Cation channel sperm-associated auxiliary subunit epsilon (CATSPERE)

Cation channel sperm-associated auxiliary subunit epsilon (CATSPERE) is an integral auxiliary subunit of the CatSper calcium channel complex, specific to sperm flagella[1][3]. CatSper is a male germ cell-specific, multimeric ion channel essential for calcium influx required for sperm hyperactivation—a motility pattern necessary for successful fertilization[1][3]. The CatSper channel comprises four pore-forming alpha subunits (CatSper1–4) and five auxiliary subunits (CATSPERβ, γ, δ, ε, ζ)[1][3]. CATSPERE (epsilon) acts as an accessory protein, localizing with the CatSper channel in the flagellar membrane, contributing to the assembly, structural stability, and trafficking of the multi-subunit CatSper complex[1][3]. Its disruption in animal models results in defective CatSper complex formation and sperm immotility, leading to male infertility[1][3]. No approved drugs currently target CATSPERE, and its known role is restricted to sperm cell function. Loss or mutations of CATSPERE and other CatSper subunits have been causatively linked to certain forms of human and animal male infertility. The structure and composition of CatSper and its auxiliary proteins are subjects of evolutionary adaptation among species[1][3].

Other names

CATSPEREC1orf101CatSper-epsilonCatSperepsilonMGC33370C10orf101cation channel sperm-associated auxiliary subunit epsiloncation channel sperm-associated protein subunit epsilonuncharacterized protein C1orf101

Not applicable: no specific drugs targeting CATSPERE reported; however, molecules targeting the CatSper channel (the pore) can affect sperm motility and fertility via calcium influx modulation[1][3].