Scientists in the US have created human eggs from skin cells in a development that could one day transform fertility treatment for couples with limited options.
The early-stage research, led by Prof Shoukhrat Mitalipov at Oregon Health and Science University, adapted cloning techniques first used to create Dolly the sheep. By transferring the nucleus of a skin cell into a donor egg stripped of its own nucleus, the team produced eggs carrying the full set of human chromosomes. After fertilisation, the scientists used a chemical trigger to reduce the excess chromosomes to the correct number.
Although the process remains inefficient and prone to errors, experts say the breakthrough could ultimately help women who have lost fertility due to age or cancer treatment, as well as same-sex male couples wishing to have genetically related children. Out of 82 eggs created in the lab, fewer than 10% developed to the earliest embryo stage, and none survived beyond six days.
“This is proof of concept,” said Mitalipov, who estimates that refining the process and ensuring safety could take another decade. Other scientists praised the achievement but stressed the need for caution, public dialogue and strict regulation.
If perfected, the technique could mark a profound shift in reproductive medicine, potentially giving hope to many who are unable to conceive with existing IVF methods.
