Instructing an embryonic stem cell-derived oocyte fate: lessons from endogenous oogenesis.
Female reproductive potential is limited in the majority of species due to oocyte depletion. Because functional human oocytes are restricted in number and accessibility, a robust system to differentiate oocytes from stem cells would enable a thorough investigation of the genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors affecting human oocyte development. Also, the differentiation of functional oocytes from stem cells may permit the success of human somatic cell nuclear transfer for reprogramming studies and for the production of patient-specific embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Thus, ESC-derived oocytes could ultimately help to restore fertility in women. Here, we review endogenous and ESC-derived oocyte development, and we discuss the potential and challenges for differentiating functional oocytes from ESCs.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Stanford University School of Medicine, Palo Alto, California 94304, USA. cory2007@stanford.edu
Cory R
CR
Nicholas
Shawn L
SL
Chavez
Valerie L
VL
Baker
Renee A
RA
Reijo Pera
D000818:Animals; D018929:Cell Culture Techniques; D002453:Cell Cycle / Q000502:physiology; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology; D053595:Embryonic Stem Cells / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D009865:Oocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009866:Oogenesis / Q000235:genetics / Q000502:physiology*