Ankyrin repeat, SAM and basic leucine zipper domain-containing protein 1 (ASZ1)

Ankyrin repeat, SAM and basic leucine zipper domain-containing protein 1 (ASZ1) is a germ cell-specific protein encoded by the ASZ1 gene in humans[3][5][10]. It is characterized by the presence of ankyrin repeats, a SAM (Sterile Alpha Motif) domain, and a basic leucine zipper domain[11][2][6]. ASZ1 is primarily expressed in the cytoplasm of germ cells and is essential for spermatogenesis in males, playing a role in the repression of transposable elements, particularly via the piRNA pathway, thus maintaining genomic stability in germ cells[2][11][6]. Disruption or mutations in ASZ1 are associated with defects in spermatogenesis and male infertility[2]. There are no known pharmacological agents or drugs targeting ASZ1, and it is not classified as a therapeutic target or receptor. Its functional and disease relevance is specific to germ cell biology and does not extend to other typical drug target categories.

Other names

ALP1ANKL1C7orf7CT1.19GASZOrf3ankyrin-like protein 1germ cell-specific ankyrinankyrin repeat, SAM and basic leucine zipper domain containing 1