About the Laboratory
The Laboratory of Germ Cells (LGC) was established in 2015 within the Research Institute of Fish Culture and Hydrobiology in Vodňany. It is located within the premises of the Genetic Fisheries Centre.
In our laboratory, we study germ cells, including their identification, characterization, in vitro culture, manipulation using techniques such as nuclear transfer or CRISPR/Cas, and transplantation. We exploit their unique properties for reproductive biotechnologies. These technologies not only support the conservation of critically endangered fish species (especially sturgeons) and help preserve genetic diversity, but also form an important part of education for students at all levels of higher education, where practical experience and modern methods connect theory with real-world applications.
We have introduced the sterlet as a unique model for studying not only germ cell biology, which enables us to apply techniques otherwise available only for classical model species.
Research Focus
To understand processes in fish reproduction and development – with a specific focus on the development and biology of germ cells (precursors of sperm and eggs).
Our Values
The fundamental cornerstone of our work is the origin of fish life. It is of utmost importance to us that all work with living organisms meets the highest ethical and professional standards. Only under these conditions can we properly conduct and analyze experiments related to fish reproduction and development.
Our Expertise
The LGC holds strong expertise in the following approaches:
- Germ cell manipulation
- Genome editing
- Work with fish model species
- Use of sturgeons at a model-species scale
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