Congratulations to Emmanuel GARCÍA SÁNCHEZ for the acceptance of his thesis!

Summary of his research:
The biology of the oocyte, the female reproductive cell, is remarkable for its ability to stably maintain proteins and messenger RNAs (mRNAs) over the long term—many of which are transmitted to the offspring. During its terminal differentiation, the oocyte undergoes a growth phase marked by a significant increase in volume, coinciding with a period of intense transcriptional activity mediated by RNA Polymerase II and dependent on the general transcription factor TBPL2.

During my PhD, I characterized the Tbpl2⁻/⁻ phenotype associated with female sterility at multiple levels. I demonstrated that, in the absence of TBPL2-mediated transcription, the expression and localization of subunits involved in regulating maternal transcriptome stability are disrupted. Histological and subcellular analyses revealed cytoplasmic organization defects as well as the enlargement and persistence of nuclear foci enriched in poly(A).

These findings highlight the functional importance of TBPL2-mediated transcription in establishing and regulating the stability of the maternal transcriptome, an essential process for the terminal differentiation of the oocyte.

Skills acquired at IGBMC:
During my PhD, I learned how to lead a research project and formulate precise questions as my hypotheses evolved. I developed strong analytical and literature synthesis skills, along with scientific writing and presentation abilities. I also learned to be self-reflective and innovative in designing experimental approaches. I greatly enjoyed collaborating with colleagues, discovering teaching methods through training at IDIP (Institute for Pedagogical Development and Innovation), mentoring students, and sharing knowledge at the University of Strasbourg as a teaching assistant in microscopy and cellular/tissue approaches.

Life at IGBMC:
A dynamic, immersive environment conducive to research. Rich scientific exchanges and discussions during seminars and team meetings. Access to highly specialized scientific platforms. Opportunities for student mobility and cross-border training.

Collaborations:

•     Collaboration with Michiel VERMEULEN and Pascal JANSEN (RADBOUD University) for the implementation of a proteomic analysis of growing oocytes.
•     Collaboration with the laboratory of Bertrand Séraphin (IGBMC) to study expression profiles during oocyte growth, focusing on subunits involved in mRNA stability regulation.
•     Collaboration with Stéphane Viville (CMCO, Medical-Surgical and Obstetrical Center) for the development of antibodies targeting human TBPL2, which is associated with female infertility.
   

Funding and Partners:

•     Competitive fellowship from the Doctoral School of Life and Health Sciences, University of Strasbourg: 3-year contract.
•     Funding from the Fondation pour la Recherche Médicale (FRM): 1-year contract.
   

Future Projects:
Learning and teaching are my two greatest passions. Ideally, I hope to be involved in university-level education. I am currently seeking a postdoctoral position that will allow me to further develop my ability to adapt to a new research environment and mentor students.