Knockout of MCT1 results in total absence of spermatozoa, sex hormones dysregulation, and morphological alterations in the testicular tissue

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2019

Authors

Bernardino, RL (Author) ICBAS; D'Souza, WN (Author) Other; Rato, L (Author) Other; Rothstein, JL (Author) Other; Dias, TR (Author) Other; Chui, D (Author) Other; Wannberg, S (Author) Other; Alves, MG (Author) Other; Oliveira, PF (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Cell and Tissue Research

Vol. 378

Pages: 333-339

ISSN: 0302-766X

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 0 Citations

Scopus - 2 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00Q-K9Y

DOI: 10.1007/s00441-019-03028-4

Abstract (EN): Lactate is a key metabolite for the normal occurrence of spermatogenesis. In the testis, lactate is produced by the Sertoli cells and transported to germline cells. Monocarboxylate transporters (MCTs) are key players in that process. Among the family of MCTs, MCT1 is at least partly responsible for lactate uptake by the germ cells. We aimed to perform a first assessment of the role of MCT1 in male reproductive potential. Mct1 conditional knockout (cKO) mice were used for morphometric evaluation, testicular morphology, and sperm parameter assessment. Serum steroid hormones levels were also measured. cKO animals showed a decrease in gonadosomatic index, testis weight, and seminiferous tubular diameters. Deletion of MCT1 also causes morphological changes in the organization of the seminiferous tubules and on Sertoli cell morphology. These changes resulted in failure of spermatogenesis with depletion of germ cells and total absence of spermatozoa. MCT1 cKO animals presented also hormonal dysregulation, with a decrease in serum 17 beta-estradiol levels. In conclusion, MCT1 is pivotal for male reproductive potential. Absence of MCT1 results in maintenance of undifferentiated spermatogonia pool and compromised sperm production.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 7