The generation of spermatogonial stem cells and spermatogonia in mammals

Reprod Biol. 2012 Mar;12(1):5-23. doi: 10.1016/s1642-431x(12)60074-6.

Abstract

Spermatogenesis is a complex series of cellular changes leading to the formation of haploid male gametes (spermatozoa) and includes mitotic, meiotic and post-meiotic phases. Spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) are essential for the continuous lifelong production of spermatozoa. Spermatogenesis is initiated when SSC is triggered to undergo mitosis that gives rise to progenitors, which further differentiate into spermatogonia. In this review, we describe the origin of SSCs and other spermatogonia populations and summarize the knowledge concerning their markers.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Animals, Newborn
  • Biomarkers / analysis
  • Cell Differentiation
  • Cell Division
  • Cell Survival
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Mitosis
  • Rodentia
  • Species Specificity
  • Spermatogenesis*
  • Spermatogonia / chemistry
  • Spermatogonia / cytology*
  • Stem Cells / cytology*
  • Testis / cytology

Substances

  • Biomarkers