Cryopreservation modifies the distribution of the prostate-derived lectin SL15 on the llama (Lama glama) sperm

Lectin-like molecules play a key role in mammalian sperm functionality. These multifunctional proteins have been proven to be involved in sperm capacitation, sperm motility, and viability, formation of the oviductal sperm reservoir, and in sperm-oocyte interaction. In a previous study, we reported t...

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Published in:Theriogenology 2023-05, Vol.202, p.93-102
Main Authors: Zampini, Renato, Castro-González, Ximena A., Scandura, Micaela, Sari, Luciana M., Diaz, Ana V., Martin, Alfredo, Argañaraz, Martin E., Apichela, Silvana A.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Animals
Camelids, New World
Cryopreservation
Cryopreservation - methods
Cryopreservation - veterinary
Lectins - metabolism
Male
Male reproductive system
New world camelids
Prostate
Semen - metabolism
Semen Preservation - methods
Semen Preservation - veterinary
Sperm
Sperm Motility
Spermatozoa - physiology
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Summary:Lectin-like molecules play a key role in mammalian sperm functionality. These multifunctional proteins have been proven to be involved in sperm capacitation, sperm motility, and viability, formation of the oviductal sperm reservoir, and in sperm-oocyte interaction. In a previous study, we reported the presence of a novel seminal plasma lectin, sperm lectin 15 kDa (SL15), adsorbed to the llama sperm. In order to gain knowledge in the understanding of SL15 and its functions, the aims of this study were to (a) elucidate the presence and localization of SL15 in the llama male reproductive tract and sperm, and (b) determine whether the sperm cryopreservation process of cooling and freeze-thawing affects the SL15 levels and distribution on llama sperm. We found that SL15 protein was expressed along the male reproductive system: testis, epididymis, prostate, and bulbourethral glands, being the prostate the main site of SL15 secretion. SL15 was localized on the sperm head, following different localization patterns. In order to understand if sperm cryopreservation induces modifications in the SL15 adsorption pattern, immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry analysis were carried out on fresh, 24 h cooled, and frozen-thawed sperm. Both cooled and frozen sperm showed particular SL15 patterns, that were not observed in the freshly ejaculated, indicating loss of SL15. Flow cytometry analysis also exhibited a decrease of SL15 in the cooled sperm (P 
ISSN:0093-691X
1879-3231
DOI:10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.03.006