. The present study aimed to investigate the sperm tail differentiation in D. zarudnyi. Ten male adults of D. zarudnyi were collected from Riyadh during April–May 2011. To study the sperm tail at the ultrastructural level the testes were fixed in 3% glutaraldehyde, than post fixed in 1% osmium tetaroxide followed by dehydration in ethanol grades; samples were cleared in propylene oxide and embedded in resin. Tail formation begins by the moving of centrioles and mitochondria towards the posterior pole of sperm head. Simultaneously many microtubules of the midpiece axoneme were enclosed by a thick layer of granular material. Mitochondria of midpiece lie alongside the proximal centriole which forms a very short neck region and possess tubular cristae internally and concentric layers of cristae superficially. During this course a fibrous sheath surrounds the axoneme of mid and principal piece. At the end dissolution of longitudinal manchette takes place. The mitochondria then rearrange themselves around the proximal and distal centrioles to form a neck region. Later, the fibrous sheath surrounds the proximal portion of the flagella. This part along with sperm head of D. zarudnyi provides a classical model that could be used in future for evolutionary and phylogenetic purposes of class reptilia.
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Al-Dokhi O, Ahmed M, Al-Dosary A, Al-Sadoon MK. Ultrastructural study of spermiogenesis in a rare desert amphisbaenian Diplometopon zarudnyi. C R Biol 2013; 336:473-8. [PMID: 24246888 DOI: 10.1016/j.crvi.2013.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2013] [Revised: 10/02/2013] [Accepted: 10/03/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis, in particular the head differentiation of Diplometopon zarudnyi, was studied at the ultrastructural level by Transmission Electron Microscope (TEM). The process includes acrosomal vesicle development, nuclear elongation, chromatin condensation and exclusion of excess cytoplasm. In stage I, the proacrosomal vesicle occurs next to a shallow fossa of the nucleus, and a dense acrosomal granule forms beneath it. This step commences with an acrosome vesicle forming from Golgi transport vesicles; simultaneously, the nucleus begins to move eccentrically. In stage II, the round proacrosomal vesicle is flattened by projection of the nuclear fossa, and the dense acrosomal granule diffuses into the vesicle as the fibrous layer forms the subacrosomal cone. Circular manchettes surrounded by mitochondria develop around the nucleus, and the chromatin coagulates into small granules. The movement of the nucleus causes rearrangement of the cytoplasm. The nucleus has uniform diffuse chromatin with small indices of heterochromatin. The subacrosome space develops early, enlarges during elongation, and accumulates a thick layer of dark staining granules. In stage III, the front of the elongating nucleus protrudes out of the spermatid and is covered by the flat acrosome; coarse granules replace the small ones within the nucleus. One endonuclear canal is present where the perforatorium resides. In stage IV, the chromatin concentrates to dense homogeneous phase. The circular manchette is reorganized longitudinally. The Sertoli process covers the acrosome and the residues of the cytoplasmic lobes are removed. In stage V, the sperm head matures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Othman Al-Dokhi
- Zoology Department, College of Science, King Saud University, PO Box 2455, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
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12
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Gribbins KM, Rheubert JL, Touzinsky K, Hanover J, Matchett CL, Granados-González G, Hernández-Gallegos O. Spermiogenesis in the imbricate alligator lizard, Barisia imbricata (Reptilia, Squamata, Anguidae). J Morphol 2013; 274:603-14. [PMID: 23400942 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.20117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2012] [Revised: 11/21/2012] [Accepted: 12/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Although the events of spermiogenesis are commonly studied in amniotes, the amount of research available for Squamata is lacking. Many studies have described the morphological characteristics of mature spermatozoa in squamates, but few detail the ultrastructural changes that occur during spermiogenesis. This study's purpose is to gain a better understanding of the subcellular events of spermatid development within the Imbricate Alligator Lizard, Barisia imbricata. The morphological data presented here represent the first complete ultrastructural study of spermiogenesis within the family Anguidae. Samples of testes from four specimens collected on the northwest side of the Nevado de Toluca, México, were prepared using standard techniques for transmission electron microscopy. Many of the ultrastructural changes occurring during spermiogenesis within B. imbricata are similar to that of other squamates (i.e., early acrosome formation, chromatin condensation, flagella formation, annulus present, and a prominent manchette). However, there are a few unique characteristics within B. imbricata spermatids that to date have not been described during spermiogenesis in other squamates. For example, penetration of the acrosomal granule into the subacrosomal space to form the basal plate of the perforatorium during round spermatid development, the clover-shaped morphology of the developing nuclear fossa of the flagellum, and the bulbous shape to the perforatorium are all unique to the Imbricate Alligator Lizard. These anatomical character differences may be valuable nontraditional data that along with more traditional matrices (such as DNA sequences and gross morphological data) may help elucidate phylogenetic relationships, which are historically considered controversial within Squamata.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio 45501, USA.
