Outer dense fiber of sperm tails protein 4 (ODF4)

Outer dense fiber of sperm tails protein 4 (ODF4) is a structural protein localized specifically to the outer dense fibers (ODFs) in the tail of mature sperm and is essential for maintaining sperm tail integrity and motility[1]. ODF4 is a testis-specific gene and has very restricted expression in normal tissues outside the testis. It interacts with adenylate kinases (AK1 and AK2), possibly contributing to ATP distribution during sperm movement[1]. Abnormal ODF4 function leads to defects in sperm motility and structure. The human ODF4 gene is located on chromosome 17 and encodes a protein of approximately 30–33 kDa[1][3]. In cancer contexts, ODF4 is characterized as a cancer/testis antigen, with aberrant expression observed in chronic myeloid leukemia and possibly other tumors; this role makes it a potential target for immunotherapeutic approaches and cancer detection[3]. There are no current drugs targeting ODF4, and no major safety concerns are reported.

Other names

Outer dense fiber protein 4OPPO1hOPPO1CT136CT134Testis-specific protein oppo 1Cancer/testis antigen 136Cancer/testis antigen 134Outer dense fiber of sperm tails protein 4