Seminal RNase: a unique member of the ribonuclease superfamily

Trends Biochem Sci. 1991 Mar;16(3):104-6. doi: 10.1016/0968-0004(91)90042-t.

Abstract

The RNase found in bull semen, although a member of the mammalian superfamily of ribonucleases, possesses some unusual properties. Besides its unique structure and enzymic properties, it displays antispermatogenic, antitumor and immunosuppressive activities. Seminal RNase belongs to an interesting group of RNases, the RISBASES (RIbonucleases with Special, i.e. non catalytic, Biological Actions) other members of which include angiogenin, selectively neurotoxic RNases, a lectin and the self-incompatibility factors from a flowering plant.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytotoxicity, Immunologic / physiology
  • Endoribonucleases / chemistry*
  • Endoribonucleases / physiology
  • Humans
  • Kinetics
  • Models, Molecular
  • Semen / enzymology*

Substances

  • Endoribonucleases
  • ribonuclease SPL