Changes in calmodulin level and cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity during epididymal maturation of ram spermatozoa.

Calmodulin concentration and cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity were simultaneously determined on ram spermatozoa collected by cannulation of successive segments of the epididymal tubule. Epididymal transit was characterized on one hand by an overall decrease in the calmodulin level and on the other by a dramatic rise in the cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity. In contrast to the calmodulin level, the cAMP-dependent protein kinase activity was correlated with the acquisition of flagellar beat. No further alterations in the level of these two proteins could be detected as spermatozoa acquired progressive motility.