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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
National
Storm Newton

Skin cell breakthrough offers new hope for infertility patients

  • Scientists have discovered a method to fertilise eggs created from human skin cells, marking a significant advance in in vitro gametogenesis (IVG).
  • The process involves reprogramming skin cells into stem cells and utilising a novel technique called 'mitomeiosis' to correct chromosome numbers, mimicking natural cell division.
  • Researchers successfully created 82 functional oocytes, with 92 per cent of these fertilised eggs developing to the blastocyst stage in laboratory settings.
  • The breakthrough offers immense potential for individuals experiencing infertility or recurrent miscarriage, potentially enabling the creation of egg or sperm-like cells for those with no other options.
  • Experts emphasise that while promising, the research is in its early stages, requiring further development and careful consideration of safety concerns before clinical application.

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