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13
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Rheubert JL, Cree A, Downes M, Sever DM. Reproductive morphology of the male Tuatara,Sphenodon punctatus. ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2012. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.2012.00574.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Justin L. Rheubert
- Department of Biology; Saint Louis University; 3507 Laclede Ave; St. Louis; MO; 63103; USA
| | - Alison Cree
- Department of Zoology; University of Otago; 340 Great King St; Dunedin; 9016; New Zealand
| | - Matthew Downes
- Department of Zoology; University of Otago; 340 Great King St; Dunedin; 9016; New Zealand
| | - David M. Sever
- Department of Biological Sciences; Southeastern Louisiana University; SLU 10736; Hammond; LA; 70401; USA
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14
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Rheubert J, Touzinsky K, Hernández-Gallegos O, Granados-González G, Gribbins K. Ontogenic development of spermatids during spermiogenesis in the high altitude bunchgrass lizard (Sceloporus bicanthalis). SPERMATOGENESIS 2012; 2:94-103. [PMID: 22670219 PMCID: PMC3364797 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.20410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The body of ultrastructural data on spermatid characters during spermiogenesis continues to grow in reptiles, but is still relatively limited within the squamates. This study focuses on the ontogenic events of spermiogenesis within a viviparous and continually spermatogenic lizard, from high altitude in Mexico. Between the months of June and August, testicular tissues were collected from eight spermatogenically active bunchgrass lizards (Sceloporus bicanthalis) from Nevado de Toluca, México. The testicular tissues were processed for transmission electron microscopy and analyzed to access the ultrastructural differences between spermatid generations during spermiogenesis. Interestingly, few differences exist between S. bicanthalis spermiogenesis when compared with what has been described for other saurian squamates. Degrading and coiling membrane structures similar to myelin figures were visible within the developing acrosome that are likely remnants from Golgi body vesicles. During spermiogenesis, an electron lucent area between the subacrosomal space and the acrosomal medulla was observed, which has been observed in other squamates but not accurately described. Thus, we elect to term this region the acrosomal lucent ridge. This study furthers the existing knowledge of spermatid development in squamates, which could be useful in future work on the reproductive systems in high altitude viviparous lizard species.
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15
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Gribbins KM. Reptilian spermatogenesis: A histological and ultrastructural perspective. SPERMATOGENESIS 2011; 1:250-269. [PMID: 22319673 PMCID: PMC3271667 DOI: 10.4161/spmg.1.3.18092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 09/09/2011] [Accepted: 09/10/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Until recently, the histology and ultrastructural events of spermatogenesis in reptiles were relatively unknown. Most of the available morphological information focuses on specific stages of spermatogenesis, spermiogenesis, and/or of the mature spermatozoa. No study to date has provided complete ultrastructural information on the early events of spermatogenesis, proliferation and meiosis in class Reptilia. Furthermore, no comprehensive data set exists that describes the ultrastructure of the entire ontogenic progression of germ cells through the phases of reptilian spermatogenesis (mitosis, meiosis and spermiogenesis). The purpose of this review is to provide an ultrastructural and histological atlas of spermatogenesis in reptiles. The morphological details provided here are the first of their kind and can hopefully provide histological information on spermatogenesis that can be compared to that already known for anamniotes (fish and amphibians), birds and mammals. The data supplied in this review will provide a basic model that can be utilized for the study of sperm development in other reptiles. The use of such an atlas will hopefully stimulate more interest in collecting histological and ultrastructural data sets on spermatogenesis that may play important roles in future nontraditional phylogenetic analyses and histopathological studies in reptiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology; Wittenberg University; Springfield, OH USA
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Gribbins KM, Touzinsky KF, Siegel DS, Venable KJ, Hester GL, Elsey RM. Ultrastructure of the spermatozoon of the American Alligator, Alligator mississippiensis (Reptilia: Alligatoridae). J Morphol 2011; 272:1281-9. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.10984] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Revised: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 03/06/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Gribbins K, Rheubert J. The Ophidian Testis, Spermatogenesis and Mature Spermatozoa. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1201/b10879-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/06/2023]
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Rheubert JL, Siegel DS, Venable KJ, Sever DM, Gribbins KM. Ultrastructural description of spermiogenesis within the Mediterranean Gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus (Squamata: Gekkonidae). Micron 2011; 42:680-90. [PMID: 21543229 DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2011.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2011] [Revised: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 03/11/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
We studied spermiogenesis in the Mediterranean Gecko, Hemidactylus turcicus, at the electron microscope level and compared to what is known within other Lepidosaurs. In H. turcicus germ cells are connected via cytoplasmic bridges where organelle and cytoplasm sharing is observed. The acrosome develops from merging transport vesicles that arise from the Golgi and subsequently partition into an acrosomal cap containing an acrosomal cortex, acrosomal medulla, perforatorium, and subacrosomal cone. Condensation of DNA occurs in a spiral fashion and elongation is aided by microtubules of the manchette. A nuclear rostrum extends into the subacrosomal cone and is capped by an epinuclear lucent zone. Mitochondria and rough endoplasmic reticulum migrate to the posterior portion of the developing germ cell during the cytoplasmic shift and the flagellum elongates. Mitochondria surround the midpiece as the anlage of the annulus forms. The fibrous sheath begins at mitochondrial tier 3 and continues into the principal piece. Peripheral fibers associated with microtubule doublets 3 and 8 are grossly enlarged. During the final stages of germ cell development spermatids are wrapped with a series of Sertoli cell processes, which exhibit ectoplasmic specializations and differing cytoplasmic consistencies. The results observed here corroborate previous studies, which show the conservative nature of sperm morphology. However, ultrastructural character combinations specific to sperm and spermiogenesis seem to differ among taxa. Further studies into sperm morphology are needed in order to judge the relevance of the ontogenic changes recorded here and to determine their role in future studies on amniote evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin L Rheubert
- Department of Biological Sciences, Southeastern Louisiana University, Hammond, LA 70402, USA.
