An investigation of excess residual cytoplasm in human spermatozoa and its distinction from the cytoplasmic droplet
Date
2012-11-17
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
BioMed Cenral
Abstract
Recent studies have shown cytoplasmic droplets to be normal morphological occurrences in human male
spermatozoa. When the cytoplasm around the sperm midpiece is present in large amounts, however, pathological
effects may transpire. The cytoplasmic droplet then becomes known as excess residual cytoplasm, which can impair
overall sperm function and produce higher levels of reactive oxygen species, potentially leading to male infertility.
Though the distinction between cytoplasmic droplets and excess residual cytoplasm has been made, some studies
fail to recognize the difference and incorrectly label the latter as a cytoplasmic droplet. This review attempts to
clarify excess residual cytoplasm’s effect on fertility, examine the enzymes responsible, and suggest tests and
possible treatment options for those affected by this defect.
Description
Publication of this article was funded by the Stellenbosch University Open Access Fund.
The original publication is available at http://www.rbej.com/content
The original publication is available at http://www.rbej.com/content
Keywords
Cytoplasmic droplet, Excess residual cytoplasm, Midpiece, Spermiogenesis, Cytoplasmic extrusion, Residual body, Regulatory volume decrease, Reactive oxygen species, Oxidative stress, Peroxidative damage
Citation
Rengan, A. K., Agarwal, A., van der Linde, M. & du Plessis, S. S. 2012. An investigation of excess residual cytoplasm in human spermatozoa and its distinction from the cytoplasmic droplet. Reproductive biology and endocrinology, 10, doi:10.1186/1477-7827-10-92.