Telomeric function and regulation during male meiosis in mice and humans.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: Telomeres are unique structures situated at the ends of chromosomes. Preserving the structure and function of telomeres is essential for maintaining genomic stability and promoting genetic diversity during male meiosis in mammals. MATERIAL-METHODS: This review compiled recent literature on the function and regulation of telomeres during male meiosis in both mice and humans, and also highlighted the critical roles of telomeres in reproductive biology and medicine. RESULTS-DISCUSSION: Various structures, consisting of the LINC complex (SUN-KASH), SPDYA-CDK2, TTM trimer (TERB1-TERB2-MAJIN), and shelterin, are critical in controlling telomeric activities, such as nuclear envelope attachment and bouquet formation. Other than telomere-related proteins, cohesins and genes responsible for regulating telomere function are also highlighted, though the exact mechanism remains unclear. The gene-mutant mouse models with meiotic defects directly reveal the essential roles of telomeres in male meiosis. Recently reported mutant genes associated with telomere activity in clinical practice have also been illustrated in detail. CONCLUSIONS: Proper regulation of telomere activities is essential for male meiosis progression in mice and humans.