A cell-matrix interaction regulates the undifferentiated state and self-renewal capacity of avian primordial germ cells
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ABSTRACT: Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are lineage restricted precursor cells of sperm and eggs. While avian PGCs from chicken can be cultured and modified to produce genome-edited chickens, the long-term culture of PGCs from other bird species has not been achieved. Here, we explored the effects of a cell-matrix interaction on the in vitro propagation of chicken PGCs. Blocking integrin signaling severely reduced the self-renewal of the PGC, indicating that a PGC-matrix interaction is an essential process for self-renewal. We investigated the properties of somatic cell differentiated PGCs and expression analyses suggested that the PGCs undergo a partial epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition caused by excess PGC-matrix interactions. Finally, we conducted a long-term culture of chicken PGCs with matrix components, resulting in significant induction of their somatic conversion. These results suggested that a high level of PGC-matrix interaction can cause somatic conversion, while a moderate level is essential for their proliferation. Overall, we identified a molecular aspect of self-renewal and maintaining undifferentiated states of avian PGCs.
ORGANISM(S): Gallus gallus
PROVIDER: GSE280091 | GEO | 2024/10/29
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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