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Utf1 contributes to intergenerational epigenetic inheritance of pluripotency
Qiuye Bao1, Amir Morshedi1,2, Fulu Wang3
1School of Biological Sciences, Nanyang Technological University, 60 Nanyang Drive, Singapore, 637551, Singapore.
Scientific Reports
|November 4, 2017
Summary
Undifferentiated embryonic cell transcription factor 1 (Utf1) is crucial for embryonic development and germline epigenetic inheritance. Its absence impacts embryo development and adult testis size, linking pluripotency factors to intergenerational epigenetic memory.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Epigenetics
- Stem Cell Biology
Background:
- Undifferentiated embryonic cell transcription factor 1 (Utf1) is vital in pluripotent embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and primordial germ cells (PGCs).
- Utf1's role in PGCs in vivo remains largely unknown, despite its established function in ESCs.
- Utf1 expression is regulated by pluripotency factors Oct4 and Sox2.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vivo function of Utf1 in primordial germ cells.
- To explore the potential link between Utf1's epigenetic role in ESCs and intergenerational epigenetic inheritance.
- To understand the impact of Utf1 deficiency on embryonic development and reproductive health.
Main Methods:
- Generation and analysis of Utf1 null mouse models.
- Assessment of embryonic development and survival.
- Investigation of Utf1 expression in germ cells using reporter systems.
- Evaluation of adult testis size in Utf1 null mice.
Main Results:
- Proper development of Utf1 null embryos is highly dependent on functional Utf1 alleles in the parental germline.
- Utf1 is detected in mature germ cells, suggesting a role in epigenetic mark facilitation.
- Utf1 deficiency leads to reduced adult testis size in mice.
- Evidence suggests Utf1 links ESC pluripotency networks to epigenetic inheritance.
Conclusions:
- Utf1 plays a critical role in intergenerational epigenetic inheritance in vivo.
- The epigenetic functions of Utf1 in ESCs may extend to germline inheritance.
- Utf1 is essential for normal embryonic development and male reproductive health, highlighting its role beyond pluripotency maintenance.
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