Conserve animals by producing frozen stem cells

Scientists hope to create a 'frozen stem cell' zoo.

The first two species tested were: baboons and northern white rhinos. Both species are extremely high risk of extinction.

To create stem cells, researchers use genes similar to human stem cells, which transplant genes into animal skin cells. They tried to use genes from themselves and their relatives , but after more than a year of trying they had little success.

'The new technique is not very efficient, converting only a few cells into stem cells at the same time, but that is enough,' " the researchers said.

Stem cells are highly valued, because they can turn into any type of cell in the body. Cells can even be turned into sperm or egg cells, and are used in assisted reproduction of individual species.

The researchers chose the two species because they could benefit from stem cells.

The baboons are diabetic when taken in the zoo. Stem-derived stem cells that can be studied in humans can be used in primates. They are also at high risk of extinction, stem cells can support it reproduction.

White rhinoceros is the most endangered species on the planet. Currently, seven children are kept in captivity, including two at Safari Park in San Diego. They have not spawned for many years, the population is too small, affecting biodiversity.

If researchers could use stem cells to make sperm and eggs from dead animal skin cells in frozen zoos, they could help genetic diversity and increase populations of animated species. object.