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Human iPS Cell-Derived Germ Cells: Current Status and Clinical Potential.
1Office of Health and Safety, Hokkaido University, Sapporo 060-0808, Japan. tishii@general.hokudai.ac.jp.
Journal of Clinical Medicine
|August 4, 2015
Summary
Human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) show promise for generating germ cells, advancing assisted reproductive technology (ART). Challenges in genetic stability and female germline induction persist but are likely surmountable.
Area of Science:
- Stem cell biology
- Reproductive medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Fertile germ cells have been generated from mouse induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs).
- Progress in human iPSC-derived germ cells is notable in the male germline, with in vitro generation of haploid spermatids.
- Induced germ cells hold potential for addressing unmet reproductive needs via assisted reproductive technology (ART).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current status of germ cell induction from human iPSCs.
- To discuss the clinical potential of iPSC-derived germ cells.
- To outline future research directions in the field.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on germ cell induction from human iPSCs.
- Analysis of progress in male and female germline induction.
- Discussion of challenges and potential solutions in iPSC generation and germ cell induction.
Main Results:
- Human iPSCs can be induced to form male germ cells (spermatids) in vitro.
- Genetic and epigenetic instabilities remain significant challenges in iPSC generation and germ cell induction.
- Improvements are needed for efficient induction protocols in the female germline.
Conclusions:
- Despite existing challenges, rapid advances in stem cell research suggest that iPSC-derived germ cells could be clinically applicable in the near future.
- Further research is required to overcome genetic/epigenetic instabilities and optimize protocols for both male and female germlines.
- The potential of iPSC-derived germ cells for ART is substantial, offering hope for individuals with reproductive issues.
Keywords:
assisted reproductive technologygametogenesisgerm cellsin vitro fertilizationinduced pluripotent stem cellsintracytoplasmic sperm injectionmeiosisoocyteprimordial germ cellsspermMore Related Videos
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