The first early human eggs from stem cells
2 days ago
- #reproductive technology
- #in vitro gametogenesis
- #stem cells
- In vitro gametogenesis (IVG) has been successfully achieved in mice, enabling the production of viable eggs from stem cells that led to healthy offspring.
- IVG has significant potential for human reproduction, allowing the creation of numerous healthy eggs from a simple blood draw, overcoming biological and genetic limits.
- The process involves creating 'mini-ovaries' in the lab from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), which mimic natural ovarian structures and support egg development.
- Key milestones include the formation of ovarian structures, progression through meiosis, and the generation of fully iPSC-derived follicles, marking a world first.
- Future steps involve growing follicles to the antral stage and validating safety and quality before potential clinical use, with ongoing research and hiring efforts.