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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics

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01-05-2014 | Gamete Biology

Syncytin-1 and its receptor is present in human gametes

Authors: B. Bjerregaard, J. G. Lemmen, M. R. Petersen, E. Østrup, L. H. Iversen, K. Almstrup, L.-I. Larsson, S. Ziebe

Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics | Issue 5/2014

Abstract

Main purpose and research question

To determine whether the true fusogen Syncytin-1 and its receptor (ASCT-2) is present in human gametes using qRT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence.

Methods

Donated oocytes and spermatozoa, originating from a fertility center in tertiary referral university hospital, underwent qRT-PCR, immunoblotting and immunofluorescence analyzes.

Results

Quantitative RT-PCR of sperm samples from sperm donors showed that syncytin-1 is present in all samples, however, protein levels varied between donors. Syncytin-1 immunoreactivity predominates in the sperm head and around the equatorial segment. The receptor ASCT-2 is expressed in the acrosomal region and in the sperm tail. Moreover, ASCT-2, but not syncytin-1, is expressed in oocytes and the mRNA level increases with increasing maturity of the oocytes.

Conclusions

Syncytin and its receptor are present in human gametes and localization and temporal appearance is consistent with a possible role in fusion between oocyte and sperm.

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Title: Syncytin-1 and its receptor is present in human gametes
Authors: B. Bjerregaard
J. G. Lemmen
M. R. Petersen
E. Østrup
L. H. Iversen
K. Almstrup
L.-I. Larsson
S. Ziebe
Publication date: 01-05-2014
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics / Issue 5/2014
Print ISSN: 1058-0468
Electronic ISSN: 1573-7330
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-014-0224-1

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Syncytin-1 and its receptor is present in human gametes

Abstract

Main purpose and research question

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Main purpose and research question

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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