Development
UHRF1 is essential for proper cytoplasmic architecture and function of mouse oocytes and derived embryosThis study shows that the UHRF1 protein, an epigenetic factor, regulates cytoplasmic proteins in oocytes independently of gene expression and ensures normal preimplantation development.
The CHARGE syndrome-associated protein FAM172A controls AGO2 nuclear importAGO2 has long been known to shuttle between the cytosol and the nucleus of mammalian cells and this study helps to understand how this occurs.
Origin and segregation of the human germlineHuman primordial germ cells originate in peri-gastrulation embryos from the posterior epiblast precursors with an obligatory role for TFAP2A, which is redundant for contribution to the amnion.
Evaluation of genetic demultiplexing of single-cell sequencing data from model speciesThe authors demonstrate that scRNA-seq sample pooling followed by genetics-based separation of individuals is an effective means to identify individual samples in a variety of commonly studied species.
Prostaglandin F2α regulates mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in the bovine corpus luteumThis study investigates the early effects of PGF2α signaling on mitochondrial dynamics and mitophagy in bovine corpora lutea. Luteolytic mediator PGF2α, via PKC/ERK and AMPK signaling, activates mitochondrial fission and promotes PINK–Parkin mitophagy, placing mitochondria as novel targets in response to PGF2α.
Deletion of SERF2 in mice delays embryonic development and alters amyloid deposit structure in the brainPleiotropic consequences of deletion of SERF in mice reveals biological functions in cell growth and development and supports the existence of biological modifiers of amyloid polymorphisms in the brain.
Yolk-deprived Caenorhabditis elegans secure brood size at the expense of competitive fitnessMany egg-laying species lower fecundity when yolk is in short supply, but not C. elegans. They still produce abundant offspring, yet of decreased quality.
EZH2 controls epicardial cell migration during heart developmentEZH2 influences epicardial cell migration into the myocardium via TIMP3-dependent fine tuning of basement membrane degradation, which leads to cardiac malformations and embryonic lethality.
Local tissue mechanics control cardiac pacemaker cell embryonic patterningMicroenvironmental patterning during sinoatrial node morphogenesis is critical for sustaining cardiac pacemaker cell function.
Filopodia-like protrusions of adjacent somatic cells shape the developmental potential of oocytesFilopodia-like protrusions sent by the somatic cells to the oocyte play a role in the structural integrity of the germline–somatic complex, and regulate gene expression in the oocyte and thus its developmental potential and chances to produce a viable embryo.