Reactive oxygen-induced reactive oxygen formation during human sperm capacitation

Physiological processes are often activated by reactive oxygen species (ROS), such as the superoxide anion (O2–) and nitric oxide (NO) produced by cells. We studied the interactions between NO and O2–, and their generators (NO synthase, NOS, and a still elusive oxidase), in human spermatozoa during capacitation (transformations needed for acquisition of fertility). Albumin, fetal cord serum ultrafiltrate, and L-arginine triggered capacitation and ROS generation (NO and O2–) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) and NOS inhibitors prevented all these effects. Surprisingly, capacitation due to exogenous NO (or O2–) was also blocked by SOD (or NOS inhibitors). Probes used were proven specific and innocuous on spermatozoa. Whereas O2– was needed only for 30 min, the continuous NO generation was essential for hours. Capacitation caused a time-dependent increase in protein tyrosine nitration that was prevented by SOD and NOS inhibitors, suggesting that O2– and NO· also act via the formation of ONOO–. Spermatozoa treated with NO (or O2–) initiated a dose-dependent O2– (or NO) production, providing, for the first time in cells, a strong evidence for a two-sided ROS-induced ROS generation. Data presented show a close interaction between NO and O2– and their generators during sperm capacitation.