Address of Corresponding Author

Cytogenet Genome Res 2005;111:384-391 (DOI: 10.1159/000086916)

  Abstract.

The objective of this review is to suggest that the advances being made in our understanding of the molecular events surrounding chromosome segregation in non-mammalian and somatic cell models be considered when designing experiments for studying aneuploidy in mammalian germ cells. Accurate chromosome segregation requires the temporal control and unique interactions among a vast array of proteins and cellular organelles. Abnormal function and temporal disarray among these, and others to be identified, biochemical reactions and cellular organelles have the potential for predisposing cells to aneuploidy. Although numerous studies have demonstrated that certain chemicals (mainly those that alter microtubule function) can induce aneuploidy in mammalian germ cells, it seems relevant to point out that such data can be influenced by gender, meiotic stage, and time of cell-fixation post-treatment. Additionally, a consensus has not been reached regarding which of several germ cell aneuploidy assays most accurately reflects the human condition. More recent studies have shown that certain kinase, phosphatase, proteasome, and topoisomerase inhibitors can also induce aneuploidy in rodent germ cells. We suggest that molecular approaches be prudently incorporated into mammalian germ cell aneuploidy research in order to eventually understand the causes and mechanisms of human aneuploidy. Such an enormous undertaking would benefit from collaboration among scientists representing several disciplines.   

Copyright © 2005 S. Karger AG, Basel

  Author Contacts

Request reprints from John B. Mailhes, Ph.D
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center
P.O. Box 33932, Shreveport, LA 71130 (USA)
telephone: 318 675 5382; fax: 318 675 4671
e-mail: jmailh@lsuhsc.edu

  Article Information

Supported by Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center.

Manuscript received 15 October 2004;
accepted in revised form for publication by R. Martin, 7 January 2005.
Number of Print Pages : 8
Number of Figures : 0, Number of Tables : 0, Number of References : 165