Tdrd6 is required for spermiogenesis, chromatoid body architecture, and regulation of miRNA expression.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Chromatoid bodies (CBs) are characteristic spermatid organelles, which were suggested to function in RNA storage and small RNA processing but whose functions remain largely unknown. CB components include Mili, Miwi, and Tudor domain proteins such as Tdrd6, whose contribution to CB structure and function is elusive.

Results

We determined gametogenesis stage- and male-specific expression and localization of Tdrd6, identified a C-terminally truncated form as predominant after meiosis I, and demonstrated direct physical interaction of Tdrd6 with the CB components Mili and Miwi. Development from round into elongated spermatids is abrogated in Tdrd6(-/-) mice. Their round spermatids bear "ghost" CBs, whose architecture is greatly disrupted. Mael, Miwi, and Mvh do not lo

SUBMITTER: Vasileva A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2719840 | biostudies-literature | 2009 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature