Modelling stem cell decisions in mouse germ cells. A fundamental problem in biology is how cells transition from pluripotency to lineage commitment. The aim of this project is to study this problem, in vivo, by dissecting the mechanisms active during normal development of primordial germ cells (PGCs, gamete stem cells) in the mouse fetal testis. Using molecular, cellular and whole animal assays three central hypotheses will be addressed regarding genes likely to be important in the process. This ....Modelling stem cell decisions in mouse germ cells. A fundamental problem in biology is how cells transition from pluripotency to lineage commitment. The aim of this project is to study this problem, in vivo, by dissecting the mechanisms active during normal development of primordial germ cells (PGCs, gamete stem cells) in the mouse fetal testis. Using molecular, cellular and whole animal assays three central hypotheses will be addressed regarding genes likely to be important in the process. This research will reveal the molecular nature of bipotential switches in cell identity and will inform some of the most important biological issues of our time, including tissue regeneration, aging and cancer biology.Read moreRead less
Molecular regulation of the mitosis-to-meiosis switch in germ cells. This project will build on our recent major discoveries to study how sperm and oocyte production begins during fetal life. This issue is critical for understanding fertility and infertility in animal species and humans. The answers generated will lay the groundwork for fertility control in humans, pets, pests and endangered animals.
Investigating spermatogonial stem cell allocation in the fetal testis. This project aims to determine when and how spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are specified, and whether a genetic pathway that is used by in vitro stem cells is also employed, in vivo, by testicular stem cells. The project aims to deliver insight into the mechanisms of adult stem cell specification and regulation, in general. Intended practical outcomes of this work will underpin new methods for fertility management in animal ....Investigating spermatogonial stem cell allocation in the fetal testis. This project aims to determine when and how spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are specified, and whether a genetic pathway that is used by in vitro stem cells is also employed, in vivo, by testicular stem cells. The project aims to deliver insight into the mechanisms of adult stem cell specification and regulation, in general. Intended practical outcomes of this work will underpin new methods for fertility management in animals (in agriculture and conservation of endangered species) and humans. Knowledge gained will inform our understanding of stem cell biology more broadly and guide efforts to treat infertility or control fertility in animals and humans.Read moreRead less
How do mammalian germ cells transition from mitosis to meiosis? This project aims to determine how germ cells are regulated in the mammalian embryo. Germ cells go on to form the sperm and eggs and are, therefore, critical for reproduction. In particular, this project expects to generate new knowledge about the process of meiosis, a cellular process that is specific to the germ cells. Expected outcomes will inform efforts to control fertility and infertility in livestock, humans and other mammali ....How do mammalian germ cells transition from mitosis to meiosis? This project aims to determine how germ cells are regulated in the mammalian embryo. Germ cells go on to form the sperm and eggs and are, therefore, critical for reproduction. In particular, this project expects to generate new knowledge about the process of meiosis, a cellular process that is specific to the germ cells. Expected outcomes will inform efforts to control fertility and infertility in livestock, humans and other mammalian animals (e.g. pets and endangered species). They are also likely to inform the discipline of stem cell biology in general.Read moreRead less