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Gn RH immunization alters the expression and distribution of protein disulfide isomerases in the epididymis
Author(s) -
SchorrLenz A. M.,
Alves J.,
Henckes N. A. C.,
Seibel P. M.,
Benham A. M.,
BustamanteFilho I. C.
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
andrology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.947
H-Index - 43
eISSN - 2047-2927
pISSN - 2047-2919
DOI - 10.1111/andr.12205
Subject(s) - epididymis , sperm , spermatogenesis , protein disulfide isomerase , biology , andrology , medicine , endocrinology , testosterone (patch) , endoplasmic reticulum , male infertility , microbiology and biotechnology , infertility , pregnancy , genetics
Summary Hypogonadism is defined as the inadequate gonadal production of testosterone. Low serum testosterone leads to infertility by impairing spermatogenesis and reducing sperm count, however, the impact of hypogonadism in epididymal sperm maturation is poorly understood. From the testis, spermatozoa are transported into the epididymis where they find a specific microenvironment composed of a complex mixture of proteins that facilitate sperm storage and maturation. Inside the epididymal ductule, spermatozoa undergo several changes, resulting in their becoming capable of fertilizing eggs. Protein disulfide isomerases ( PDI s) are known to participate in the folding and assembly of secreted proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. However, little is known about the control and function of PDI s in the testis and epididymis, particularly during male development. The aim of this work was to compare the expression and distribution of PDI and PDIA 3 ( ER p57) in the testis and epididymis of healthy and Gn RH ‐immunized boars. We detected higher amounts of PDIA 3 and PDI in sperm preparations and fluid from the proximal regions of the epididymis of healthy boars. However, we observed an increase in PDIA 3 expression in the testis and cauda epididymis in the immunocastrated group. Gn RH ‐immunized boars showed a marked increase in PDI content in cauda spermatozoa and fluid, indicating a possible endocrine dysregulation of PDI . The results of our study suggest that PDI s are associated with epididymal sperm maturation and may be attractive candidates for monitoring male fertility.