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Gothenburg, Sweden – In a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers at the University of Gothenburg, a missing gene has been identified as the primary cause of infertility in male mice. The absence of this gene prevents the production of a vital protein, called “MC2,” which is essential for the proper formation of functional sperm in mice.
The newly discovered protein, MC2, plays a crucial role in establishing a connection between the head and tail of sperm, allowing for coordinated movement. Without this connection, sperm are rendered incapable of reaching their target, leading to complete infertility, as observed in experiments where the gene responsible for MC2 production was removed using genetic scissors.
Kexin Zhang, a doctoral student at the Department of Chemistry and Molecular Biology at the University of Gothenburg, explained, “The connection is located in the ‘neck’ of the sperm head and facilitates coordinated movement and function as the sperm swims towards the egg. Certainly, the tail and head will each be created perfectly without such a connection — but to no avail, as they will be unable to reach their target.”
Zhang’s research sheds light on the previously unknown causes of infertility, specifically related to the absence of the head of the sperm, a condition known as acephalic spermatozoa syndrome.
The gene controlling the production of MC2 is not located on the sex chromosome and has no impact on the fertility of female mice. This discovery is a significant step forward in understanding the molecular structure of sperm cells and spermatozoa development.
Infertility affects 15 to 30 percent of men, with genetic factors accounting for a substantial portion of these cases. Zhang emphasized, “It is estimated that some 15 percent of all heterosexual couples have problems with having children. The man is responsible for the problems in about half of these cases. I hope our research will eventually lead to new diagnostic methods and new treatments for male infertility. It may also be possible to create a male contraceptive by switching off this gene.”
The identification of the MC2 protein provides researchers with a novel avenue for further exploration and potential breakthroughs in understanding and treating male infertility. This groundbreaking research opens the door to future advancements in diagnostic tools and therapeutic interventions, offering hope to couples struggling with fertility issues.
