An antimicrobial peptide gene found in the male reproductive system of rats

P. Li, Chang Chan Hsiao Chang Chan, B. He, Cheung So Siu Cheung So, Wa Chung Yiu Wa Chung, Q. Shang, YD Zhang, YL Zhang

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

223 Scopus citations

Abstract

Little is known about the innate defense mechanisms of the male reproductive tract. We cloned a 385-base pair complementary DNA and its genomic DNA named Bin1b that is exclusively expressed in the caput region of the rat epididymis and that is responsible for sperm maturation, storage, and protection. Bin1b exhibits structural characteristics and antimicrobial activity similar to that of cationic antimicrobial peptides, β-defensins. Bin1b is maximally expressed when the rats are sexually mature and can be up-regulated by inflammation. Bin1b appears to be a natural epididymis-specific antimicrobial peptide that plays a role in reproductive tract host defense and male fertility.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)1783-1785
Number of pages3
JournalScience
Volume291
Issue number5509
DOIs
StatePublished - Mar 2 2001
Externally publishedYes

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • General

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'An antimicrobial peptide gene found in the male reproductive system of rats'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this