Sperm Maturation In The Epididymis - Role Of Segment-Specific Microenvironments

Spermatozoa undergo a maturation process and acquire motility and fertility as they migrate from the proximal to the distal end of the long convoluted tubule known as the epididymis. Regions of the epididymis are subdivided into discrete segments defined structurally and functionally by connective tissue septa. Each segment is a unique microenvironment that together allows maturation to occur. This chapter focuses on how these distinct microenvironments are created, including the involvement of segment-specific expression of secretory proteins and cellular proteins allowing each segment to respond uniquely to external stimuli and novel mechanisms the epididymis uses to deliver and remove proteins from the epididymal lumen.