1
|
Chávez JC, Carrasquel-Martínez G, Hernández-Garduño S, Matamoros Volante A, Treviño CL, Nishigaki T, Darszon A. Cytosolic and Acrosomal pH Regulation in Mammalian Sperm. Cells 2024; 13:865. [PMID: 38786087 PMCID: PMC11120249 DOI: 10.3390/cells13100865] [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: 04/19/2024] [Revised: 05/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/09/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
As in most cells, intracellular pH regulation is fundamental for sperm physiology. Key sperm functions like swimming, maturation, and a unique exocytotic process, the acrosome reaction, necessary for gamete fusion, are deeply influenced by pH. Sperm pH regulation, both intracellularly and within organelles such as the acrosome, requires a coordinated interplay of various transporters and channels, ensuring that this cell is primed for fertilization. Consistent with the pivotal importance of pH regulation in mammalian sperm physiology, several of its unique transporters are dependent on cytosolic pH. Examples include the Ca2+ channel CatSper and the K+ channel Slo3. The absence of these channels leads to male infertility. This review outlines the main transport elements involved in pH regulation, including cytosolic and acrosomal pH, that participate in these complex functions. We present a glimpse of how these transporters are regulated and how distinct sets of them are orchestrated to allow sperm to fertilize the egg. Much research is needed to begin to envision the complete set of players and the choreography of how cytosolic and organellar pH are regulated in each sperm function.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julio C. Chávez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico; (J.C.C.); (G.C.-M.)
| | - Gabriela Carrasquel-Martínez
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico; (J.C.C.); (G.C.-M.)
- CITMER, Medicina Reproductiva, México City 11520, Mexico
| | - Sandra Hernández-Garduño
- Departamento de Morfología, Facultad de Medicina Veterinaria y Zootecnia, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), México City 04510, Mexico;
| | - Arturo Matamoros Volante
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering and School of Biomedical Engineering, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
| | - Claudia L. Treviño
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico; (J.C.C.); (G.C.-M.)
| | - Takuya Nishigaki
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico; (J.C.C.); (G.C.-M.)
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología (IBT), Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Cuernavaca 62210, Morelos, Mexico; (J.C.C.); (G.C.-M.)
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Using the Culex pipiens sperm proteome to identify elements essential for mosquito reproduction. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0280013. [PMID: 36795667 PMCID: PMC9934393 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0280013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mature sperm from Culex pipiens were isolated and analyzed by mass spectrometry to generate a mature sperm proteome dataset. In this study, we highlight subsets of proteins related to flagellar structure and sperm motility and compare the identified protein components to previous studies examining essential functions of sperm. The proteome includes 1700 unique protein IDs, including a number of uncharacterized proteins. Here we discuss those proteins that may contribute to the unusual structure of the Culex sperm flagellum, as well as potential regulators of calcium mobilization and phosphorylation pathways that regulate motility. This database will prove useful for understanding the mechanisms that activate and maintain sperm motility as well as identify potential molecular targets for mosquito population control.
Collapse
|
3
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Marín-Briggiler CI, Luque GM, Gervasi MG, Oscoz-Susino N, Sierra JM, Mondillo C, Salicioni AM, Krapf D, Visconti PE, Buffone MG. Human Sperm Remain Motile After a Temporary Energy Restriction but do Not Undergo Capacitation-Related Events. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:777086. [PMID: 34869380 PMCID: PMC8633110 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.777086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 10/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
To acquire fertilization competence, mammalian sperm must undergo several biochemical and physiological modifications known as capacitation. Despite its relevance, the metabolic pathways that regulate the capacitation-related events, including the development of hyperactivated motility, are still poorly described. Previous studies from our group have shown that temporary energy restriction in mouse sperm enhanced hyperactivation, in vitro fertilization, early embryo development and pregnancy rates after embryo transfer, and it improved intracytoplasmic sperm injection results in the bovine model. However, the effects of starvation and energy recovery protocols on human sperm function have not yet been established. In the present work, human sperm were incubated for different periods of time in medium containing glucose, pyruvate and lactate (NUTR) or devoid of nutrients for the starving condition (STRV). Sperm maintained in STRV displayed reduced percentages of motility and kinematic parameters compared to cells incubated in NUTR medium. Moreover, they did not undergo hyperactivation and showed reduced levels of ATP, cAMP and protein tyrosine phosphorylation. Similar to our results with mouse sperm, starvation induced increased intracellular Ca2+ concentrations. Starved