Australian scientists have successfully produced the world’s first kangaroo embryos through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), in a breakthrough that could help save other marsupial species from extinction.
A University of Queensland team assessed the development of kangaroo eggs and sperm in a laboratory.
They then used a technique called intracytoplasmic sperm injection to inject a single sperm directly into a mature egg.
Lead researcher Dr Andres Gambini said: “Because eastern grey kangaroos are overabundant, we collected their eggs and sperm for use as a model to adapt the embryo technologies already applied to domestic animals and humans.
“We are now refining techniques to collect, culture and preserve marsupial eggs and sperm.
“By developing preservation methods, we aim to safeguard the genetic material of these unique and precious animals for future use to ensure their conservation.”
The creation of an IVF embryo is the culmination of years of research, but achieving a live birth using the method will take time, Dr Gambini said.
He added: “While it’s difficult to provide an exact timeline, with sustained collaboration, funding and continued technical advancements, we are hopeful the birth of a marsupial through IVF could become a reality within a decade.
“Australia is home to the greatest diversity of marsupial fauna on the planet but it also has the highest mammal extinction rate.
“Our ultimate goal is to support the preservation of endangered marsupial species like koalas, Tasmanian devils, northern hairy-nosed wombats and Leadbeater’s possums.”
Koalas were listed as an endangered species by the Australian government in February 2022 after a dramatic decline in their numbers.
The much-loved species has been severely impacted by threats including land clearing, bushfires, drought and disease.
A report on the research was published in the journal Reproduction, Fertility and Development.
