Acrosomal biogenesis in human globozoospermia: immunocytochemical, ultrastructural and proteomic studies

Authors: Alvarez Sedó, Cristian; Rawe, Vanesa Y.; Chemes, Héctor E.

Source: Human Reproduction, Volume 27, Number 7, 6 July 2012 , pp. 1912-1921(10)

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Abstract:

BACKGROUND

Acrosome biogenesis is a key event in sperm differentiation that depends on the proper interaction between the Golgi complex and the nuclear envelope of early spermatids. We studied the development, structure and biochemical characteristics of human acrosomes in germ cells and spermatozoa from testicular biopsies and semen samples of fertile men and patients with acrosomeless spermatozoa (globozoospermia). A set of proteins collectively known as the perinuclear theca (PT), which has been related to acrosomal development in many mammalian species, were also investigated.

METHODS

We evaluated spermatozoa from five males with globozoospermia and six fertile men, and immature germ cells from testicular biopsies of one globozoospermic patient and three men with obstructive azoospermia. Samples were assessed by transmission electron microscopy, immunofluorescence microscopy, ultrastructural immunocytochemistry and proteomic analysis by western blot.

RESULTS

In normal spermiogenesis, the development of the acrosome depends on the correct formation of Golgi-derived proacrosomal vesicles and simultaneous modifications in the nuclear envelope. PT proteins are consistently found in proacrosomic vesicles, localize underneath the acrosome and expand over the nuclear surface along acrosome biogenesis. In fertile men, the PT is composed of six proteins, similar to those previously described for other mammals (16, 22, 29, 34, 50 and 68 kDa). In globozoospermia, abnormal proacrosomal vesicles and paranuclear multivesicular and multilamellar structures were observed that resulted in acrosomes insufficiently developed or detached from the nuclear envelope. PT proteins, dissociated from the acrosomes, were ectopically localized in the cytoplasm. Proteomic analysis showed a significant decrease in all six PT proteins.

CONCLUSIONS

The alterations observed during early acrosome biogenesis in globozoospermia are due to anomalous development of Golgi-derived proacrosomic vesicles, failure of PT proteins to properly associate with the nuclear surface and significant deficiencies in specific PT components that are necessary for proper acrosome formation, implantation and expansion over the spermatid nucleus.

Keywords: acrosome biogenesis; perinuclear theca; globozoospermia

Document Type: Research article

DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/humrep/des126

Publication date: 2012-07-06

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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.

Acrosomal biogenesis in human globozoospermia: immunocytochemical, ultrastructural and proteomic studies

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