Role of outer dense fiber in multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella in Akap4 gene defect mice

Objective: To determine the role of outer dense fiber (ODF) in multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella in Akap4 gene defect mice. Methods: Akap4 knock-out (KO) mouse model was established by using gene editing technology. Akap4-KO male mice were identified by genotype. Seven sexually mature male Akap4-KO mice served as an experimental group, and 7 sexually mature wild-type (WT) male mice served as a control group. The changes in body weight and testicular weight were measured. Computer aided sperm analysis (CASA) was used to detect sperm motility. Sperm morphology was detected by modified Periodic Acid-Schif (PAS) staining. The ultra-structure of sperm was observed under the scanning and transmission electron microscope. Sperm flagella associated protein expression and localization were detected by immunofluorescence. Spermatogenesis function of testis was evaluated by HE and PAS staining. Ultra-structure of seminiferous tubules was observed under the transmission electron microscope. Results: Akap4-KO mice had no natural fertility. The sperm motility of Akap4-KO male mice was lower than that of WT male mice (8.81% vs 46.0296, P<0.0l). In Akap4-KO male mice the percentage of sperm, with shortened tail and coiled tail was 91.1896 which was higher than that of WT male mice (P<0.0l). There was no statistically significance in the testicular weight, spermatogensis function, and sperm count between the 2 groups (P>0.0l). The longitudinal column of fibrous sheath in Akap4-KO male mice was absent, and the residues of transverse rib remained, which was consistent with the immunofluorescence localization of AKAP3 protein. No. 3 and No. 8 ODF in the principal piece were disordered, which was in consistent with ectopic localization of ODF2 protein. Conclusion: Multiple morphological abnormalities of the sperm flagella in mice are resulted from disorder of "9+2" microtubules and the abnormally expanded lumen at the proximal of the principal piece via causing dysplasia of the transverse rib due to Akap4 gene defect, and separation of the ODF of No. 3 and No. 8 via loss of longitudinal column.