Hydrogen sulfide in boar reproduction: Cystathionine β-synthase and cystathionine γ-lyase localization in reproductive tissues and sperm across maturation stages.

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is a gaseous signaling molecule influencing various signaling pathways and ion channels and modifies proteins through persulfidation. It is primarily synthesized by cystathionine β-synthase (CBS) and cystathionine γ-lyase (CSE), enzymes found in various tissues, including the male reproductive system. This study investigates the distribution of CBS and CSE in boar reproductive tissues and spermatozoa across different maturation stages and explores their potential role in sperm maturation. Using droplet digital PCR, indirect immunofluorescence, Western blotting, and transmission electron microscopy, we detected mRNA expression and protein localization of both enzymes in reproductive tissues, fluids, and distinct sperm segments. CBS mRNA expression was predominant in the caput epididymis, while CSE dominated in the corpus epididymis and seminal vesicles. At the protein level, both enzymes were primarily localized in the sperm midpiece and post-acrosomal region and first appeared during late spermatogenesis. Their presence was also detected in surrounding reproductive tissues and fluids, suggesting both intra- and extra-spermatozoal sources of H2S. These findings provide novel insight into the enzymatic basis of H2S production in male reproduction and contribute to a better understanding of its involvement in sperm maturation and function. The study highlights H2S as a potentially important regulator of male fertility.