Syncytin-1 and its receptor is present in human gametes
Research output: Contribution to journal › Journal article › Research › peer-review
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 language | English |
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Journal | Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics |
Volume | 31 |
Issue number | 5 |
Pages (from-to) | 533-539 |
Number of pages | 7 |
ISSN | 1058-0468 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - May 2014 |
- ASCT-2, Fertilization, Oocyte, Sperm, Syncytin
Research areas
ID: 284203608