Critical role of Emx2 in the pluripotency – differentiation transition in male gonocytes via regulation of FGF9/NODAL pathway. Issue 6 (June 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Tian-Zhong, Ma; Bi, Chen; Ying, Zhang; Xia, Jing; Cai-Ling, Peng; Yun-Shan, Zhang; Mei-Wen, Huang; Yan-Ru, Niu
• Is Part Of: Reproduction. Volume 151:Issue 6(2016)
• Page Start: 673
• Page End: 681
• Publication Date: 2016-06
• Subjects: Reproduction -- Periodicals; Reproduction -- Molecular aspects -- Periodicals; Reproduction -- Immunological aspects -- Periodicals; Reproduction -- Endocrine aspects -- Periodicals; Fertility -- Periodicals; Human reproduction -- Periodicals; 571.805
• DOI: 10.1530/REP-16-0022
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1470-1626

Abstract

Abstract: Emx2 deletion impairs the growth and maintenance of the genital ridge. However, its role in subsequent germ cell differentiation during embryonic stages is unknown. Using a tamoxifen-inducible Cre-loxP mouse model ( Emx2 flox/flox, Cre-ER TM, hereafter called as Emx2 knockdown), we showed that germ cell differentiation was impaired in Emx2- knockdown testes. Representative characteristics of male germ cell differentiation, including a reduced ability to form embryonic germ (EG) cell colonies in vitro, down-regulation of pluripotency markers and G1/G0 arrest, did not occur in Emx2- knockdown testes. Furthermore, FGF9 and NODAL signalling occurred at abnormally high levels in Emx2- knockdown testes. Both blocking FGF9 signalling with SU5402 and inhibiting NODAL signalling with SB431542 allowed germ cells from Emx2- knockdown testes to differentiate in vitro . Therefore, EMX2 in somatic cells is required to trigger germ cell differentiation in XY foetuses, posterior to its previously reported role in the growth and maintenance of the genital ridge.