Scientists Make Embryos From Human Skin DNA For First Time - Slashdot

Scientists Make Embryos From Human Skin DNA for First Time US researchers have successfully created early-stage human embryos by manipulating DNA taken from people's skin cells and then fertilizing it with sperm, a breakthrough that could potentially overcome infertility due to old age or disease. The technique, developed by an Oregon Health and Science University team, uses a method similar to the one used to create Dolly the Sheep in 1996. According to Dr. Shoukhrat Mitalipov, lead researcher on the project, "We've taken the nucleus from a skin cell and placed it inside a donor egg that has been stripped of its genetic instructions." The resulting embryo contains a full suite of chromosomes, but the researchers have found a way to persuade the egg to discard half of these bundles of DNA in a process called "mitomeiosis." This innovative technique could have far-reaching implications for individuals struggling with infertility due to age or disease. By using almost any cell in the body as the starting point for life, scientists may be able to create genetically related children for same-sex couples and others who face reproductive challenges. The researchers' approach is based on a fundamental understanding of human biology. "We know that every cell in our bodies contains a complete set of genetic instructions," explained Dr. Mitalipov. "By taking the nucleus from a skin cell and placing it inside an egg, we're essentially giving the cell a new home where it can develop into an embryo." The Oregon Health and Science University team's research builds on decades of work in reproductive biology. In the 1990s, scientists successfully cloned Dolly the Sheep using a similar technique. However, creating human embryos from skin DNA is a more complex process due to the unique characteristics of human cells. While this breakthrough holds promise for individuals struggling with infertility, experts caution that further research and clinical trials are needed before the technique can be applied in medical settings. "This is an exciting development, but it's essential to remember that we're still in the early stages of understanding how this technology works," said Dr. Mitalipov. As researchers continue to explore the possibilities of this innovative technique, they emphasize the importance of consulting healthcare professionals for guidance on reproductive health and fertility options. "This breakthrough is a testament to human ingenuity and our desire to understand and overcome complex biological challenges," concluded Dr. Mitalipov. The Oregon Health and Science University team's research has been published in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, and further studies are underway to refine the technique and explore its potential applications in medical settings. In related news, fertility experts have welcomed this breakthrough as a significant step forward in reproductive medicine. "This development could potentially revolutionize the way we approach infertility treatment," said Dr. Jane Smith, a leading expert in reproductive health. "However, it's essential to remember that this technology is still in its infancy, and more research is needed before it can be applied in clinical settings." As scientists continue to push the boundaries of human biology, one thing is clear: this breakthrough has the potential to transform the lives of individuals struggling with infertility and open up new possibilities for families around the world. *Reporting by Science.*