Expression pattern of the mitochondrial capsule selenoprotein mRNA in the mouse testis after puberty; in situ hybridization study

J Vet Med Sci. 1997 Nov;59(11):983-8. doi: 10.1292/jvms.59.983.

Abstract

Mitochondrial capsule selenoprotein (MCS) has been known as a structural protein of the mitochondrial sheath in spermatozoa. In this study, to determine the expression pattern of MCS mRNA in the mouse testis after puberty, in situ hybridization using digoxigenin-labeled RNA probes for MCS was performed in the testes of 8- and 20-week-old ICR mice. In the testes of both ages, MCS mRNA first appeared in step 3 round spermatids, gradually increased during early spermiogenesis, and persisted a high level until step 14 spermatids. After the step 14 spermatids, the signal began to decline and was weakly detected in steps 15-16 spermatids. On the other hand, compared with that in the testes of 8-week-old mice, MCS mRNA level in the testes of 20-week-old mice increased over 2-fold at stages VI-III, while it slightly increased at stages IV-V. These findings suggest that MCS gene transcription may be up-regulated after puberty in the mouse testis.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aging / metabolism
  • Animals
  • Gene Expression Regulation, Developmental*
  • Male
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred ICR
  • Protein Biosynthesis*
  • Proteins*
  • RNA, Messenger / biosynthesis
  • Selenoproteins
  • Sexual Maturation
  • Spermatids / cytology
  • Spermatids / physiology*
  • Spermatogenesis
  • Testis / cytology
  • Testis / growth & development
  • Testis / physiology*
  • Transcription, Genetic*

Substances

  • Mcsp protein, mouse
  • Proteins
  • RNA, Messenger
  • Selenoproteins