Signalling in the developing testis: Mechanisms regulating male germline differentiation and testicular development

Germ cells are responsible for producing sperm or eggs, which combine to make a new individual at fertilisation. The formation and function of male and female germ cells is supported by the testis and ovary and is initiated in the developing fetus. Normal testis and male germ cell development is essential for sperm production, male fertility, the regulation of hormone production and masculinisation of an individual. This thesis explores how a normal testis forms and ensures the formation of male germ cells, and how alterations in these processes may contribute to abnormal male reproductive health, infertility or germ cell cancer.