human sperm were capable to continue moving for more than 27 h, but the incubation with a mitochondrial uncoupler or inhibitors of oxidative phosphorylation led to a complete motility loss. When exogenous nutrients were added back (sperm energy recovery (SER) treatment), hyperactivated motility was rescued and there was a rise in sperm ATP and cAMP levels in 1 min, with a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ concentration and no changes in sperm protein tyrosine phosphorylation. The finding that human sperm can remain motile for several hours under starvation due to mitochondrial use of endogenous metabolites implies that other metabolic pathways may play a role in sperm energy production. In addition, full recovery of motility and other capacitation parameters of human sperm after SER suggests that this treatment might be used to modulate human sperm fertilizing ability in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Guillermina M. Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María G. Gervasi
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Natalia Oscoz-Susino
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Jessica M. Sierra
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Carolina Mondillo
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana M. Salicioni
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Darío Krapf
- Instituto de Biología Molecular y Celular de Rosario (CONICET-UNR), Rosario, Argentina
| | - Pablo E. Visconti
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA, United States
| | - Mariano G. Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental (IBYME-CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Mentrup T, Schröder B. Signal peptide peptidase-like 2 proteases: Regulatory switches or proteasome of the membrane? BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2021; 1869:119163. [PMID: 34673079 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2021.119163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Signal peptide peptidase-like 2 (SPPL) proteases constitute a subfamily of SPP/SPPL intramembrane proteases which are homologues of the presenilins, the catalytic core of the γ-secretase complex. The three SPPL2 proteases SPPL2a, SPPL2b and SPPL2c proteolyse single-span, type II-oriented transmembrane proteins and/or tail-anchored proteins within their hydrophobic transmembrane segments. We review recent progress in defining substrate spectra and in vivo functions of these proteases. Characterisation of the respective knockout mice has implicated SPPL2 proteases in immune cell differentiation and function, prevention of atherosclerotic plaque development and spermatogenesis. Mechanisms how substrates are selected by these enzymes are still incompletely understood. We will discuss current views on how selective SPPL2-mediated cleavage is or whether these proteases may exhibit a generalised role in the turnover of membrane proteins. This has been suggested previously for the mechanistically related γ-secretase for which the term "proteasome of the membrane" has been coined based on its broad substrate spectrum. With regard to individual substrates, potential signalling functions of the resulting cytosolic cleavage fragments remain a controversial aspect. However, it has been clearly shown that SPPL2 proteases can influence cellular signalling and membrane trafficking by controlling levels of their membrane-bound substrate proteins which highlights these enzymes as regulatory switches. Based on this, regulatory mechanisms controlling activity of SPPL2 proteases would need to be postulated, which are just beginning to emerge. These different questions, which are relevant for other families of intramembrane proteases in a similar way, will be critically discussed based on the current state of knowledge.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torben Mentrup
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, D-01307 Dresden, Germany
| | - Bernd Schröder
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, D-01307 Dresden, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Aldana A, Carneiro J, Martínez-Mekler G, Darszon A. Discrete Dynamic Model of the Mammalian Sperm Acrosome Reaction: The Influence of Acrosomal pH and Physiological Heterogeneity. Front Physiol 2021; 12:682790. [PMID: 34349664 PMCID: PMC8328089 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.682790] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
The acrosome reaction (AR) is an exocytotic process essential for mammalian fertilization. It involves diverse physiological changes (biochemical, biophysical, and morphological) that culminate in the release of the acrosomal content to the extracellular medium as well as a reorganization of the plasma membrane (PM) that allows sperm to interact and fuse with the egg. In spite of many efforts, there are still important pending questions regarding the molecular mechanism regulating the AR. Particularly, the contribution of acrosomal alkalinization to AR triggering physiological conditions is not well understood. Also, the dependence of the proportion of sperm capable of undergoing AR on the physiological heterogeneity within a sperm population has not been studied. Here, we present a discrete mathematical model for the human sperm AR based on the physiological interactions among some of the main components of this complex exocytotic process. We show that this model can qualitatively reproduce diverse experimental results, and that it can be used to analyze how acrosomal pH (pH a ) and cell heterogeneity regulate AR. Our results confirm that a pH a increase can on its own trigger AR in a subpopulation of sperm, and furthermore, it indicates that this is a necessary step to trigger acrosomal exocytosis through progesterone, a known natural inducer of AR. Most importantly, we show that the proportion of sperm undergoing AR is directly related to the detailed structure of the population physiological heterogeneity.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Aldana
