Statements in which the resource exists as a subject.
PredicateObject
rdf:type
lifeskim:mentions
pubmed:issue
5 Pt 2
pubmed:dateCreated
1994-12-8
pubmed:abstractText
Osmolalities of epididymal fluids obtained by micropuncture from hibernating species of bats (Myotis lucifugus) rise during sperm storage periods to as high as 1,523 mmol/kgH2O (approximately 5 times that of plasma). In vitro studies establish that hyperosmolality can preserve viability and prevent initiation of progressive motility in bat epididymal spermatozoa as well as induce their quiescence by reducing respiration. Reduction of osmolality (to 500-600 mmol/kgH2O) induces swelling of sperm and allows the initiation of motility and increased metabolic rate; further reduction of osmolality to < 300 mmol/kgH2O compromises permeability barriers and causes loss of motility. We hypothesize that seasonal establishment of hyperosmotic conditions driven by those cells that constitute the limits of the epididymal lumen dehydrates the compliant spermatozoa and thereby minimizes their metabolic needs. A novel form of cell storage dependent on unique adaptations of the epididymal epithelium for solute and water transport is implicated. To date, the operative osmolyte or osmolytes responsible for elevating osmolality in this system remain elusive.
pubmed:language
eng
pubmed:journal
pubmed:citationSubset
IM
pubmed:chemical
pubmed:status
MEDLINE
pubmed:month
Nov
pubmed:issn
0002-9513
pubmed:author
pubmed:issnType
Print
pubmed:volume
267
pubmed:owner
NLM
pubmed:authorsComplete
Y
pubmed:pagination
R1363-70
pubmed:dateRevised
2006-11-15
pubmed:meshHeading
pubmed:year
1994
pubmed:articleTitle
Hyperosmolality and sperm storage in hibernating bats: prolongation of sperm life by dehydration.
pubmed:affiliation
Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Pennsylvania State University, University Park 16802.
pubmed:publicationType
Journal Article, Comparative Study, Research Support, U.S. Gov't, Non-P.H.S.