Welcome to Germ Cell Biology at NIBB

Testis

Mammalian spermatogenesis represents a highly potent and robust stem cell system. Decades of research, including detailed morphological examinations, post-transplantation repopulation, and in vitro culture, have made it one of the most intensively studied mammalian tissue stem cell systems. However, the nature of the stem cells, as well as their niche, remains largely unknown in the context of homeostatic spermatogenesis. The Division of Germ Cell Biology, which was launched in 2008, aims to fully understand the mammalian spermatogenic stem cell system, mainly using the mouse system. Being a brand-new research division of NIBB, our overall research view and current foci of interests will be described. These include 1) the cellular nature of the stem cell compartment and their behaviors in the in homeostatic spermatogenesis, and 2) the anatomical basis and function of the mammalian spermatogenic stem cell niche.

News

"Temperature sensitivity of DNA double-strand break repair underpins heat-induced meiotic failure in mouse spermatogenesis." was published in Communications Biology on May 26, 2022.

"Regulation of spermatogenic stem cell homeostasis by mitogen competition in an open niche microenvironment." was published in Genes & Genetic Systems on February 6, 2022.

"A multistate stem cell dynamics maintains homeostasis in mouse spermatogenesis." was published in Cell Reports on October 19, 2021.

Dr. Suzuki's paper was selected as the winner of the SRF-Reproduction Prize 2021.

"Transient suppression of transplanted spermatogonial stem cell differentiation restores fertility in mice." was published in Cell Stem Cell on April 13, 2021.

Dr. Suzuki has joined us as Specially Appointed Assistant Professor on April 1st, 2021.

Past News