Skin-Derived Stem Cells as a Source of Primordial Germ Cell and Oocyte-Like Cells

Skin-derived stem cells (SDSCs) were shown to be a versatile source of multipotent cells capable of differentiating into various cell types, including neural, mesodermal, and endodermal cells. Originating from hair follicles and potentially derived from embryonic neural crest or mesoderm cells, SDSCs could generate primordial germ cell-like cells and oocyte-like cells in vitro. However, it remained unclear if these germ cell-like cells could produce viable progeny. The review discussed the origins, differentiation mechanisms, and potential biomedical applications of SDSC-derived germ cell-like cells.