Japanese researchers have achieved a breakthrough in genetics and reproductive biology by successfully converting male mouse embryos into viable females using CRISPR gene-editing technology. Previously, such experiments did not allow for the deliberate alteration of the biological sex of cloned organisms at early developmental stages, reports infohub.kz.
In their work, the scientists used a method of targeted removal of the Y chromosome from male cells, which triggered the development of female reproductive organs and tissues. The resulting female clones developed without external abnormalities and demonstrated the ability to reproduce normally when bred with ordinary individuals.
According to the project authors, the developed technology opens up broad possibilities for biodiversity conservation. In particular, the method could be applied to save animal species on the brink of extinction if only males remain in the population. However, the researchers emphasize that a series of additional tests will be required before the technology can be applied to other mammalian species.