Published in

The Company of Biologists, Development, 2(141), p. 245-252, 2014

DOI: 10.1242/dev.098269

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How to make a primordial germ cell

Journal article published in 1987 by Erna Magnúsdóttir ORCID, M. Azim Surani
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Abstract

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the precursors of sperm and eggs, which generate a new organism that is capable of creating endless new generations through germ cells. PGCs are specified during early mammalian postimplantation development, and are uniquely programmed for transmission of genetic and epigenetic information to subsequent generations. In this Primer, we summarise the establishment of the fundamental principles of PGC specification during early development and discuss how it is now possible to make mouse PGCs from pluripotent embryonic stem cells, and indeed somatic cells if they are first rendered pluripotent in culture.