testis expressed sequence 11, OTTHUMP00000062063, TSGA3, TGC1, testis expressed 11, TEX11

This gene is X-linked and is expressed in only male germ cells. Two alternatively spliced transcript variants encoding distinct isoforms have been found for this gene. ZIP4 homolog (ZIP4H), also known as testis expressed sequence 11 (Tex11) is a 947 amino acid (aa) X chromosome- encoded protein that is selectively expressed in primordial male germ cells. It associates with Nbs1 of the Mre11 protein complex which results in localization to areas of synaptonemal contact between meiotic chromosomes. During meiosis, ZIP4H promotes sister chromatid synapsis and crossover in response to programmed double stranded DNA breaks. ZIP4H deficiency leads to increased spermatocyte apoptosis and male sterility.