Melanin deposition and key molecular features in Xenopus tropicalis oocytes.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Melanin pigmentation in oocytes is a critical feature for both the esthetic and developmental aspects of oocytes, influencing their polarity and overall development. Despite substantial knowledge of melanogenesis in melanocytes and retinal pigment epithelium cells, the molecular mechanisms underlying oocyte melanogenesis remain largely unknown.

Results

Here, we compare the oocytes of wild-type, tyr^-/- and mitf^-/- Xenopus tropicalis and found that mitf^-/- oocytes exhibit normal melanin deposition at the animal pole, whereas tyr^-/- oocytes show no melanin deposition at this site. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed that melanogenesis in mitf^-/- oocytes proceeds normally, similar to wild-type oocytes. Tran

SUBMITTER: Yi H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11866844 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature