SPAM1
Function
Involved in sperm-egg adhesion. Upon fertilization sperm must first penetrate a layer of cumulus cells that surrounds the egg before reaching the zona pellucida. The cumulus cells are embedded in a matrix containing hyaluronic acid which is formed prior to ovulation. This protein aids in penetrating the layer of cumulus cells by digesting hyaluronic acid.
Post-translational modifications
N-glycosylated.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the glycosyl hydrolase 56 family.
Tissue Specificity
Testis.
Cellular localization
- Cell membrane
- Lipid-anchor
- GPI-anchor
Alternative names
HYAL3, PH20, SPAM1, Hyaluronidase PH-20, Hyal-PH20, Hyaluronoglucosaminidase PH-20, Sperm adhesion molecule 1, Sperm surface protein PH-20