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Effect of nitric oxide on mouse sperm hyperactivation
M B Herrero1, E Cebral, M Boquet
1Centro de Estudios Farmacológicos y Botánicos (CEFYBO), Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas de la República Argentina (CONICET).
Acta Physiologica, Pharmacologica Et Therapeutica Latinoamericana : Organo De La Asociacion Latinoamericana De Ciencias Fisiologicas Y [De] La Asociacion Latinoamericana De Farmacologia
|January 1, 1994
Summary
Nitric oxide (NO) is crucial for sperm hyperactivation in vitro. While higher concentrations of NO donors decreased sperm motility, moderate levels enhanced hyperactivation, indicating a dose-dependent role.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Signaling
Background:
- Nitric oxide (NO) acts as an intracellular and extracellular messenger.
- NO activates guanylate cyclase, influencing cellular processes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of nitric oxide (NO) in sperm hyperactivation in vitro.
- To determine the effects of varying NO concentrations on sperm motility and hyperactivation.
Main Methods:
- Sperm were capacitated in media supplemented with sodium nitroprusside (NO donor) at 150 microM and 300 microM.
- Sperm motility, viability, and hyperactivation were assessed over time.
- Hemoglobin was used as an NO scavenger to confirm NO's role.
Main Results:
- A high concentration (300 microM) of sodium nitroprusside significantly decreased sperm motility and viability after 90-120 minutes.
- Moderate concentration (150 microM) of sodium nitroprusside did not affect motility or viability.
- Both concentrations of sodium nitroprusside increased the percentage of hyperactivated spermatozoa compared to controls, with dose- and time-dependent effects.
Conclusions:
- Nitric oxide plays a significant role in regulating sperm hyperactivation in vitro.
- The effects of NO on sperm function are concentration-dependent, with potential detrimental effects at high doses.