Molecular basis of spermatogenesis and sperm quality
Résumé
Spermatozoan quality can be evaluated in different ways, here we focus on the
analysis of DNA, RNA and epigenetic status of germ cells. These characterizations
also can be the bases for explaining sperm quality at other levels, so we will see how
some of these molecules could affect other sperm quality markers. Moreover, we
consider the possibility of using some of these molecules as predictors of sperm quality
in terms of the ability to produce healthy offspring. The relevant effect of different types
of RNA molecules in germ line specification and spermatogenesis and the importance
of germ cell DNA integrity and a proper epigenetic pattern will be also discussed.
Although most studies at this level have been performed in mammals, some
information is available for fish; these recent discoveries in fish models are included.
We provide a general overview on how these molecules could have a deep influence in
the final sperm quality.