In a groundbreaking achievement, Australian scientists have successfully created the world’s first kangaroo embryo using in vitro fertilisation (IVF). This significant development is being hailed as a potential solution to aid in conserving other species facing extinction.
Researchers have made significant strides by injecting a single sperm cell into an egg using specimens from eastern grey kangaroos. However, they caution that achieving a live birth will necessitate further efforts and technological advancements.
According to lead researcher Andres Gambini, the achievement offers significant insights into marsupial breeding patterns. It can enhance genetic diversity among endangered species, including the koala, Tasmanian devil, northern hairy-nosed wombat, and Leadbeater’s possum.
Australia is home to the most diverse range of marsupial mammals in the world; however, it also faces the alarming reality of having the highest rate of mammal extinctions.
A recent experiment conducted by the University of Queensland focused on developing kangaroo eggs and sperm within a controlled laboratory environment. Researchers employed a technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to create embryos.
Currently employed on humans and certain domestic animals, the method was tested on deceased eastern grey kangaroos. The species was chosen due to its non-endangered status and robust population.
Scientists report that research into their tissues has been notably scarce despite the iconic status of marsupial species in Australia and their essential contribution to the nation’s biodiversity.
“We are currently enhancing methods for the collection, culture, and preservation of marsupial eggs and sperm,” stated Dr Gambini, emphasising that these techniques are vital for protecting “the genetic material of these unique and precious animals.”
In a bid to safeguard endangered species globally, IVF is increasingly being employed as a vital conservation tool.
In a groundbreaking achievement last year, scientists accomplished the world’s first IVF rhino pregnancy by transferring a lab-created rhino embryo into a surrogate mother in Kenya.
In 2018, the world witnessed a significant milestone in reproductive technology with the creation of the first donkey embryo through in vitro fertilisation (IVF).
