[Phosphatidylserine and male reproduction]

Phosphatidylserine (PS) is an amphiphilic phospholipid ubiquitously present in the inside of the membrane of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells. In mammalian cells, there are two synthetic pathways for PS that are different from those of bacterial biosynthesis. The translocation of sperm PS from the inner to the outer leaflet of the plasma membrane is considered to be associated with sperm apoptosis and male infertility. The level of PS externalization in human sperm is used as an indicator for the evaluation of sperm quality. Fast separation of PS-externalized sperm at the molecular level by flow cytometry or magnetic activated cell sorting can effectively improve the quality of sperm and the success rate of assisted reproductive technology. This paper reviews the structure properties, distribution, biological activity and synthesis of PS, as well as its association with male reproduction.