| First Author | Joshi S | Year | 2007 |
| Journal | BMC Dev Biol | Volume | 7 |
| Pages | 67 | PubMed ID | 17567914 |
| Mgi Jnum | J:125833 | Mgi Id | MGI:3760021 |
| Doi | 10.1186/1471-213X-7-67 | Citation | Joshi S, et al. (2007) Ovarian gene expression in the absence of FIGLA, an oocyte-specific transcription factor. BMC Dev Biol 7:67 |
| abstractText | BACKGROUND: Ovarian folliculogenesis in mammals is a complex process involving interactions between germ and somatic cells. Carefully orchestrated expression of transcription factors, cell adhesion molecules and growth factors are required for success. We have identified a germ-cell specific, basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor, FIGLA (Factor In the GermLine, Alpha) and demonstrated its involvement in two independent developmental processes: formation of the primordial follicle and coordinate expression of zona pellucida genes. RESULTS: Taking advantage of Figla null mouse lines, we have used a combined approach of microarray and Serial Analysis of Gene Expression (SAGE) to identify potential downstream target genes. Using high stringent cutoffs, we find that FIGLA functions as a key regulatory molecule in coordinating expression of the NALP family of genes, genes of known oocyte-specific expression and a set of functionally un-annotated genes. FIGLA also inhibits expression of male germ cell specific genes that might otherwise disrupt normal oogenesis. CONCLUSION: These data implicate FIGLA as a central regulator of oocyte-specific genes that play roles in folliculogenesis, fertilization and early development. |
