The Embryonic Germ Cells
Human Embryonic
Germ Cells share many of the characteristics of Embryonic Stem Cells, but differ
in significant ways.
- They
are derived from the primordial germ cells, which occur in a specific part
of the embryo/fetus called the gonadal ridge.
- The
gonadal ridge normally develops into mature gametes (eggs and sperm).
- Germ
Cells do not proliferate as long as Stem Cells.
- Under
certain conditions, Germ Cells do differentiate into specialized cells.
- Germ
Cells and Stem Cells also differ with respect to their growth characteristics
in vitro, and their behavior in vivo.
Mugur Roz