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In Vivo Microinjection and Electroporation of Mouse Testis
Published on: August 23, 2014
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Expression of the GM2 activator protein in mouse testis
Yu-Teh Li1, Su-Chen Li1, I-Li Chen2
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA 70112, USA.
Reproductive Biology
|November 5, 2017
Summary
The GM2-activator protein (GM2-AP) is found in mouse Sertoli cells and early spermatids, suggesting a role in sperm development and function. This protein
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Reproductive Biology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- GM2-activator protein (GM2-AP) is a cofactor for beta-hexosaminidase A, crucial for GM2 ganglioside hydrolysis.
- GM2-AP deficiency is linked to Tay-Sachs disease variant AB.
- Known roles include kidney transport, CD1-mediated lipid presentation, and sperm-zona pellucida interaction.
Purpose of the Study:
- Investigate the cellular localization of GM2-AP in mouse testis.
- Determine the role of GM2-AP during spermatogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical analysis of mouse testis.
- Electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- GM2-AP predominantly localizes to Sertoli cell basal cytoplasm and processes, appearing in lysosomes.
- GM2-AP associates with the acrosomal apparatus in early spermatids, including granules and caps.
- GM2-AP diminishes from acrosomal caps in later spermatid stages.
Conclusions:
- GM2-AP is present in Sertoli cells and early spermatids, indicating potential roles in Sertoli cell function.
- GM2-AP may be involved in acrosomal cap development during spermatid maturation.
