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From stem cells to gametes: Controlling the mitosis-to-meiosis switch

Precongress Course 8

SIG Reproductive Genetics SIG Stem Cells  Special Interest Group Reproductive Genetics and Stem Cells

  

Course coordinators
Francesca Gioia Klinger (Italy), Alberto Sola Leyva (Sweden)


Course type
Advanced

Course description
This course will explore current advances in stem cell-derived germ cell models, the regulation of mitotic expansion and meiotic entry, and the genetic and epigenetic integrity of germ cells in the context of human reproduction. The programme will bring together perspectives from stem cell biology, reproductive genetics, developmental biology, embryology and clinical reproductive medicine. 

A central theme of the course is the transition from proliferating germ cell-like states to meiotic competence, with particular attention to the opportunities and limitations of in vitro gametogenesis. The course will also address how early developmental disturbances, DNA damage, defective repair pathways and post-natal germline pathologies contribute to infertility and reproductive failure.

Learning objectives
By the end of the course, participants should be able to:

  1. Describe current approaches for generating germ cells from stem cells in vitro.
  2. Discuss the challenges associated with mitotic expansion of stem cell-derived germ cells.
  3. Evaluate the genetic and epigenetic risks associated with in vitro germ cell differentiation.
  4. Explain the regulatory mechanisms involved in meiotic entry and sex-specific germline development.
  5. Assess the clinical potential and limitations of in vitro-derived haploid germ cells. 
  6. Recognise genetic and epigenetic causes of germline dysfunction, including pre-natal and post-natal origins of infertility.


Innovative aspects of the course
The course integrates stem cell biology, reproductive genetics and clinical medicine across the developmental continuum from mitotic germ cells to meiosis and haploid cell formation. Its distinctive focus is the critical assessment of the safety, limitations and translational potential of in vitro-derived germ cells.

 

Target audience
Clinicians, embryologists, reproductive biologists, geneticists, stem cell researchers, and laboratory scientists working in reproductive medicine, developmental biology, infertility, germline genetics and assisted reproduction.

 

Programme