Fertilization influencing membrane protein (FIMP)

Fertilization influencing membrane protein (FIMP; C16orf92) is a sperm-specific type I transmembrane protein localized to the equatorial segment of the sperm head, where sperm–oocyte membrane fusion occurs[1][2][4][6]. Functional genetic studies in mice demonstrate that the transmembrane (TM) isoform of FIMP is essential for sperm–oocyte fusion; knockout of FIMP results in sperm that cannot fuse with oocytes, causing severe male subfertility independent of the major fusion mediators IZUMO1, JUNO, and CD9[1][2][4][6]. FIMP represents a critical yet distinct factor in the sperm–egg fusion process, and while its necessity is well established in mice, further research is needed to clarify its role in human infertility and to explore its molecular interactions with other fusion proteins[1][2][4][6][3]. There are no drugs or biomarker applications reported, nor known safety or therapeutic concerns associated with targeting FIMP. While some database entries associate C16orf92 with rare diseases, there is currently no evidence it is a receptor, enzyme, transporter, or therapeutic target in human disease[3].

Other names

Chromosome 16 open reading frame 92C16orf92FLJ25404uncharacterized protein C16orf92FIMP