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Jorge Carneiro
- Instituto Gulbenkian de Ciência, Oeiras, Portugal
- Instituto de Tecnologia Química e Biológica António Xavier, Universidade Nova, Oeiras, Portugal
| | - Gustavo Martínez-Mekler
- Centro de Ciencias de la Complejidad, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico
- Instituto de Ciencias Físicas, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Departamento de Genética del Desarrollo y Fisiología Molecular, Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cuernavaca, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Mata-Martínez E, Sánchez-Tusie AA, Darszon A, Mayorga LS, Treviño CL, De Blas GA. Epac activation induces an extracellular Ca 2+ -independent Ca 2+ wave that triggers acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa. Andrology 2021; 9:1227-1241. [PMID: 33609309 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The signaling pathways of the intracellular second messengers cAMP and Ca2+ play a crucial role in numerous physiological processes in human spermatozoa. One such process is the acrosome reaction (AR), which is necessary for spermatozoa to traverse the egg envelope and to expose a fusogenic membrane allowing the egg-sperm fusion. Progesterone and zona pellucida elicit an intracellular Ca2+ increase that is needed for the AR in the mammalian spermatozoa. This increase is mediated by an initial Ca2+ influx but also by a release from intracellular Ca2+ stores. It is known that intracellular Ca2+ stores play a central role in the regulation of [Ca2+ ]i and in the generation of complex Ca2+ signals such as oscillations and waves. In the human spermatozoa, it has been proposed that the cAMP analog and specific agonist of Epac 8-(p-chlorophenylthio)-2'-O-methyladenosine-3',5'-cyclic monophosphate (2'-O-Me-cAMP) elicits an intracellular Ca2+ release involved in the AR. OBJECTIVE To identify the molecular entities involved in the Ca2+ mobilization triggered by 2'-O-Me-cAMP in human spermatozoa. MATERIALS AND METHODS In capacitated human spermatozoa, we monitored Ca2+ dynamics and the occurrence of the AR in real time using Fluo 3-AM and FM4-64 in a Ca2+ -free medium. RESULTS Epac activation by 2'-O-Me-cAMP induced a Ca2+ wave that started in the midpiece and propagated to the acrosome region. This Ca2+ response was sensitive to rotenone, CGP, xestospongin, NED-19, and thapsigargin, suggesting the participation of different ion transporters (mitochondrial complex I and Na+ /Ca2+ exchanger, inositol 3-phosphate receptors, two-pore channels and internal store Ca2+ -ATPases). DISCUSSION Our results suggest that Epac activation promotes a dynamic crosstalk between three different intracellular Ca2+ stores: the mitochondria, the redundant nuclear envelope, and the acrosome. CONCLUSION The Ca2+ wave triggered by Epac activation is necessary to induce the AR and to enhance the flagellar beat.
Collapse
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
| | - Ana Alicia Sánchez-Tusie
- Laboratorio de Fisiología Celular y Molecular, Departamento de Investigación Biomédica, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro, México
| | - Alberto Darszon
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos, México
| | - Luis S Mayorga
- 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.,Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| | - Claudia L Treviño
- Instituto de Biotecnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Morelos, México
| | - Gerardo A De Blas
- 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.,Laboratorio de Teleanálisis e Investigación Traslacional, Área Farmacología, Facultad de Ciencias Médicas, Universidad Nacional de Cuyo, Mendoza, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
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: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Mentrup T, Cabrera-Cabrera F, Fluhrer R, Schröder B. Physiological functions of SPP/SPPL intramembrane proteases. Cell Mol Life Sci 2020; 77:2959-2979. [PMID: 32052089 PMCID: PMC7366577 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-020-03470-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Revised: 01/09/2020] [Accepted: 01/22/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Intramembrane proteolysis describes the cleavage of substrate proteins within their hydrophobic transmembrane segments. Several families of intramembrane proteases have been identified including the aspartyl proteases Signal peptide peptidase (SPP) and its homologues, the SPP-like (SPPL) proteases SPPL2a, SPPL2b, SPPL2c and SPPL3. As presenilin homologues, they employ a similar catalytic mechanism as the well-studied γ-secretase. However, SPP/SPPL proteases cleave transmembrane proteins with a type II topology. The characterisation of SPP/SPPL-deficient mouse models has highlighted a still growing spectrum of biological functions and also promoted the substrate discovery of these proteases. In this review, we will summarise the current hypotheses how phenotypes of these mouse models are linked to the molecular function of the enzymes. At the cellular level, SPP/SPPL-mediated cleavage events rather provide specific regulatory switches than unspecific bulk proteolysis. By this means, a plethora of different cell biological pathways is influenced including signal transduction, membrane trafficking and protein glycosylation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Torben Mentrup
