Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026

Phosphopeptide Analysis of Rodent Epididymal Spermatozoa
Published on: December 30, 2014
Dual function of the selenoprotein PHGPx during sperm maturation
1Dipartmento di Chimica Biologica, Università di Padova, Viale G. Colombo 3, I-35121 Padova, Italy.
Abstract:
The selenoprotein phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (PHGPx) changes its physical characteristics and biological functions during sperm maturation. PHGPx exists as a soluble peroxidase in spermatids but persists in mature spermatozoa as an enzymatically inactive, oxidatively cross-linked, insoluble protein. In the midpiece of mature spermatozoa, PHGPx protein represents at least 50 percent of the capsule material that embeds the helix of mitochondria. The role of PHGPx as a structural protein may explain the mechanical instability of the mitochondrial midpiece that is observed in selenium deficiency.
Related Concept Videos
Spermatogenesis
Fertilization
GTPases and their Regulation
Large G-proteins, also known...
Spermatogenesis
The process of spermatogenesis can be divided into mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, the spermatogonia or stem cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells, type A and B spermatogonia. Type-A...
Penis
Anatomy of the Penis
The glans penis, or the head, is the terminal part of the penis and houses the external urethral orifice, the exit point for urine and semen. Covered by the prepuce, or foreskin, the glans is noted for its sensitivity and plays a key role in sexual pleasure. The body of the...
Testosterone: Functions and Regulation

