Evaluation of the proteomic profiles of ejaculated spermatozoa from Saanen bucks ( Capra hircus )

Anim Reprod. 2019 Nov 18;16(4):902-913. doi: 10.21451/1984-3143-AR2019-0001.

Abstract

The Saanen goat breed has been widely explored in breeding programmes; however, there are few reports about the breed's genetic and molecular composition. Thus, this study aimed to characterize the proteomic profile of spermatozoa from Saanen breeding goats. Five breeding animals with proven fertility were selected, the spermatozoa were collected, and the protein was extracted. Subsequently, the proteins were separated and analysed by two-dimensional electrophoresis and mass spectrometry; the proteins were then identified with the SwissProt database. A total of 31 proteins involved in reproduction were identified, including binding proteins on spermatozoa for fusion with the egg, acrosomal membrane proteins, metabolic enzymes, heat shock proteins, cytoskeletal proteins and spermatozoa motility proteins. The characterization of such proteins clarifies the molecular mechanisms of spermatogenesis and the modifications that ensure the success of fertilization.

Keywords: proteomic profiles; saanen; sperm.

Grants and funding

Financial support: This study is a part of the FUNCAP financially-supported research project. Number of the financing process: BPI-0067-001610100/12.