Protein kinases regulate hyperactivated motility of human sperm

[1] Hyperactivated motility enables the sperm to migrate and penetrate the cumulus cells and zona pellucida surrounding the oocyte, leading to fertilization. [...]the hyperactivated motility of sperm is critical for male reproductive ability, and the molecular mechanism underlying human sperm hyperactivation requires discussion. [...]this medical progress article focuses on the roles of protein kinase phosphorylation in hyperactivated sperm motility. Almog et al[7] also found that PKC-stimulated ERK phosphorylates Rho GTPase-activating protein 6 (ARHGAP6), which is a specific GTPase-activating protein of Rho A and a promoter of actin remodeling. Because Rho A is involved in cell movement, and actin remodeling involves hyperactivation and acrosome reaction, ERK-phosphorylated ARHGAP6 may participate in the hyperactivation of human sperm. The identification of protein kinases that regulate capacitation could provide new strategies for contraception or the treatment of unexplained male infertility. [...]kinase cascades in human sperm are worthy of further study.