A protein, the key to fusion

2008/07/01 Elhuyar Zientzia Iturria: Elhuyar aldizkaria

• Biologia
• Anatomia/Fisiologia

Researchers at the University of Texas spy on the union of sperm and eggs to unravel the mechanisms of fusion. Among other things, by joining the membranes of both, they have seen that a protein has great importance.

The protein is called HAP2 and is present in many species from parasites and insects to more complex animals. However, it is not discovered in mammals.

For this reason, British researchers have considered that, based on this protein, it is possible to combat diseases caused by parasites, such as malaria. In their experiments they have shown that the parasite reproductive cells without HAP2 cannot be united. This protein is also present in the reproductive cells of the parasite causing toxoplasmosis, so it is possible that a new pathway of healing of parasitic diseases is opened.