Ovarian folliculogenesis is an intricate process involving interactions between germ and somatic cells in mammalians. FIGLA (folliculogenesis specific basic helix-loop-helix), also known as POF6, BHLHC8 or FIGALPHA, is a 219 amino acid nuclear protein expressed in fetal ovary and germ cells. FIGLA contains one basic helix-loop-helix (bHLH) domain and heterodimerizes with E12, a transcription factor that influences gene expression during B cell maturation. Acting as a germline specific transcription factor and a key player of ovarian folliculogenesis, FIGLA regulates the expression of multiple oocyte-specific genes that are required for fertilization and early embryonic survival. Mutations in the gene encoding FIGLA may be the cause of Premature Ovarian Failure (POF), a genetically heterogenous disorder that leads to hypergonadotropic ovarian failure and infertility. POF is characterized by amenorrhea, hypoestrogenism and elevated serum gonadotropin concentrations. FIGLA inhibits the expression of male germ cell specific genes during oogenesis.
