COMP-1 promotes competitive advantage of nematode sperm

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Abstract

Competition among sperm to fertilize oocytes is a ubiquitous feature of sexual reproduction as well as a profoundly important aspect of sexual selection. However, little is known about the cellular mechanisms sperm use to gain competitive advantage or how these mechanisms are regulated genetically. Here, we utilize a forward genetic screen in C. elegans to identify a gene, comp-1, whose function is specifically required in competitive contexts. We show that comp-1 functions in sperm to modulate their migration through and localization within the reproductive tract, thereby promoting their access to oocytes. Contrary to previously-described models, comp-1 mutant sperm show no defects in size or velocity, thereby defining a novel pathway for preferential usage. Our results indicate not only that sperm functional traits can influence the outcome of sperm competition, but also that these traits can be modulated in a context-dependent manner depending on the presence of competing sperm.

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Jody M Hansen

Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States

Competing interests
The authors declare that no competing interests exist.
Daniela R Chavez

Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States

Competing interests
The authors declare that no competing interests exist.
Gillian M Stanfield

Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, United States

For correspondence
gillians@genetics.utah.edu

Competing interests
The authors declare that no competing interests exist.

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