Discovery of new genes responsible for infertility

A team of researchers from Kumamoto University in Japan has begun studying the proteins involved in meiosis to better understand the underlying mechanisms of reproduction and fertility. By using mass spectrometry, a method of analyzing the composition of a substance and measuring the mass of its molecules, the scientists were able to identify a gene that acts as a meiosis switch. This gene has been named the Meiosin Gene.

Unique properties of the Meiosin gene

The Meiosin gene has a unique characteristic: it is activated exclusively in the gonad at a specific moment, just before the onset of meiosis. In animal experiments, researchers found that male and female mice became sterile if the activation of the Meiosin gene was artificially suppressed. Further studies of male and female reproductive glands showed that this gene plays a key role in the activation of meiosis.

Impact on reproductive medicine

The team of Japanese scientists hopes that their discovery will mark a significant advancement in the field of reproductive medicine by providing the possibility of developing new methods for diagnosing and treating infertility associated with meiosis disorders. Many cases of infertility of unknown origin are currently being recorded. This discovery could contribute to the identification of a new pathology associated with meiosis disorders.

Importance for humans

Although experiments have been conducted on animals, scientists have found that the Meiosin gene is also present in humans, making these discoveries crucial for understanding reproductive processes in humans. Abnormal meiosis in the eggs of women of childbearing age can lead to chromosomal abnormalities such as miscarriages or Down syndrome.

Usage prospects

In countries where the average gestational age of women is 30-35 years or older, the treatments developed in this study will improve the quality of meiosis and reduce the likelihood of complications. This discovery opens up prospects for the development of new approaches such as gene therapy techniques to restore meiosis, innovative drugs to support the functioning of reproductive organs, and improved diagnostic tests for the early detection of disorders associated with age-related changes in the female body.

Research on the Meiosin gene opens new avenues for understanding and treating infertility. The work of the Japanese scientists provides a foundation for the development of innovative methods that could improve reproductive health and reduce risks associated with age-related changes. This research could lead to significant advancements in the field of reproductive medicine, thereby improving the quality of life for many families.

For more information on in vitro fertilization (IVF), see the section on treatments.