Spermatogonial stem cell self - Renewal and differentiation

Abstract

Mammalian spermatogenesis is a complicated and precisely controlled process that requires spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs). SSCs maintain the stem cell pool, balance self-renewal-commitment with differentiation, and produce millions of sperm daily. Self-renewal and differentiation are controlled by intrinsic factors within SSCs and extrinsic factors from the 'niche.' In this review, we discuss the biology of SSCs and the factors regulating their self-renewal and differentiation.