Immunofluorescent evidence of the platelet-activating factor receptor on human spermatozoa.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the presence of the platelet-activating factor (PAF) receptor on human spermatozoa.


METHODS
Prospective analysis.


METHODS
University-based reproductive biology laboratory.


METHODS
Spermatozoa obtained from men undergoing routine semen analysis.


METHODS
Spermatozoa (n = 10) were exposed to PAF, sheep anti-PAF antibody, and fluorescein isothiocyanate-conjugated rabbit antisheep antibody, and then evaluated by fluorescent microscopy.


METHODS
Assessment of fluorescent intensity at four locations on the spermatozoa (tail, midpiece, proximal head, and acrosome region).


RESULTS
Immunofluorescence demonstrated the presence of the PAF receptor on human spermatozoa. The PAF receptor was most prevalent at two sites on the spermatozoa: the midpiece and the proximal head.


CONCLUSIONS
The PAF receptor is present on human spermatozoa. Platelet-activating factor may affect the motility of spermatozoa through a receptor-mediated mechanism at the midpiece and/or proximal head.
Reinhardt
J C
JC
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, Charleston 29425, USA.
Cui
X
X
Roudebush
W E
WE
D005455:Fluorescent Antibody Technique; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor / Q000378:metabolism; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins / Q000032:analysis*; D011446:Prospective Studies; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled; D013077:Sperm Head / Q000737:chemistry; D013082:Sperm Tail / Q000737:chemistry; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000737:chemistry*
D010972:Platelet Activating Factor; D010980:Platelet Membrane Glycoproteins; D011956:Receptors, Cell Surface; D043562:Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled; C039351:platelet activating factor receptor