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Updated: Aug 6, 2025

Studying Cell Cycle-regulated Gene Expression by Two Complementary Cell Synchronization Protocols
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Studying Cell Cycle-regulated Gene Expression by Two Complementary Cell Synchronization Protocols

Published on: June 6, 2017

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Cell cycle regulation for meiosis in mammalian germ cells

Ryuki Shimada1, Kei-Ichiro Ishiguro1

  • 1Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG), Kumamoto University, Kumamoto 860-0811, Japan.

The Journal of Reproduction and Development
|March 17, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Germ cell development differs between sexes, with male germ cells arresting in G0/G1 phase and female germ cells entering meiosis. This review explores the cell cycle regulation mechanisms driving these distinct developmental pathways.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive Biology
  • Developmental Biology
  • Cell Cycle Regulation

Background:

  • Germ cell development in fetal gonads is a complex process influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors.
  • Male and female germ cells exhibit distinct cell cycle behaviors during fetal development: arrest in G0/G1 for males and entry into meiosis for females.

Approach:

  • This review synthesizes current research on germ cell cycle regulation during fetal development.
  • It examines the molecular mechanisms, including key genes and signaling pathways, that control germ cell fate in testes and ovaries.

Key Points:

  • In fetal testes, NANOS2 and CYP26B1 maintain germ cell G0/G1 arrest, inhibiting entry into meiosis.
  • In fetal ovaries, retinoic acid (RA), BMP, and WNT signaling promote meiotic entry competence.
  • MEIOSIN and STRA8 are crucial for initiating the meiotic cell cycle in female germ cells, synchronizing meiotic entry with the S phase.

Conclusions:

  • Cell cycle regulation is a critical determinant of sexual dimorphism in germ cell development.
  • Understanding these mechanisms provides insight into the establishment of the germline and potential reproductive health issues.
Keywords:
Cell cycleGerm cellMEIOSINMeiosisSTRA8

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