Abstract
Lumicrine is a signaling mechanism in which testis-derived secreted factor act on epididymis through luminal channel to regulate epididymal function indispensable for sperm maturation. We previously identified an ECM-like molecule NELL2 as a lumicrine factor. NELL2 functions as a ligand for receptor tyrosine kinase ROS1 expressed in epididymis, and Nell2 KO male mice are infertile because of impaired epididymal differentiation and subsequent sperm maturation. Here we investigated a novel testes-derived secreted factor Ts-1. Ts-1 KO mice possessed male infertility because of impaired epididymal differentiation and aberrant sperm maturation, and phenocopied Nell2 KO mice. The male infertility of Ts-1 KO mice was rescued when Ts-1 was specifically expressed by introducing transgene in Ts-1 KO genetic background. We also found that Ts-1 bound to NELL2 by using recombinant proteins in vitro. These findings suggest a possibility that Ts-1 regulates male fertility by modulating NELL2 function.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
