The physiology of bicarbonate transporters in mammalian reproduction

Biol Reprod. 2012 Apr 5;86(4):99. doi: 10.1095/biolreprod.111.096826. Print 2012 Apr.

Abstract

HCO(3)(-) plays critically important roles during virtually the entire process of reproduction in mammals, including spermatogenesis, sperm capacitation, fertilization, and development of early stage embryos. Therefore, the acid-base balance in the male and female reproductive tracts must be finely modulated. The fluid milieu in the epididymis is acidic, containing very low concentration of HCO(3)(-). In this acidic low HCO(3)(-) environment, mature sperm are rendered quiescent in the epididymis. In contrast, the luminal fluid in the female uterus and oviduct is alkaline, with very high concentration of HCO(3)(-) that is essential for sperm to fulfill fertilization. HCO(3)(-) transporter of solute carrier 4 (SLC4) and SLC26 families represent the major carriers for HCO(3)(-) transport across the plasma membrane. These transporters play critical roles in intracellular pH regulation and transepithelial HCO(3)(-) transport. The physiological roles of these transporters in mammalian reproduction are of fundamental interest to investigators. Here we review recent progress in understanding the expression of HCO(3)(-) transporters in reproductive tract tissues as well as the physiological roles of these transporters in mammalian reproduction.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Acid-Base Equilibrium / physiology*
  • Animals
  • Anion Transport Proteins / metabolism
  • Bicarbonates / metabolism*
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator / metabolism
  • Epithelium / metabolism
  • Female
  • Genitalia / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Ion Channels / metabolism*
  • Ion Pumps / metabolism*
  • Ion Transport
  • Male
  • Mammals / metabolism
  • Membrane Transport Proteins / metabolism
  • Reproduction / physiology*
  • Sodium-Bicarbonate Symporters / metabolism

Substances

  • Anion Transport Proteins
  • Bicarbonates
  • Ion Channels
  • Ion Pumps
  • Membrane Transport Proteins
  • Sodium-Bicarbonate Symporters
  • Cystic Fibrosis Transmembrane Conductance Regulator