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Spermatogenesis is the process by which haploid sperm cells are produced in the male testes. It starts with stem cells located close to the outer rim of seminiferous tubules. These spermatogonial stem cells divide asymmetrically to give rise to additional stem cells (meaning that these structures “self-renew”), as well as sperm progenitors, called spermatocytes. Importantly, this method of asymmetric mitotic division maintains a population of spermatogonial stem cells in the male reproductive...

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Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 28, 2026

Fish Sperm Assessment Using Software and Cooling Devices

Fish Sperm Assessment Using Software and Cooling Devices

Published on: July 28, 2018

Sperm surface changes and physiological consequences induced by sperm handling and storage.

Tamara Leahy¹, Bart M Gadella

¹Faculty of Science, School of Veterinary Science, University of Queensland, Gatton 4343, Queensland, Australia.

Reproduction (Cambridge, England)

|October 4, 2011

Summary

Sperm surface remodeling is crucial for fertilization, but assisted reproduction processes can damage sperm. This review explores sperm membrane stability and novel methods to protect sperm during handling.

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Last Updated: May 28, 2026

Fish Sperm Assessment Using Software and Cooling Devices

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Published on: July 28, 2018

Sperm Collection of Differential Quality Using Density Gradient Centrifugation

Sperm Collection of Differential Quality Using Density Gradient Centrifugation

Published on: November 29, 2018

Fluorimetric Techniques for the Assessment of Sperm Membranes

Fluorimetric Techniques for the Assessment of Sperm Membranes

Published on: November 28, 2018

Area of Science:

Reproductive Biology
Cellular Physiology
Membrane Biophysics

Background:

Spermatozoa undergo critical surface remodeling for fertilization.
Capacitation involves intricate sperm membrane modifications, including removal of suppression factors and altered lipid-protein organization.
Assisted reproduction procedures can induce stress, potentially damaging sperm membranes and overriding natural processes.

Purpose of the Study:

To review fundamental sperm surface changes essential for fertilization.
To examine the impact of assisted reproduction stressors on sperm membrane stability.
To discuss novel strategies for stabilizing the sperm surface during handling.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature on sperm-surface interactions and capacitation.
Analysis of membrane stress factors in assisted reproduction.
Exploration of novel surface manipulation techniques for sperm stabilization.

Main Results:

Sperm surface remodeling is a dynamic process vital for successful fertilization.
Assisted reproduction techniques pose significant risks to sperm membrane integrity.
Current understanding highlights the need for improved methods to maintain sperm stability.

Conclusions:

Understanding sperm membrane dynamics is key to improving reproductive outcomes.
Protecting sperm from stress during handling is essential for assisted reproduction success.
Further research into novel stabilization techniques is warranted to enhance sperm quality and viability.