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CD52 is the 'major maturation-associated' sperm membrane antigen
1IHF. Institute for Hormone and Fertility Research, University of Hamburg, Germany.
Molecular Human Reproduction
|January 1, 1996
Summary
A sperm antigen crucial for maturation in rats also exists in humans as CD52. This study confirms homologous counterparts in mammals, suggesting epididymal transfer of these important sperm surface molecules.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Sperm Physiology
- Molecular Endocrinology
Background:
- The 'major maturation-associated' sperm membrane antigen is a key glycopeptide on rat sperm during maturation.
- Its appearance correlates with the acquisition of sperm's mature physiological properties in the epididymis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and nature of homologous counterparts to the rat sperm maturation antigen in other mammalian species.
- To determine the origin and potential transfer mechanism of these molecules in the male reproductive tract.
Main Methods:
- Immunohistochemical staining of tissue sections.
- In-situ transcript hybridization to localize mRNA.
- Molecular analyses of genomic DNA fragments.
Main Results:
- Homologous molecules to the rat antigen were identified in other mammalian species, including humans.
- The human homologue was identified as lymphocyte surface antigen CD52, an abundant epididymal gene product.
- mRNA for these glycosylphosphatidyl inositol (GPI)-anchored glycopeptides was localized to the epididymal epithelium, not the testis.
Conclusions:
- The sperm maturation-associated antigen and its homologues are conserved across mammals, with the human form being CD52.
- These molecules are synthesized in the epididymis, suggesting their transfer to sperm occurs during epididymal transit.
- The findings indicate a conserved mechanism for sperm surface modification during maturation involving epididymal factors.