Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 14, 2026
05:24
Teratoma Generation in the Testis Capsule
Published on: November 7, 2011
The testis as a conduit for genomic plasticity: an advanced interdisciplinary workshop
D Miller1, M Brinkworth, D Iles
1Reproduction and Early Development Group, Leeds Institute of Genetics and Health Therapeutics, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK. d.miller@leeds.ac.uk
Biochemical Society Transactions
|May 22, 2007
Summary
Transposable elements, which comprise over 40% of the human genome, may be expressed and transmitted in reproductive tissues. The testis, with its dynamic spermatogenesis, offers a unique environment for these elements to potentially alter the genome.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Genetics
- Evolutionary Biology
Background:
- Transposable elements (TEs), including DNA transposons and retrotransposons, constitute over 40% of the human genome.
- Reproductive tissues are hypothesized as ideal environments for TE expression and transmission due to unique genomic dynamics.
Framework:
- The testis is proposed as a key niche for TE activity due to the plasticity of germ cell DNA methylation during spermatogenesis.
- This plasticity may create windows for TEs to escape regulatory control and potentially influence heritable variation.
Implementation:
- A meeting convened reproductive biologists, molecular geneticists, and evolutionary biologists to explore TE roles.
- Keynote presentations focused on the potential for TEs to alter the germline genome independently of Mendelian inheritance.
Implications:
- Investigates the testis as a potential site for genomic plasticity mediated by transposable elements.
- Explores non-Mendelian mechanisms for heritable genome alteration and variation through TE activity.
Related Concept Videos
01:16In vitro Mutagenesis
To learn more about the function of a gene, researchers can observe what happens when the gene is inactivated or “knocked out,” by creating genetically engineered knockout animals. Knockout mice have been particularly useful as models for human diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
01:41Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is the process by which haploid sperm cells are produced in the male testes. It starts with stem cells located close to the outer rim of seminiferous tubules. These spermatogonial stem cells divide asymmetrically to give rise to additional stem cells (meaning that these structures “self-renew”), as well as sperm progenitors, called spermatocytes. Importantly, this method of asymmetric mitotic division maintains a population of spermatogonial stem cells in the male reproductive...
01:22Spermatogenesis
Spermatogenesis is a complex process that involves the development of sperm cells from undifferentiated stem cells in the seminiferous tubules of the testes. The process is essential for the production of mature and functional sperm cells that are capable of fertilizing an egg.
The process of spermatogenesis can be divided into mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, the spermatogonia or stem cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells, type A and B spermatogonia. Type-A...
The process of spermatogenesis can be divided into mitosis, meiosis, and spermiogenesis. During mitosis, the spermatogonia or stem cells divide to produce two identical daughter cells, type A and B spermatogonia. Type-A...
01:16In-vitro Mutagenesis
To learn more about the function of a gene, researchers can observe what happens when the gene is inactivated or “knocked out,” by creating genetically engineered knockout animals. Knockout mice have been particularly useful as models for human diseases such as cancer, Parkinson’s disease, and diabetes.
01:27Testes: Histology
A tough, fibrous membrane, the tunica albuginea, covers the testes, extending inward to form fibrous partitions or septa, dividing them into internal compartments called lobules. Each lobule has 1 to 3 tightly coiled seminiferous tubules where sperm production occurs. These tubules merge into a tubular network at the back of the testis, known as the rete testis. It connects to 15 to 20 efferent ductules, leading to the epididymis.
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
The spermatogenic cells, responsible for producing sperm, are...
01:23Infertility in Males
Male infertility affects millions of couples worldwide, arising from various factors that impact different stages of the reproductive process. An endocrine imbalance resulting from conditions like hypogonadism, Klinefelter syndrome, or pituitary disorders can disrupt hormone levels and reduce sperm production. Testicular defects, such as tumors, cryptorchidism, atrophic testes, abnormal sperm morphology, and low sperm count or motility, may arise due to genetic factors, structural...