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Baculo-expression and enzymatic characterization of CES7 esterase
Li Zhang1, Qiang Liu, Yuchuan Zhou
1Shanghai Key Laboratory for Molecular Andrology, State Key Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Shanghai Institutes for Biological Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai 200031, China.
Carboxylesterases, including the novel CES7, are overexpressed in male reproductive tracts, suggesting roles in sperm development and function. CES7 protein exhibits esterase activity, potentially aiding sperm maturation and storage.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Enzymology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Carboxylesterases are overexpressed in male reproductive tracts across species.
- This overexpression suggests crucial roles in spermatogenesis, sperm maturation, and sperm use.
- A novel epididymis-specific carboxylesterase gene, Ces7, has been identified.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the function of the CES7 gene in sperm maturation and storage.
- To characterize the enzymatic activity of the CES7 protein.
Main Methods:
- Ces7 gene cloning and characterization.
- Expression of CES7 recombinant protein using a baculovirus system.
- Assay of recombinant CES7 protein for carboxylesterase activity.
Main Results:
- The recombinant CES7 protein demonstrated carboxylesterase activity.
- The enzyme was capable of hydrolyzing cholesterol ester and choline ester.
- CES7 is an epididymis-specific carboxylesterase.
Conclusions:
- CES7, as a carboxylesterase, is likely involved in ester hydrolysis within the male reproductive tract.
- The enzyme may play a significant role in sperm maturation and storage processes.
- Further research is warranted to fully elucidate CES7's function in male reproduction.
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