A-Kinase Anchor Protein 4 (AKAP4) Antibody

Background

AKAP4 is a key sperm-specific scaffold protein located in the fibrous sheath of the sperm tail, where it plays a vital role in flagellar structure, motility, and energy metabolism. It anchors PKA and other enzymes, organizing cAMP-dependent signaling pathways that regulate phosphorylation events necessary for sperm motility and capacitation. AKAP4 interacts with structural proteins to maintain the stability and flexibility of the sperm tail, ensuring proper flagellar beating. Loss or dysfunction of AKAP4 results in reduced sperm motility, structural defects in the sperm flagellum, and male infertility. AKAP4 is essential for mitochondrial energy generation by organizing signaling complexes that regulate ATP production in the midpiece of sperm cells. Recent studies suggest AKAP4 as a diagnostic marker for sperm quality, as its expression correlates with sperm motility and fertility outcomes in males.