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Defining the Program of Maternal mRNA Translation during In vitro Maturation using a Single Oocyte Reporter Assay
Published on: June 16, 2021
FIGLA, a basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, balances sexually dimorphic gene expression in postnatal
Wei Hu1, Lyn Gauthier, Boris Baibakov
1Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA.
Molecular and Cellular Biology
|May 19, 2010
Summary
Factor in the germ line, alpha (Figla) is crucial for mammalian germ cell development. It activates oocyte genes and represses male germ cell genes, ensuring proper gender-specific development and fertility.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Developmental biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Proper development of mammalian germ cells relies on precise gene regulation.
- Factor in the germ line, alpha (Figla) is a transcription factor identified for its role in oocyte gene activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of Figla in repressing male germ cell-associated genes during oogenesis.
- To understand the dual function of Figla in germ cell development.
Main Methods:
- Comparative proteomic analysis of ovaries from normal and Figla null mice.
- Generation of transgenic mice ectopically expressing Figla in male germ cells.
- Analysis of gene expression, meiosis, germ cell apoptosis, and sperm component localization in transgenic mice.
Main Results:
- Figla null ovaries showed increased abundance of testis-specific proteins.
- Ectopic Figla expression in male germ cells downregulated testis-associated genes.
- Transgenic males exhibited impaired meiosis, germ cell apoptosis, and sterility, with disrupted sperm chromatoid body formation and protein mislocalization.
Conclusions:
- Figla plays a critical dual role in postnatal oogenesis.
- Figla activates oocyte-specific genes and represses sperm-specific genes.
- Dysregulation of Figla leads to impaired germ cell development and sterility.
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