The main male protein

Scientists have identified a protein responsible for male infertility

Svetlana Maslova, Hi-tech+

Just one protein controls thousands of genes at the stage of development of germ progenitor cells into mature sperm cells, a study conducted in the United States showed. The breakdown of this unique mechanism may be the basis of male infertility.

Researchers from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland (USA) has proved that the Dazl protein controls a whole network of genes necessary for the development of sperm, according to the university's website. Previously, the role of Dazl was not precisely defined – it was simply considered important for fertility and reproductive health.

Sections of testicular tissues of mice with the functional Dazl gene (left), and mice with the disabled gene (right). Fluorescent labels show sperm progenitor cells. Figure from the press release of Case Western Reserve Single Protein Controls Thousands of Genes Essential for Sperm Development.

Article by Zagore et al. DAZL Regulates Germ Cell Survival through a Network of PolyA-Proximal mRNA Interactions published in the journal Cell Reports – VM.

Dazl actually attaches to 2290 RNAs inside germ progenitor cells, which eventually turn into spermatozoa.

Sperm cells require unique regulation and control of gene expression. It is now known that Dazl is the main organizer of this process. It also contributes to the production of the right amount of other proteins, which at their level control many important processes, including cell proliferation and survival. At the same time, not every interaction is significant, the authors specify.

"Now scientists have a new understanding of the molecular events that ensure the survival of future spermatozoa. Further study of the protein will give us deeper insights into the pathways that are responsible for the regulation of the cell cycle and the mechanisms for coordinating RNA networks," concludes one of the authors of the work, Lia Zagor.

New clinical studies confirm that male infertility is a growing problem. A number of biotech companies from the United States already offer various home tests to determine the concentration and activity of sperm and offer to save them for the future, before it's too late.

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