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Expression and function of ras proto-oncogene proteins in human sperm cells
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461.
Journal of Cell Science
|July 1, 1992
Summary
This study found that c-ras proteins are present in human sperm and play a role in sperm function. The antibody targeting c-ras proteins reduced acrosome reaction and affected sperm motility characteristics.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction are crucial for fertilization.
- The role of specific proteins, such as c-ras, in human sperm function is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and function of c-ras proteins in mature human sperm cells.
- To determine if c-ras proteins are involved in sperm capacitation and acrosome reaction.
Main Methods:
- Indirect immunofluorescence technique using v-H-ras monoclonal antibody (mAb).
- Western blot analysis to identify c-ras protein.
- Human sperm penetration assay to assess sperm function.
- Analysis of sperm motility parameters.
Main Results:
- The v-H-ras mAb specifically recognized c-ras protein (p21) in the acrosomal region of human sperm.
- Western blot confirmed the presence of a 21 kDa c-ras protein.
- Incubation with v-H-ras mAb significantly reduced the acrosome reaction and acrosin release.
- No effect on sperm motility percentage, but significant alterations in motility characteristics (linearity, ALH, beat frequency) were observed.
Conclusions:
- Mature human sperm cells contain c-ras or c-ras-like proteins.
- These proteins likely play a significant role in human sperm capacitation and/or acrosome reaction.