Germline stem cells (GSCs) are a unique subset of stem cells as they are responsible for generating the gametes (sperm and eggs) necessary for sexual reproduction. These cells possess features distinguishing them from other stem cells and are vital for the continuation of a species. GSCs are the source of germ cells, the only cells capable of transmitting genetic information to the next generation. During early embryonic development, a small population of these cells is segregated from somatic cells, forming the germ cell lineage. The initial specification involves signalling pathways and transcription factors that promote the formation of primordial germ cells (PGCs). PGCs migrate to the genital ridge, which will subsequently develop into the testes or ovaries. During this migration, PGCs undergo an epigenetic reprogramming process termed genetic imprint erasure, resetting epigenetic marks on DNA. This process is essential to eliminate marks from the parental generation, allowing the establishment of a new epigenetic profile unique to the offspring. The most significant step in genetic imprint erasure is the global DNA demethylation of the PGC genome. DNA demethylation involves the global removal of methyl groups from cytosine residues in CpG dinucleotides. This process is mediated by active demethylation, with ten-eleven translocation (TET) enzymes responsible for converting 5-methylcytosine (5mC) into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and other intermediates, ultimately leading to the replacement of methylated cytosines with unmethylated cytosines. After global DNA demethylation, PGCs undergo reprogramming, during which they acquire germ cell-specific epigenetic marks distinct from those found in somatic cells, before then differentiating into either sperm or egg cells. Germline stem cells undergo mitotic divisions to increase their numbers and maintain a pool of progenitor cells. Subsequently, they enter meiosis, a specialized form of cell division that reduces the chromosome number by half, resulting in haploid gametes (sperm and eggs). The genetic material passed on to the next generation is protected in germline stem cells from environmental influences and aging effects, ensuring the integrity of genetic information. Germline stem cells reside within specialized microenvironments called stem cell niches which provide physical and molecular support to regulate stem cell self-renewal and differentiation. Germline stem cell niches are typically located within the gonads, the testes (for male GSCs) or the ovaries (for female GSCs). The niches consist of various cell types that interact with GSCs. In the testes, these niches include Sertoli cells, which provide structural and nutritional support to GSCs, whilst in the ovaries, the niche includes granulosa cells. The cells within the niche secrete signalling molecules and growth factors that also help regulate the behaviour of GSCs, with factors like glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) important for GSC self-renewal in the testes and factors like bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) important in regulating GSC fate in ovaries. Germline stem cells are sensitive to various environmental factors, including radiation, toxins, and nutritional status. Environmental influences on these cells can have long-term consequences on the health and genetic integrity of future generations. We offer a large product range of research reagents for studying germline stem cells, including c-Kit antibodies, SOX2 antibodies, Oct4 antibodies, BMP15 antibodies, and c-Kit ELISA Kits. Explore our full germline stem cells product range below and discover more, for less. Alternatively, you can explore our Embryonic Germ Cells and Spermatogonial Stem Cells product ranges.