Research Focus and Directions
Our main goal is research on the biology of germ cells (gamete precursors) in several fish species, including model, aquaculture, and critically endangered species. The laboratory employs multidisciplinary approaches such as molecular analyses, chromosome manipulations, histology, immunolabeling, flow cytometry, genome editing using CRISPR/Cas9, and transplantation of germline stem cells aimed at inducing chimerism and producing offspring via surrogate parents. One long-term objective is the transplantation of germ cells between late-maturing sturgeon species to shorten their reproductive cycle.
Reproduction of Teleost Fish Species via Surrogate Parents
The existence of germline stem cells in female mammals remains a controversial issue. Fortunately, the presence of this cell type in fish is well established and undisputed. This allows us to isolate these cells and transplant them into surrogate parents. The main rationale behind this biotechnological approach is to improve the traits of the donor organism by using an appropriate recipient. For example, we have successfully produced surrogate offspring of common carp using goldfish as hosts, resulting in a substantial reduction in space requirements. This technology can also be used to address low fertility in certain species, whose germ cells can be transplanted into a recipient species that is significantly larger and more fertile.
Surrogate Reproduction as a Tool for Sturgeon Conservation
In our laboratory, we have long been focusing on methods that enable the production of offspring of, for example, beluga sturgeon using sterlet as surrogate parents. Achieving this goal requires several intermediate steps. Therefore, we have been systematically working on the cryopreservation of germline stem cells and have simultaneously developed novel methods for their labeling. A key prerequisite is the sterility of the future cell recipient; to this end, we have developed several effective approaches that will allow efficient production of surrogate offspring of critically endangered sturgeon species in the future.
Understanding the Mechanisms of Germ Cell Development in Sturgeons
Most sturgeon species are classified as critically endangered. However, compared to teleost fish, they exhibit distinct mechanisms of germ cell formation. Understanding these differences is essential for their conservation and for the successful application of surrogate reproduction technologies.
