Cysteine rich secretory proteins (Crisp) are ion channel regulators with essential roles in male fertility [ 2007 - 2009 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: Prof Moira O'Bryan (Principal investigator) ,  Dr Gerard Gibbs

Brief description Male infertility affects 1 in 20 Australian men and for the majority of other men, contraception is an issue at some point in their lives. Despite this, relatively little is known about the processes of sperm production and fertilization. As such, there is an urgent need for futher research if we are to hope to develop diagnostics, targeted therapeutics and to take advantage of the growing awareness by pharmaceutical companies of the market for male gamete based contraceptives. The cysteine rich secretory proteins (Crisps) are a group of proteins which show a remarkable bias to the male reproductive tract. All four are incorporated into sperm. Recently published data from us indicates that they have the ability to regulated calcium flow in sperm and as such sperm activity. The aim of the current proposal is to explore the biological relevance of one domain of Crisp proteins using animal models, in vitro sperm tests and through an analysis of ion flux and phosphorylation status under conditions of altered Crisp-1 and -2 content. The data generated from this project will make a significant contribution to the development of novel male gamete based contraceptives for use by either men or women. In addition, through the attainment of a greater understanding of sperm development and function, we will be able to more precisely define types of infertility, thus allowing for the development of more targeted therapies. The development of Crisp agonists or antagonists may also be of value in the treatment of other cilia disorders including primary cilia dykinesia and cystic fibrosis.

Funding Amount $AUD 531,696.74

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant