Sperm function, mitochondrial activity and in vivo fertility are associated to their mitochondrial DNA content in pigs.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Despite their low abundance in sperm, mitochondria have diverse functions in this cell type, including energy production, signalling and calcium regulation. In humans, sperm mitochondrial DNA content (mtDNAc) has been reported to be negatively linked to sperm function and fertility. Yet, the association between mtDNAc and sperm function in livestock remains unexplored. For this reason, this study aimed to shed some light on the link between mtDNAc and sperm function and fertilising potential in pigs. A qPCR method for mtDNAc quantification was optimised for pig sperm, and the association of this parameter with sperm motility, kinematics, mitochondrial activity, and fertility was subsequently interrogated.

Results

First, the qPCR method was found to be sensitive an

SUBMITTER: Llavanera M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10832242 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature