Stem Cell Related Patent Number US6331406

Human enbryonic germ cell and methods of use

Gearhart, John D.; Baltimore, MD, USA
Shamblott, Michael Joseph; Baltimore, MD, USA

This invention introduces novel cells with characteristics of human pluripotent embryonic germ cells, methods and uses thereof. Described herein are primordial germ cells extracted from post blastocyst human embryos, such as from the gonadal ridges of a human embryo 8 to 11 weeks old, after which the primordial germ cells are subject to long-term culturing of more than 30 days which results in cells that resemble embryonic stem cells in morphology and pluripotency. Further disclosed are methods by which the cells can be genetically manipulated using transgenic technology for the insertion of heterologous genetic material after the cells have been maintained in such a culture for several months. Therapeutic applications include screening for specific modulators, drugs and toxins and for generating cells of selected lineages.

Application Number: US1997000989744

Date Filed: 12/12/97

Dated Published: 12/18/01

Assignee: The John Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, USA