Disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 7 (ADAM7)

Disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 7 (ADAM7) is a membrane-anchored protein in the ADAM family, structurally related to snake venom disintegrins but, unlike many ADAMs, lacking proteolytic activity[1][5]. ADAM7 is predominantly expressed in the epididymis and sperm, where it functions in sperm maturation, cell–cell adhesion, and possibly sperm–egg fusion[1][4][5]. The protein is transferred from epididymal epithelial cells onto the sperm membrane, modulating protein complexes important for the maturation of sperm and sperm capacitation[1]. While ADAM7 has been linked to disease states (such as melanoma and primary biliary cirrhosis), it is not considered a therapeutic target due to its lack of enzymatic activity or established druggability[5]. It primarily plays a specialized physiological role in male reproductive biology and has limited disease or pharmacological relevance outside specific contexts.

Other names

ADAM7ADAM-7EAPIGP-83GP83disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 7epididymal apical protein Isperm maturation-related glycoprotein GP-83