PDF(Pubmed)
Abstract：
Being a conservative marker of germ cells across metazoan species, DEAD box RNA helicase Vasa (DDX4) remains the subject of worldwide investigations thanks to its multiple functional manifestations. Vasa takes part in the preformation of primordial germ cells in a group of organisms and contributes to the maintenance of germline stem cells. Vasa is an essential player in the piRNA-mediated silencing of harmful genomic elements and in the translational regulation of selected mRNAs. Vasa is the top hierarchical protein of germ granules, liquid droplet organelles that compartmentalize RNA processing factors. Here, we survey current advances and problems in the understanding of the multifaceted functions of Vasa proteins in the gametogenesis of different eukaryotic organisms, from nematodes to humans.
摘要：
作为后生物种生殖细胞的保守标记，DEAD盒RNA解旋酶Vasa（DDX4）由于其多种功能表现而仍然是全球研究的主题。Vasa参与一组生物体中原始生殖细胞的形成，并有助于生殖系干细胞的维持。Vasa在piRNA介导的有害基因组元件的沉默和所选mRNA的翻译调节中是重要的参与者。Vasa是胚芽颗粒的顶级蛋白质，分隔RNA加工因子的液滴细胞器。这里,我们调查了在理解Vasa蛋白在不同真核生物配子发生中的多方面功能方面的当前进展和问题，从线虫到人类。
