Studies on the metabolism of semen. 9. Effect of surface active agents with special reference to the oxidation of succinate by spermatozoa

Abstract

Certain surface active compounds, including ionic and non-ionic detergents, inhibit motility, fructolysis and respiration of spermatozoa. Among those examined, hexadecyl (cetyl)-trimethylammonium bromide and dodecyl sulfate were particularly effective. Their spermicidal power was assessed quantitatively by measuring the inhibitory influence on fructolysis and respiration. Hexadecyl(cetyl)trimethylammonium bromide, 0.0003-0.0006[image], inhibited the fructolysis of ram spermatozoa by 50%; 0.0008-0.0012[image] was required for complete inhibition of fructolysis and motility. Among similarly active substances were dodecyl sulfate, 2-phenoxyethanol, dodecylamine hydro-chloride, sodium taurocholate, "Lubrol" and "Teepol". The surface-active compounds induced a change in the permeability of spermatozoa as indicated by the diffusion of cytochrome c from the cells into the surrounding fluid. When succinate was added to detergent-treated immotile spermatozoa, the percentage increase of the O2 uptake was much greater than in intact motile sperm; thus, the stimulating effect of succinate on the respiration of spermatozoa was an indication of a moribund cell population.