Regulation of oocyte
gene expression by alternative polyadenylation
Alternative
polyadenylation is an important factor in regulation of gene expression
during production of the male gamete (spermatogenesis) but its role in
development of the female gamete has not been investigated. Accurate gene
expression during oocyte production is necessary for female fertility
(especially during aging) and to understand gene expression of cellular
differentiation. Different isoforms (a shorter size and increased
concentration) of polyadenylation factors CPSF5 and CPSF6 are present in
male germ cells compared to somatic tissues. We hypothesized that
different isoforms of CPSF5 and CPSF6 are present in oocytes compared to
somatic tissues indicating an important function of alternative
polyadenylation during oocyte development. Using a rodent model, we will
identify oocyte isoforms of CPSF5 and CPSF6 generated by alternative
polyadenylation with Northern blotting, RT-PCR and 3'RACE molecular
biology techniques.
