THE METABOLISM OF HUMAN SPERMATOZOA

Abstract

[longdash]The metabolism of human spermatozoa in Ringer-glucose is characterized by a high aerobic glycolysis and a relative deficiency in respiration. The glycolysis of the spermatozoa of any one individual is relatively constant from specimen to specimen but large differences are found from individual to individual. These differences cannot be accounted for on the basis of motility. Motility is not dependent upon the presence of O2, but added substrate in the form of utilizable sugar is essential for prolonged activity. Prolonged exposure to air or to O2 may result in failure of motility and of glycolysis.