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medizinisch-Theoretisches Zentrum MTZ, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Florencia Cabrera-Cabrera
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medizinisch-Theoretisches Zentrum MTZ, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01307, Dresden, Germany
| | - Regina Fluhrer
- Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Augsburg, Universitätsstraße 2, 86135, Augsburg, Germany
- Biomedizinisches Centrum (BMC), Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
- DZNE-German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Feodor-Lynen-Strasse 17, 81377, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernd Schröder
- Institute for Physiological Chemistry, Medizinisch-Theoretisches Zentrum MTZ, Technische Universität Dresden, Fiedlerstraße 42, 01307, Dresden, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Niemeyer J, Mentrup T, Heidasch R, Müller SA, Biswas U, Meyer R, Papadopoulou AA, Dederer V, Haug-Kröper M, Adamski V, Lüllmann-Rauch R, Bergmann M, Mayerhofer A, Saftig P, Wennemuth G, Jessberger R, Fluhrer R, Lichtenthaler SF, Lemberg MK, Schröder B. The intramembrane protease SPPL2c promotes male germ cell development by cleaving phospholamban. EMBO Rep 2019; 20:embr.201846449. [PMID: 30733280 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201846449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 12/21/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Signal peptide peptidase (SPP) and the four homologous SPP-like (SPPL) proteases constitute a family of intramembrane aspartyl proteases with selectivity for type II-oriented transmembrane segments. Here, we analyse the physiological function of the orphan protease SPPL2c, previously considered to represent a non-expressed pseudogene. We demonstrate proteolytic activity of SPPL2c towards selected tail-anchored proteins. Despite shared ER localisation, SPPL2c and SPP exhibit distinct, though partially overlapping substrate spectra and inhibitory profiles, and are organised in different high molecular weight complexes. Interestingly, SPPL2c is specifically expressed in murine and human testis where it is primarily localised in spermatids. In mice, SPPL2c deficiency leads to a partial loss of elongated spermatids and reduced motility of mature spermatozoa, but preserved fertility. However, matings of male and female SPPL2c -/- mice exhibit reduced litter sizes. Using proteomics we identify the sarco/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase (SERCA2)-regulating protein phospholamban (PLN) as a physiological SPPL2c substrate. Accumulation of PLN correlates with a decrease in intracellular Ca2+ levels in elongated spermatids that likely contribute to the compromised male germ cell differentiation and function of SPPL2c -/- mice.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Johannes Niemeyer
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Torben Mentrup
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany.,Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Ronny Heidasch
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Allianz, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Stephan A Müller
- DZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Germany.,Neuroproteomics, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Uddipta Biswas
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Rieke Meyer
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Alkmini A Papadopoulou
- Institute for Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Center (BMC) München, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Verena Dederer
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Allianz, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Martina Haug-Kröper
- Institute for Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Center (BMC) München, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Vivian Adamski
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | | | - Martin Bergmann
- Institute of Veterinary Anatomy, Justus Liebig University of Gießen, Gießen, Germany
| | - Artur Mayerhofer
- Cell Biology, Anatomy III, Biomedical Center (BMC) München, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Paul Saftig
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany
| | - Gunther Wennemuth
- Institute of Anatomy, University Hospital, Duisburg-Essen University, Essen, Germany
| | - Rolf Jessberger
- Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Regina Fluhrer
- DZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Germany.,Institute for Metabolic Biochemistry, Biomedical Center (BMC) München, Ludwig Maximilians University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Stefan F Lichtenthaler
- DZNE - German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases, Munich, Germany.,Neuroproteomics, School of Medicine, Klinikum rechts der Isar and Institute for Advanced Study, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany.,Munich Cluster for Systems Neurology (SyNergy), Munich, Germany
| | - Marius K Lemberg
- Zentrum für Molekulare Biologie der Universität Heidelberg (ZMBH), DKFZ-ZMBH Allianz, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Bernd Schröder
- Biochemical Institute, Christian-Albrechts-University of Kiel, Kiel, Germany .,Institute of Physiological Chemistry, Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Puga Molina LC, Luque GM, Balestrini PA, Marín-Briggiler CI, Romarowski A, Buffone MG. Molecular Basis of Human Sperm Capacitation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2018; 6:72. [PMID: 30105226 PMCID: PMC6078053 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2018.00072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 135] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
