GO:0140094 structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice: Mechanism, Genes and Research Methods
Research-grade guide for scientists and biopharma professionals
Key Takeaways
• GO:0140094 defines a molecular function: the structural contribution to the integrity of the cytoplasmic lattice in the mammalian ooplasm.
• The cytoplasmic lattice is a filamentous network in the oocyte cytoplasm, and its structural constituents are essential for oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis.
• Key proteins of the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC), such as NLRP5, TLE6, KHDC3L, and OOEP, are major structural components of this lattice.
• Disruption of cytoplasmic lattice components is linked to reproductive failure, including recurrent miscarriage and hydatidiform mole.
• Research on this term employs advanced imaging, proteomics, and CRISPR-based models to dissect lattice assembly and function.
• EDITGENE provides CRISPR services to generate knockout, point-mutation, knock-in, and overexpression models for studying cytoplasmic lattice genes.
Description
The Gene Ontology (GO) term GO:0140094, structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice, describes a molecular function that contributes to the structural integrity of the cytoplasmic lattice within the mammalian ooplasm. This lattice is a dynamic filamentous network that organizes the oocyte cytoplasm and is critical for proper oocyte maturation and early embryonic development. Understanding this function is essential for researchers studying reproductive biology, as defects in lattice components are associated with severe fertility disorders. The cytoplasmic lattice provides mechanical support and spatial organization for organelles and RNAs, ensuring asymmetric division and developmental competence. Recent advances in imaging and gene editing have begun to reveal the molecular players and assembly mechanisms of this lattice, offering new insights into its role in health and disease.
structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice At A Glance
| GO ID | GO:0140094 |
|---|---|
| GO term | structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice |
| Ontology | molecular_function |
| Synonym | None |
| Major function | Contributes to the structural integrity of the cytoplasmic lattice in the mammalian ooplasm |
| Definition source | QuickGO |
| Related cellular component | Cytoplasmic lattice (ooplasm) |
| Related biological process | Oocyte maturation, early embryogenesis |
What Is GO:0140094?
In our own words, GO:0140094 refers to the action of a molecule that contributes to the structural integrity of the cytoplasmic lattice of the mammalian ooplasm. This function is typically performed by proteins that assemble into a filamentous network, providing mechanical support and organization to the oocyte cytoplasm. The term is a molecular function, emphasizing the structural role rather than enzymatic activity.
Why Is structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice Important in Cell Biology?
The structural constituent of the cytoplasmic lattice is crucial because it maintains the architecture of the oocyte cytoplasm, which is essential for proper meiotic spindle positioning, organelle distribution, and maternal RNA storage. Disruption of this lattice leads to developmental arrest and infertility, highlighting its importance in reproductive medicine.
• Ensures oocyte cytoplasmic organization and polarity.
• Required for asymmetric division and polar body formation.
• Supports maternal RNA localization and storage.
• Mutations in lattice components cause recurrent miscarriage and molar pregnancies.
• Provides a model for studying phase separation in cellular organization.
• Links to cytoskeletal regulation and motor protein activity.
• Potential target for fertility preservation and contraception.
• Involved in early embryonic development across mammals.
What Happens During structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice?
Assembly of the Cytoplasmic Lattice
In simple terms: The lattice is built from proteins that come together to form a meshwork.
The cytoplasmic lattice assembles from structural proteins, including components of the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC), which multimerize to form a filamentous network. This assembly is critical for oocyte cytoplasmic organization and is regulated by phase separation mechanisms.
Maintenance of Lattice Integrity
In simple terms: Once formed, the lattice must be kept stable to support the cell.
The lattice integrity is maintained by interactions between structural proteins and associated factors, such as molecular chaperones that prevent aggregation and ensure proper folding. Disruption of these interactions leads to lattice disorganization and oocyte defects.
Dynamic Remodeling During Oocyte Maturation
In simple terms: The lattice changes shape as the egg cell matures.
During oocyte maturation, the cytoplasmic lattice undergoes dynamic remodeling, which is essential for meiotic spindle migration and polar body extrusion. This process involves motor-driven microtubule bundling and reorganization.
Role in Early Embryogenesis
In simple terms: After fertilization, the lattice helps organize the embryo's first steps.
The lattice persists into early embryos, where it contributes to the spatial organization of developmental determinants. Its structural constituents ensure proper cleavage and blastocyst formation.
