Affiliation:
1. Department of Chromosome Biology, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics (IMEG) Kumamoto University Kumamoto Japan
Abstract
AbstractMeiosis is regulated in sexually dimorphic manners in mammals. In females, the commitment to and entry into meiosis are coordinated with the developmental program of oocytes. Female germ cells initiate meiosis within a short time window during the fetal period and then undergo meiotic arrest until puberty. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying the orchestration of oocyte development and meiosis to maximize the reproductive lifespan of mammalian females remain largely elusive. While meiotic initiation is regulated by a sexually common mechanism, where meiosis initiator and Stimulated by Retinoic Acid Gene 8 (STRA8) activate the meiotic genes, the female‐specific mode of meiotic initiation is mediated by the interaction between retinoblastoma (RB) and STRA8. This review highlights the female‐specific mechanisms of meiotic initiation and meiotic prophase progression in the context of oocyte development. Furthermore, the downstream pathway of the RB‐STRA8 interaction that may regulate meiotic arrest will be discussed in the context of oocyte development, highlighting a potential genetic link between the female‐specific mode of meiotic entry and meiotic arrest.
Funder
Mitsubishi Foundation
Japan Society for the Promotion of Science
Takeda Science Foundation
Astellas Foundation for Research on Metabolic Disorders
Uehara Memorial Foundation
Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development
Naito Foundation