Scientists Make Cells That Form Eggs, Sperm

• Researchers have found a way to turn stem cells into the cells that make eggs and sperm.
• This allows us to study a phase of human development that we previously could not.
• This can't be studied in animals because it is unique to humans.
• One gene, DAZL, was key to transforming the stem cell. It made it possible to see meiosis in a dish.
• Now we can study people with infertility problems and see why they exist.

Reflection:
I think that this study has huge potential, but I still want to know if it could be used to reverse infertility. That would mean we could use similar techniques to cure other problems in the human body. I think we should put a limit on what we can do to the body, though. Otherwise we would overpopulate the earth so fast we wouldn't be able to blink. Some things should not be scientifically explored. I'm all for advanced medicine and such, but we need to look into the future be fore we do anything huge. If we predict the consequences of our actions then we could control everything more safely. If these people discover a "cure for infertility they shouldn't realease it to the public because it would have huge consequences.

Link:

http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSTRE59R4V520091028

Citation:

Steenhuysen, Julie. "Scientists Make Cells That Form Eggs and Sperm in Lab | Reuters." Business & Financial News, Breaking US & International News | Reuters.com. 28 Oct. 2009. Web. 2 May 2010. .