Key Genes Involved in GO:0140094 structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice
The following genes encode proteins that function as structural constituents of the cytoplasmic lattice or are closely associated with its assembly and regulation.
| Gene | Major Role | Research Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| NLRP5 | Core component of the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) | Mutations linked to recurrent miscarriage and molar pregnancies |
| TLE6 | SCMC component, involved in lattice assembly | Essential for oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis |
| KHDC3L | SCMC component, structural role | Implicated in hydatidiform mole and fertility disorders |
| OOEP | SCMC component, stabilizes lattice | Required for cytoplasmic lattice integrity |
| NLRP2 | SCMC component, structural and regulatory | Associated with reproductive failure |
| NLRP7 | SCMC component, involved in lattice formation | Mutations cause familial recurrent hydatidiform mole |
| PADI6 | SCMC component, regulates lattice dynamics | Essential for embryonic development |
| ZAR1 | Oocyte-specific factor, interacts with lattice | Required for oocyte-to-embryo transition |
| CAMSAP2 | Microtubule nucleation and organization | Links lattice to cytoskeletal dynamics |
| TUBG1 | Gamma-tubulin, microtubule nucleation | Involved in spindle assembly |
| HSPA8 | Molecular chaperone, assists lattice protein folding | Maintains lattice protein stability |
| ACTB | Actin, potential lattice-associated filament | Cytoskeletal support |
| KIF11 | Motor protein, involved in spindle and lattice dynamics | Regulates lattice remodeling |
| DYNLT1 | Dynein light chain, motor-driven transport | Contributes to lattice organization |
| MAP1B | Microtubule-associated protein | Potential lattice stabilizer |
| TUBA1A | Alpha-tubulin, microtubule component | Structural support for lattice |
| SEPT2 | Septin, filament-forming protein | May contribute to lattice structure |
How Is structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice Regulated?
The structural constituent of the cytoplasmic lattice is regulated at multiple levels. Post-translational modifications, such as phosphorylation, modulate the assembly and disassembly of lattice proteins. Molecular chaperones, including heat shock proteins, ensure proper folding and prevent aggregation of lattice components. Additionally, phase separation mechanisms driven by multivalent interactions regulate the dynamic organization of the lattice. Hormonal cues during oocyte maturation also influence lattice remodeling.
structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice and Human Disease
| Gene | Disease / Biology | Potential Experimental Model |
|---|---|---|
| NLRP5 | Recurrent miscarriage, hydatidiform mole | Knockout mouse, patient-derived iPSCs |
| TLE6 | Female infertility, embryonic arrest | Knockout mouse, CRISPR point mutation |
| KHDC3L | Hydatidiform mole | Knock-in mouse, overexpression |
| PADI6 | Embryonic lethality, infertility | Knockout mouse, tagged knock-in |
| NLRP7 | Familial recurrent hydatidiform mole | Knockout mouse, patient organoids |
Reproductive Failure and Infertility
Mutations in genes encoding structural constituents of the cytoplasmic lattice, such as NLRP5, TLE6, KHDC3L, and PADI6, are associated with recurrent miscarriage, hydatidiform mole, and female infertility. These mutations disrupt lattice integrity, leading to impaired oocyte maturation and early embryonic lethality.
Developmental Disorders
Defects in the cytoplasmic lattice can cause developmental arrest at cleavage stages, resulting in failed pregnancies. The lattice is essential for the proper localization of maternal factors, and its disruption leads to aberrant embryonic patterning.
Cancer and Cell Proliferation
While primarily studied in reproduction, components of the cytoplasmic lattice share structural and regulatory features with proteins involved in cell division and proliferation. Dysregulation of these proteins may contribute to aneuploidy and cancer progression, though direct evidence is limited.
From structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice-Related Genes to Experimental Models
| Research Question | Suitable Model |
|---|---|
| Does gene X contribute to lattice integrity? | Knockout cell lines (e.g., HeLa, HEK293) and mouse oocytes |
| How do point mutations affect lattice assembly? | Point-mutation knock-in via CRISPR in oocyte-like cells |
| Where is the protein localized in the lattice? | Tagged knock-in (e.g., GFP) in mouse oocytes |
| Does overexpression disrupt lattice dynamics? | Overexpression cell models and oocytes |
| What are the interaction partners of lattice proteins? | Proteomics with knockout backgrounds |
| Can we rescue lattice defects with wild-type gene? | Knock-in rescue experiments in mutant cells |
How to Study the structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice Process
| Method | What It Measures | Typical Application |
|---|---|---|
| Confocal microscopy | Lattice morphology and protein localization | Oocyte imaging |
| Proteomics | Protein composition and interactions | Identifying lattice components |
| CRISPR knockout | Gene function in lattice assembly | Functional screens |
| Live-cell imaging | Dynamic remodeling of lattice | Oocyte maturation studies |
| Subtomogram averaging | Microtubule lattice structure | High-resolution structural analysis |
| Phase separation assays | Multivalent interactions | Studying lattice assembly |
| Chaperone inhibition | Protein folding and stability | Lattice integrity maintenance |
Imaging of the Cytoplasmic Lattice
Advanced imaging techniques, such as confocal and super-resolution microscopy, allow visualization of the cytoplasmic lattice in oocytes. Segmented subtomogram averaging can resolve microtubule lattice heterogeneity.
