Gene dosage of Otx2 is important for fertility in male mice.

摘要: Abstract Together, the hypothalamus, pituitary and gonads direct development regulation of reproductive function in mammals. Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) expression is limited to ∼800 neurons that originate olfactory placode then migrate hypothalamus. Coordination hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal (HPG) axis dependent upon correct neuronal migration GnRH into hypothalamus followed by proper synthesis pulsatile secretion GnRH. Defects any one these processes causes infertility. Otx2, vertebrate homologue Drosophila orthodenticle, a transcription factor has been shown be critical for normal brain eye expressed both developing pituitary, suggesting this gene may play role HPG axis. As Otx2-null mice are embryonic lethal, we have analyzed capacity heterozygous Otx2 determine contribution dosage function. Our data reveal fertility as loss allele leads discernible phenotype male due disruption during development.