Mature spermatozoa are characterized by an head, midpiece and a long tail for locomotion. Now, researchers from the University Hospital Bonn (UKB) and the Transdisciplinary Research Unit "Life & Health" at the University of Bonn have found that a loss of the structural protein ACTL7B blocks spermatogenesis in male mice.
Study explores the interaction between SARS-CoV-2's non-structural protein 3 (NSP3) and proteins related to Fragile X mental retardation (FMRPs), shedding light on COVID-19 pathophysiology. The research suggests that the virus exploits these host cell proteins for effective infection and possibly interferes with antiviral defense mechanisms, offering new insights into the genetic basis of Fragile X syndrome.