[Expression characteristics of mouse Catsper--the structural protein of sperm hyperactivation].

OBJECTIVE

To study the expression specificity in tissues of the Catsper and its expression rules, which is a specification channels in sperm and plays an important role in sperm hyperactivation.

METHODS

The expression of Catsper in eight different tissues was examined by RT-PCR and immunohischemistry, the location of Catsper in sperm determined by immunofluorescence and the expression changes of Catsper analyzed in mice of different age groups.

RESULTS

Catsper was expressed specifically in the testis and epididymis, and was mainly located in the principal piece of the sperm tail. Catsper gene expression was developmentally regulated with a direct correlation between Catsper expression and mouse sexual maturation. Catsper gene experssion was first detected at 3 weeks of age and increased significantly till 6 weeks of age and then gradually to a stationary phase.

CONCLUSION

Catsper expresses in the testis and epididymis, and its growth period and expression amount are closely related with the developmental stages of the mouse.