Sperm from stem cells
British scientists have created artificial sperm from stem cells
RIA NewsBritish researchers have developed a technique for obtaining artificial human sperm from embryonic stem cells, according to an article published Wednesday in the journal Stem Cells and Development.
Researchers led by Professor Karim Nayernia from the University of Newcastle and the Stem Cell Institute of Northeast England report that they have created a strategy for obtaining in vitro male spermatogenic progenitor cells (germline stem cells – GSCs) from human embryonic stem cells.
"The germ cells obtained in vitro are able to undergo division (meiosis) and produce haploid (with a single set of chromosomes, which is typical for germ cells) moving sperm–like cells," the article says.
Professor Nayernia believes that this study is an important step that will allow researchers to study in detail how sperm is formed and better understand the causes of male infertility – why it occurs and what causes it.
"This understanding can help us create new ways to treat couples suffering from infertility, so that they can have children who will be genetically their own," says the scientist, whose words are quoted in a message from the University of Newcastle.
"It will also allow scientists to study how cells involved in the reproduction process react to toxins, and for example, why boys suffering from leukemia and undergoing chemotherapy can become infertile – and it is possible to find a solution to this problem," the researcher believes.
In addition, the authors believe that studying the process of sperm formation can help them better understand the causes of genetic diseases.
Artificially obtained sperm will not and cannot be used for the treatment of infertility. In addition to the fact that it is prohibited by British law, the researchers state that embryo implantation has no scientific interest for them, since they intend to study the resulting cells only as a research model.
"While we understand that this may be of concern to some people, it does not mean that people can be obtained 'in vitro' and we have no plans to do so," Nayernia adds.
The scientist noted that the results obtained by them will not be used for the treatment of infertility directly, but it will give an opportunity to better understand the mechanisms behind this.
Portal "Eternal youth" http://vechnayamolodost.ru08.07.2009