DAZL, or Deleted in Azoospermia-Like, is an RNA-binding protein that plays a pivotal role in germ cell development and oocyte maturation. It is specifically expressed in germ cells and is essential for their proper differentiation and function. DAZL has been shown to regulate the translation of a variety of mRNAs, thereby controlling the expression of proteins critical for germ cell development. Recent studies have revealed that DAZL can function as both a repressor and activator of mRNA translation, depending on the context and the specific mRNA targets. It interacts with the 3' untranslated regions (UTRs) of its target mRNAs, modulating their stability and translation efficiency. DAZL's dual role in translational control is significant for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying germ cell maturation and early embryonic development. The protein's function is so critical that its absence or mutation can lead to infertility, as seen in certain cases of male azoospermia.
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