4930590J08Rik is a testis-specifically expressed gene. Its essential function appears to be related to male reproduction, potentially through involvement in sperm energy metabolism pathways. Genetic models, such as knockout mouse models, are valuable for studying its functions [1].

In 4930590J08Rik knockout mice, there is a delay in the first wave of spermatogenesis and a reduction of cauda epididymal sperm. Knockout spermatozoa show defective acrosome reactions and decreased progressive motility, leading to impaired in vivo fertilization. Transcriptome analysis of testes indicates that most differentially expressed genes in knockout testes are associated with metabolic processes. The knockout sperm exhibit oxidative phosphorylation deficiency and rely more on increased anaerobic glycolysis to meet ATP demands [1].

In conclusion, 4930590J08Rik is crucial for male reproduction, especially in sperm energy metabolism. The 4930590J08Rik-disrupted mouse serves as a new model for understanding the pathogenesis of idiopathic male infertility, mimicking phenotypes similar to human asthenospermia and oligozoospermia [1].

References:

1. Chen, Rui, Ma, Tingbin, Du, Shiyue, Shi, Qinghua, Liu, Jing Yu. . Impaired fertility in 4930590J08Rik mutant male mice is associated with defective sperm energy metabolism. In FASEB journal : official publication of the Federation of American Societies for Experimental Biology, 36, e22634. doi:10.1096/fj.202200805RR. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/36331537/