Alternative Name: EP007
Description: The Eppin protein is specific to male reproductive tissue (secreted by Sertoli cells and epididymal epithelial cells) and covers the surface of spermatozoa. Eppin binds semenogelin and is critical for the protection of sperm from the enzymatic degradation of the semen coagulum, which frees the spermatozoa for motility and capacitation. Eppin is the contraceptive target for a small organic compound that binds Eppin and inhibits sperm motility. Blocking Eppin has been shown to inhibit the motility required for fertilization by decreasing the sperm pH and reducing calcium levels.
Updated date: May 30, 2018
