Genomic landscape of human Y chromosome and male infertility

Abstract

Initially thought to be functionally inert, the Y chromosome has now been established not only as a regulator organizer of sex determination and a functional hub for spermatogenesis but also as a genetic center involved in mediating autosomal functions and genome-wide expressions. The whole genome and transcriptome analysis of Y chromosome across different species have shed light on the origin, comparative gene content, and long-term providence of this interesting chromosome. Comparative studies further provided insights into the evolutionary and molecular forces driving Y degeneration toward evolutionary destiny. In the due course of evolution, the Y chromosome has undergone dynamic transformations and has evolved autonomously, gaining a lot of distinctive characteristics that no other chromosome possesses. An unusual architecture and dynamic nature has made it the most remarkable chromosome for genetic and molecular studies.