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Functions of cyclins and CDKs in mammalian gametogenesis†
Jessica Y Chotiner1,2, Debra J Wolgemuth3, P Jeremy Wang1,2
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.
Abstract:
Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are key regulators of the cell cycle. Most of our understanding of their functions has been obtained from studies in single-cell organisms and mitotically proliferating cultured cells. In mammals, there are more than 20 cyclins and 20 CDKs. Although genetic ablation studies in mice have shown that most of these factors are dispensable for viability and fertility, uncovering their functional redundancy, CCNA2, CCNB1, and CDK1 are essential for embryonic development. Cyclin/CDK complexes are known to regulate both mitotic and meiotic cell cycles. While some mechanisms are common to both types of cell divisions, meiosis has unique characteristics and requirements. During meiosis, DNA replication is followed by two successive rounds of cell division. In addition, mammalian germ cells experience a prolonged prophase I in males or a long period of arrest in prophase I in females. Therefore, cyclins and CDKs may have functions in meiosis distinct from their mitotic functions and indeed, meiosis-specific cyclins, CCNA1 and CCNB3, have been identified. Here, we describe recent advances in the field of cyclins and CDKs with a focus on meiosis and early embryogenesis.
Insights
Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) regulate cell division. Recent research highlights their distinct roles in meiosis and early embryogenesis, revealing essential functions beyond typical cell cycle control.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Cyclins and cyclin-dependent kinases (CDKs) are crucial for cell cycle progression.
- While many cyclins/CDKs are redundant in mammals, some like CCNA2, CCNB1, and CDK1 are vital for embryonic development.
- Meiosis involves unique cell division processes distinct from mitosis, necessitating specialized regulatory mechanisms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review recent advances in understanding cyclins and CDKs.
- To focus on the specific roles of cyclins and CDKs in meiosis.
- To explore their functions in early embryogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on cyclins and CDKs.
- Analysis of genetic ablation studies in mice.
- Examination of meiosis-specific cyclins (e.g., CCNA1, CCNB3).
Main Results:
- Most cyclins and CDKs are not essential for viability, indicating functional redundancy.
- CCNA2, CCNB1, and CDK1 are indispensable for mammalian embryonic development.
- Meiosis-specific cyclins have been identified, suggesting distinct roles in germ cell division.
Conclusions:
- Cyclins and CDKs play critical, sometimes meiosis-specific, roles in germ cell division and early development.
- Understanding these regulators is key to deciphering complex biological processes like meiosis and embryogenesis.
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