Proteomic Analysis of Lattice Components
Mass spectrometry-based proteomics identifies proteins that co-purify with the lattice, revealing its composition and interaction network. This approach can uncover novel structural constituents.
Functional Assays for Lattice Integrity
Oocyte maturation assays, spindle migration analysis, and embryo development studies assess the functional consequences of lattice disruption. Motor-driven microtubule bundling assays can measure dynamic properties.
CRISPR-Based Genetic Screens
Genome-wide CRISPR knockout screens in oocyte-like cells or mouse models can identify genes required for lattice assembly and function. These screens link genotype to reproductive phenotypes.
How CRISPR Can Be Used to Study GO:0140094 structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice
Knockout
CRISPR knockout of genes encoding structural constituents of the cytoplasmic lattice, such as NLRP5 or TLE6, can be generated in cell lines or mouse models to study loss-of-function phenotypes. These models reveal essential roles in oocyte maturation and early embryogenesis.
Point Mutation
Point mutations identified in patients with reproductive failure can be introduced into cell lines or mice using CRISPR base editing or homology-directed repair. Such models help determine whether specific mutations are causative.
Knock-in
Knock-in of tagged versions of lattice proteins (e.g., GFP) allows real-time visualization of lattice dynamics in living oocytes. This approach provides insights into assembly and remodeling.
Overexpression
Overexpression of wild-type or mutant lattice proteins can be achieved via CRISPR activation or lentiviral delivery. This helps assess dosage effects and dominant-negative interactions.
How EDITGENE Supports structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice Research
Researchers studying structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice-related genes often need to determine whether a candidate gene is causally involved in lattice assembly, oocyte maturation, or reproductive disease. EDITGENE provides comprehensive CRISPR-based services to generate precisely engineered cell and animal models, enabling functional validation and mechanistic studies.
Contact EDITGENE today to design your custom CRISPR model for structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice research.
Frequently Asked Questions About structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice
What is GO:0140094?
GO:0140094 is a Gene Ontology molecular function term that describes the structural contribution to the integrity of the cytoplasmic lattice in the mammalian ooplasm.
What genes are involved in structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice?
Key genes include NLRP5, TLE6, KHDC3L, OOEP, NLRP2, NLRP7, PADI6, and ZAR1, which encode components of the subcortical maternal complex.
What is the cytoplasmic lattice?
The cytoplasmic lattice is a filamentous network in the oocyte cytoplasm that provides structural support and organizes organelles and RNAs.
How is the cytoplasmic lattice studied?
It is studied using advanced imaging, proteomics, and CRISPR-based genetic models to dissect its assembly and function.
What diseases are associated with cytoplasmic lattice defects?
Defects are linked to recurrent miscarriage, hydatidiform mole, and female infertility.
Can CRISPR be used to study cytoplasmic lattice genes?
Yes, CRISPR knockout, point mutation, knock-in, and overexpression models are powerful tools to study lattice gene function.
What is the subcortical maternal complex?
The SCMC is a multiprotein complex that includes structural constituents of the cytoplasmic lattice and is essential for early development.
How does the cytoplasmic lattice affect oocyte maturation?
It ensures proper spindle positioning and asymmetric division during oocyte maturation.
Are there animal models for cytoplasmic lattice research?
Yes, mouse models with knockout or knock-in of lattice genes are widely used.
What services does EDITGENE offer for lattice research?
EDITGENE provides CRISPR knockout, point mutation, knock-in, overexpression, library screening, and bioinformatics services.
Conclusion
GO:0140094 structural constituent of cytoplasmic lattice represents a critical molecular function in oocyte biology, with profound implications for fertility and early development. Understanding its genetic and molecular basis can lead to new diagnostics and therapies for reproductive disorders. EDITGENE's CRISPR services empower researchers to dissect these mechanisms with precision.
References
- 1. Palazzo RE et al.. 2000. Centrosome maturation.. Curr Top Dev Biol 49:449-70 PMID: 11005031
- 2. Bousquet C et al.. 2023. Characterization of Microtubule Lattice Heterogeneity by Segmented Subtomogram Averaging.. Bio Protoc 13(14):e4723 PMID: 37497446
- 3. Lemma B et al.. 2024. Structure and dynamics of motor-driven microtubule bundles.. Soft Matter 20(29):5715-5723 PMID: 38872426
- 4. Bebbere D et al.. 2021. The subcortical maternal complex: emerging roles and novel perspectives.. Mol Hum Reprod 27(7) PMID: 34191027
- 6. Liang P et al.. 1997. Molecular chaperones and the cytoskeleton.. J Cell Sci 110 ( Pt 13):1431-40 PMID: 9224761
- 8. Imasaki T et al.. 2022. CAMSAP2 organizes a γ-tubulin-independent microtubule nucleation centre through phase separation.. Elife 11 PMID: 35762204
