The Dynamic Cytoskeleton of the Developing Male Germ Cell

Abstract

Mammalian spermatogenesis is characterized by dramatic cellular change to transform the non-polar spermatogonium into the highly polarized, functional spermatozoon. The acquisition of cell polarity is a requisite step for formation of viable sperm. The polarity of the spermatozoon is clearly demonstrated by the acrosome at the apical pole of the cell and the flagellum at the opposite end. Spermatogenesis consists of three basic phases: mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. The final phase represents the period of greatest cellular change where cell-type specific organelles such as the acrosome and the flagellum form, the nucleus migrates to the plasma membrane and elongates, chromatin condenses, and residual cytoplasm is removed. An important feature of spermatogenesis is the change in the cytoskeleton that occurs throughout this pathway. In this review, the author will provide an overview of these transformations and provide insight into possible modes of regulation of these rearrangements during spermatogenesis. Although primary focus will be given to the microtubule cytoskeleton, the importance of actin filaments to the cellular transformation of the male germ cell will also be discussed.