The Dobrinski Lab
Research in the Dobrinski lab is focused on mammalian germ line stem cell biology and the regulation of its niche. Germline stem cells (spermatogonial stem cells, SSCs) form the basis of male fertility by developing into sperm. SSCs are the only cells in an adult body that divide and can contribute genes to subsequent generations, making them valuable for regenerative medicine and targets for genetic manipulation.
Our lab currently works on developing strategies to model and study the effects of the testicular microenvironment on germ cell differentiation and to enable full spermatogenesis in vitro, by integrating three areas of research:
We have developed testis organoids, three-dimensional mini testicles that can perform in a culture dish many functions that usually take place in the testicles. These organotypic structures allow us to investigate cell–cell interactions, niche signalling, and structural organization required to support germ cell maintenance and differentiation, as well as testicular maturation.
EVs, including exosomes, microvesicles and apoptotic bodies, are micro- and nano-sized vesicles secreted by cells into the extracellular space that are increasingly recognized as a significant intercellular communication system. We study EVs as critical mediators of cell-cell communication within the testicular microenvironment. By characterizing their molecular cargo and functional effects, we aim to define how EV-mediated signalling regulates germ cell fate decisions and contributes to the establishment and maintenance of a supportive SSC niche.
These are adult cells genetically reprogrammed to an embryonic-like state, acquiring the ability to self-renew and differentiate into nearly any cell type, holding enormous potential for disease modelling, drug discovery, and regenerative medicine. We use pig and human iPSCs as a scalable and versatile platform to generate and genetically modify germ cell–like and somatic cell-like cells. This approach enables mechanistic studies of germline development and supports the reconstruction of spermatogenesis in vitro.
Dr. Ina Dobrinski