The role of paternal epigenome during early embryogenesis

Abstract

Abstract: Embryonic development is a complex and dynamic process with frequent changes in gene expression, ultimately leading to cellular differentiation and formation of various cell lines. These changes are regulated by the epigenetic factors in specific cells. The scope of paternal epigenome contributions during embryogenesis has long been considered limited. However, recent studies investigating epigenetic modifications in the spermatogenesis have provided new insights that paternal epigenome may establish a more critical role for the early developing embryo. Perturbations in the establishment and/or maintenance of any epigenetic marks have been demonstrated to affect early embryonic development. This review mainly focus on the functions of DNA methylation and histone modifications, elucidate the mechanisms in the regulation of embryogenesis and male infertility, which provides some basic information for preimplantation genetic diagnosis.

Key words: DNA methylation, histone modification, embryogenesis, male infertility

CLC Number:

ZHAO Zhenghui, SHI Mengya, YIN Huiying, ZHAO Penghui, GE Shaoqin. The role of paternal epigenome during early embryogenesis[J]. Medical Reserch and Education, 2015, 32(2): 61-64.

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