Revisiting poly(A)-binding proteins: Multifaceted regulators during gametogenesis and early embryogenesis

Post-transcriptional regulation faces a distinctive challenge in gametes. Transcription is limited when the germ cells enter the division phase due to condensed chromatin, while gene expression during gamete maturation, fertilization, and early cleavage depends on existing mRNA post-transcriptional coordination. The dynamics of the 3MODIFIER LETTER PRIME-poly(A) tail play crucial roles in defining mRNA fate. The 3MODIFIER LETTER PRIME-poly(A) tail is covered with poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs) that help to mediate mRNA metabolism and recent work has shed light on the number and function of germ cell-specific expressed PABPs. There are two structurally different PABP groups distinguished by their cytoplasmic and nuclear localization. Both lack catalytic activity but are coupled with various roles through their interaction with multifunctional partners during mRNA metabolism. Here, we present a synopsis of PABP function during gametogenesis and early embryogenesis and describe both conventional and current models of the functions and regulation of PABPs, with an emphasis on the physiological significance of how germ cell-specific PABPs potentially affect human fertility.

Automated summary

Post-transcriptional regulation in gametes faces a unique challenge, with gene expression during gamete maturation and early cleavage dependent on existing mRNA coordination. Poly(A) tails and poly(A)-binding proteins (PABPs) play crucial roles in defining mRNA fate during this process, with distinct groups of PABPs lacking catalytic activity but involved in diverse roles through interactions with multifunctional partners. Current research focuses on understanding how germ cell-specific expressed PABPs potentially impact human fertility.