Extended Data Fig. 9: Model for the role of vitamin C in DNA methylation reprogramming and development of the embryonic germline.
From: Maternal vitamin C regulates reprogramming of DNA methylation and germline development
Embryonic germline cells require vitamin C for proper DNA demethylation of key regulators of meiosis and transposable elements (TEs). Gestational vitamin C deficiency is compatible with development to term and adulthood, but induces a phenotype akin to a TET1 hypomorph, with incomplete DNA demethylation and downregulation of germline genes, reduced numbers of germ cell, meiosis defects and decreased fecundity. Vitamin C deficiency may also affect other enzymatic reactions in the germline.
