FIGURE 2.

The importance of proteostasis throughout male germ cell development. Male germ cells are produced through successive waves of spermatogenesis occurring within the seminiferous tubules of the testes, yet acquire functional competence during their subsequent transport through the epididymis. The integrity of both maturational phases is intimately regulated by complex proteostasis networks, which work in concert to secure the continuous production of high quality spermatozoa. Despite these quality control measures, the formation of protein aggregates has been documented at various sites within the male reproductive tract. Although their origins remain largely enigmatic, such deposits have been ascribed both pathological and functional roles.