How does a new cell form in a matter of hours from a sperm and an egg which then develops into a human being? The aim of this research project is to investigate the role of the Polycomb group (PcG) proteins in this fusion process.
Background
The start of a human life is stunning. Two cells, a sperm and an egg, converge to form a new cell which is now in a position to become a human being. The original cells could not achieve that on their own. And unlike the two original cells, the fertilised egg cell is totipotent – all cell types of the human body can develop from it.
The creation of this totipotent cell is extremely complicated and dependent on various factors. The genetic material, the DNA, is involved of course. For example, certain genes, which were active during the creation of sperm and egg are switched off and vice versa. In addition, proteins which surround the DNA are important. The Polycomb group (PcG) proteins play a critical role in this process. These proteins are master regulators of embryo development and growth. They carry out their work by modifying the complex of DNA and proteins, known as chromatin, and by steering the activity of genes. However, the exact mode of action is largely unknown.
Aim
The aim of this research project is to investigate the role that PcG proteins play in the fusion of sperm and egg and the creation of totipotent embryos.
Significance
The project should shed new light on the formation and regulation of embryonic stem cells. Because similar processes are involved in the production of artificially derived pluripotent stem cells known as iPS cells, there are potential implications for the production of iPS cells (iPS means induced pluripotent stem cells).
Original title: Polycomb and stem cell identity in vitro and in vivo
Grant: CHF 427’275.-
Duration: 36 months
Project leader
- Dr. Antoine Peters, Friedrich Miescher Institut, Basel