Early Embryonic Development: Zygotic Genome Activation and Epigenome Reprogramming

Understanding the intricate processes of early embryonic development is fundamental to developmental biology. Among the earliest and most pivotal events are zygotic genome activation (ZGA) and epigenome reprogramming. ZGA marks the transition from maternal to zygotic control of gene expression, initiating developmental programs unique to the embryo. Concurrently, epigenome reprogramming involves the extensive remodeling of epigenetic modifications, resetting the genome to a totipotent state. These processes have captivated researchers for their complexity and critical roles in shaping cell fate and embryo viability. Recent advances in sequencing technologies and epigenetic profiling have uncovered new dimensions in the regulation and interaction of these processes, demanding a comprehensive exploration of their coordination and implications.

This Research Topic aims to collect cutting-edge research, reviews and more that provide insights into the molecular and regulatory mechanisms governing ZGA and epigenome reprogramming. We invite contributions that explore the dynamic interplay between these processes and their impact on embryo development. This collection will serve as a platform for presenting novel findings, perspectives, and technological advancements that deepen our understanding of early developmental events and their implications for health and disease.

Areas of interest include but are not limited to:

o Molecular mechanisms of zygotic genome activation: studies on transcription factors, cofactors, non-coding RNAs, and comparative analysis of ZGA regulation and timing across species.

o Dynamics of epigenome reprogramming: research focusing on DNA demethylation and remethylation patterns, the role of histone modifications, and chromatin remodeling in establishing totipotency.

o Interplay between ZGA and epigenome reprogramming: investigations into coordinated regulation of gene expression, chromatin state transitions, epigenetic predispositions, and single-cell technology applications.

o Implications for developmental disorders and reproductive technologies: Studies highlighting aberrations in ZGA and reprogramming linked to developmental disorders, the impact of assisted reproductive technologies, and applications in regenerative medicine.

Article types and fees

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• ... View all formats

Articles that are accepted for publication by our external editors following rigorous peer review incur a publishing fee charged to Authors, institutions, or funders.

Article types

This Research Topic accepts the following article types, unless otherwise specified in the Research Topic description:

• Brief Research Report
• Data Report
• Editorial
• FAIR² Data
• General Commentary
• Hypothesis and Theory
• Methods
• Mini Review
• Opinion
• Original Research
• Perspective
• Policy and Practice Reviews
• Review
• Systematic Review
• Technology and Code

Keywords: epigenetic, developmental epigenetic, embryo, zygote genome activation, epigenome reprogramming

Important note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.