Ca(2+)-modulated membrane guanylate cyclase in the testes

Mol Cell Biochem. 2010 Jan;334(1-2):169-79. doi: 10.1007/s11010-009-0329-5. Epub 2009 Nov 15.

Abstract

To date, the calcium-regulated membrane guanylate cyclase Rod Outer Segment Guanylate Cyclase type 1 (ROS-GC1) transduction system in addition to photoreceptors is known to be expressed in three other types of neuronal cells: in the pinealocytes, mitral cells of the olfactory bulb and the gustatory epithelium of tongue. Very recent studies from our laboratory show that expression of ROS-GC1 is not restricted to the neuronal cells; the male gonads and the spermatozoa also express ROS-GC1. In this presentation, the authors review the existing information on the localization and function of guanylate cyclase with special emphasis on Ca(2+)-modulated membrane guanylate cyclase, ROS-GC1, in the testes. The role of ROS-GC1 and its Ca(2+)-sensing modulators in the processes of spermatogenesis and fertilization are discussed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Calcium Signaling
  • Fertilization
  • Guanylate Cyclase / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Receptors, Cell Surface / physiology*
  • Reproduction*
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Testis / enzymology*

Substances

  • Receptors, Cell Surface
  • guanylate cyclase 1
  • Guanylate Cyclase