Journal of Andrology Testis Workshop 2009
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Published-Ahead-of-Print October 29, 2009, DOI:10.2164/jandrol.109.008128

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microRNAs in the Testis: Building Up Male Fertility

Marilena D. Papaioannou and Serge Nef *

* To whom correspondence should be addressed. E-mail: serge.nef{at}unige.ch.

Spermatogenesis is a strictly regulated process, both at the transcriptional and the post-transcriptional level, which allows continuous gamete production throughout adulthood. A novel mechanism of post-transcriptional control mediated by microRNAs (miRNAs) has lately emerged as an important regulator of spermatogenesis. miRNAs are endogenous, small, non-coding RNAs produced through a multi-step enzymatic process, which involves the action of Dicer, an RNaseIII endonuclease. Here, we first present a short overview of classic post-transcriptional control during spermatogenesis, and then concentrate on recent findings that have unraveled the important role of miRNAs in male reproductive function. Particular focus is given to the in vivo role of miRNAs that has been demonstrated through the generation of Sertoli- or germ-cell specific Dicer knockouts, as well as the potential application of these findings in the treatment of human male infertility and the development of male contraceptives. It is anticipated that unraveling miRNA functions in the testis will further our understanding of the regulatory mechanisms of mammalian spermatogenesis.


Key words: Reproductive Genetics • Spermatogenesis • Testis • Dicer • Sertoli cells • microRNA






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