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Developmental roles and molecular mechanisms of Asterix/GTSF1
Author(s) -
Ipsaro Jonathan J.,
JoshuaTor Leemor
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
wiley interdisciplinary reviews: rna
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.225
H-Index - 71
eISSN - 1757-7012
pISSN - 1757-7004
DOI - 10.1002/wrna.1716
Subject(s) - rna interference , biology , rasirna , piwi interacting rna , rna , germline , genetics , riboswitch , computational biology , rna silencing , microrna , rna binding protein , argonaute , non coding rna , microbiology and biotechnology , gene
Maintenance of germline genomic integrity is critical for the survival of animal species. Consequently, many cellular and molecular processes have evolved to ensure genetic stability during the production of gametes. Here, we describe the discovery, characterization, and emerging molecular mechanisms of the protein Asterix/Gametocyte‐specific factor 1 (GTSF1), an essential gametogenesis factor that is conserved from insects to humans. Beyond its broad importance for healthy germline development, Asterix/GTSF1 has more specific functions in the Piwi‐interacting RNA (piRNA)–RNA interference pathway. There, it contributes to the repression of otherwise deleterious transposons, helping to ensure faithful transmission of genetic information to the next generation. This article is categorized under: Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > RNAi: Mechanisms of Action Regulatory RNAs/RNAi/Riboswitches > Regulatory RNAs RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > RNA‐Protein Complexes RNA Interactions with Proteins and Other Molecules > Protein‐RNA Interactions: Functional Implications