Chromosome architecture in spermatogenesis – from bench to bedside

HYPOTESIS: Condensin II is crucially required, independently of its role in meiotic chromosome segregation, for proper chromatin function in male germ cells. Given the structural defects of Condensin II mutants during meiotic prophase I - a stage characterized by a robust transcriptional program across species [X] - we favor that Condensin II is responsible for regulatory changes in meiotic chromatin, thus influencing its transcriptional output.

Highlighting the importance of this complex for male fertility, we have also recently observed that Condensin subunits are part of an ancient and evolutionarily-conserved genetic program shared by male germ cells of very divergent animal species [X].

We anticipate this work will contribute to a better understanding of basic germ cell biology and how it relates to human infertility - a significant health problem prevalent in contemporary societies.