Figures & data
Figure 1. Schematic diagram showing the dual role of CD147 in spermatogenesis. CD147 is expressed in spermatogonia (Spg),spermatocytes (Spc) and spermatids (Spd) and facilitates the production and activation of MMP-2 that is required for the migration of the developing germ cells (left panel). Defects or mis-regulation of CD147 would cease the migration and probably the differentiation of developing germ cells and spermiation of spermatids (right panel). CD147 may interact with β1-integrin and activate MMP-2 in regulating the production of laminin γ3 fragment from the apical ES and other subtypes of laminin fragments from the basement membrane, which may involve in restructuring of the BTB and ES. CD147 also acts as an anti-apoptotic factor in spermatocytes via a p53-independent pathway, downregulation or defect of which leads to apoptosis of spermatocytes. The dual role of CD147 provides a quality control surveillance mechanism directing the germ cells to survive and migrate for further development or undergo apoptosis. Key: Spg-A, type A spermatogonia; Spg-B, type B spermatogonia; Pl-Spc, preleptotene spermatocyte; P-Spc, pachytene spermatocyte; R-Spd, round spermatid; E-Spd, elongated spermatid; ES, ectoplasmic specialization.
