The Physiology of Echinus Esculentus Spermatozoa

Abstract

1. The O₂ uptake of Echinus esculentus sperm suspensions is strongly inhibited by CO. In equilibrium with a mixture of 90% CO and 10% O₂, the O₂ uptake is 60% less than that of an identical suspension in equilibrium with 90% N₂ and 10% O₂. 2. This inhibition is completely reversed by light. 3. Spectroscopic examination revealed cytochromes a, a₃, b and c. On treatment with CO the spectrum of COa₃ was observed. 4. These results establish that the cytochrome system is the catalytic agent which controls the respiration of sea-urchin spermatozoa. 5. The O₂ uptake of sperm suspensions in equilibrium with 90% N₂ and 10% O₂ is about 10% lower than in air. 6. Certain difficulties in measuring the R.Q. of sperm are discussed. 7. The reversible effect of CO on the O₂ uptake of spermatozoa is the same whether they are in egg water or sea water.