Insights into pH regulatory mechanisms in mediating spermatozoa functions.

Abhishek Kumar Mishra,Rajesh Nigam,Dilip Kumar Swain,Akshay Kumar,Sarvajeet Yadav

doi:10.14202/vetworld.2018.852-858

Abstract

Regulation of pH in spermatozoa is a complex and dynamic process as sperm cells encounter different pH gradients during their journey from testes to the site of fertilization in female genital tract. The precise regulations of pH in sperm cells regulate the sperm functions such as motility, hyperactivity, capacitation, and acrosome reaction. Electrophysiological, pharmacological, and molecular studies have revealed the presence of different ion channels and exchanger systems which regulate intracellular pH in sperm cells as well as regulate sperm functions. Recent studies also have shown the potential involvement of pH in the regulation of fertility competence of sperm cells, and alterations in pH have shown to impede sperm functions. This mini-review discusses the probable mechanisms involved in pH regulation in sperm cells and how pH is involved in regulation of various sperm functions.

Highlights

All biophysiological events in cells involving enzymes, hormones, transmitters, and growth factors are dependent on pH
Some studies related to the effect of pH in birds, fish, shellfish, and mammals have been done, and nearly, all the results show the promising effect of pH on sperm motility, viability, and capacitation
This study revealed an inverse relationship between expression and conservation of sperm motility and depicts that intracellular acidification in spermatozoa suppresses motility and extend lifespan [21]

Summary

Introduction

All biophysiological events in cells involving enzymes, hormones, transmitters, and growth factors are dependent on pH. Studies have shown deviated/disrupted sperm functions at high/low pH indicating the existence of dynamic pH regulatory system in spermatozoa [5]. Spermatozoa are bathed in seminal plasma which is complex fluid secretions of accessory sex glands of male reproductive system and potentially contains all active component required for the optimal regulation of pH in and around sperm cells [4,6].

Results

Conclusion