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Intratesticular creatine maintains spermatogenesis by defining tight junctions
Sohei Kuribayashi1,2, Shinichiro Fukuhara3, Hiroaki Kitakaze1,2
1Department of Urology, Osaka University Graduate School of Medicine, Suita, 565-0871, Osaka, Japan.
Scientific Reports
|December 27, 2024
Summary
Male infertility affects many couples. This study reveals creatine is essential for sperm health and maintaining testicular tight junctions, crucial for male fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Endocrinology
- Male Infertility Research
Background:
- Male infertility impacts approximately 50% of infertile couples, with unknown causes.
- The testes are a major creatine reservoir, but its specific role in testicular function is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the intratesticular role of creatine in male reproductive function.
- To examine the involvement of the creatine synthesizing enzyme (Gamt) and creatine transporter (Slc6a8) in testicular physiology.
Main Methods:
- Utilized knockout mouse models for Gamt and Slc6a8.
- Assessed spermatogenesis, sperm count, motility, and fertilization rates.
- Analyzed intratesticular creatine levels and testicular tight junction integrity.
- Evaluated the effects of creatine supplementation in Gamt knockout mice.
Main Results:
- Slc6a8 knockout mice showed normal spermatogenesis.
- Gamt knockout mice exhibited reduced sperm count, motility, and fertilization rates.
- Decreased intratesticular creatine in Gamt knockout mice led to disrupted tight junctions, which creatine supplementation rectified.
Conclusions:
- Creatine is essential for maintaining the integrity of tight junctions within the testis.
- Creatine plays a critical role in supporting sperm quality and fertilization capacity in males.
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