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Updated: May 16, 2026
05:53
Trans-inner Cell Mass Injection of Embryonic Stem Cells Leads to Higher Chimerism Rates
Published on: May 29, 2018
Stem cell potency and the ability to contribute to chimeric organisms.
Irina Polejaeva1, Shoukhrat Mitalipov
1Department of Animal, Dairy, and Veterinary Sciences, Utah State University, Logan, UT 84321, USA.
Reproduction (Cambridge, England)
|December 11, 2012
Summary
Mouse embryonic chimeras are vital for studying cell pluripotency. Only mouse and rat pluripotent stem cells contribute to germline-competent chimeras, a key feature for genetic research.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Biology
- Stem Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Embryonic chimeras are essential for investigating cell lineage commitment and pluripotency.
- Mouse embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are widely used for generating genetically modified mice.
- Germline contribution is a defining characteristic of ESCs, observed only in mice and rats.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review methods for generating embryonic chimeras.
- To define chimera-competent cell types.
- To discuss the derivation and application of pluripotent stem cells across species.
Main Methods:
- Combining preimplantation embryos.
- Introducing cultured pluripotent embryonic stem cells into host embryos.
- Reviewing existing literature on chimera production and stem cell derivation.
Main Results:
- Successful production of experimental chimeras.
- Identification of mouse and rat pluripotent stem cells as germline-competent.
- Overview of pluripotent stem cell derivation in various species.
Conclusions:
- Embryonic chimeras are a powerful tool in developmental and stem cell research.
- Germline competence of pluripotent stem cells is crucial for genetic applications.
- Further research is needed to derive and utilize pluripotent stem cells effectively in other species.
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