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Localization of bindin expression during sea urchin spermatogenesis
D Nishioka1, R D Ward, D Poccia
1Department of Biology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057.
Molecular Reproduction and Development
|November 1, 1990
Summary
Sea urchin bindin gene expression occurs late in spermatogenesis, with bindin protein forming vesicles that fuse into the acrosome. This research clarifies bindin
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- The bindin gene is crucial for sea urchin fertilization.
- Understanding bindin gene expression patterns is key to deciphering sperm development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the temporal and spatial expression of the bindin gene in sea urchin testicular cells.
- To elucidate the cellular localization and trafficking of bindin protein during spermatogenesis.
Main Methods:
- In situ hybridization using a 35S-labeled antisense RNA probe.
- Immunofluorescence microscopy with a polyclonal antibody against bindin.
- Immunogold labeling and electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Bindin messenger RNAs (mRNAs) are localized in late-stage spermatogenic cells within testicular acini.
- Bindin protein exhibits a punctate immunofluorescence pattern in late spermatogenic cells, associated with intracellular vesicles.
- These bindin-containing vesicles appear to fuse to form the acrosomal vesicle of mature spermatozoa.
Conclusions:
- Bindin mRNA is transcribed late in spermatogenesis.
- Bindin protein is translated and rapidly associated with intracellular vesicles.
- Vesicle fusion leads to the formation of the acrosomal vesicle during terminal spermatogenesis.