Proteomic strategy for the identification of critical actors in reorganization of the post-meiotic male genome

Mol Hum Reprod. 2012 Jan;18(1):1-13. doi: 10.1093/molehr/gar063. Epub 2011 Oct 4.

Abstract

After meiosis, during the final stages of spermatogenesis, the haploid male genome undergoes major structural changes, resulting in a shift from a nucleosome-based genome organization to the sperm-specific, highly compacted nucleoprotamine structure. Recent data support the idea that region-specific programming of the haploid male genome is of high importance for the post-fertilization events and for successful embryo development. Although these events constitute a unique and essential step in reproduction, the mechanisms by which they occur have remained completely obscure and the factors involved have mostly remained uncharacterized. Here, we sought a strategy to significantly increase our understanding of proteins controlling the haploid male genome reprogramming, based on the identification of proteins in two specific pools: those with the potential to bind nucleic acids (basic proteins) and proteins capable of binding basic proteins (acidic proteins). For the identification of acidic proteins, we developed an approach involving a transition-protein (TP)-based chromatography, which has the advantage of retaining not only acidic proteins due to the charge interactions, but also potential TP-interacting factors. A second strategy, based on an in-depth bioinformatic analysis of the identified proteins, was then applied to pinpoint within the lists obtained, male germ cells expressed factors relevant to the post-meiotic genome organization. This approach reveals a functional network of DNA-packaging proteins and their putative chaperones and sheds a new light on the way the critical transitions in genome organizations could take place. This work also points to a new area of research in male infertility and sperm quality assessments.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone / genetics
  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone / metabolism
  • DNA Packaging
  • Gene Regulatory Networks
  • Genome*
  • Germ Cells / cytology
  • Germ Cells / physiology
  • Haploidy
  • Histones / genetics
  • Histones / metabolism
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Meiosis / physiology*
  • Molecular Chaperones / genetics
  • Molecular Chaperones / metabolism
  • Nuclear Proteins / genetics
  • Nuclear Proteins / metabolism
  • Proteomics / methods*
  • Spermatogenesis / physiology

Substances

  • Chromosomal Proteins, Non-Histone
  • Histones
  • Molecular Chaperones
  • Nuclear Proteins
  • spermatid transition proteins