In vitro gametogenesis: Creating gametes from stem cells

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  Quantumrun Foresight
• March 14, 2023

Reprogramming non-reproductive cells into reproductive ones could assist individuals who struggle with infertility. This technological advancement could provide a new approach to traditional forms of reproduction and expand the definition of parenthood. Additionally, this future scientific breakthrough may raise ethical questions about its implications and impact on society.

In vitro gametogenesis context

In vitro gametogenesis (IVG) is a technique in which stem cells are reprogrammed to create reproductive gametes, creating eggs and sperms through somatic (nonreproductive) cells. Researchers successfully made conversions in mice cells and produced offspring in 2014. This discovery has opened doors for same-sex parenthood, where both individuals are biologically related to the offspring. 

In the case of two female-bodied partners, the stem cells extracted from one female would be converted into sperm and combined with the naturally derived egg from the other partner. The resulting embryo could then be implanted into one partner's uterus. A similar procedure would be carried out for males, but they will require a surrogate to carry the embryo until artificial wombs advance. If successful, the technique would allow single, infertile, post-menopausal individuals to conceive as well, going as far as to make multiplex parenting possible.        

Though researchers believe this practice would work successfully in humans, certain biological complications remain to be addressed. In humans, eggs grow inside complicated follicles that support their development, and these are difficult to replicate. Moreover, if a human embryo is created successfully using the technique, its development into a baby and the resulting human behavior would have to be monitored throughout its lifetime. So, using IVG for successful fertilization may be farther off than it seems. However, though the technique is unconventional, ethicists see no harm in the process itself.

Disruptive impact 

Couples who may have struggled with fertility due to biological limitations, such as menopause, may now be able to have children at a later stage in life. Furthermore, with the development of IVG technology, biological parenthood will not be limited to heterosexual couples only, as individuals who identify as part of the LGBTQ+ community may now have more options to reproduce. These advancements in reproductive technology could have a significant impact on how families are formed.

While IVG technology may present a new approach, ethical concerns may be raised about its implications. One such concern is the possibility of human enhancement. With IVG, an endless supply of gametes and embryos can be produced, allowing for the selection of particular traits or characteristics. This trend may result in a future where genetically engineered individuals become more common (and preferred).

Moreover, the development of IVG technology could also raise questions about the destruction of embryos. The possibility of unauthorized practices, like embryo farming, could arise. This development can raise serious ethical concerns about the moral status of embryos and their treatment as "disposable" products. Consequently, there is a need for strict guidelines and policies to ensure that IVG technology is within ethical and moral boundaries.

Implications of in vitro gametogenesis

Wider implications of IVG may include:

• More complications in pregnancies as women choose to conceive at a later age.
• More families with same-sex parents.
• Reduced demand for donor eggs and sperm as individuals could produce their gametes in a lab.
• Researchers being able to edit and manipulate genes in ways that were previously impossible, leading to significant advances in the treatment of genetic diseases and other medical conditions.
• Demographic changes, as people may be able to have children at later ages, and the number of children born with genetic disorders decreasing.
• Ethical concerns around issues such as designer babies, eugenics, and the commodification of life.
• The development and implementation of IVG technology resulting in significant changes in the economy, particularly in the healthcare and biotech sectors.
• The legal system grappling with issues such as ownership of genetic material, parental rights, and the rights of any resulting children.
• Changes in the nature of work and employment, particularly for women, who may have more flexibility in terms of childbearing.
• Significant changes in social norms and attitudes towards parenthood, family, and reproduction. 

Questions to consider

• Do you think single parenthood would be popular due to IVG? 
• How might families change forever because of this technology?