Sperm cell ATP production

Sperm cell ATP production is the fundamental metabolic process that fuels sperm motility, hyperactivation, and the acrosome reaction, all of which are indispensable for fertilization (Miki, 2007). ATP is generated through two compartmentalized pathways: oxidative phosphorylation in the midpiece mitochondria and glycolysis along the fibrous sheath of the flagellum (Ruiz-Pesini et al., 2007). In many species, including humans, glycolysis is the dominant source of energy for the flagellar beating necessary to traverse the female reproductive tract and penetrate the zona pellucida (Odet et al., 2008). Because this process involves sperm-specific enzymes like Glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, spermatogenic (GAPDHS) and Lactate dehydrogenase C (LDHC), it is a high-priority area for the development of non-hormonal male contraceptives (Goldberg et al., 2010). Pharmacological inhibition of these specific metabolic steps results in a rapid decline in intracellular ATP, leading to immediate loss of motility (asthenozoospermia) and failure of fertilization, while avoiding the systemic side effects associated with hormonal therapies (Danshina et al., 2010).

Other names

Sperm energy metabolismSpermatozoal glycolysisSpermatozoal oxidative phosphorylationSperm ATP synthesis

Inhibition of sperm-specific glycolytic or mitochondrial enzymes to deplete intracellular ATP, thereby arresting flagellar movement and preventing the acrosome reaction.