In Vitro–Derived Human Gametes as a Reproductive Technology : Scientific, Ethical, and Regulatory Implications: Proceedings of a Workshop

Current assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) do not enable all prospective parents to have genetically related children. The National Academies Board on Health Sciences Policy hosted a workshop in April 2023 to explore the development of in vitro-derived human eggs and sperm from pluripotent stem cells through a process known as in vitro gametogenesis (IVG). Speakers emphasized the impacts of the potential biotechnology on research and reproductive medicine should clinical IVG ever be approved, along with the many social, ethical, legal, and technical considerations its development raises. This proceedings document summarizes workshop discussions.

Current assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) do not enable all prospective parents to have genetically related children. The National Academies Board on Health Sciences Policy hosted a workshop in April 2023 to explore the development of in vitro-derived human eggs and sperm from pluripotent stem cells through a process known as in vitro gametogenesis (IVG). Speakers emphasized the impacts of the potential biotechnology on research and reproductive medicine should clinical IVG ever be approved, along with the many social, ethical, legal, and technical considerations its development raises. This proceedings document summarizes workshop discussions. Table of ContentsFront Matter1 Introduction2 State of the Science3 Potential Clinical Implications of IVG4 Social, Ethical, and Legal Considerations Raised by IVG5 Equity, Access, and Cost Considerations Associated with IVG6 Imagining a Potential Clinic Research Pathway for Human IVG in the United States7 Participatory Public Engagement Around Reproductive Science Advances8 Looking AheadAppendix A: ReferencesAppendix B: Workshop Task and AgendaAppendix C: Biographies of Speakers and Planning Committee Members