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Macaque MDC family of proteins: sequence analysis, tissue distribution and processing in the male reproductive tract
J Frayne1, J A Jury, H L Barker
1Department of Biochemistry, University of Bristol, School of Medical Sciences, UK.
Abstract:
A large number of sequence-related, cysteine-rich membrane proteins containing metalloproteinase-like and disintegrin-like domains (the MDC protein family) have been identified in mammalian tissues from a variety of species. Previous studies in the macaque (Macaca fascicularis) have led to the cDNA cloning and sequence analysis of a number of MDC proteins which are abundantly expressed in the male reproductive tract. We now describe the distribution of seven of these macaque MDC transcripts in a range of different tissues. This description includes a novel macaque testis-derived MDC, tMDC III, whose full-length sequence is reported for the first time. In addition, polyclonal antisera have been used to localize a number of these MDC proteins to spermatogenic cells in testis sections, and to demonstrate their processing on the sperm surface during epididymal transit.
Insights
Researchers identified metalloproteinase-like and disintegrin-like (MDC) proteins in macaque tissues. A novel MDC protein, tMDC III, was discovered in the testis, with other MDC proteins localized to sperm during epididymal transit.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Biology
- Protein Biochemistry
Background:
- The metalloproteinase-like and disintegrin-like (MDC) protein family comprises cysteine-rich membrane proteins found in various mammalian tissues.
- Previous research in Macaca fascicularis identified several MDC proteins highly expressed in the male reproductive tract.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the tissue distribution of seven known macaque MDC transcripts.
- To report the full-length sequence of a novel macaque testis-derived MDC protein, designated tMDC III.
- To localize MDC proteins within the male reproductive tract and track their modifications during sperm maturation.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of MDC transcript distribution across various macaque tissues.
- cDNA cloning and sequencing to determine the full-length sequence of tMDC III.
- Immunohistochemistry using polyclonal antisera to localize MDC proteins in testis sections and on sperm.
Main Results:
- The study details the expression patterns of seven macaque MDC transcripts in different tissues.
- The complete sequence of the novel tMDC III protein, originating from macaque testis, is presented.
- MDC proteins were localized to spermatogenic cells in the testis and found to undergo processing on the sperm surface as they transit the epididymis.
Conclusions:
- MDC proteins exhibit diverse tissue distribution, with specific roles in the male reproductive system.
- The discovery and characterization of tMDC III expand the known repertoire of MDC proteins.
- Post-translational modifications of MDC proteins on sperm during epididymal transit suggest functional significance in sperm maturation or function.