Open AccessRecent advances of in vitro culture systems for spermatogonial stem cells in mammals
Author(s) -
Sahare Mahesh G.,
Imai Hiroshi
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
reproductive medicine and biology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.005
H-Index - 22
eISSN - 1447-0578
pISSN - 1445-5781
DOI - 10.1002/rmb2.12087
Subject(s) - stem cell , biology , embryonic stem cell , microbiology and biotechnology , cell culture , induced pluripotent stem cell , in vitro , immunology , genetics , gene
Abstract Background Spermatogonial stem cells ( SSC s) in the mammalian testis are unipotent stem cells for spermatozoa. They show unique cell characteristics as stem cells and germ cells after being isolated from the testis and cultured in vitro. This review introduces recent progress in the development of culture systems for the establishment of SSC lines in mammalian species, including humans. Methods Based on the published reports, the isolation and purification of SSC s, identification and characteristics of SSC s, and culture system for mice, humans, and domestic animals have been summarized. Results In mice, cell lines from SSC s are established and can be reprogrammed to show pluripotent stem cell potency that is similar to embryonic stem cells. However, it is difficult to establish cell lines for animals other than mice because of the dearth of understanding about species‐specific requirements for growth factors and mechanisms supporting the self‐renewal of cultured SSC s. Among the factors that are associated with the development of culture systems, the enrichment of SSC s that are isolated from the testis and the combination of growth factors are essential. Conclusion Providing an example of SSC culture in cattle, a rational consideration was made about how it can be possible to establish cell lines from neonatal and immature testes.