Scientific Breakthrough

Oregon scientists successfully used skin cells to create human eggs that produced early-stage embryos after fertilization with sperm.

Context

Creating eggs and sperm in laboratories has become a major focus for researchers worldwide seeking to help people who cannot produce viable reproductive cells. This condition affects millions due to advanced age, cancer treatment, or other medical conditions. The approach could also enable same-sex couples to have children genetically related to both partners.

Research Published

Oregon Health & Science University researchers demonstrated Tuesday in Nature Communications that skin cells could be transformed into fertilizable eggs.