Germ cell transplantation for the propagation of companion animals, non-domestic and endangered species

Abstract

The transplantation of spermatogonial stem cells between males results in a recipient animal producing spermatozoa carrying a donor’s haplotype. First pioneered in rodents, this technique has now been used in several animal species. Importantly, germ cell transplantation was successful between unrelated, immuno-competent large animals, whereas efficient donor-derived spermatogenesis in rodents requires syngeneic or immuno-compromised recipients. Transplantation requires four steps: recipient preparation, donor cell isolation, transplantation and identifying donor-derived spermatozoa. There are two main applications for this technology. First, genetic manipulation of isolated germ line stem cells and subsequent transplantation will result in production of transgenic spermatozoa. Transgenesis through the male germ line has tremendous potential in species in which embryonic stem cells are not available and somatic cell nuclear transfer and reprogramming pose several problems. Second, spermatogonial stem cell transplantation within or between species offers a means of preserving the reproductive potential of genetically valuable individuals. This might have significance in the captive propagation of non-domestic animals of high conservation value. Transplantation of germ cells is a uniquely valuable approach for the study, preservation and manipulation of male fertility in mammalian species.