Molecular Mechanisms in Sperm Maturation and Function

Testicular sperm are non-functional and must undergo sequential maturational processes, first during epididymal transit in the male reproductive tract and subsequently during capacitation in the female reproductive tract, to acquire full fertilization competence. Recent research has uncovered the complexity of molecular events during epididymal transit, including the reorganization of the sperm surface proteome, the acquisition of key functionalities, and the adaptation to dynamic luminal environments. In parallel, studies on sperm capacitation have revealed additional layers of molecular regulation, including signaling pathways, ion fluxes, membrane reorganization, and post-translational modifications that culminate in hyperactivated motility and acrosome reaction competence. Despite significant advances in these aspects, our understanding of how region-specific cues within the epididymis and molecular triggers encountered in the female reproductive tract orchestrate these transformations remains incomplete. The field is now poised for deeper integrative studies that bridge molecular events with functional phenotypes in sperm cell biology and male fertility.This Research Topic aims to delineate the molecular mechanisms underpinning sperm maturation processes by synthesizing advances across multiple disciplines. It covers the molecular, cellular, and translational aspects of sperm maturation, focusing on the events taking place during epididymal transit and extending to the molecular mechanisms underlying capacitation. Submissions that integrate molecular discovery with functional analyses will be particularly valued. To gather further insights within these boundaries, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:- Mechanisms of extracellular vesicle biogenesis, cargo delivery, and uptake by sperm- Acquisition, shedding, and molecular remodeling of sperm surface proteins- Functional relevance of post-translational modifications in sperm maturation and capacitation- Regulation of epididymal proteostasis and surface protein quality control- Membrane lipid and sterol remodeling, domain organization, and impacts on function- Redox signaling, antioxidant systems, and metabolic control during maturation- Interplay between epididymal maturation and capacitation in determining fertilization potential Topic editors: Vanina Gabriela Da Ros, Debora Cohen, Maria Agustina Battistone Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78669/molecular-mechanisms-in-sperm-maturation-and-function