Dual Function of the Selenoprotein PHGPx During Sperm Maturation

作者：Fulvio Ursini, Sabina Heim, Michael Kieß, Matilde Maiorino, Antonella Roveri, Josef B. Wissing, Leopold Flohé · 发表于：Science · 年份：1999 · DOI：10.1126/science.285.5432.1393 · 被引用次数：908 · 研究领域：Selenium in Biological Systems、Trace Elements in Health、Sperm and Testicular Function

The selenoprotein phospholipid hydroperoxide glutathione peroxidase (PHGPx) changes its physical characteristics and biological functions during sperm maturation. PHGPx exists as a soluble peroxidase in spermatids but persists in mature spermatozoa as an enzymatically inactive, oxidatively cross-linked, insoluble protein. In the midpiece of mature spermatozoa, PHGPx protein represents at least 50 percent of the capsule material that embeds the helix of mitochondria. The role of PHGPx as a structural protein may explain the mechanical instability of the mitochondrial midpiece that is observed in selenium deficiency.