If adult somatic cells can be re-programmed into iPSCs (which technically can be differentiated into gametes of both sexes), does this mean that in vitro asexual / single-parent reproduction is feasible in mammals in the future?
In theory yes, but you would be cloning yourself. Problems arise because most adult cells have already accumulated some mutations and also the iPSC protocols do not erase the epigenome entirely. Furthermore, sexual reproduction also recombines chromosomes to introduce more variation, which is good for overall species survival.
Actually , scientists have come a step closer to mimicking the natural process by which the body creates sperm from stem cells in work that could ultimately provide new treatments for infertility. Azim Surani, director of germline and epigenetics research at the University of Cambridge’s Gurdon Institute, said he and colleagues had passed a significant milestone on the path to producing sperm in the laboratory. The team is thought to be the first to have reached the halfway point on the developmental path from human stem cells to immature sperm ( Progress Educational Trust annual conference )
The study hints that one day it may be possible to manufacture sperm and eggs from stem cells or even adult skin cells.
Anass Ben Moula That sounds exciting! Do you have the papers of this study or URL links that I can visit? Thanks for your reply.
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