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Polyol pathway in human epididymis and semen
Gilles Frenette1, Michel Thabet, Robert Sullivan
1Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction and Département d'Obstétrique-Gynécologie, Faculté de Médecine, Université Laval, Ste-Foy, Québec, Canada.
Journal of Andrology
|November 10, 2005
Summary
The polyol pathway, involving aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase, is present in human semen and epididymis. These enzymes are secreted by the epididymal epithelium, suggesting a role in sperm physiology and maturation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Biochemistry
- Sperm Physiology
Background:
- The polyol pathway, with aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase, is found in bovine epididymis and linked to sperm motility.
- Previous studies hypothesized its role in sperm maturation during epididymal transit.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the polyol pathway in human semen and epididymis.
- Determine if sperm maturation is associated with this sugar pathway in humans.
Main Methods:
- Western blot analysis of spermatozoa, prostasomes, and epididymosomes.
- Northern blot and RT-PCR to assess gene expression along the epididymis.
- Immunohistological studies to localize enzyme secretion.
Main Results:
- Aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase are present in human ejaculated spermatozoa, prostasomes, and epididymosomes.
- Enzymes are expressed transcriptionally and translationally throughout the human epididymis.
- Polyol pathway enzymes are secreted by the epididymal epithelium.
Conclusions:
- The polyol pathway is active in human sperm physiology.
- Enzymes are secreted by the epididymis, indicating a role beyond the bovine model.
- Suggests the polyol pathway contributes to human sperm maturation and function.