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Just because we can do something does not mean that we should.

Father Tad discusses the concerning new research technology being developed to produce reproductive cells outside the body with John Harper, sitting in for Drew. In vitro gametogenesis (IVG) is the production of egg or sperm cells from embryonic stem cells, or from induced pluripotent stem cells. In the latter case, the cells are derived from non-reproductive adult cells, e.g. skin or blood cells, which have been reprogrammed into stem cells in the lab. The generated gametes, egg or sperm cells, are then used to conceive in vitro embryos to be transferred to a living or artificial uterus for gestation. This technology has been successful in mouse models and multiple research groups are working to advance IVG in humans. In addition to the ethical problems related to in vitro fertilization (IVF), which is an integral part of the IVG process, this new “first-step” technology raises additional concerns, including that it is being touted as a mechanism for same-sex couples to have their own biological children. Father Tad points out how our gametes uniquely identify us, and discusses the impropriety of deploying this technology in light of other "slippery slope" aspects of IVG.

 The interview begins at 22:47 and can be found here.