Nuclear Matrix Interactions within the Sperm Genome

Abstract

Analysis of the haploid-expressed human PRM1 --> PRM2 --> TNP2 genic domain has revealed two regions of attachment to the sperm nuclear matrix. These sperm nuclear matrix attachment regions delimit the DNase I-sensitive domain of this haploid-expressed locus. The domain is intermediately associated with but not attached to the nuclear matrix. DNase I-sensitive genes within the mature sperm nucleus, such as protamine 1, protamine 2, transition protein 2, alpha-globin, and beta-actin, display this intermediate affinity for the sperm nuclear matrix. This may denote their role in templating the male genome prior to fertilization, thus ensuring the formation of a viable male pronucleus during early embryonic development.