| Popis: |
1 AbstractAbstractAbstractAbstract Proteins secreted in the male reproductive tract play a key role in post-testicular development of sperm and in further steps needed for fertilization. Sperm maturation represents a key step in the reproduction process. Sperm, during the passage through the epididymis undergoes significant changes due to proteolytic and glycolytic activities in the epididymal fluid. Inhibitor of acrosin protects spermatozoa and reproductive epithelium against proteolytic degradation and also protects binding sites for ZP on sperm plasma membrane. In boar reproductive system acrosin inhibitor (AI) was found in seminal plasma and on sperm plasma membrane. Polyclonal antibody recognized AI in extracts of the cauda epididymidis, seminal vesicles, prostate, and Cowper's glands. Using immunofluorescence method has revealed the AI in the epithelium and lumen of these organs but also on the surface of epididymal and ejaculated spermatozoa. We registered the increasing signal of AI from caput to cauda epididymis. Gene expression of AI mRNA was detected in the epididymis, seminal vesicles, prostate, and Cowper's glands and increased gradually throughout the epididymal duct. In present study, we also monitored AI in boar epididymal fluid and spermatozoa along the organ. In the epididymis, AI may... |
