AMPK Function in Mammalian Spermatozoa

Abstract

AMP-activated protein kinase AMPK regulates cellular energy by controlling metabolism through the inhibition of anabolic pathways and the simultaneous stimulation of catabolic pathways. Given its central regulator role in cell metabolism, AMPK activity and its regulation have been the focus of relevant investigations, although only a few studies have focused on the AMPK function in the control of spermatozoa’s ability to fertilize. This review summarizes the known cellular roles of AMPK that have been identified in mammalian spermatozoa. The involvement of AMPK activity is described in terms of the main physiological functions of mature spermatozoa, particularly in the regulation of suitable sperm motility adapted to the fluctuating extracellular medium, maintenance of the integrity of sperm membranes, and the mitochondrial membrane potential. In addition, the intracellular signaling pathways leading to AMPK activation in mammalian spermatozoa are reviewed. We also discuss the role of AMPK in assisted reproduction techniques, particularly during semen cryopreservation and preservation (at 17 °C). Finally, we reinforce the idea of AMPK as a key signaling kinase in spermatozoa that acts as an essential linker/bridge between metabolism energy and sperm’s ability to fertilize.

Rosmarinic acid improves boar sperm quality, antioxidant capacity and energy metabolism at 17°C via AMPK activation

“…AMPK can be activated by physiological conditions, metabolic hormones and pharmacological molecules (Martin-Hidalgo et al, 2018).…”

“…AMPK is a cellular metabolism energy sensor and a key signalling kinase in spermatozoa (Nguyen et al, 2016). AMPK controls metabolism by inhibiting anabolic pathways and simultaneously stimulating catabolic pathways, thereby regulating cellular energy (Martin-Hidalgo et al, 2018). The regulation of AMPK activity could be an interesting tool with which to optimize animal sperm preservation methods.…”

Roles of AMP-Activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) in Mammalian Reproduction

“…At this time, spermatozoa have already lost corresponding organelles to allow transcription and translation of genes, so the acquisition of these physiological abilities must rely on the modification of existing proteins (Castillo et al, 2019). AMPK and its phosphorylated form are expressed in a variety of mammalian sperm and mainly localized at the acrosome and at the mid-piece of flagellum (Martin-Hidalgo et al, 2018). Spermatozoa motility depends on flagellum beating, and mitochondria exist in the middle of the flagellum to provide energy for the movement (Gu et al, 2019).…”

The Roles of NO and H2S in Sperm Biology: Recent Advances and New Perspectives

“…In boar and mouse semen, Zhao et al [60] found that Na 2 S, a fast H 2 S releasing donor, decreases sperm motility by disrupting multiple signaling pathways, which mainly include: decreased ATPase activity, inhibition of Akt, and activation of the adenosine 5'-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) pathways. The AMPK pathway affects spermatogenesis and performs a crucial role in sperm metabolism and the motility of various mammalian species (e.g., rats, stallions, humans) [61]. On the other hand, the activation of the PI3K/Akt pathway can help to counteract the effects of oxidative stress.…”