Pathogenesis of acephalic spermatozoa syndrome caused by PMFBP1 mutation.

Background: Acephalic spermatozoa syndrome is a rare but severe type of teratozoospermia. The familial trait of acephalic spermatozoa syndrome suggests that genetic factors play an important role. However, known mutations account for only some acephalic spermatozoa syndrome patients, and more studies are needed to elucidate its pathogenesis.

Over-expression of miR375 reduces glucose-induced insulin secretion in Nit-1 cells.

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are 19- to 25-nt fragments cleaved from 70- to 100-nt hairpin precursors. These molecules participate in essential biological processes. It was estimated that 30% of all protein-coding genes are miRNA targets.