[Advances in the studies of sperm protein 22 (SP22)]

Multifunctional sperm protein 22 (SP22) is expressed ubiquitously and related to quite a few diseases. Located on the sperm surface, SP22 has an enzymatic activity that may assist sperm in penetrating into the ovum. SP22 may be carcinogenic in conspiracy with the factor ras. Among all species SP22 is highly conservative, which demonstrates its importance to life. More and more studies indicate that SP22 is directly correlated with male infertility and Parkinsons disease. This article summarizes recent researches on SP22 in the gene structure, protein structure and functional characteristics.