Abstract.
The acrosome reaction has long been thought to be induced by the zona pellucida. Here we report the identification and function of a novel human sperm glycosylphosphatidylinositol (GPI)-anchored membrane protein, NYD-SP8. The release of the protein during sperm-egg interaction and its binding to the cumulus, the first layer of egg investment, elicits cross-talk between the gametes and produces calcium dependant release of progesterone, which lead to the acrosome reaction. An in vivo mouse model of NYD-SP8 immunization is also established showing a reduced fertility rate. Thus, contrary to accepted dogma, our study demonstrates for the first time that, prior to reaching the zona pellucida, sperm may release a surface protein that acts on the cumulus cells leading to the acrosome reaction, which may be important for determining the outcome of fertilization.
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Received 11 August 2008; received after revision 18 December 2008; accepted 22 December 2008
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Yin, L., Chung, C.M., Huo, R. et al. A sperm GPI-anchored protein elicits sperm-cumulus cross-talk leading to the acrosome reaction. Cell. Mol. Life Sci. 66, 900–908 (2009). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00018-009-8482-2
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00018-009-8482-2