Elucidating the processes and pathways enriched in buffalo sperm proteome in regulating semen quality

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology and proteomics
• Mammalian sperm function and quality assessment

Background:

• Sperm proteins are crucial for functional competence and reproductive success.
• Understanding sperm proteome variations can identify markers for semen quality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To profile the proteome of buffalo sperm from good and poor quality semen.
• To identify specific proteins and pathways associated with semen quality in buffalo bulls.

Main Methods:

• Semen samples from buffalo bulls were analyzed for functional attributes.
• Sperm proteins were extracted and profiled using Liquid Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry/Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS).
• Proteomic data was analyzed to identify differentially expressed proteins and enriched biological pathways.

Main Results:

• Buffalo sperm proteome comprises 1365 proteins, with unique proteins identified in good (477) and poor (430) quality semen.
• Sexual reproduction, thermogenesis, and oocyte meiosis were enriched biological processes in the overall sperm proteome.
• Good quality semen showed enrichment in mesenchyme migration and fluid shear stress pathways, while poor quality semen was linked to valine, leucine, and isoleucine degradation; specific proteins like SPINK2 and NEDDYLIN were upregulated in good quality semen.

Conclusions:

• Sperm protein composition is linked to functional attributes and can impact oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryonic development.
• Proteomic variations in buffalo sperm serve as potential biomarkers for selecting breeding bulls with superior fertility.