Abstract
Summary
A method has been adapted for the isolation of metabolically active sperm from the caput, corpus and cauda epididymis and vas deferens of the guinea pig. The following changes in in vitro sperm metabolism associated with epididymal transit were observed:
1. A significant increase in the glycolytic rate (caput to cauda).
2. A marked decrease in glucose-supported respiration and endogenous respiration (caput to vas deferens).
3. A significant inhibition of sperm respiration by the uncoupling agent dinitrophenol in all segments of the epididymis.
4. A significant decrease in sperm anaerobic glycolysis in all segments of the epididymis.
These findings are discussed in terms of their correlation with known changes in sperm morphology and fertilizing capacity during epididymal transit and in terms of possible physiological mechanisms that ensure sperm survival during epididymal transit.
Get full access to this article
View all access options for this article.