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Androgen receptor is expressed in both X- and Y-carrier human spermatozoa
Daniela Zuccarello1, Andrea Garolla, Alberto Ferlin
1Department of Histology, Microbiology and Medical Biotechnologies, Centre for Male Gamete Cryopreservation, University of Padova, Padova, Italy.
Objective:
To quantify the amount of AR messenger RNA (mRNA) and to analyze the presence and functionality of the AR protein in X- and Y-carrier human spermatozoa.
Design:
A molecular and cellular research study.
Setting:
Academic research clinic and laboratories.
Patient(S):
Ten normozoospermic volunteers.
Intervention(S):
Sperm were analyzed for expression of AR mRNA and protein. The functionality of AR protein was assessed after incubation with 1 nM of synthetic androgen.
Main Outcome Measure(S):
Reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR), real-time PCR, Western immunoblotting, confocal immunofluorescence, and fluorescence in situ hybridization analysis were performed.
Result(S):
A significant amount of AR mRNA (around 30% of that found in the testis) was found in sperm. Androgen receptor protein was found in both X- and Y-carrier spermatozoa and translocates into the nucleus in the presence of synthetic androgen.
Conclusion(S):
A functional AR is expressed in human sperm. In view of the fact that AR protein is found in both X- and Y-carrier spermatozoa, it most probably is translated in earlier steps of spermatogenesis and moves to Y-carrier spermatids through the cytoplasmic bridges.
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