The coupling apparatus of the sperm head and tail†

Abstract

A strong sperm head-tail coupling apparatus (HTCA) is needed to ensure the integrity of spermatozoa during their fierce competition to fertilize the egg. A lot of HTCA-specific components have evolved to strengthen the attachment of the tail to the implantation fossa at the sperm head. Defects in HTCA formation lead to acephalic spermatozoa syndrome and pathologies of some male infertility. Recent studies have provided insights into the pathogenic molecular mechanisms of acephalic spermatozoa syndrome. Here, we summarize the proteins involved in sperm neck development and focus on their roles in the formation of HTCA. In addition, we discuss the fine structures of the sperm neck in different species from an evolutionary view, highlighting the potential conservative mechanism of HTCA formation.

Keywords: acephalic spermatozoa syndrome; evolution; head–tail coupling apparatus; sperm competition.