These tools will no longer be maintained as of December 31, 2024. Archived website can be found here. PubMed4Hh GitHub repository can be found here. Contact NLM Customer Service if you have questions.


Pubmed for Handhelds

PUBMED FOR HANDHELDS

Search MEDLINE/PubMed

  • Title: Sperm-associated protein candidates for primary zona pellucida-binding molecules: structure-function correlations of boar spermadhesins.
    Author: Töpfer-Petersen E, Calvete JJ.
    Journal: J Reprod Fertil Suppl; 1996; 50():55-61. PubMed ID: 8984188.
    Abstract:
    The initial binding of mammalian spermatozoa and the zona pellucida of their homologous oocytes appears to be mediated by a protein-carbohydrate recognition mechanism. Subsequent protein-protein interaction triggers the acrosome reaction leading to sperm penetration. Spermatozoa possess a complement of surface-associated proteins that mediate interactions with the zona pellucida of the oocyte at fertilization. Both integral membrane and peripherally associated zona pellucida-interacting molecules have been described in a number of species. Some of these proteins have been shown to possess carbohydrate-binding activity and are therefore classified as candidates for primary gamete recognition molecules. The participation of any of these proteins in the in vivo situation is, however, a matter of debate. Here, we summarize current knowledge of the most thoroughly studied sperm-associated zona pellucida- and carbohydrate-binding molecules, paying special attention to recent evidence from our laboratories for considering sperm-adhesin AWN, and probably other members of its protein family, as a bona fide candidate for the primary gamete adhesion lectin.
    [Abstract] [Full Text] [Related] [New Search]