In the early 1950s, Austin and Chang independently described the changes that are required for the sperm to fertilize oocytes in vivo. These changes were originally grouped under name of “capacitation” and were the first step in the development of in vitro fertilization (IVF) in humans. Following these initial and fundamental findings, a remarkable number of observations led to characterization of the molecular steps behind this process. The discovery of certain sperm-specific molecules and the possibility to record ion currents through patch-clamp approaches helped to integrate the initial biochemical observation with the activity of ion channels. This is of particular importance in the male gamete due to the fact that sperm are transcriptionally inactive. Therefore, sperm must control all these changes that occur during their transit through the male and female reproductive tracts by complex signaling cascades that include post-translational modifications. This review is focused on the principal molecular mechanisms that govern human sperm capacitation with particular emphasis on comparing all the reported pieces of evidence with the mouse model.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lis C Puga Molina
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Guillermina M Luque
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Paula A Balestrini
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Clara I Marín-Briggiler
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Romarowski
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Mariano G Buffone
- Instituto de Biología y Medicina Experimental, Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Tecnológicas, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Responsiveness to progesterone and potassium channel blockers 4-aminopyridine, tetraethylammonium and free Ca(2+) contentration in spermatozoa of patients with oligozoospermia/leucocytospermia. UKRAINIAN BIOCHEMICAL JOURNAL 2018. [DOI: 10.15407/ubj90.01.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
|
15
|
Bergeron A, Hébert A, Guillemette C, Laroche A, Poulin MP, Aragon JP, Leclerc P, Sullivan R, Blondin P, Vigneault C, Richard FJ. Papaverine-sensitive phosphodiesterase activity is measured in bovine spermatozoa. Andrology 2016; 5:169-179. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2016] [Revised: 08/31/2016] [Accepted: 09/04/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Bergeron
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - A. Hébert
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - C. Guillemette
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - A. Laroche
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - M.-P. Poulin
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - J. P. Aragon
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - P. Leclerc
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction; Faculté de Médecine; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | - R. Sullivan
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département Obstétrique, Gynécologie et Reproduction; Faculté de Médecine; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| | | | | | - F. J. Richard
- Centre de Recherche en Reproduction; Développement et Santé Intergénérationnelle; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
- Département des Sciences Animales; Faculté des Sciences de L'agriculture et de L'alimentation; Université Laval; Québec QC Canada
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
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: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [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.
Collapse
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
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Peralta-Arias RD, Vívenes CY, Camejo MI, Piñero S, Proverbio T, Martínez E, Marín R, Proverbio F. ATPases, ion exchangers and human sperm motility. Reproduction 2015; 149:475-84. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0471] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Human sperm has several mechanisms to control its ionic milieu, such as the Na,K-ATPase (NKA), the Ca-ATPase of the plasma membrane (PMCA), the Na+/Ca2+-exchanger (NCX) and the Na+/H+-exchanger (NHE). On the other hand, the dynein-ATPase is the intracellular motor for sperm motility. In this work, we evaluated NKA, PMCA, NHE, NCX and dynein-ATPase activities in human sperm and investigated their correlation with sperm motility. Sperm motility was measured by Computer Assisted Semen Analysis. It was found that the NKA activity is inhibited by ouabain with twoKi(7.9×10−9and 9.8×10−5 M), which is consistent with the presence of two isoforms of α subunit of the NKA in the sperm plasma membranes (α1 and α4), being α4 more sensitive to ouabain. The decrease in NKA activity is associated with a reduction in sperm motility. In addition, sperm motility was evaluated in the presence of known inhibitors of NHE, PMCA and NCX, such as amiloride, eosin, and KB-R7943, respectively, as well as in the presence of nigericin after incubation with ouabain. Amiloride, eosin and KB-R7943 significantly reduced sperm motility. Nigericin reversed the effect of ouabain and amiloride on sperm motility. Dynein-ATPase activity was inhibited by acidic pH and micromolar concentrations of Ca2+. We explain our results in terms of inhibition of the dynein-ATPase in the presence of higher cytosolic H+and Ca2+, and therefore inhibition of sperm motility.
