Journal
DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY
Volume 233, Issue 2, Pages 319-328Publisher
ACADEMIC PRESS INC
DOI: 10.1006/dbio.2001.0169
Keywords
Spnr; gene trap; sperm; flagellum; brain; nervous system; mouse; microtubule-associated protein
Categories
Ask authors/readers for more resources
Spermatid perinuclear RNA-binding protein (SPNR) is a microtubule-associated RNA-binding protein that localizes to the manchette in developing spermatids. The Spur mRNA is expressed at high levels in testis, ovary, and brain and is present in these tissues in multiple forms. We have generated a gene trap allele of the murine Spur, named Spnr(+/GT). Spnr(GT/GT) mutants show a high rate of mortality, reduced weight, and an abnormal clutching reflex. In addition to minor anatomical abnormalities in the brain males exhibit defects in spermatogenesis that include a thin seminiferous epithelium and disorganization of spermatogenesis. Most of the sperm from mutant males display defects in the flagellum and consequently show decreased motility and transport within the oviducts. furthermore, sperm from mutant males achieve in vitro fertilization less frequently. Our findings suggest that SPNR plays an important role in normal spermatogenesis and sperm function. Thus, the Spnr(GT/GT) mutant male mouse provides a unique model for some human male infertility cases. (C) 2001 Academic Press.
Authors
I am an author on this paper
Click your name to claim this paper and add it to your profile.
Reviews
Recommended
No Data Available