Mice deficient for spermatid perinuclear RNA-binding protein show neurologic, spermatogenic, and sperm morphological abnormalities

Spermatid perinuclear RNA-binding protein (SPNR) is a microtubule-associate d RNA-binding protein that localizes to the manchette in developing spermat ids. The Spur mRNA is expressed at high levels in testis, ovary, and brain and is present in these tissues in multiple forms. We have generated a gene trap allele of the murine Spur, named Spnr(+/GT). Spnr(GT/GT) mutants show a high rate of mortality, reduced weight, and an abnormal clutching reflex . In addition to minor anatomical abnormalities in the brain males exhibit defects in spermatogenesis that include a thin seminiferous epithelium and disorganization of spermatogenesis. Most of the sperm from mutant males dis play defects in the flagellum and consequently show decreased motility and transport within the oviducts. furthermore, sperm from mutant males achieve in vitro fertilization less frequently. Our findings suggest that SPNR pla ys an important role in normal spermatogenesis and sperm function. Thus, th e Spnr(GT/GT) mutant male mouse provides a unique model for some human male infertility cases. (C) 2001 Academic Press.