A distinct expression pattern in mammalian testes indicates a conserved role for NANOG in spermatogenesis.

ABSTRACT:

Background

NANOG is a key player in pluripotency and its expression is restricted to pluripotent cells of the inner cell mass, the epiblast and to primordial germ cells. Spermatogenesis is closely associated with pluripotency, because through this process highly specialized sperm cells are produced that contribute to the formation of totipotent zygotes. Nevertheless, it is unknown if NANOG plays a role in this process.

Methodology/principal findings

In the current study, NANOG expression was examined in testes of various mammals, including mouse and human. Nanog mRNA and NANOG protein were detected by RT-PCR, immunohistochemistry, and western blotting. Furthermore, eGFP expression was detected in the testis of a transgenic Nanog eGFP-reporter mouse. Surprisingly, although NA

SUBMITTER: Kuijk EW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2881870 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature