Maternally expressed miR-379/miR-544 cluster is dispensable for testicular development and spermatogenesis in mice.

Increasing lines of evidence suggest that miRNAs are closely related to spermatogenesis and male infertility which has aroused widespread concerns.The miR-379/miR-544 locus is the largest known placental mammal-specific miRNA cluster, whose 24 miRNA genes are expressed only from the maternal allele, and located within the high conservation of the imprinted Dlk1â€"Dio3 region.A correct dosage of imprinted genes encoded at the mouse Dlk1-Dio3 genomic interval is essential for embryonic growth and postnatal survival, as well as for muscle growth, skeletal, and neuronal development. However, whether the miR-379/miR-544 cluster at imprinted Dlk1-Dio3 region contributes to testicular development and spermatogenesis remains elusive. Here, we report that genetically inactivation of miR-379/544 cluster in mice does not exhibit any spermatogenic defects. Our data suggest maternally imprinted miR-379/544 cluster is dispensable for testicular development and spermatogenesis in mice. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.