Researchers have developed an experimental technique that allows the conversion of skin cells into human eggs, potentially offering older women and same-sex couples the ability to have genetically related children. This advancement, which has been detailed in a recent study published by scientists at Oregon Health and Science University, involves reprogramming DNA from skin cells into eggs, which can then be fertilized with sperm to create embryos.
The groundbreaking procedure begins by extracting the nucleus from a skin cell, which contains the genetic material, and inserting it into a donor egg that has had its nucleus removed. Scientists then trigger the egg to expel half of its chromosomes, reducing the total from 46 to 23, thus making it compatible with sperm for fertilization. If successful, the resulting embryo is genetically normal and can be implanted into a uterus to initiate a pregnancy. This technology could also benefit women who have undergone cancer treatments, as well as same-sex couples, by enabling the creation of children genetically related to both partners.
Dr. Paulo Amato, a reproductive endocrinologist and professor at Oregon Health and Science University, noted that while the discovery is promising, the work is still in its early stages. He emphasized that there are significant health risks associated with carrying a pregnancy at an advanced age, even if the method proves successful. “We still have to keep in mind that somebody has to carry that pregnancy,” Amato said. “So, we’re not necessarily advocating for women in their 60s and 70s to be carrying pregnancies, but, theoretically, they could have a child that is genetically related. I would predict this to be in 10 to 15 years, at least.” The researcher added that the embryos created in the study were often genetically abnormal with either an excess or deficit of chromosomes, highlighting the need for extensive research before the method is ready for clinical application.
The potential implications of this breakthrough are both exciting and complex. While it offers new possibilities for addressing infertility, it also raises ethical and health-related questions. Scientists are optimistic that this technology could eventually provide innovative solutions to longstanding challenges in reproductive medicine, significantly impacting family planning for many individuals in the future.