In vitro gametogenesis : A review of ethical and policy questions

Svenning Berg, Ranveig and Fovargue, Sara and O'Donovan, Laura and Williams, Nicola and Wilkinson, Stephen (2025) In vitro gametogenesis : A review of ethical and policy questions. Nuffield Foundation.

Abstract

In vitro gametogenesis (IVG) is a technology which aims to create viable human eggs and sperm (gametes), grown from either embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells (e.g. skin cells) in a laboratory. IVG is not currently in clinical use, but research in non-human animals is advancing and the possibilities that IVG could offer for human reproduction are potentially transformative. This policy briefing focusses on potential clinical applications of IVG in the future, and the associated ethical, legal and social issues these raise. IVG may bring significant benefits for addressing infertility and enable a wider range of people to have their own genetically related children – such as enabling same-sex couples to have a child genetically related to both parents. IVG raises a range of ethical issues, including around consent, the role of genetic relatedness in families and equity of access to such treatments should they become available. The law currently prohibits the clinical application of IVG, but IVG research is permissible within the current UK legislative framework. Before direct application of IVG to human reproduction can be considered, rigorous testing will be needed to ensure its safety, alongside extensive public engagement and a thorough consideration of the ethical and legal issues. If deemed sufficiently safe, and ethically and socially acceptable, changes to existing legislation would be required before IVG could be used in the clinic.