Na,K-ATPase α4 isoform is essential for sperm fertility

• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.1016902108
• Publication Date: 2010-12-28T01:45:14Z
• Authors: Tamara Jimenez; Jeffrey P. McDermott; Gladis Sánchez; Gustavo Blanco
• Keywords: Hyperactivation; Capacitation

Regulation of ion balance in spermatozoa has been shown to be essential for sperm motility and fertility. Control intracellular levels requires the function distinct ion-transport mechanisms at cell plasma membrane. Active Na + K exchange is under control Na,K-ATPase. Two molecular variants catalytic subunit Na,K-ATPase, α1 α4, coexist sperm. These isoforms exhibit different biochemical properties; however, their fertility unknown. In this work, we show that Na,K-ATPase α4 Knockout male mice lacking are completely sterile from these unable fertilizing eggs vitro. Furthermore, deletion results severe reduction hyperactivation typical capacitation. addition, absence causes a characteristic bend flagellum, indicative abnormal regulation. Accordingly, α4-null present increased membrane depolarization. unique demonstrating absolute requirement Moreover, inability compensate suggests Na,K-ATPase-α isoform directly involved Our findings as an attractive target contraception open possibility potential use biomarker