Meiosis-expressed gene 1 protein homolog (MEIG1)

Meiosis-expressed gene 1 protein homolog (MEIG1) is a small, highly conserved protein essential for spermiogenesis, the final stage of sperm formation during spermatogenesis[1][2][4][6]. MEIG1 is initially found throughout spermatocytes and round spermatids but relocates to the manchette—a microtubular structure in elongating spermatids—through its interaction with the Parkin co-regulated gene protein (PACRG)[1][4][5]. The MEIG1–PACRG complex is crucial for targeting and transporting proteins necessary for sperm flagellum assembly[1][3][5]. Loss of MEIG1 disrupts manchette integrity, impairs sperm tail formation, and causes male infertility, but does not affect meiosis directly[2][3][5]. MEIG1 does not belong to a classic family such as kinases, receptors, or enzymes, and currently is not considered a therapeutic drug target, though its protein–protein interface has been proposed as a target for male contraception research[4]. There are no known drugs or clinical biomarkers tied to MEIG1, and no notable safety concerns associated except loss-of-function leading to infertility.

Other names

Meiosis/spermiogenesis associated 1SPATA39spermatogenesis associated 39bA2K17.3