Membrane-Mediated Regulation of Sperm Fertilization Potential in Poultry

Abstract

Fertilization requires successful completion of molecular events taking place at different spatiotemporal scales. Transcriptionally and translationally inactive sperm need to rely on pre-assembled pathways modulated by extracellular signals that traverse the plasma membranes. However, species differences in how sperm respond to them delay the progress toward a comprehensive understanding of how activation of the signaling cascades is coordinated in poultry sperm. In chickens, recent studies have found that membrane rafts are present on the sperm surface and play important roles in regulating multistage fertilization. In this review, we focus on three steps in which membrane alteration plays a key role. The first is post-testicular maturation, in which bird sperm acquire fertilization functions through biochemical changes. The second part of this review concerns membrane regulation of sperm-egg binding and the acrosome reaction.Finally, we extend our discussion to the translation of membrane raft theory into a technical principle for the commercial production and genetic preservation of poultry.

Comprehensive analysis of the differential expression of mRNAs, lncRNAs, and miRNAs in Zi goose testis with high and low sperm mobility

“…Genetic factors may be instrumental in regulating SM ( Froman, et al, 2002 ; Jarrell, et al, 2020 ). Studies have suggested that sperm motility is primarily regulated by intracellular signal transduction processes, including G protein-coupled receptors, adenylate cyclase ( AC ), ion channels, ATP, and flagellation-related proteins ( Böttinger, 2010 ; Miller, et al, 2015 ; Asano and Priyadarshana, 2022 ; Murat, et al, 2023 ). These molecules and pathways regulate the ion balance in sperm cells, structure and movement of the cytoskeleton, and flagellar swing, ultimately impacting sperm motility, and fertilization.…”

“…The testes are the site of spermatogenesis, maturation, and storage ( Estermann et al, 2021 ). Unlike mammals, bird sperm can acquire fertilization capacities within the testes, highlighting the critical role of testicular function in SM development ( Asano and Priyadarshana, 2022 ).…”