Key aspects of domestic cat spermatogenesis

Abstract

In mammals, spermatogenesis is a complex and cyclic process in which a spermatogonia turns into a highly differentiated cell: the spermatozoa. Spermatogenesis comprises proliferation of spermatogonia (spermatocytogenesis), meiosis of spermatocytes and finally differentiation of spermatids into spermatozoa (spermiogenesis).This review summarizes the current knowledge on domestic cat spermatogenesis including its physiology, development, efficiency and pathologies as well as their novel non-invasive diagnostic methods. This information will provide a resource for further studies to achieve precise fundamental knowledge of key aspects that will facilitate breeding, management and contraception in this popular species.

cDNA Cloning of Feline PIWIL1 and Evaluation of Expression in the Testis of the Domestic Cat

“…Understanding the roles of specific pathways that mediate spermatogenesis in domestic mammals such as the cat is relevant from several perspectives; it provides an accessible model of the process in humans [43], and may facilitate the development of novel approaches to both contraception/overpopulation in feral cats [44] and species preservation in threatened or endangered Felidae [44]. PIWI expression has been examined in mammals such as the dog [45], which has three PIWI family members, the cow [46,47], pig [48][49][50][51], and hamster [30,31], which have four PIWI family members.…”