SLO3 K+ Channels Control Calcium Entry through CATSPER Channels in Sperm

Here we show how a sperm-specific potassium channel (SLO3) controls Ca2+ entry into sperm through a sperm-specific Ca2+ channel, CATSPER, in a totally unanticipated manner. The genetic deletion of either of those channels confers male infertility in mice. During sperm capacitation SLO3 hyperpolarizes the sperm, whereas CATSPER allows Ca2+ entry. These two channels may be functionally connected, but it had not been demonstrated that SLO3-dependent hyperpolarization is required for Ca2+ entry through CATSPER channels, nor has a functional mechanism linking the two channels been shown. In this study we show that Ca2+ entry through CATSPER channels is deficient in Slo3 mutant sperm lacking hyperpolarization; we also present evidence supporting the hypothesis that SLO3 channels activate CATSPER channels indirectly by promoting a rise in intracellular pH through a voltage-dependent mechanism. This mechanism may work through a Na+/H+ exchanger (sNHE) and/or a bicarbonate transporter, which utilizes the inward driving force of the Na+ gradient, rendering it intrinsically voltage-dependent. In addition, the sperm-specific Na+/H+ exchanger (sNHE) possess a putative voltage sensor that might be activated by membrane hyperpolarization, thus increasing the voltage sensitivity of internal alkalization.