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Ethylene oxide suppresses boar sperm function during capacitation
Jae-Hwan Jo1, Claudine Uwamahoro1, Seung-Ik Jang1
1Department of Animal Science and Biotechnology, Kyungpook National University, Sangju, Gyeongsangbuk-do 37224, Republic of Korea.
Reproductive Toxicology (Elmsford, N.Y.)
|July 28, 2024
Summary
Ethylene oxide (E.O) exposure negatively impacts boar sperm function during capacitation, decreasing motility and ATP levels while altering key signaling pathways. This suggests E.O. may induce male reproductive toxicity, warranting consideration in its industrial use.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Toxicology
- Sperm Biology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Ethylene oxide (E.O) is an industrial epoxide used as a sterilizer and in chemical synthesis.
- While E.O.'s toxicity to bacteria and mammals is known, its specific impact on male reproductive function during sperm capacitation remains unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effects of ethylene oxide exposure on boar spermatozoa during the critical process of sperm capacitation.
- To evaluate E.O.'s impact on sperm motility, kinematics, capacitation status, intracellular energy levels, viability, and key signaling molecules.
Main Methods:
- Boar spermatozoa were exposed to varying concentrations of ethylene oxide (0-100 μM).
- Assessed parameters included sperm motility, motion kinematics, capacitation status, intracellular ATP levels, cell viability, Protein Kinase A (PKA) activation, and tyrosine phosphorylation.
Main Results:
- Ethylene oxide exposure significantly reduced sperm motility, motion kinematics, and intracellular ATP levels.
- A significant increase in capacitated spermatozoa was observed, alongside abnormal changes in PKA activation and tyrosine phosphorylation.
- These findings indicate a disruption of normal sperm function by E.O.
Conclusions:
- Ethylene oxide exposure adversely affects critical sperm functions during capacitation.
- The observed alterations suggest E.O. can induce male reproductive toxicity.
- It is recommended to consider potential male reproductive toxicity when utilizing ethylene oxide in industrial applications.
