mRNA translation during oocyte maturation plays a key role in development of primordial germ cells in Xenopus embryos.

It is believed that cytoplasmic localization in the egg is necessary for development of primordial germ cells (PGCs) in Xenopus embryos. In this study, we sought to determine if translation of maternal mRNA during oocyte maturation is involved in the development of PGCs. Donor oocytes were collected from both stimulated (those who receive gonadotropin) and unstimulated females, artificially matured and fertilized using a host transfer technique. Using chloramphenicol (50 microM and 500 microM RNA), RNA translation was inhibited during oocyte maturation. Our results showed that in unstimulated embryos treated with 50 microM chloramphenicol, there was a significant reduction in the number of PGCs reaching genital ridges. In stimulated embryos, however, the number of PGCs was unchanged unless a higher concentration (500 microM) of chloramphenicol was used. From these results it is suggested that maternal mRNA translation during oocyte maturation plays a key role in development of PGCs.