What is the meaning of definitive and specified Primordial germ cells?

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In summary, the development of human germ cells begins with the specification of primordial germ cells (PGCs) during gastrulation in early postimplantation embryos. These PGCs then migrate to the developing gonads during gestation and undergo sex-specific differentiation after week 9. Male germ cells enter mitotic quiescence and undergo meiosis after puberty, while female germ cells enter meiosis asynchronously over a longer period of time. This process is considered advantageous from an evolutionary perspective as it reduces the number of cell divisions before the cells become germ cells. The PGCs are defined as germ cells and then migrate to the genital ridge where they undergo further development.
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TytoAlba95
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I'm stuck in a dev bio paper. The relevant extract is porovided below:

Human germ cell development begins with the specification of PGCs, which is expected to happen at the onset of gastrulation (developmental week 2) in the posterior epiblast of early postimplantation embryos. During gestation (weeks 3–5), the definitive PGCs migrate from the yolk sac wall through the hindgut to the developing gonads, where they then undergo sex-specific differentiation after week 9. Whereas the male germ cells enter mitotic quiescence synchronously and undergo meiosis after puberty, female human germ cells enter meiosis asynchronously over an extended time period.

The source: cell.
 
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In development (early in gastrulation apparently), the germ cells get specified.
This means they have been induced by some combination of environmental signals within the embryo to become germ cells rather than some other developing structure. They stop cell division or only slowly divide and change things concerning control of transcription, such that they develop as germ cells.
(From an evolutionary point of view, this can be considered advantageous because the cells go through fewer cell divisions before making germ cells, and therefore are less likely to suffer genetic changes before making germ cells.)
These cells become defined in this way as germ cells and then, in order to fulfill their germ cell fate migrate to a different area of the body and enter the genital ridge (gonad primordium) where they settle down and undergo further development.

I am guessing they are using definitive in the sense of: they are defined (perhaps in some clearly observable experimental manner) as germ cells by having their fate determined and set (even it is before they get to their definitive location, which makes the interpretation more confusing).
 
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Thank you :)
 

FAQ: What is the meaning of definitive and specified Primordial germ cells?

1. What are primordial germ cells (PGCs)?

Primordial germ cells are a type of stem cell that give rise to the gametes (sperm and egg cells) in animals. They are the precursors to all other cells in the reproductive system.

2. How are PGCs different from other stem cells?

Unlike other stem cells, PGCs are specified to develop into gametes and cannot differentiate into other cell types. They are also the only type of stem cell that can pass genetic information onto the next generation.

3. What is the significance of PGCs in embryonic development?

PGCs are essential for the development of the reproductive system in embryos. They migrate from the site of origin to the gonads, where they differentiate into sperm and egg cells. Without PGCs, animals would not be able to reproduce.

4. How are PGCs specified and maintained during development?

The specification of PGCs is controlled by a specific set of genes and signaling pathways. These genes and pathways regulate the expression of key transcription factors that determine the fate of PGCs. PGCs are also maintained through epigenetic mechanisms, such as DNA methylation, which help to preserve their identity.

5. Can PGCs be manipulated for use in research or medical treatments?

Yes, PGCs have been successfully isolated and manipulated in laboratory settings for research purposes. They have also been used in reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization, to help infertile couples conceive. However, further research is needed to fully understand the potential uses and limitations of PGCs in medical treatments.

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