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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...
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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.
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During fertilization, an egg and sperm cell fuse to create a new diploid structure. In humans, the process occurs once the egg has been released from the ovary, and travels into the fallopian tubes. The process requires several key steps: 1) sperm present in the genital tract must locate the egg; 2) once there, sperm need to release enzymes to help them burrow through the protective zona pellucida of the egg; and 3) the membranes of a single sperm cell and egg must fuse, with the sperm...
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The journey of sperm from its origin to the point of ejaculation begins within the seminiferous tubules of the testis. Here, Sertoli cells produce fluid that propels non-motile sperm through a series of conduits, starting with the straight tubules leading to the rete testis. This interconnected network of tubules acts as the initial pathway for sperm, guiding them into the efferent ductules and then into the epididymis for maturation.
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Epigenetics is the study of inherited changes in a cell's phenotype without changing the DNA sequences. It provides a form of memory for the differential gene expression pattern to maintain cell lineage, position-effect variegation, dosage compensation, and maintenance of chromatin structures such as telomeres and centromeres. For example, the structure and location of the centromere on chromosomes are epigenetically inherited. Its functionality is not dictated or ensured by the underlying...
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In 1882, Flemming observed lampbrush chromosomes (LBC) in salamander eggs. Later in 1892, Rückert observed LBCs in shark egg cells and coined the term "lampbrush chromosomes" because they looked like brushes used to clean kerosene lamps.
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Sperm, metabolic memory and echoes from Lamarck.

Luís Crisóstomo1, Pedro F Oliveira2, Marco G Alves1

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Summary

Paternal epigenetic factors, not just maternal ones, impact fetal development across generations. Assessing fathers-to-be health is crucial for predicting offspring health outcomes.

Keywords:
epigeneticsmetabolismspermutero

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Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology
  • Epigenetics
  • Developmental biology

Background:

  • Maternal factors are traditionally considered the primary influence on in utero development.
  • Emerging evidence suggests paternal contributions are significant.
  • Epigenetic mechanisms play a key role in transgenerational inheritance.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the role of sperm-borne epigenetic factors in fetal development.
  • To emphasize the impact of paternal health on offspring health.
  • To advocate for paternal health assessments.

Main Methods:

  • Review of current scientific literature on epigenetics and paternal inheritance.
  • Analysis of studies demonstrating sperm's role in transmitting epigenetic information.
  • Examination of the link between paternal metabolic disease and offspring health.

Main Results:

  • Epigenetic markers in sperm are transmitted to the zygote.
  • These sperm-born epigenetic factors influence development across multiple generations.
  • Acquired traits, such as metabolic disease, can be inherited through the male gamete.

Conclusions:

  • Paternal epigenetic factors significantly influence in utero development.
  • Paternal health, including metabolic status, can be epigenetically inherited.
  • Preconception health assessment for fathers is essential for predicting and ensuring offspring health.