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Antigen changes of monoclonal antibody MSH27 in process of post-testicular maturation (in mice)
Abstract:
An anti-mouse spermatozoon monoclonal antibody, MSH27, as well as its purified antigen, can block sperm-egg membrane fusion. As a candidate protein for sperm-egg membrane fusion, the sperm antigen was investigated in the process of post-testicular maturation (PTM). The molecule was produced in testes and located on the plasma membrane of the postacrosomal area of the spermatozoon. However, the epitope recognized by the MSH27 (MSH27Ep) was not exposed until the occurrence of the acrosome reaction. In the process of fertilization, spermatozoa must complete the acrosome reaction before penetrating across the zona pellucidas (ZPs) to approach the plasma membrane of eggs. The effects of the acrosome reaction and penetration of the ZP on the exposure of the MSH27Ep were also studied. It was shown that the percentage of the spermatozoa with the MSH27Ep exposed increased followed with their mature status in PTM. In fact, it had a linear correlativity with the rate of the acrosome reaction. After spermatozoa had passed ZPs, almost all of them became the MSH27-positive in immuno-staining compared with only a part of the spermatozoa after the acrosome reaction. In a word, the exposure of MSH27Ep was coincident with attaining the ability to penetrate the plasma membrane of eggs.
Insights
A specific sperm antigen (MSH27Ep) becomes exposed after the acrosome reaction and zona pellucida penetration, indicating its role in sperm-egg fusion during fertilization.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Spermatozoa Maturation
- Fertilization Mechanisms
Background:
- Sperm-egg membrane fusion is crucial for fertilization.
- A monoclonal antibody MSH27 and its antigen can inhibit sperm-egg fusion.
- This antigen is a potential key player in the fertilization process.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the role of a sperm antigen (MSH27Ep) in post-testicular maturation (PTM).
- Determine the exposure dynamics of MSH27Ep during sperm maturation and fertilization events.
- Correlate MSH27Ep exposure with the ability of sperm to fertilize.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis using anti-spermatozoon monoclonal antibody MSH27.
- Assessment of MSH27Ep exposure in relation to sperm maturation stages.
- Evaluation of MSH27Ep exposure following acrosome reaction and zona pellucida (ZP) penetration.
Main Results:
- The sperm antigen MSH27Ep is produced in testes and located on the postacrosomal plasma membrane.
- MSH27Ep exposure is significantly increased after the acrosome reaction and ZP penetration.
- A linear correlation exists between MSH27Ep exposure and the rate of acrosome reaction.
- Nearly all spermatozoa penetrating ZPs showed MSH27Ep exposure.
Conclusions:
- The exposure of MSH27Ep is a marker of sperm acquiring the ability to penetrate the egg plasma membrane.
- MSH27Ep plays a critical role in the final stages of sperm function required for fertilization.
- Understanding MSH27Ep dynamics offers insights into male fertility and potential contraceptive targets.
