Spermatogonial stem cells: characteristics and experimental possibilities

Abstract:

The continuation of the spermatogenic process throughout life relies on a proper regulation of self‐renewal and differentiation of the spermatogonial stem cells. These are single cells situated on the basal membrane of the seminiferous epithelium. Only 0.03% of all germ cells are spermatogonial stem cells. They are the only cell type that can repopulate and restore fertility to congenitally infertile recipient mice following transplantation. Although numerous expression markers have been helpful in isolating and enriching spermatogonial stem cells, such as expression of THY‐1 and GFRα‐1 and absence of c‐kit, no specific marker for this cell type has yet been identified. Much effort has been put into developing a protocol for the maintenance of spermatogonial cells in vitro. Recently, coculture systems of testicular cells on various feeder cells have made it possible to culture spermatogonial stem cells for a long period …

Año de publicación:

2005

Keywords:

Fuente:

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