Eggshell matrix proteins OC-116, OC-17 and OCX36 in hen's sperm storage tubules.

While uterine epithelium secretes eggshell matrix proteins to regulate eggshell structural organization, uterovaginal junction (UVJ) epithelium supports sperm storage in tubules Here, we examined the presence of OCX36, OC-116 and OC-17 eggshell matrix proteins in Two experimental lines of hens displaying either a long (F+ line) or a short (F- line) potential to store sperm were used, before and 24h after insemination. Using immunohistochemistry and western blot, we analyzed the presence of OC-116, OC-17 and OCX36 proteins in the duanyu1942s. Using lectin and calcium staining, we examined the presence in of Gal/GalNAc (Galactose/N-acetylgalactosamine) and Glc/GlcNAc (Glucose/N-acetylglucosamine) glycans, as well as calcium ions. Our results indicate that in both F+ and F- hens, the eggshell matrix proteins OC-116 and OCX36 were identified in cells and lumen, in contact with spermatozoa. The OC-17 protein was found associated with calcium in F+ and F- hens, only in the duanyu1942 lumen 24h after insemination. Glycans Gal/GalNAc and Glc/GlcNAc were found to be more abundant in the apical cytoplasmic area of the duanyu1942 cells of F+ hens than in that of F- hens after insemination. This is the first report demonstrating the presence in duanyu1942s of the OC-116, OC-17 and OCX36 eggshell matrix proteins, and their concomitant presence with Gal/GalNAc and Glc/GlcNAc glycans, as well as with calcium. Our results suggest that the OC-116, OC-17 and OCX36 eggshell matrix proteins may be involved in sperm storage.

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