Functions and mechanisms of small noncoding RNAs in spermatogenesis and male infertility
Small noncoding RNAs are a unique class of gene regulators that control gene expression in eukaryotes at transcriptional,post-transcriptional,and epigenetic levels.Recent studies have indicated that several types of small noncoding RNAs,including Piwi-interacting RNAs(piRNAs),microRNAs(miRNAs),and transfer RNA-derived small RNAs(tsRNAs),are abundantly expressed in the male germline and are required for spermatogenesis in mammals.In this review,we summarize the most recent advances in the field,focusing on the functions and mechanisms of small noncoding RNAs in spermatogenesis and male infertility.We also discuss the clinical application of small non-coding RNAs in the diagnosis and treatment of male infertility.
small noncoding RNAspiRNAmiRNAtsRNAspermatogenesismale infertility