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Sperm capacitation and transcripts levels are altered by in vitro THC exposure
Vivien B Truong1, Ola S Davis1, Jade Gracey1
1Reproductive Health and Biotechnology Lab, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, 50 Stone Rd. East, N1G 2W1, Guelph, ON, Canada.
BMC Molecular and Cell Biology
|February 24, 2023
Summary
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) exposure in bulls did not affect sperm motility or viability. However, THC increased sperm capacitation and altered gene expression, suggesting potential adverse effects on male fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Endocrinology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis.
- The endocannabinoid system is present in the male reproductive system.
- Cannabis use is prevalent among men of reproductive age.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of THC on sperm phenotypical, physiological, and molecular parameters.
- To use bull sperm as a translational model for human sperm.
Main Methods:
- In vitro exposure of bull sperm to varying doses of THC.
- Evaluation of sperm motility, morphology, viability, and capacitation.
- Transcriptome analysis to assess gene expression changes.
Main Results:
- Sperm motility, morphology, and viability remained unaltered by THC exposure.
- A significant increase in sperm capacitation was observed at 0.32µM THC.
- THC exposure led to differential gene expression, affecting pathways related to development, nucleosomes, ribosomes, translation, and cellular metabolism.
Conclusions:
- Phytocannabinoid exposure may negatively impact sperm function by inducing premature capacitation.
- Spermatozoal transcripts can be altered by THC exposure.
- These findings highlight potential molecular effects of cannabinoids on sperm and warrant further investigation into cannabis's impact on male fertility.
