Glycoprotein changes in the bovine sperm plasma membrane during maturation in the epididymis
Abstract
Developing spermatozoa require a series of post-testicular modifications within the luminal environment of the epididymis to achieve maturation; this involves several surface modifications including changes in plasma membrane lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and alterations in the outer acrosomal membrane. Maturation can therefore allow sperm to gain forward motility and fertilization capabilities. The objective of this study was to investigate surface glycoprotein changes during maturation and their role with the production of functionally competent spermatozoa. Western Blots of SDSPAGE fractionated sperm samples identified a 19 kDa WGA binding polypeptide present in the cauda sperm plasma membranes which is secreted only from the cauda epididymis and may be involved in sperm-egg interactions. It is important to identify and elucidate the mechanisms responsible for glycoprotein changes in order to examine the biochemical pathways associated with spermatozoa during epididymal transit.
Subject Area
Cellular biology|Biochemistry
Recommended Citation
Buchanan, Teresa Lynn, "Glycoprotein changes in the bovine sperm plasma membrane during maturation in the epididymis" (2011). ETD Collection for Fayetteville State University. AAI1525799.
https://digitalcommons.uncfsu.edu/dissertations/AAI1525799