A novel germ cell-specific protein, SHIP1, forms a complex with chromatin remodeling activity during spermatogenesis.

ABSTRACT: To determine the mechanisms of spermatogenesis, it is essential to identify and characterize germ cell-specific genes. Here we describe a protein encoded by a novel germ cell-specific gene, Mm.290718/ZFP541, identified from the mouse spermatocyte UniGene library. The protein contains specific motifs and domains potentially involved in DNA binding and chromatin reorganization. An antibody against Mm.290718/ZFP541 revealed the existence of the protein in testicular spermatogenic cells (159 kDa) but not testicular and mature sperm. Immunostaining analysis of cells at various stages of spermatogenesis consistently showed that the protein is present in spermatocytes and round spermatids only. Transfection assays and immunofluorescence studies indicate that the protein is localized specifically

SUBMITTER: Choi E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2596390 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature