Spermatogenesis-associated protein 4 (SPATA4)

Spermatogenesis-associated protein 4 (SPATA4) is a conserved protein across species, highly and specifically expressed in the testis, particularly in Sertoli cells. It regulates cell proliferation, differentiation, and apoptosis in testicular tissue and promotes Sertoli cell growth, which is essential for sperm production and male fertility. SPATA4 is transcriptionally regulated by factors such as RFX1, which negatively modulates its expression. Beyond its testicular roles, SPATA4 is involved in adipocyte differentiation and adipose tissue expansion, likely contributing to the regulation of fat metabolism and ameliorating aging-induced metabolic dysfunction via the ERK1/2 and C/EBPβ signaling pathways. SPATA4 may, therefore, have broader physiological relevance outside male reproduction, including potential implications in metabolic diseases, but it is not recognized as a classical drug target like a receptor or kinase.

Other names

TSARG2SPEF1BFAP178CFAP178Testis and spermatogenesis cell-related protein 2Testis spermatocyte apoptosis-related gene 2 proteinSpermatogenesis-associated protein 4