Epigenetic reprogramming associated with primordial germ cell development

Abstract

Epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation and histone modifications, confer variety and stability of gene expression, which ensure the generation and maintenance of numerous distinctive cell types during mammalian development and in adults. Recent studies have suggested that genome-wide changes of epigenetic modifications, referred to as "epigenetic reprogramming," occur during the development of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in mice. This reprogramming might be critical for the reestablishment of potential totipotency in this lineage. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying these events are just beginning to emerge. We briefly summarize here our current knowledge on the development of PGCs and their epigenetic reprogramming, which may have general implications for the reprogramming of somatic cell nuclei of any kind. © Springer-Verlag Berlin Heidelberg 2011.