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Gribbins KM, Siegel DS, Anzalone ML, Jackson DP, Venable KJ, Rheubert JL, Elsey RM. Ultrastructure of spermiogenesis in the American alligator, Alligator mississippiensis (Reptilia, Crocodylia, Alligatoridae). J Morphol 2010; 271:1260-71. [DOI: 10.1002/jmor.10872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Rheubert JL, McMahan CD, Sever DM, Bundy MR, Siegel DS, Gribbins KM. Ultrastructure of the reproductive system of the black swamp snake (Seminatrix pygaea). VII. spermatozoon morphology and evolutionary trends of sperm characters in snakes. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2010. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0469.2010.00573.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Gribbins KM, Rheubert JL, Anzalone ML, Siegel DS, Sever DM. Ultrastructure of spermiogenesis in the Cottonmouth, Agkistrodon piscivorus (Squamata: Viperidae: Crotalinae). J Morphol 2010; 271:293-304. [PMID: 19827154 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.10798] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
To date multiple studies exist that examine the morphology of spermatozoa. However, there are limited numbers of data detailing the ontogenic characters of spermiogenesis within squamates. Testicular tissues were collected from Cottonmouths (Agkistrodon piscivorus) and tissues from spermiogenically active months were analyzed ultrastructurally to detail the cellular changes that occur during spermiogenesis. The major events of spermiogenesis (acrosome formation, nuclear elongation/DNA condensation, and flagellar development) resemble that of other squamates; however, specific ultrastructural differences can be observed between Cottonmouths and other squamates studied to date. During acrosome formation vesicles from the Golgi apparatus fuse at the apical surface of the nuclear membrane prior to making nuclear contact. At this stage, the acrosome granule can be observed in a centralized location within the vesicle. As elongation commences the acrosome complex becomes highly compartmentalized and migrates laterally along the nucleus. Parallel and circum-cylindrical microtubules (components of the manchette) are observed with parallel microtubules outnumbering the circum-cylindrical microtubules. Flagella, displaying the conserved 9 + 2 microtubule arrangement, sit in nuclear fossae that have electron lucent shoulders juxtaposed on either side of the spermatids basal plates. This study aims to provide developmental characters for squamates in the subfamily Crotalinae, family Viperidae, which may be useful for histopathological studies on spermatogenesis in semi-aquatic species exposed to pesticides. Furthermore, these data in the near future may provide morphological characters for spermiogenesis that can be added to morphological data matrices that may be used in phylogenetic analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin M Gribbins
- Department of Biology, Wittenberg University, Springfield, Ohio 45501-0720, USA.