Collapse
|
18
|
Lachance C, Goupil S, Leclerc P. Stattic V, a STAT3 inhibitor, affects human spermatozoa through regulation of mitochondrial activity. J Cell Physiol 2013; 228:704-13. [PMID: 22911368 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2012] [Accepted: 08/08/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
We have recently shown that many mediators of the JAK/STAT signaling pathway are present in ejaculated human spermatozoa. Among them, STAT3 is detected mainly in membranes and flagellar cytoskeletal fractions. In order to determine the importance of STAT3-mediated signaling, sperm were incubated with Stattic V, a specific inhibitor. Effects on motility were evaluated by CASA, sperm acrosomal integrity was evaluated by FITC conjugated lectin (PSA or PNA) staining, and protein phosphotyrosine content was assessed by Western blot using a monoclonal anti-phosphotyrosine antibody. INDO1-AM and JC-1 were used to measure sperm intracellular calcium and mitochondrial membrane potential, respectively, by flow cytometry, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production was investigated by luminol-based assay. Percentages of motility and motility parameters were significantly affected by Stattic V. This later also significantly increased intracellular Ca(2+) levels, progesterone- and calcium ionophore (A23187)-induced acrosome reaction. On the other hand, a significant decrease in ATP content was measured when sperm were treated with Stattic V, associated with depolarization of mitochondrial membrane and elevated ROS production. These results suggest that STAT3 is involved in sperm functions, at least through regulation of mitochondrial activity. This further emphasizes that STAT3 mediates cellular activities in a manner different than strictly the activation of gene transcription.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Lachance
- Département d'Obstétrique et de Gynécologie, Centre de recherche en biologie de la reproduction, Université Laval, Axe reproduction, santé périnatale et santé de l'enfant, Centre de recherche du CHUQ-CHUL, Québec, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Miro-Moran A, Jardin I, Ortega-Ferrusola C, Salido GM, Peña FJ, Tapia JA, Aparicio IM. Identification and function of exchange proteins activated directly by cyclic AMP (Epac) in mammalian spermatozoa. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37713. [PMID: 22662198 PMCID: PMC3360633 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2011] [Accepted: 04/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of cAMP in spermatic functions was classically thought to be mediated exclusively through the activation of Protein Kinase A (PKA). However, it has recently been shown that cAMP also exerts its effects through a PKA-independent pathway activating a family of proteins known as Epac proteins. Therefore, many of the spermatic functions thought to be regulated by cAMP through the activation of PKA are again under study. We aimed to identify and to investigate the role of Epac proteins in spermatozoa using a specific permeable analog (8-Br-2′-O-Me-cAMP). Also, we aimed to study its relationship with E-cadherin, an adhesion protein involved in fertility. Our results demonstrate the presence and sub-cellular distribution of Epac 1 and Epac 2 in mammalian spermatozoa. Capacitation and the acrosome reaction induced a change in the localization of Epac proteins in sperm. Moreover, incubation with 8-Br-2′-O-Me-cAMP prompted an increase in Rap1 activation, in the scrambling of plasma membrane phospholipids (necessary for the capacitation process), the acrosome reaction, motility, and calcium mobilization, when spermatozoa were incubated in acrosome reaction conditions. Finally, the activation of Epac proteins induced a change in the distribution of E-cadherin. Therefore, the increase in the acrosome reaction, together with the increase in calcium (which is known to be essential for fertilization) and the Epac nteraction with E-cadherin, might indicate that Epac proteins have an important role in gamete recognition and fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alvaro Miro-Moran
- Cell Physiology Research Group, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Isaac Jardin
- Cell Physiology Research Group, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | | | - Gines M. Salido
- Cell Physiology Research Group, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Fernando J. Peña
- Laboratory of Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Jose A. Tapia
- Cell Physiology Research Group, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
| | - Ines M. Aparicio
- Cell Physiology Research Group, University of Extremadura, Caceres, Spain
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Xiao PJ, Peng ZY, Huang L, Li Y, Chen XH. Dephosphorylated NSSR1 is induced by androgen in mouse epididymis and phosphorylated NSSR1 is increased during sperm maturation. PLoS One 2011; 6:e25667. [PMID: 21980524 PMCID: PMC3183062 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0025667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 09/09/2011] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
NSSR1 (Neural salient serine/arginine rich protein 1, alternatively SRp38) is a newly identified RNA splicing factor and predominantly expressed in neural tissues. Here, by Western blot analysis and immunofluorescent staining, we showed that the expression of dephosphorylated NSSR1 increased significantly during development of the caput epididymis. In adult mice, phosphorylated NSSR1 was mainly expressed in the apical side of epithelial cells, and dephosphorylated NSSR1 in caput epididymis was upregulated in a testosterone dependent manner. In addition, subcellular immunoreactive distribution of NSSR1 varied in different regions of the epididymis. With respect to the sperm, phosphorylated NSSR1 was detected in the mid-piece of the tail as well as the acrosome. Furthermore, NSSR1 was released from the sperm head during the capacitation and acrosome reaction. These findings for the first time provide the evidence for the potential roles of NSSR1 in sperm maturation and fertilization.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ping-Jie Xiao
- Laboratory of Genomic Physiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zheng-Yu Peng
