A remarkable epigenetic remodelling process occurs shortly after fertilization, which restores
totipotency to the zygote. This involves global DNA demethylation, chromatin remodelling …

The hiatus between oocyte and embryonic gene transcription dictates a role for stored
maternal factors in early mammalian development. Encoded by maternal-effect genes, these …

Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a clinical syndrome of ovarian dysfunction
characterized by premature exhaustion of primordial follicles. POI causes infertility, severe …

Prior to activation of the embryonic genome, the initiating events of mammalian development
are under maternal control and include fertilization, the block to polyspermy and processing …

Female fertility is inversely correlated with maternal age due to a depletion of the oocyte
pool and a reduction in oocyte developmental competence. Few studies have addressed the …

Aneuploidies are prevalent in the human embryo and impair proper development, leading to
cell cycle arrest. Recent advances in imaging and molecular and genetic analyses are …

The mechanisms that mediate the establishment of totipotency during the egg-to-embryo
transition in mammals remain poorly understood. However, it is clear that unique factors …

CTCF is a highly conserved, multifunctional zinc finger protein involved in critical aspects of
gene regulation including transcription regulation, chromatin insulation, genomic imprinting …

Maternal effect genes encode proteins that are produced during oogenesis and play an
essential role during early embryogenesis. Genetic ablation of such genes in oocytes can …

Oocyte quality is a critical factor limiting the efficiency of assisted reproductive technologies
(ART) and pregnancy success in farm animals and humans. ART success is diminished with …