Lactate inhibits glucose-induced zigzag motility and enhances linear motility in bull spermatozoa by suppressing glycolysis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Energy metabolism and substrate balance are critical determinants of sperm motility and fertility. Linear motility is necessary for sperm forward movement, whereas hyperactivated motility is a prerequisite for fertilization. The preference of metabolic pathways depends on substrate availability which controls sperm motility. However, there are differences in substrate composition in seminal plasma, vagina, uterus and oviducts.

Objectives

This study aims to clarify how the spermatozoa maintains its metabolic homeostasis and functions in the presence of glucose and lactate either alone or in combinations.

Materials and methods

Fresh bull spermatozoa was incubated with modified human tubal fluid (mHTF) medium containing either no-energy, glucose, lactate, or a

SUBMITTER: Miraz MFH 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12917573 | biostudies-literature | 2026 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature