Artificial Gametes: Oocytes

Improvements in human-assisted reproductive techniques (ART) have been hindered by our lack of knowledge of the mechanisms regulating human oocyte development from formation through to maturation. Whilst there is an increasing understanding of these processes in rodent models, there is a need for tractable human model systems. The capacity to follow human oocyte development entirely in vitro would provide insights into the basic science of oogenesis, folliculogenesis, and meiosis and would lead to the development and improvement of ART. The production of in vitro-derived gametes, whether from immature gametes (primordial follicles) or from stem cells, has been described as “artificial gametes.” Apart from providing important models for research, if they are shown to be safe, they would reduce the need for donor eggs and sperm as well as provide more fertility preservation options for a wider group of people. This chapter will cover the progress in producing so-called “artificial oocytes” from a range of cell types and consider the technology of growing oocytes in vitro from the most immature stages to maturity.