Biology of germ cells and assisted reproductive technologies

Catalog description

Germ cells are highly specialized cells that give rise to the next generation. The life history of germ cells from formation of primordial germ cells in the early embryo to formation of mature gametes will be traced in several mammalian species. Gamete maturation, fertilization and early embryo development will be covered in detail to highlight the unique features of these processes and the close relationship between germ cells, early embryonic cells and pluripotent stem cells. Special emphasis will be placed on the processes of meiosis and epigenetic reprogramming that occurs in both germ cells and early embryos. The effect of environmental factors such as diet, stress, endocrine disruptors on germ cell and early embryo reprogramming will be discussed. In the second half of the course, we will discuss how knowledge of germ cell physiology has led to the widespread use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) which have fundamentally changed the way fertility is managed in animals and humans. ART topics covered include artificial insemination, gamete manipulation, in vitro embryo production, preimplantation genetic testing and control of ovulation. We will discuss how these technologies are used to treat infertility in both men and women. We will also cover the potential benefits and challenges of recent efforts to develop male and female non-hormonal contraceptive methods. Finally, the ethical and societal implications of advanced reproductive technologies will be discussed.