Authors: Rossato, M.; Zorzi, M.; Ferlin, A.; Garolla, A.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 15, Number 8, August 2000 , pp. 1739-1743(5)

Publisher: Oxford University Press

Abstract:

The present study evaluated the effects of cryopreservation on progesterone-induced variations of calcium ion concentration [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF>, plasma membrane potential and acrosome reaction in human spermatozoa. Spermatozoa from 10 fertile donors were divided in two equivalent aliquots, one used as control (fresh spermatozoa) and the other used after freezing–thawing. Measurement of spermatozoa [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF> before and after freezing–thawing showed a significant reduction of basal [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF> in thawed spermatozoa (P < 0.01). Progesterone induced a rise of [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF> both in fresh and thawed spermatozoa with a significant reduction after freezing–thawing (P < 0.01). The monitoring of sperm plasma membrane potential demonstrated that progesterone induced plasma membrane depolarization in fresh spermatozoa that was absent in thawed spermatozoa. The inhibitory effects of freezing–thawing on progesterone induced [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF> and plasma membrane potential variations in human spermatozoa were closely related to the inhibition of the acrosome reaction. In conclusion the present study demonstrates that freezing–thawing procedures reduce the responsiveness of human spermatozoa to progesterone in terms of [Ca²⁺]<INF>i</INF> rise and completely inhibit its effects on plasma membrane potential variations, thus supporting the hypothesis that freezing–thawing procedures may differently modify the plasma membrane receptors for progesterone in human spermatozoa which are known to express at least two receptors for this steroid in their plasma membrane.

Keywords: calcium; cryopreservation; membrane potential; progesterone; spermatozoa

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2000-08-01

More about this publication?

• Human Reproduction features full-length, peer-reviewed papers reporting original research, clinical case histories, as well as opinions and debates on topical issues. Papers published cover the scientific and medical aspects of reproductive physiology and pathology, endocrinology, andrology, gonad function, gametogenesis, fertilization, embryo development, implantation, pregnancy, genetics, genetic diagnosis, oncology, infectious disease, surgery, contraception, infertility treatment, psychology, ethics and social issues. The highest scientific and editorial standard is maintained throughout the journal along with a rapid rate of publication.

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