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Germ Cell Transplantation and Testis Tissue Xenografting in Mice
Published on: February 6, 2012
[Molecular cloning and expression in cryptorchid testis of SRG2 from a mouse testis spermatocyte apoptosis-related
Shang-Feng Liu1, Lu-Yun Li, Ya-Qin Mo
1Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering Institute, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China. lgxdirector@sina.com
Abstract:
It was observed that the spermatogenic cells apoptosis dramatically increased in infertile man. Cloning of novel spermatogenic cell-specific gene related to apoptosis is of momentous physiological and pathological significance to illustrate the apoptosis mechanism and the biology process of spermatogenic cells. A novel mouse gene full-length cDNA sequence-SRG2 was identified (GenBank accession number AF395083), which was significantly changed in cryptorchidism, from a mouse testis cDNA library using a cDNA fragment (GenBank accession number BE644542) as an electronic probe. SRG2 was 1,088 bp in length. The putative protein encoded by this gene was 295 amino acids with a theoretical molecular weight of 33,579 kDa and isoelectric point of 9.64. The sequence shared no significant homology with any known protein in databases except TSARG2, with which its homology was 78%. RT-PCR showed that SRG2 was expressed significantly in testis. Using molecular beacon probe to examine the mRNA expression level of SRG2 gene in cryptorchid testis of various stages, we found that the gene was up-regulated distinctly. Therefore, we conclude that this gene plays an important role in cryptorchid testis.
Insights
A novel gene, SRG2, was identified in mouse testes and found to be significantly upregulated in cases of cryptorchidism. This discovery is crucial for understanding spermatogenic cell apoptosis and male infertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Cell Biology
Context:
- Apoptosis in spermatogenic cells is elevated in infertile men.
- Understanding apoptosis mechanisms in male germ cells is vital.
- Novel gene discovery related to spermatogenesis is of significant interest.
Purpose:
- To identify and characterize novel genes involved in spermatogenic cell apoptosis.
- To investigate the role of SRG2 in the context of male infertility and cryptorchidism.
Summary:
- A novel mouse gene, SRG2 (GenBank accession AF395083), was identified from a testis cDNA library.
- SRG2 encodes a 295-amino acid protein with high homology to TSARG2.
- RT-PCR confirmed SRG2 expression in testes, with distinct upregulation observed in cryptorchid testes.
Impact:
- SRG2 plays a significant role in the pathology of cryptorchid testes.
- This finding contributes to understanding the molecular basis of male infertility.
- The study highlights SRG2 as a potential target for further research into reproductive health.

