129/Sv mice--a model system for studying germ cell biology and testicular cancer

Some forms of testicular germ cell tumors (TGCTs) arise from primordial germ cells (PGCs) during fetal development. In both humans and mice, genetic control of susceptibility is complex, involving both Mendelian and polygenic factors. Identification and characterization of TGCT genes will provide insight not only into the basis for inherited susceptibility, but also into the genetic control of the development of the PGC lineage. Recent work has revealed the identity of several susceptibility genes that are inherited as Mendelian traits, the chromosomal location of yet-to-be identified TGCT susceptibility genes, as well as clues to the nature of developmental pathways involved in tumorigenesis. In this review we summarize current understanding of the biology and genetics of TGCTs in mice and discuss the relevance of this work to testicular cancer in humans.