Scientists have turned human skin cells into eggs in a breakthrough that could transform fertility treatment for older women and same-sex male couples. The early-stage work, led by Professor Shoukhrat Mitalipov at Oregon Health and Science University, used a cloning technique similar to that which created Dolly the sheep.
The process involved removing the nucleus from a skin cell and placing it into a donor egg stripped of its own nucleus. After fertilisation, the eggs were treated with a compound called roscovitine to reduce the chromosome count from 46 to 23, allowing them to pair with sperm chromosomes. However, the chromosomes segregated randomly, leading to abnormal embryos.
Out of 82 eggs created, fewer than 10% developed to the stage where IVF embryos are typically transferred, and none survived beyond six days. Professor Mitalipov described the work as a 'proof of concept', noting that perfecting the technique and proving its safety could take another decade.
Experts praised the research. Professor Richard Anderson of the University of Edinburgh said it could help women who have lost their eggs due to cancer treatment. Professor Ying Cheong of the University of Southampton added that it could transform understanding of infertility and miscarriage.
