Societal Relevance
The laboratory is developing technologies that can save endangered fish species and change the future of aquaculture. The Germ Cell Laboratory team is investigating how cells that form gametes – the basis of new life – are created and function. Using methods such as germ cell transplantation, in vitro cultivation or gene editing, it opens up new possibilities for scientists and breeders to work with aquatic organisms.
One of the main goals of the laboratory is to save endangered species, especially sturgeons. Thanks to so-called surrogate reproduction, scientists can transfer germ cells from an endangered species to a related, faster-maturing host – which then produces gametes of the original species. This makes it possible to restore fish populations that have almost disappeared from nature.
However, the research also has practical benefits for aquaculture. Modern biotechnologies can make fish farming more efficient, improve breeding and contribute to greater food security.
No less important is the preservation of genetic wealth. The laboratory develops methods for cryopreservation of germ cells that will enable the long-term preservation of valuable genetic lines for future generations.
The team is also actively involved in the education of young scientists and international cooperation and ensures the safe and responsible use of biotechnology in nature conservation and food production.
