Abstract
Spermatogenesis, the process through which mature spermatozoa are formed, is a complex process requiring a very strict regulation. More than 2000 genes are involved in spermatogenesis. Part of these genes has a unique function during spermatogenesis. The X chromosome is special because only one copy is present in men, whereas women have two X copies. Moreover, the mammalian X
chromosome is enriched for testis-specific genes. This makes the X chromosome particularly interesting in view of male infertility. Although multiple studies have tried to identify mutations in X-linked spermatogenesis genes,the number of causative mutations detected so far
remains low. Nowadays, new techniques allow the analysis of the complete X chromosome in a single experiment. Within the next few years, the knowledge on the role of the X chromosome in male infertility (and consequently also in spermatogenesis) will increase.
chromosome is enriched for testis-specific genes. This makes the X chromosome particularly interesting in view of male infertility. Although multiple studies have tried to identify mutations in X-linked spermatogenesis genes,the number of causative mutations detected so far
remains low. Nowadays, new techniques allow the analysis of the complete X chromosome in a single experiment. Within the next few years, the knowledge on the role of the X chromosome in male infertility (and consequently also in spermatogenesis) will increase.
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Title of host publication | eLS |
| Publisher | Wiley |
| ISBN (Electronic) | 9780470015902 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 15 Nov 2013 |
Keywords
- X chromosome
- spermatogenesis
- mutations
- infertility
- genetics
- polymorphisms
- genes