Syncytin-1 and its receptor is present in human gametes

Research output: Contribution to journalJournal articleResearchpeer-review

  • B. Bjerregaard
  • J. G. Lemmen
  • M. R. Petersen
  • E. Østrup
  • L. H. Iversen
  • Almstrup, Kristian
  • L. I. Larsson
  • S. Ziebe

Main purpose and research question: To determine whether the true fusogen Syncytin-1 and its receptor (ASCT-2) is present in human gametes using qRT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence. Methods: Donated oocytes and spermatozoa, originating from a fertility center in tertiary referral university hospital, underwent qRT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence analyzes. Results: Quantitative RT-PCR of sperm samples from sperm donors showed that syncytin-1 is present in all samples, however, protein levels varied between donors. Syncytin-1 immunoreactivity predominates in the sperm head and around the equatorial segment. The receptor ASCT-2 is expressed in the acrosomal region and in the sperm tail. Moreover, ASCT-2, but not syncytin-1, is expressed in oocytes and the mRNA level increases with increasing maturity of the oocytes. Conclusions: Syncytin and its receptor are present in human gametes and localization and temporal appearance is consistent with a possible role in fusion between oocyte and sperm.

Original languageEnglish
JournalJournal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics
Volume31
Issue number5
Pages (from-to)533-539
Number of pages7
ISSN1058-0468
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - May 2014

    Research areas

  • ASCT-2, Fertilization, Oocyte, Sperm, Syncytin

ID: 284203608