Sperm Centrioles and Their Dual Role in Flagellogenesis and Cell Cycle of the Zygote: Structure, Function, and Pathology

Abstract

This chapter examines the current knowledge on the role of the spermatid centrosome. The dual role of the centrosome as a spermatid basal body that generates the sperm flagellum and as the nucleation site for sperm aster formation in the zygote is mirrored in different sperm pathologies in infertile men that are reviewed in detail. Information is discussed on different sperm centriolar and centrosomal anomalies that are involved in failed fertilizations or abnormal development of the embryo. Particular attention is paid to specific centrosomal anomalies of genetic origin that cause dysfunction of the sperm centrosome with abnormal assembly of the sperm aster and failed pronuclear apposition and cleavage of the zygote. The studies highlight the key role played by sperm centrosomes in flagellogenesis and early zygote development and encourage further investigation on the physiopathology of sperm centrosome-related fertility failures to fully expose the basic mechanisms involved.