Rules are made to be broken: a "simple" model organism reveals the complexity of gene regulation

SILAC-Based Proteomic Analysis of Meiosis in the Fission Yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe

Stable isotope labeling by amino acids in cell culture (SILAC) provides a powerful tool to quantify proteins and posttranslational modifications. Here we describe how to apply SILAC for protein identification and quantification in synchronous meiotic cultures induced by inactivation of the Pat1 kinase in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe.

Gametogenesis: Exploring an Endogenous Rejuvenation Program to Understand Cellular Aging and Quality Control

Gametogenesis is a conserved developmental program whereby a diploid progenitor cell differentiates into haploid gametes, the precursors for sexually reproducing organisms. In addition to ploidy reduction and extensive organelle remodeling, gametogenesis naturally rejuvenates the ensuing gametes, leading to resetting of life span. Excitingly, ectopic expression of the gametogenesis-specific transcription factor Ndt80 is sufficient to extend life span in mitotically dividing budding yeast, suggesting that meiotic rejuvenation pathways can be repurposed outside of their natural context. In this review, we highlight recent studies of gametogenesis that provide emerging insight into natural quality control, organelle remodeling, and rejuvenation strategies that exist within a cell. These include selective inheritance, programmed degradation, and de novo synthesis, all of which are governed by the meiotic gene expression program entailing many forms of noncanonical gene regulation. Finally, we highlight critical questions that remain in the field and provide perspective on the implications of gametogenesis research on human health span.