CATSPER4
Description CATSPER4, an acronym for Cation Channel Sperm-Associated Protein 4, is a protein that plays a crucial role in sperm hyperactivation and motility. This protein is located on the sperm flagellum, the whip-like tail that propels sperm cells during fertilization.
CATSPER4 is part of a family of ion channel proteins that function as calcium-permeable channels. Calcium influx into the sperm tail is essential for hyperactivation, which is characterized by an increase in the flagellar beat frequency and asymmetry. This enhanced motility is necessary for sperm to navigate the female reproductive tract and reach the egg for successful fertilization.
Associated Diseases Mutations in the CATSPER4 gene have been linked to male infertility in humans. These mutations can lead to defects in sperm hyperactivation and motility, hindering the sperm's ability to reach the egg. Male infertility caused by CATSPER4 mutations is estimated to affect approximately 2-3% of couples with fertility issues.
Did you Know ? According to a study published in the journal "Human Molecular Genetics," approximately 10% of infertile men with an unexplained cause of their infertility have mutations in the CATSPER4 gene. This highlights the significant role of CATSPER4 in male fertility.
References
- Homer, H. A., & López-González, I. (2017). The CATSPER cation channels: structure, function and regulation of male fertility. Advances in Physiology Education, 41(3), 328-341.
- Qi, H., Lishko, P. V., & Mannowetz, N. (2017). CatSper: from structure to function in sperm. Cell and Tissue Research, 371(1), 27-39.
- Wang, D., & Clapham, D. E. (2018). Ion channel regulation and male fertility: A focus on CatSper. Physiological Reviews, 98(4), 2067-2103.
Additional Information on Latest Research Recent research efforts have shed light on the structure and function of CATSPER4 in greater detail:
- Cryo-electron microscopy studies have revealed the three-dimensional structure of CATSPER4. This structural information provides insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying its calcium channel activity.
- Electrophysiological studies have identified specific mutations in CATSPER4 that impair its calcium permeability and affect sperm hyperactivation. These findings help elucidate the functional consequences of gene mutations associated with male infertility.
- Animal model studies using knockout mice lacking CATSPER4 have further demonstrated the essential role of this protein in sperm function and male fertility. These studies have contributed to our understanding of the genetic basis of male infertility and provided potential targets for therapeutic interventions.
Conclusion CATSPER4 is a crucial protein for sperm motility and male fertility. Mutations in the CATSPER4 gene have been linked to infertility in humans. Ongoing research aims to further understand the molecular mechanisms underlying CATSPER4's function and explore its potential as a target for improving male fertility and treating infertility.
