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Epigenetic Regulation in Male Germ Cells

N Zamudio, Centre for Reproduction and Development, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, 3169, Australia
S Chong, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Australia
M O'Bryan, Centre for Reproduction and Development, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, 3169, Australia

Correspondence: Natasha Zamudio, Email: natasha.zamudio{at}med.monash.edu.au

Abstract

In recent years it has become increasingly clear that epigenetic regulation of gene expression is critical during spermatogenesis. In this review, epigenetic regulation and the consequences of its aberrant regulation during mitosis, meiosis and spermiogenesis are described. Current knowledge on epigenetic modifications that occur during male meiosis are discussed, with special attention on events that define meiotic sex chromosome inactivation (MSCI). Finally, recent studies focused on transgenerational and paternal effects in mice and humans are discussed. In many cases these epigenetic effects resulted in impaired fertility and potentially long ranging affects underlining the importance of research in this area.