背景资料：This gene encodes a testis-specific protein that belongs to the tetratricopeptide repeat-like superfamily. The encoded protein localizes to the Golgi apparatus and may play a role in spermatogenesis. The SPATA16 protein contains a region of homology to the mouse male enhanced antigen-2, a SCOP domain belonging to the tetratricopeptide repeat-like superfamily, 3 glycosylation sites, and several phosphorylation sites. The mouse and human proteins share 77% sequence identity. Northern blot analysis of multiple human tissues detected a strong signal in testis and weak expression in pancreas and kidney. Laser confocal microscopy localized a GFP-SPATA16 fusion protein specifically to the Golgi apparatus.