Stem Cells Zap Infertility in Female Mice

Researchers believe treatment could reverse human menopause

By Rob Quinn, Newser Staff

Posted Apr 13, 2009 6:05 AM CDT

(Newser) – Chinese scientists say they have reversed infertility in female mice by creating new eggs from stem cells, the Independent reports. The research—which if it bears out could have heady implications for reproductive medicine, including reversing menopause—took stem cells from the ovaries of mice, cultivated them, and transplanted them into infertile mice. Some 80% of those mice went on to have offspring after mating.

The findings "could provide a means to restore fertility to women who have few eggs or who have had to undergo cancer treatments," one expert on reproduction said. He added, however, that the study had failed to answer some important questions and that much research remains to be done. "Extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence," he said.

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Reseachers say their development of eggs from mouse stem cells could have important implications for reproductive treatments in humans. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File)

80% of the formerly infertile mice given the treatment went on to have offpsring through normal mating. (Shutter Stock)

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This new study in mice now suggests that there are also stem cells present in ovaries that can be cultured in a dish, which upon transfer to ovaries can develop into viable eggs and give rise to offspring. - Azim Surani, professor of physiology and reproduction at the University of Cambridge

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Stem Cells Zap Infertility in Female Mice