- Laboratory of Genomic Physiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Lu Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ya Li
- Laboratory of Genomic Physiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xian-Hua Chen
- Laboratory of Genomic Physiology and State Key Laboratory of Medical Neurobiology, Institutes of Brain Science, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
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: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [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.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S D Olson
- Department of Mathematics, Tulane University, New Orleans, LA 70115 USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
|
23
|
Pons-Rejraji H, Bailey JL, Leclerc P. Modulation of bovine sperm signalling pathways: correlation between intracellular parameters and sperm capacitation and acrosome exocytosis. Reprod Fertil Dev 2009; 21:511-24. [PMID: 19383258 DOI: 10.1071/rd07169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2007] [Accepted: 12/24/2008] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
In the present study, the viability, intracellular pH (pHi), cAMP ([cAMP]i), calcium concentration and protein phosphotyrosine content were evaluated in relation to the acrosomal and capacitation status of freshly ejaculated bull spermatozoa. These parameters were evaluated before and after incubation with the capacitation inducer heparin, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX), the phosphotyrosyl-protein phosphatase inhibitors phenylarsine oxide (PAO) and sodium orthovanadate, and hydrogen peroxide. The results obtained were integrated to address the physiological interactions between the different signalling events affecting sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction. As expected, heparin promoted the expression of the 'B' pattern of chlortetracycline binding, increased pHi, [cAMP]i and the phosphotyrosine content of sperm proteins. The effects of heparin were enhanced by IBMX. Both PAO and sodium orthovanadate stimulated protein phosphotyrosine content and acrosomal exocytosis, although only PAO affected pH, Ca2+ and cAMP levels. Intracellular pH was increased while both Ca2+ and [cAMP]i were decreased. Physiological concentrations of H2O2 increased [cAMP]i and promoted acrosomal exocytosis. A significant positive correlation was found between sperm capacitation, protein phosphotyrosine content and stored Ca2+ concentration, whereas the acrosome reaction was correlated with pHi and Ca2+ concentration. This study presents the first global analysis of the major elements individually described during sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction signalling pathways, supported by statistical correlations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanae Pons-Rejraji
- Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Université Laval, Québec, QC G1V 4G2, Canada
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Costello S, Michelangeli F, Nash K, Lefievre L, Morris J, Machado-Oliveira G, Barratt C, Kirkman-Brown J, Publicover S. Ca2+-stores in sperm: their identities and functions. Reproduction 2009; 138:425-37. [PMID: 19542252 DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular Ca2+ stores play a central role in the regulation of cellular [Ca2+](i) and the generation of complex [Ca2+] signals such as oscillations and waves. Ca2+ signalling is of particular significance in sperm cells, where it is a central regulator in many key activities (including capacitation, hyperactivation, chemotaxis and acrosome reaction) yet mature sperm lack endoplasmic reticulum and several other organelles that serve as Ca2+ stores in somatic cells. Here, we review i) the evidence for the expression in sperm of the molecular components (pumps and channels) which are functionally significant in the activity of Ca2+ stores of somatic cells and ii) the evidence for the existence of functional Ca2+ stores in sperm. This evidence supports the existence of at least two storage organelles in mammalian sperm, one in the acrosomal region and another in the region of the sperm neck and midpiece. We then go on to discuss the probable identity of these organelles and their discrete functions: regulation by the acrosome of its own secretion and regulation by membranous organelles at the sperm neck (and possibly by the mitochondria) of flagellar activity and hyperactivation. Finally, we consider the ability of the sperm discretely to control mobilisation of these stores and the functional interaction of stored Ca2+ at the sperm neck/midpiece with CatSper channels in the principal piece in regulation of the activities of mammalian sperm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Costello
- School of Biosciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B152TT, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Kawashima A, Osman BAH, Takashima M, Kikuchi A, Kohchi S, Satoh E, Tamba M, Matsuda M, Okamura N. CABS1 is a novel calcium-binding protein specifically expressed in elongate spermatids of mice. Biol Reprod 2009; 80:1293-304. [PMID: 19208547 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.073866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Single intraperitoneal injection of busulfan at 20 mg/kg body weight to mature male mice induced the deletion of the spermatogenic cells, followed by the restoration of the spermatogenesis by the surviving undifferentiated spermatogonia. The changes of the protein contents in testis during these processes were analyzed by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis in order to identify the proteins expressed at the specific stages of spermatogenesis. An acidic protein that disappeared and recovered in the same time course as spermatids after the busulfan treatment was identified as CABS1 by mass spectrometry. It was found that CABS1 was specifically expressed in the elongate spermatids at steps 13 to 16 in stages I to VIII of the seminiferous epithelium cycle of the mouse, and then it localized to the principal piece of flagellum of the mature sperm in the cauda epididymis. We have found for the first time that CABS1 is a calcium-binding protein that binds calcium during the maturation in the epididymis.
