Tektin-3 (TEKT3)

Tektin-3 (TEKT3) is a member of the tektin family of filamentous proteins, enriched in male germ cells and localized predominantly to the axoneme and peri-axonemal structures of sperm flagella and cilia[1][2][3][4]. TEKT3 is coassembled with tubulins to form stable components of ciliary and flagellar microtubules, contributing to the structural integrity and motility of these organelles[1][4]. In mammals, TEKT3 is crucial for maintaining normal progressive sperm motility, and loss of TEKT3 in mice impairs sperm movement and causes characteristic flagellar bending defects, though fertile male reproduction is often preserved[1]. Humans with TEKT3 mutations have been linked to specific forms of male infertility, notably spermatogenic failure 81 and asthenozoospermia[2][3][4]. TEKT3 is typically not considered a classical druggable therapeutic target (like a receptor, enzyme, or ion channel), but is important as a candidate gene in the genetic diagnosis of male infertility[1][2][4].

Other names

FLJ32828SPGF81tektin-3testicular microtubules-related protein