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Cunha L, Tavares-Bastos L, Báo S. Ultrastructural description and cytochemical study of the spermatozoon of Crotallus durissus (Squamata, Serpentes). Micron 2008; 39:915-25. [DOI: 10.1016/j.micron.2007.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2007] [Revised: 11/16/2007] [Accepted: 11/19/2007] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Tavares-Bastos L, Colli GR, Báo SN. The evolution of sperm ultrastructure among Boidae (Serpentes). ZOOMORPHOLOGY 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s00435-008-0062-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Zhang L, Han XK, Li MY, Bao HJ, Chen QS. Spermiogenesis in soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis. Anat Rec (Hoboken) 2007; 290:1213-22. [PMID: 17724710 DOI: 10.1002/ar.20587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
Spermiogenesis in the soft-shelled turtle, Pelodiscus sinensis, was examined by transmission electron microscopy. The process includes nuclear elongation, chromatin condensation, acrosomal and flagellar development, and elimination of excess cytoplasm. In stage I, the proacrosomal vesicle occurs next to a shallow fossa of the nucleus, and a dense acrosomal granule forms beneath it. A smaller subacrosomal granule in the middle of the fibrous layer is related to the development of intranuclear tubules. The nucleus begins to move eccentrically. In stage II, the round proacrosomal vesicle is flattened by protrusion of the nuclear fossa, and the dense acrosomal granule diffuses into the vesicle, as the fibrous layer forms the subacrosomal cone. Circular manchettes develop around the nucleus, and the chromatin coagulates into small granules. The movement of the nucleus causes rearrangement of the cytoplasm. In stage III, the front of the elongating nucleus protrudes out of the spermatid and is covered by the flat acrosome; coarse granules replace the small ones within the nucleus. At the posterior pole of the head, mitochondria move backward. Numerous microtubules begin to assemble the axoneme of flagellum. In stage IV, the chromatin concentrates to dense homogeneous phase. The circular manchette is reorganized longitudinally. The Sertoli process covers the acrosome and the residues of the cytoplasmic lobes are eliminated. In stage V, the sperm head matures. After dissolution of the longitudinal manchette, the mitochondria arrange themselves around the proximal and distal centrioles. Caudal to the mitochondrial mass, a fibrous sheath surrounds the proximal portion of the flagellum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Zhang
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, People's Republic of China
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Vieira GHC, Cunha LD, Scheltinga DM, Glaw F, Colli GR, Báo SN. Sperm ultrastructure of hoplocercid and oplurid lizards (Sauropsida, Squamata, Iguania) and the phylogeny of Iguania. J ZOOL SYST EVOL RES 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0469.2007.00406.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Tavares-Bastos L, Cunha LD, Colli GR, Báo SN. Ultrastructure of spermatozoa of scolecophidian snakes (Lepidosauria, Squamata). ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 2007. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.2007.00265.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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. OAD, . SAW, . MM. Ultrastructure of Spermatozoa of the Freshwater Turtle Mauremys caspica (Chelonia, Reptilia). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2007. [DOI: 10.3923/ijzr.2007.53.64] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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. OAD. Ultrastructure of Sperm Head Differentiation in the Lizard, Acanthodactylus boskinus (Squamata, Reptilia). ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2005. [DOI: 10.3923/ijzr.2006.60.72] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
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Scheltinga DM, Wilkinson M, Jamieson BGM, Oommen OV. Ultrastructure of the mature spermatozoa of caecilians (Amphibia: Gymnophiona). J Morphol 2003; 258:179-92. [PMID: 14518011 DOI: 10.1002/jmor.10139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The spermatozoa of Gymnophiona show the following autapomorphies: 1) penetration of the distal centriole by the axial fiber; 2) presence of an acrosomal baseplate; 3) presence of an acrosome seat (flattened apical end of nucleus); and 4) absence of juxta-axonemal fibers. The wide separation of the plasma membrane bounding the undulating membrane is here also considered to be apomorphic. Three plesiomorphic spermatozoal characters are recognized that are not seen in other Amphibia but occur in basal amniotes: 1) presence of mitochondria with a delicate array of concentric cristae (concentric cristae of salamander spermatozoa differ in lacking the delicate array); 2) presence of peripheral dense fibers associated with the triplets of the distal centriole; and 3) presence of a simple annulus (a highly modified, elongate annulus is present in salamander sperm). The presence of an endonuclear canal containing a perforatorium is a plesiomorphic feature of caecilian spermatozoa that is shared with urodeles, some basal anurans, sarcopterygian fish, and some amniotes. Spermatozoal synapomorphies are identified for 1) the Uraeotyphlidae and Ichthyophiidae, and 2) the Caeciliidae and Typhlonectidae, suggesting that the members of each pair of families are more closely related to each other than to other caecilians. Although caecilian spermatozoa exhibit the clear amphibian synapomorphy of the unilateral location of the undulating membrane and its axial fiber, they have no apomorphic characters that suggest a closer relationship to either the Urodela or Anura.
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Affiliation(s)
- David M Scheltinga
- Department of Zoology and Entomology, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Qld, 4072, Australia.
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Ultrastructural study of spermatozoa of the neotropical lizards, Tropidurus semitaeniatus and Tropidurus torquatus (Squamata, Tropiduridae). Tissue Cell 1999; 31:308-17. [DOI: 10.1054/tice.1999.0047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/1999] [Accepted: 04/29/1999] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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31
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Jamieson BGM, Oliver SC, Scheltinga DM. The Ultrastructure of the Spermatozoa of Squamata-I. Scincidae, Gekkonidae and Pygopodidae (Reptilia). ACTA ZOOL-STOCKHOLM 1996. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1463-6395.1996.tb01255.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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