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The subcortical maternal complex: multiple functions for one biological structure?

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Abstract

The subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) is a multiprotein complex uniquely expressed in mammalian oocytes and early embryos, essential for zygote progression beyond the first embryonic cell divisions. Similiar to other factors encoded by maternal effect genes, the physiological role of SCMC remains unclear, although recent evidence has provided important molecular insights into different possible functions. Its potential involvement in human fertility is attracting increasing attention; however, the complete story is far from being told. The present mini review provides an overview of recent findings related to the SCMC and discusses its potential physiological role/s with the aim of inspiring new directions for future research.

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Acknowledgments

D. Bebbere is the recipient of an RTD contract at the University of Sassari, Italy, granted by “P.O.R. SARDEGNA F.S.E. 2007–2013 - Obiettivo competitività regionale e occupazione, Asse IV Capitale umano, Linea di Attività l.3.1.”

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Italy

    D. Bebbere, L. Masala & S. Ledda

  2. The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, NY, USA

    D. F. Albertini

  3. Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, KS, USA

    D. F. Albertini

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  1. D. Bebbere
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  2. L. Masala
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  3. D. F. Albertini
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Correspondence to D. Bebbere.

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Capsule The present mini review provides an overview of recent findings related to the SCMC and discusses its potential physiological role/s with the aim of inspiring new directions for future research.

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Bebbere, D., Masala, L., Albertini, D.F. et al. The subcortical maternal complex: multiple functions for one biological structure?. J Assist Reprod Genet 33, 1431–1438 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-016-0788-z

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