Skin‑cell DNA used to create human eggs
Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University reported creating very early human embryos by converting DNA from skin-cell nuclei into egg cells via nuclear-transfer into enucleated donor eggs, then fertilizing them with sperm. The work is preliminary: most embryos were chromosomally abnormal, researchers (including Dr. Paulo Amato) caution many hurdles remain, but the technique could — if validated and safely developed — one day expand fertility options for older women and same-sex couples. The team and quoted experts estimate clinical application would be years away and note significant medical and ethical challenges.
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🔍 Key Facts
- OHSU researchers removed the nucleus of a skin cell and inserted it into a donor egg that had its nucleus removed, then triggered the egg to discard half its chromosomes to reach haploid status before fertilization.
- The lab-created embryos were fertilized with sperm; however, the researchers report the embryos were largely genetically abnormal (too many or too few chromosomes).
- Dr. Paulo Amato, an OHSU co-author, called the work 'very preliminary' and suggested that, if successful, the technology might be clinically ready in roughly 10–15 years while warning of risks for carrying pregnancy at advanced maternal age.