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. 2022 Apr 19;13(4):377. doi: 10.1038/s41419-022-04837-2

Fig. 7. Working model for the functions of UHRF1 in SCs, as described in the discussion.

Fig. 7

A In normal conditions, UHRF1 in SCs controls a coordinated transcriptional program of ECM and cell adhesion genes (Timp1, Trf, and Spp1, et al.) in SCs by regulating its CG methylation, which usually plays a critical role in the coordinated homeostasis of adhesion between SC-GC and the cyclical disassembly versus reassembly of BTB. B In UHRF1-deficient SCs, the expressions of ECM and cell adhesion genes (Timp1, Trf, and Spp1) were upregulated due to their DNA demethylation, which leads to BTB disruption, junction defects, and inadequate cell adhesion, thereby resulting in a massive loss of immature germ cells from the seminiferous epithelium.