Assessment of spermatogenesis in camels via seminiferous tubule staging and testosterone profiling

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the successive morphological stages of spermatogenesis, hormonal regulation, and testosterone profile in dromedary camel reproduction. Methods: Testicular tissue samples were obtained from 12 dromedary bull camels aged 7 to 8 at a local abattoir. The histological assessment involved tissue processing, hematoxylin and eosin (H & E) staining, and examination under a microscope. Stereological analysis, germ cell identification, and assessment of seminiferous tubules and maturation were conducted. Testosterone assay was performed by radioimmunoassay using blood samples collected at regular intervals. Results: The study revealed 12 phases of the dromedary camel’s seminiferous epithelium cycle, highlighting distinct morphological characteristics and cellular processes. Acrosomal migration, maturation, cap formation, and the Golgi-mediated synthesis of proacrosomal vesicles were also explained in dimension, as were the steps of acrosome biogenesis. Spermatids and mature sperm cells were present when spermatogenesis phases were examined. An analysis of the dimensions of seminiferous tubules revealed specific measures for diameter, area, and epithelial height about luminal characteristics. Moreover, there were noticeable variations in the serum testosterone concentrations during the study period, indicating temporal dynamics. Conclusions: This study outlines the spermatogenesis process in dromedary camels across 12 stages, emphasizing cellular dynamics and acrosomal biogenesis. It also provides seminiferous tubule measurements and observes seasonal testosterone fluctuations, offering insights into reproductive regulation and potential strategies for camel breeding conservation.

Keywords

• spermatogenesis
• camel
• testosterone profile
• morphological staging