Yan Lab
We are interested in how gametes, sperm and oocytes, are produced in mammals. In particular, we investigate which of the germ cell-specific genes are essential for successful production of gametes and which particular molecular pathways they are involved in. We utilize gene knockout technologies and molecular biology approaches to define physiological roles of these genes and the molecular mechanisms by which they regulate germ cell development.
Current specific interests include the following:
- Role of autophagy and ubiquitination during spermatogenesis.
- Mechanism of cytoplasm removal during spermiogenesis.
- Role of noncoding RNAs in the regulation of gametogenesis, fertilization and early embryonic development.
- Noncoding RNAs-mediated epigenetic transgenerational inheritance.
- Development of non-hormonal male contraceptive methods.