Avian primordial germ cells and their application

Abstract

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) are the precursors of the progenitors of the oocytes and spermatocytes. The unique properties and accessibility of avian PGCs during early development provide an opportunity to manipulate with the avian germplasm. In this review the recent developments of the embryo manipulation techniques and the use of PGCs for the conservation of genetic resources and as a vehicle for the efficient production of transgenic chickens are described.