Heat Stress Reduces Sperm Motility via Activation of Glycogen Synthase Kinase-3α and Inhibition of Mitochondrial Protein Import.

ABSTRACT: The adverse effects of high environmental temperature exposure on animal reproductive functions have been concerned for many decades. However, the molecular basis of heat stress (HS)-induced decrease of sperm motility has not been entirely elucidated. We hypothesized that the deteriorate effects of HS may be mediated by damage of mitochondrial function and ATP synthesis. To test this hypothesis, we use mature boar sperm as model to explore the impacts of HS on mitochondrial function and sperm motility. A 6 h exposure to 42°C (HS) induced significant decrease in sperm progressive motility. Concurrently, HS induced mitochondrial dysfunction that is indicated by decreased of membrane potential, respiratory chain complex I and IV activities and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) contents. Exogenous

SUBMITTER: Gong Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC5615227 | biostudies-literature | 2017

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature