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Beneļ¬cial effects of melatonin on boar sperm motility and kinematics are mediated by MT1 receptor.

Authors :
Yang D
Wang C
Lu W
Tian X
Sun Y
Peng H
Source :
Theriogenology [Theriogenology] 2024 Sep 15; Vol. 226, pp. 95-103. Date of Electronic Publication: 2024 Jun 08.
Publication Year :
2024

Abstract

Melatonin, a hormone synthesized in various tissues, plays a crucial role in modulating sperm characteristics, yet its protective function on boar sperm remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the expression and localization of melatonin-related proteins (AANAT, ASMT, MT1, MT2, and NQO2) in pig tissues, assess the impact of melatonin on pig sperm motility parameters and quality, and elucidate the underlying molecular mechanisms. Our results revealed widespread expression of AANAT, ASMT, MT1, MT2, and NQO2 proteins in pig tissues, particularly in the testis. Specific localization patterns were observed in Leydig cells, reproductive epithelium, and columnar epithelium cells in the testis and cauda epididymis. Additionally, melatonin membrane receptors MT1 and MT2 were detected in boar sperm. Melatonin treatment significantly enhanced boar sperm motility parameters and quality, particularly with 10 nM melatonin treatment. Inhibition of the MT1 receptor, but not the MT2 receptor, resulted in decreased sperm motility, highlighting the pivotal role of the MT1 receptor in mediating melatonin's effects on boar sperm. Metabolomic analysis revealed significant alterations in sperm metabolites following melatonin supplementation, particularly in amino acid metabolism. Overall, our findings provide comprehensive insights into melatonin's mechanisms in improving boar sperm quality, suggesting its potential as a therapeutic agent for enhancing male fertility.<br />Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare no conflict of interest.<br /> (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
1879-3231
Volume :
226
Database :
MEDLINE
Journal :
Theriogenology
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
38870584
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.06.003