Morc Background Information Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complex developmental process. Mutations at multiple loci and in structurally and functionally disparate genes in the genome affect gametogenesis. The analysis of mutations has provided insight into biochemical pathways required for completion of this process. The Morc, or microrchidia, is a autosomal recessive mutation, which results in the arrest of spermatogenesis early in prophase I of meiosis. The Morc gene acts specifically during male gametogenesis and encodes a protein expressed specifically in male germ cells. Morc maps to mouse chromosome 16 and human chromosome 3q13.
