Our web page is designed to give an overview of Embryonic Germ Cells. These cells were first reported in 1998, but there remains a great deal of research still to be carried out. Embryonic Germ (EG) cells are derived from the primordial germ cells of developing fetuses. We first explain the precursors of EG cells, the primordial germ cells and then go into more detail about EG cells. Out next topic explores past, current, and future research. Finally, we examine some of the ethical issues and controversy surrounding the use of EG cells in research.
photo courtesy of : www.cnn.com.
EG Cells Discovered
1998: Gearhart and colleagues derive human embryonic germ cells from the gonadal ridge and mesenchyma of 5- to 9-week old fetal tissue that resulted from elective abortions (1).
Photo courtesy of the National Institutes of Health