Regional variations in thiol distribution pattern and superoxide dismutase activity of the male reproductive tract of the rat modulate the transport of spermatozoa through the epididymis and vas deferens.
BACKGROUND
Contractile activity of the muscular coat of the epididymis wall is considered the major driving force for the propulsion of sperm through the male reproductive tract.


METHODS
Region-specific changes in the status of membrane thiols and the free radical scavening potential of the male reproductive tract of the rat were observed.


RESULTS
The present study shows that the local biochemical milieu has some influence on the transport of spermatozoa through the male reproductive tract. The vas deferens showed a higher level of superoxide dismutase activity and a low profile of thiol exposure.


CONCLUSIONS
We conclude that the strong scavenging potential and the lesser thiol exposure of the vas create an apparently inert vas lumen which facilitates the transit of spermatozoa through the vas.
School of Life Sciences, Devi Ahilya University, Indore, India.
S
S
Chatterjee
M
M
Laloraya
G P
GP
Kumar
D000818:Animals; D004822:Epididymis / Q000378:metabolism*; D008297:Male; D051381:Rats; D017208:Rats, Wistar; D013094:Spermatozoa / Q000502:physiology*; D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds / Q000493:pharmacokinetics*; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase / Q000378:metabolism*; D014649:Vas Deferens / Q000378:metabolism*
D013438:Sulfhydryl Compounds; D013482:Superoxide Dismutase