In-Vitro Gametogenesis (IVG)
In-Vitro Gametogenesis (IVG) is an innovative reproductive technology that allows for the creation of eggs and sperm from stem cells collected from sources like skin, hair, or blood. This method opens up possibilities for lab-grown embryos, which can be implanted into a surrogate.
Potential Benefits of IVG
- Infertile Couples: IVG offers a solution for couples struggling with infertility, as traditional methods like IVF may not be feasible.
- Older Women: Helps in overcoming the decline in egg quality and quantity due to age.
- Same-Sex Partners: Enables them to have biological children.
- Genetic Editing: Possibility to edit out harmful genetic traits, revolutionizing reproductive medicine.
Why "Designer" Babies are Possible
Experiments at Kyushu University in Japan have successfully resulted in mice births using stem cells. Future human experiments are anticipated, potentially within three years, as predicted by the UK's Human Fertilisation and Embryo Authority.
IVG in the Indian Context
- Dr. Kshitiz Murdia emphasizes the importance of IVG for India, where the reproductive age of women is older compared to the West, and sperm counts in men have been declining.
- With India's population below the replacement level, advanced reproductive technologies are vital.
IVG versus IVF
- Success Rate: IVF has a success rate of about 60%. IVG could potentially offer higher success due to better quality gametes.
- Reproductive Autonomy: Couples can have children without donor gametes, maintaining genetic lineage.
Ethical Complexities
Ethical concerns include the potential for "designer" babies and the commodification of human life. There is also the risk of overuse of technology by older parents and the possibility of genetic manipulation for traits beyond medical necessity.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects
- The Assisted Reproduction Technology (Regulation) Act 2021 in India has not accounted for IVG, but there is no ban on research.
- Current legislation applies to married heterosexual couples, and changes would be needed to include same-sex couples.
Cost and Market Potential
- Initial costs of IVG will be high, but are expected to decrease with scaling and volume.
- The potential market is vast, considering the large number of infertile couples in India.