Profilin-3 (PFN3)

Profilin-3 (PFN3) is a testis-specific actin-binding protein that plays a crucial role in spermiogenesis, the process by which spermatids mature into spermatozoa[1][5]. PFN3 is localized in the acroplaxome–manchette complex and Golgi apparatus of developing sperm. Its main functions are to regulate the dynamics of actin polymerization—important for cell morphology and movement—and to mediate vesicle transport for normal acrosome formation. knockout studies show that loss of PFN3 leads to male subfertility due to type II globozoospermia, with phenotypes including abnormal sperm head morphology, impaired acrosome biogenesis, manchette and flagellum deformities, and altered autophagy pathways, suggesting that PFN3 is essential for proper sperm development and male fertility[1]. There is no evidence supporting a role for PFN3 in other diseases or as a drug target.

Other names

Profilin-3PFN3Profilin IIIprofilin-3profilin III