What is it about?

Our studies reveal for the first time proteins in the anterior head of pig sperm, which are important for the egg binding. Proteomic analyses were used in the studies to reveal all relevant proteins in this process. One of these proteins is zonadhesin. Results from our studies can be used for further development of biomarkers of sperm fertilizing ability and contraceptives.

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Why is it important?

The proteomic analysis approach yielded information on relevant proteins in sperm fertilizing ability. This information is the groundwork for future translational development in non-hormonal contraceptives and biomarkers of sperm fertilizing ability.

Perspectives

This study utilized several experimental approaches: cell biology, biochemistry, gamete biology and handling, and proteomic analyses. We targeted the isolation of vesicles of the sperm anterior head plasma membrane (APM), the site of egg binding on sperm. Careful "omics" analyses reveal biochemical properties of this sperm subcomponent and information is relevant for further translational work (selection of biomarkers of sperm fertilizing ability, non-hormonal contraceptive development).

Dr Nongnuj Tanphaichitr
Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

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This page is a summary of: Proteomic Characterization of Pig Sperm Anterior Head Plasma Membrane Reveals Roles of Acrosomal Proteins in ZP3 Binding, Journal of Cellular Physiology, October 2014, Wiley,
DOI: 10.1002/jcp.24728.
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