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IMAGE: Researchers at Kyushu University in Japan directly converted mouse stem cells into the oocyte-like cells shown here using a set of just eight transcription factors. view more
Credit: Kyushu University
In a new study published in the journal
Nature, researchers in Japan report that activating just eight genes for producing gene-controlling proteins is enough to convert mouse stem cells directly into oocyte-like cells that mature and can even be fertilized like egg cells.
On top of providing new insights into the mechanisms of egg cell development, the research may lead to a simple route for generating highly specialized substances unique to oocytes for use in reproductive biology and medicine.
Eight genes enough to convert mouse stem cells into oocyte-like cells phys.org - get the latest breaking news, showbiz & celebrity photos, sport news & rumours, viral videos and top stories from phys.org Daily Mail and Mail on Sunday newspapers.