Sperm-specific cation channel, CatSper4, and uses therefor
US8137918B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 2, 2008 |
| Grant date | Mar 20, 2012 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 2, 2028 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01N2800/367
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
Nucleic acid and protein sequences relating to a cation channel which is sperm-specific (CatSper4) are disclosed. The CatSper4 protein is shown to be specifically expressed in sperm. Nucleic acids, vectors, transformed cells, transgenic animals, polypeptides, and antibodies relating to the CatSper4 gene and protein are disclosed. Also provided are methods of in vitro fertilization and contraception, methods of identifying modulators of CatSper4 activity, methods of genotyping subjects with respect to CatSper4, and methods of diagnosing and treating CatSper4-mediated disorders, including infertility. Related business methods are also disclosed.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.