Loss of histone reader Phf7 leads to immune pathways activation via endogenous retroviruses during spermiogenesis.

ABSTRACT: Genetic studies have elucidated the critical roles of Phf7 in germline development in animals; however, the exact etiology of Phf7 mutations leading to male infertility and the possibility of mechanism-based therapy are still unclear and warrant further investigation. Using the Phf7 knockout mouse model, we verified that genetic defects were responsible for male infertility by preventing histone-to-protamine exchange, as previously reported. The deficiency of spermatogenesis caused by Phf7 deletion through the endogenous retrovirus-mediated activation of the immune pathway is a common mechanism of infertility. Furthermore, we identified PPARα as a promising target of immunity and inflammation in the testis, where endogenous retroviruses are suppressed, and Phf7 as a crucial regulator of en

SUBMITTER: Cheng J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10618686 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature