Defining Gene Function in Spermatogonial Stem Cells Through Conditional Knockout Approaches

Julien M.D. Legrand, Robin M. Hobbs

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingChapter (Book)Otherpeer-review

1 Citation (Scopus)

Abstract

Mammalian male fertility is maintained throughout life by a population of self-renewing mitotic germ cells known as spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). Much of our current understanding regarding the molecular mechanisms underlying SSC activity is derived from studies using conditional knockout mouse models. Here, we provide a guide for the selection and use of mouse strains to develop conditional knockout models for the study of SSCs, as well as their precursors and differentiation-committed progeny. We describe Cre recombinase-expressing strains, breeding strategies to generate experimental groups, and treatment regimens for inducible knockout models and provide advice for verifying and improving conditional knockout efficiency. This resource can be beneficial to those aiming to develop conditional knockout models for the study of SSC development and postnatal function.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationSpermatogonial Stem Cells
Subtitle of host publicationMethods and Protocols
EditorsJon M. Oatley, Brian P. Hermann
Place of PublicationNew York NY United States
PublisherHumana Press
Chapter15
Pages261-307
Number of pages47
ISBN (Electronic)9781071631393
ISBN (Print)9781071631386
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2023

Publication series

NameMethods in Molecular Biology
Volume2656
ISSN (Print)1064-3745
ISSN (Electronic)1940-6029

Keywords

  • Conditional knockout
  • Cre
  • Knockout mice
  • Mouse models
  • Spermatogonia
  • Spermatogonial stem cells

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