Innovative Study Demonstrates Creation of Functional Eggs from Human Skin Cells to Address Infertility

Researchers at Oregon Health & Science University have achieved a groundbreaking milestone in reproductive medicine by developing a method to transform human skin cells into functional eggs, or oocytes, which can potentially be used to treat infertility. Published in Nature Communications, this proof-of-concept study introduces a novel approach called "mitomeiosis," a process that combines elements of mitosis and meiosis — the two fundamental types of cell division — to generate eggs with the correct number of chromosomes.

The technique involves transplanting the nucleus of a skin cell into an enucleated donor egg. This triggers the discard of half of the chromosomes via cytoplasmic cues, resulting in a haploid egg that contains a single set of 23 chromosomes. Afterward, fertilization with sperm via standard in vitro fertilization (IVF) produces a diploid embryo with genetic contributions from both parents.

In their experiments, the team produced 82 functional oocytes, fertilized with sperm, though most failed to develop beyond early stages, with only 9% reaching the blastocyst stage. The researchers emphasize that further studies are needed to improve the developmental potential and chromosomal stability of these eggs.

This innovative approach offers promising avenues for in vitro gametogenesis (IVG), which could eventually provide solutions for women of advanced maternal age or those unable to produce viable eggs due to prior cancer treatments or other fertility issues. Moreover, it raises the possibility of creating genetically related offspring for same-sex couples.

Despite the impressive progress, the team recognizes that significant challenges remain before this technology can be applied clinically. Further research is required to ensure safety, efficacy, and ethical considerations are addressed. Lead author Dr. Shoukhrat Mitalipov notes, "We achieved something once thought impossible, by developing a third method of cell division that could revolutionize fertility treatments."

This breakthrough represents a major step toward the goal of producing healthy, genetically capable eggs from somatic cells, advancing the future of reproductive medicine.

For more detailed information, visit the original publication at Nature Communications.