Prostate and testis expressed protein 1 (PATE1)

Prostate and testis expressed protein 1 (PATE1) is a cysteine-rich protein of approximately 14 kDa, part of the TFP/Ly-6/uPAR (three-finger protein) family, and contains a putative phospholipase A2 motif at the C-terminus[1][3][4]. It is predominantly expressed in the prostate and testis, especially in male germ cells and sperm, as well as (to a lesser degree) in the epididymis and seminal vesicles[3][4]. PATE1 localizes to the equatorial segment of the sperm head and is implicated in sperm–oolemma (egg plasma membrane) fusion and penetration during fertilization, but not sperm–zona pellucida binding[3]. Reduced PATE1 expression is associated with decreased sperm motility in asthenozoospermia, suggesting a functional role in male fertility[6]. In cancer biology, PATE1 is expressed in prostate cancers and was initially considered a tissue-specific antigen for targeted immunotherapy[1][3][5]. In rodents, PATE1 also demonstrates antibacterial properties, contributing to reproductive tract defense[4]. There are no known approved drugs targeting PATE1, and it is not currently an established therapeutic target (e.g., receptor, enzyme), but it serves as a candidate biomarker for conditions such as male infertility or prostate cancer[5][6].

Other names

PATE1PATEProstate and testis expressed 1Expressed in prostate and testisProstate and testis expressed protein 1