Chinese scientists have successfully engineered mice with two male parents using genetic manipulation, raising ethical and scientific concerns. The experiment, which involved altering embryonic stem cells, resulted in significant developmental abnormalities, with most mice dying before reaching adulthood.
According to a Reuters report, researchers at the Chinese Academy of Sciences and Sun Yat-sen University modified 20 imprinted genes—mammal-specific genes that control early development. They then used cloning technology to produce bipaternal mice, challenging the long-held belief that unisexual reproduction in mammals is biologically impossible.
Out of 1,081 embryos created in the study, only 12 percent survived to birth, with 84 male and 50 female mice born. More than half died before reaching full maturity. Those that did survive exhibited severe deformities, had difficulty suckling, and suffered from a shortened lifespan. The researchers also confirmed that all the bipaternal mice were sterile.
Developmental biologist Wei Li, who helped lead the study, stated that the research was limited to animals and that there are “no plans” to attempt similar experiments on humans. However, the study highlights the growing capabilities of genetic engineering, which some fear could lead to controversial applications in human reproduction.
The study has sparked ethical concerns, particularly regarding the risks and potential misuse of genetic modification technologies. Many critics argue that these experiments could open the door to further manipulation of human embryos, challenging fundamental moral and ethical boundaries.
Despite the scientific breakthrough, the study underscores the significant challenges and dangers associated with artificial reproduction. With a high failure rate and severe abnormalities in the test subjects, the research raises more questions than answers about the future of genetic engineering in mammals.
