In the last decade, many studies have demonstrated that germ cells, specifically sperm and oocytes,
possess a unique epigenome. This epigenome involves elements such as DNA methylation, non-coding
RNAs, and chromatin modifications, all of which, along with its haploid genome, are delivered to the
partnering germ cell during fertilization. For sperm, the epigenome that is established in the testis during
spermiogenesis undergoes further modifications as the sperm passes through the epididymis. The
epigenome of the oocyte, on the other hand, undergoes modifications throughout its entire maturation
process, leading up to fertilization. Moreover, emerging studies show that environmental factors have the
potential to alter the epigenome, with these changes potentially being passed on to future generations
through epigenetic variations in germ cells. While this concept is well-established in lower organisms,
recent evidence suggests a similar phenomenon in mammals, where various environmental exposures
impact the embryonic developmental program and the offspring’s health. Should these epigenetic changes
impact solely the first generation, we would consider the phenomenon as intergenerational. However, if
the changes extend to affect the second or third generations as well, the phenomenon would be identified
as transgenerational.
The purpose of this Research topic is to attempt to provide an overview of the current knowledge about
the epigenome in the germ cells, specifically sperm and oocyte. The primary focus will be on investigating
how stress or environmental factors can affect the epigenome in germ cells, potentially influencing embryo
development and offspring health. Contributions focused on understanding epigenetic mechanisms that
modify the germ cells epigenome in the first generation and determining how these transformations are
preserved in succeeding generations will be appreciated.
Areas to be covered in this research topic may include but are not limited to:
 Sperm epigenome from spermiogenesis to epididymal maturation
 Oocyte epigenome until fertilization
 How environmental stress affects the epigenome on germ cells.
 Impact of the maternal and paternal epigenetic changes on the offspring.
 How this parental stress can be transmitted on several generations (maintenance)
We accept different article types including Mini-Reviews, Brief Research Reports and Perspectives. A
full list of accepted article types, including descriptions, can be found at this link

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Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology

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