A lot of works have been dedicated to clarify the reasons why the establishment of embryonic stem cells (ESCs) from pig is more difficult than that from mouse and human. Several concomitant factors such as culture condition including feeder layer, sensitivity of cell to cell contact, definitive markers of pluripotency for evaluation of the validity and optimal timing of derivation have been suggested as the disturbing factors in the establishment of porcine ESCs. Traditionally, attempts to derive stem cells from porcine embryos have depend on protocols established for mouse ESCs using inner cell mass (ICM) for the isolation and culture. And more recently, protocols used for primate ESCs were also applied. However, there is no report for the establishment of porcine ESCs. Indeed, ungulate species including pigs have crucial developmental differences unlike rodents and primates. Here we will review recent studies about issues for establishment of porcine ESCs and discuss the promise and strategies focusing on the timing for derivation and pluripotent state of porcine ESCs.

• Eun-hye Kim(Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology)
• Seung-A Cheong(Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology)
• Junchul David Yoon(Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology)
• Yubyeol Jeon(Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology)
• Sang-Hwan Hyun(Laboratory of Veterinary Embryology and Biotechnology)