Epigenetic reprogramming of the zygote in mice and men: on your marks, get set, go!

摘要: Gametogenesis (spermatogenesis and oogenesis) is accompanied by the acquisition of gender-specific epigenetic marks, such as DNA methylation, histone modifications regulation small RNAs, to form highly differentiated, but transcriptionally silent cell-types in preparation for fertilisation. Upon fertilisation, extensive global reprogramming takes place remove previously acquired marks produce totipotent zygotic states. It aim this review delineate cellular molecular events involved maternal, paternal from time gametogenesis, through initiation genome activation preimplantation embryonic development. Recent studies have begun uncover indispensable functions players during fertilisation embryo development, a more comprehensive understanding these early will be informative increasing pregnancy success rates, adding particular value assisted fertility programmes.