Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 19, 2026
07:02
Minimally Invasive Embryo Transfer and Embryo Vitrification at the Optimal Embryo Stage in Rabbit Model
Published on: May 16, 2019
[Evolution of assisted reproductive technologies].
1Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hôpital Cochin, Université Paris Descartes.
Bulletin De L'Academie Nationale De Medecine
|November 4, 2009
Summary
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have evolved significantly, from artificial insemination to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and genetic screening. These advancements offer new pathways for parenthood and address infertility challenges.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Genetics
- Medical Technology
Context:
- Human reproduction historically relied on natural conception.
- Medical interventions began in the 18th century with artificial insemination.
- Technological advancements in the 20th and 21st centuries revolutionized reproductive possibilities.
Purpose:
- To explore the historical evolution and technological advancements in assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
- To examine the impact of ART on overcoming infertility and redefining parenthood.
- To discuss the societal implications and ethical considerations of modern reproductive medicine.
Summary:
- ART encompasses techniques like artificial insemination, donor sperm, gamete freezing, in vitro fertilization (IVF), and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI).
- Recent advancements include preimplantation genetic screening to prevent the birth of children with genetic disorders.
- ART now extends options to single individuals and same-sex couples, challenging traditional notions of family.
Impact:
- ART provides alternatives for individuals and couples facing infertility.
- These technologies enable the prevention of certain genetic and chromosomal abnormalities.
- ART is reshaping societal views on reproduction, parenthood, and family structures, presenting new ethical and legal discussions.
Related Concept Videos
01:24In Vitro Fertilization
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a form of assisted reproductive technology where an egg is fertilized with sperm in a controlled laboratory environment before transferring the resulting embryo into the uterus. This process is designed to help individuals and couples experiencing difficulties conceiving.
The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, during which reproductive endocrinologists prescribe hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single...
The IVF process begins with ovarian stimulation, during which reproductive endocrinologists prescribe hormonal medications to stimulate the ovaries to produce multiple eggs instead of the single...
01:27Reproductive Cloning
Reproductive cloning is the process of producing a genetically identical copy—a clone—of an entire organism. While clones can be produced by splitting an early embryo—similar to what happens naturally with identical twins—cloning of adult animals is usually done by a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
In SCNT, an egg cell is taken from an animal and its nucleus is removed, creating an enucleated egg. Then a somatic cell—any cell that is not a sex...
Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
In SCNT, an egg cell is taken from an animal and its nucleus is removed, creating an enucleated egg. Then a somatic cell—any cell that is not a sex...
01:27Reproductive Cloning
Reproductive cloning is the process of producing a genetically identical copy—a clone—of an entire organism. While clones can be produced by splitting an early embryo—similar to what happens naturally with identical twins—cloning of adult animals is usually done by a process called somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT).
Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
In SCNT, an egg cell is taken from an animal and its nucleus is removed, creating an enucleated egg. Then a somatic cell—any cell that is not a sex...
Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer
In SCNT, an egg cell is taken from an animal and its nucleus is removed, creating an enucleated egg. Then a somatic cell—any cell that is not a sex...
01:08Cloning of Dolly the Sheep
The first successfully cloned mammal was Dolly, a sheep, born on 5th July 1996 at Roslin Institute, Scotland. The cloned sheep was named after the American singer Dolly Parton. Dolly lived for seven years and died of respiratory complications, which is speculated to be due to the actual age of her DNA. Because the DNA in cloned cells belongs to an older individual, the cloned individual’s life expectancy may be affected. Indeed, analysis of Dolly’s DNA revealed shorter telomeres than other...
01:38Fertilization
During fertilization, an egg and sperm cell fuse to create a new diploid structure. In humans, the process occurs once the egg has been released from the ovary, and travels into the fallopian tubes. The process requires several key steps: 1) sperm present in the genital tract must locate the egg; 2) once there, sperm need to release enzymes to help them burrow through the protective zona pellucida of the egg; and 3) the membranes of a single sperm cell and egg must fuse, with the sperm...
01:59CRISPR
Genome editing technologies allow scientists to modify an organism’s DNA via the addition, removal, or rearrangement of genetic material at specific genomic locations. These types of techniques could potentially be used to cure genetic disorders such as hemophilia and sickle cell anemia. One popular and widely used DNA-editing research tool that could lead to safe and effective cures for genetic disorders is the CRISPR-Cas9 system. CRISPR-Cas9 stands for Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short...