Semenogelin

Semenogelin is a protein that is involved in the formation of a gel matrix that encases ejaculated spermatozoa, preventing capacitation.[1] It blocks capacitation mainly via inhibition of reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.[1]

Proteolysis by prostate-specific antigen (PSA) breaks down the gel matrix and allows the spermatozoa to move more freely.[2] The cleavage products of the semenogelins constitute the main antibacterial components in human seminal plasma.[3]

There are two variants of the semenogelin protein: semenogelin 1 and semenogelin 2.

Semenogelin along with prostate-specific antigen, are commonly tested for during crime scene investigation.

References
  1. de Lamirande E, Lamothe G (May 2010). "Levels of semenogelin in human spermatozoa decrease during capacitation: involvement of reactive oxygen species and zinc". Hum Reprod. 25 (7): 1619–1630. doi:10.1093/humrep/deq110. PMID 20501468.
  2. Entrez Gene: SEMG2 semenogelin II
  3. Edström, AM; Malm, J; Frohm, B; Martellini, JA; Giwercman, A; Mörgelin, M; Cole, AM; Sørensen, OE (Sep 1, 2008). "The major bactericidal activity of human seminal plasma is zinc-dependent and derived from fragmentation of the semenogelins". Journal of Immunology. 181 (5): 3413–21. doi:10.4049/jimmunol.181.5.3413. PMC 2585754. PMID 18714013.
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