Collapse
|
26
|
Cai X, Clapham DE. Evolutionary genomics reveals lineage-specific gene loss and rapid evolution of a sperm-specific ion channel complex: CatSpers and CatSperbeta. PLoS One 2008; 3:e3569. [PMID: 18974790 PMCID: PMC2572835 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0003569] [Citation(s) in RCA: 73] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2008] [Accepted: 10/09/2008] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
The mammalian CatSper ion channel family consists of four sperm-specific voltage-gated Ca2+ channels that are crucial for sperm hyperactivation and male fertility. All four CatSper subunits are believed to assemble into a heteromultimeric channel complex, together with an auxiliary subunit, CatSperβ. Here, we report a comprehensive comparative genomics study and evolutionary analysis of CatSpers and CatSperβ, with important correlation to physiological significance of molecular evolution of the CatSper channel complex. The development of the CatSper channel complex with four CatSpers and CatSperβ originated as early as primitive metazoans such as the Cnidarian Nematostella vectensis. Comparative genomics revealed extensive lineage-specific gene loss of all four CatSpers and CatSperβ through metazoan evolution, especially in vertebrates. The CatSper channel complex underwent rapid evolution and functional divergence, while distinct evolutionary constraints appear to have acted on different domains and specific sites of the four CatSper genes. These results reveal unique evolutionary characteristics of sperm-specific Ca2+ channels and their adaptation to sperm biology through metazoan evolution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xinjiang Cai
- Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina, USA.
| | | |
Collapse
|
27
|
Characterization of a low-molecular-mass stimulator protein of Mg2+-independent Ca2+-ATPase: effect on phosphorylation/dephosphorylation, calcium transport and sperm-cell motility. Biosci Rep 2008; 28:61-71. [PMID: 18241199 DOI: 10.1042/bsr20070016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
A 14 kDa cytosolic protein purified from bovine brain homogenate has been recently reported as a stimulator of goat spermatozoa Mg2+-independent Ca2+-ATPase. In the present study, we demonstrate the formation of the [gamma-32P]ATP-labelled phosphoenzyme as the 110 kDa phosphoprotein and its rapid decomposition in presence of the stimulator protein. Together with the cross-reactivity of this 110 kDa protein with an anti-SERCA (sarcoplasmic/endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+-ATPase) 2a antibody, the ATPase can now be conclusively said to belong to the SERCA family, which is activated by the stimulator. The ability of the stimulator to enhance the Ca2+ transport has been elucidated from 45Ca2+ uptake studies and was found to be sensitive to Ca2+ channel blockers. CD revealed an alpha-helical structure of the stimulator. The amino acid analysis suggests that it is composed primarily of hydrophobic and some acidic amino acid residues. The pI of 5.1 has been re-confirmed from two-dimensional electrophoresis. Immuno-cross-reactivity studies indicate that the stimulator or similar proteins are present in cytosolic fractions of liver, kidney or testes in different species, but brain is the richest source. Proteomic analyses of its trypsinized fragments suggest its similarity with bovine THRP (thyroid hormone-responsive protein). The physiological significance of the stimulator has been suggested from its ability to activate sperm-cell motility.
Collapse
|
28
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm hyperactivation is critical to fertilization, because it is required for penetration of the zona pellucida. Hyperactivation may also facilitate release of sperm from the oviductal storage reservoir and may propel sperm through mucus in the oviductal lumen and the matrix of the cumulus oophorus. Hyperactivation is characterized by high amplitude, asymmetrical flagellar bending. METHODS This is a review of the original literature on the mechanisms that regulate hyperactivation, including physiological factors and signaling pathways. RESULTS Computer-assisted semen analysis systems can be used to identify hyperactivated sperm by setting minimum thresholds for curvilinear velocity (VSL) and lateral head movement and a maximum threshold for path linearity. Hyperactivation is triggered by a rise in flagellar Ca(2+) resulting from influx primarily through plasma membrane CatSper channels and possibly also by release of Ca(2+) from a store in the redundant nuclear envelope. It requires increased pH and ATP production. The physiological signals that trigger the rise in Ca(2+) remain elusive, but there is evidence that the increased Ca(2+) acts through a calmodulin/calmodulin kinase pathway. Hyperactivation is considered part of the capacitation process; however, the regulatory pathway that triggers hyperactivation can operate independently from that which prepares sperm to undergo the acrosome reaction. Hyperactivation may be modulated by chemotactic signals to turn sperm toward the oocyte. CONCLUSIONS Little is known about exactly what triggers hyperactivation in human sperm. This information could enable clinicians to develop reliable fertility assays to assess normal hyperactivation in human sperm samples.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Susan S Suarez
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, T5-002B Veterinary Research Tower, Cornell University Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
| |
Collapse
|