Prostaglandins and their effects on the spermatogenesis of Astyanax lacustris

• Grant number: 23/12692-6
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: February 01, 2024
• End date: January 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Agronomical Sciences - Fishery Resources and Fishery Engineering - Inland Water Fishery Resources
• Principal Investigator: Rafael Henrique Nóbrega
• Grantee: Kemilly de Souza Gonçalves
• Host Institution: Instituto de Biociências (IBB). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Botucatu. Botucatu , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 21/06742-5 - New insights on gonadal signals (growth factors and lncRNAs) that regulate gonadal maturation in fish: basic knowledge and development of biotechnological strategies to delay puberty, AP.JP2

Abstract

Spermatogenesis is a complex process involving the formation of male gametes and occurs in several phases, including cellular control, DNA replication, and genetic material separation, resulting in the production of highly specialized sperm. This process is essential for genetic variability and the maintenance of the species' chromosome number. Early sexual maturation can be problematic for aquaculture, as it diverts energy from body growth, affecting the commercial weight of fish. Currently, prostaglandins, which are lipid mediators that play a significant role in various reproductive processes in teleost fish, are under study. Studies indicate that PGE2 affects spermatogonia and their differentiation, influencing spermatogenesis. Recent research with zebrafish highlights the influence of follicle-stimulating hormone (Fsh) and anti-Müllerian hormone (Amh) on PGE2 signaling and the regulation of spermatogonial stem cell differentiation. Astyanax lacustris, the species under investigation, is widely distributed in South America and valued for its rapid growth and meat quality. Furthermore, it serves as an ideal model for evolutionary, ecological, and genetic studies due to its easy reproduction, laboratory and field management, economic and ecological value, making it a promising option for aquaculture and recreational fishing. In light of these findings, this study aims to investigate the relationship between prostaglandins and the spermatogonial phase of spermatogenesis in A. lacustris.