Mitochondrial function and reproductive innovation in mammalian models

Mitochondria are among the most crucial cellular organelles involved in various physiological and pathological processes. After decades of simplistic descriptions portraying them merely as the cell’s energy hubs, it has now become evident that the tight relationship between ATP production and oxidative stress caused by reactive oxygen species (ROS) plays a far more complex and dynamic role. This relationship is particularly significant in high-energy demanding cells, such as spermatozoa and cardiomyocytes, which are the focus of this thesis. The aim of this work is to highlight the interrelations between physiological aspects that might appear distant. Rather than presenting a linear sequence of experiments exploring a single specific topic, this thesis builds a conceptual bridge between findings and observations that can integrate different aspects of cellular function. Two animal models are considered: the pig and the roe deer. The pig represents a fundamental model in reproductive research, both for its global relevance in livestock studies and for its suitability in investigating cytotoxicity and maternal inheritance phenomena. The roe deer, on the other hand, offers unique insights into seasonal reproduction, as its males display distinctive reproductive patterns. The study of this species allows for the collection of data across different seasons, effectively mirroring the entire reproductive lifespan seen in other species. In conclusion, this thesis aims to be an example of an integrative approach that connects different levels of biological organization and fosters a broader understanding of mitochondrial function in diverse physiological contexts