Primordial germ cells in the primitive streak stages chick embryo as studied by scanning electron microscopy.

Chick embryo primordial germ cells (PGCs) at stages 4-8 were localised in the late hypoblast layer. PAS staining confirmed their distribution in a large arc at the anterior border of the area pellucida/area opaca. By scanning electron microscopy the PGCs were seen as spherical cells within the late hypoblast layer. Individual cells separated from this layer and collected in groups of 2-10 in shallow pockets in the hypoblast layer prior to their migration. The pockets containing PGCs were clearly visible by light and scanning electron microscopy and demarcated the germinal ridge at stages 4-8.