The Conine Lab investigates how RNAs present in sperm are capable of transmitting non-genetic information to their progeny to influence offspring phenotype. We utilize a combination of state-of-the-art genomics, molecular biology, and assisted reproduction techniques across multiple model systems including mice, embryonic stem cells, and C. elegans to understand these questions:

 

How do small RNAs regulate gene expression in the male germline to support spermatogenesis and fertility?

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How are small RNAs packaged into mature sperm?

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How are RNAs transmitted during fertilization able to regulate early embryonic gene expression and development?

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How can this regulation alter developmental programs to produce a non-genetically inherited phenotype?

 

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