Seminal Plasma Osteopontin: A Marker for Potential Fertility in Dogs

Abstract

Background: Osteopontin (OPN) is an extracellular matrix protein with multifunctions and has been identified in the reproductive tract of both males and females. OPN from the seminal plasma (SP) has been closely associated with male fertility in several domestic animals. Different isoforms of OPN has been identified in the SP and sperm membrane in dogs but with unknown functions. The current study investigated the comparison of key canine sperm microscopic parameters and SP markers between dogs exhibiting different fertility potential.Methods: In this investigation during 2018-2019, 21 dogs coming for breeding soundness examination were selected and divided into fertile (Group I) and hypofertile (Group II). Evaluation included assessment of sperm microscopic characteristics and estimation of OPN, Malondialdehyde (MDA), Catalase (CAT), Glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and Superoxide dismutase (SOD) concentration in the SP.Result: The OPN level showed positive correlation with all the sperm evaluated characteristics (p less than 0.01). Linear regression analysis depicted a significant (p less than 0.001) influence of OPN on the evaluated sperm characteristics. These findings suggest that OPN in the SP along with the microscopic characteristics of the spermatozoa can be used as a potential fertility marker in discriminating fertile from the hypofertile ones.

Osteopontin Concentration in Prostates Fractions: A Novel Marker of Sperm Quality in Dogs

“…In agreement with these established findings, our study further substantiates this relationship, revealing that higher OPN levels in the first fraction are associated with reduced sperm motility. This finding is in harmony with several studies in dogs, bulls, and boars, which have consistently shown a strong connection between sperm motility, fertility, and OPN levels [8,24,25]. These collective observations underscore the pivotal role of OPN in sperm functionality and its potential significance in reproductive studies.…”

“…Previous research by Lee et al [23] demonstrated a similar connection, highlighting OPN's protective role against apoptosis and oxidative damage in sperm cells. Abedin et al [8]) investigated deeper, elucidating specific pathways, such as MAP kinase and phosphoinositide 3-kinase, emphasizing OPN's influence on sperm motility. In agreement with these established findings, our study further substantiates this relationship, revealing that higher OPN levels in the first fraction are associated with reduced sperm motility.…”

“…OPN is a highly phosphorylated extracellular matrix glycoprotein that interacts with membrane proteins through its integrin-binding Arg-Gly-Asp sequence and plays a role in cell-cell interaction and tissue remodeling [3][4][5][6][7]. It also has various functions in male reproductive tissues and cells, such as stabilizing the spermatozoal membrane [3], promoting motility [8], facilitating Vet. Sci.…”

“…In addition, OPN is involved in the immune response of the testes and may play a role in the development of certain autoimmune conditions that affect the male reproductive system. Thus, OPN has many potential biotechnological applications, such as serving as a biomarker for fertility [8], prostate cancer [12], nephrolithiasis, and various chronic inflammatory diseases.…”

Sperm osteopontin mRNA expression levels and its correlation on semen quality and fertility in Madura bulls

“…According to a previous study that the relationship between OPN expression and sperm integrin and CD44 receptor binding is demonstrated (Souza et al 2009;Gomes et al 2020) and it was shown to increase sperm motility, promoting acrosomal reactions, fertilization, and early embryonic development in cattle (Monaco et al 2009). Further, the activation mechanism of integrin and CD44 membrane receptors and signal transduction mechanisms, such as the activation of different pathways, especially Map kinase and phosphoinositide (PI) 3-kinase, which help sperm motile and produce energy (Abedin et al 2021). As a result, a higher OPN is associated with a larger percentage of motile sperm, as was seen in this study in extremely fertile Madura bulls.…”