Tex14, or testis-expressed 14, is a crucial protein involved in the formation and stabilization of intercellular bridges in germ cells. It plays a significant role in spermatogenesis and oogenesis, with its functions also extending to kinetochore-microtubule attachment and regulation of the spindle assembly checkpoint during mitosis [1,2,3]. It is also associated with processes like iron homeostasis [4]. Genetic models, especially knockout mouse models, have been instrumental in studying Tex14's functions.

In Tex14 homozygous mutant fetal ovaries, germ cells form fewer cysts with abnormal intercellular connections, leading to fragmentation and a reduced number of primary oocytes with abnormal cytoplasmic enrichment [1]. In male Tex14 -/- mice, spermatogenesis halts before the completion of the first meiotic division as intercellular bridges are absent, causing male sterility [5]. However, female Tex14 -null mice are fertile despite the absence of embryonic intercellular bridges, though there are fewer oocytes in neonatal ovaries [6].

In conclusion, Tex14 is essential for the formation of intercellular bridges in germ cells, which is crucial for spermatogenesis. The gene knockout mouse models have revealed its key role in male fertility and provided insights into the processes of oogenesis. These findings contribute to understanding the mechanisms underlying infertility and potentially other related reproductive disorders.