Press conference held for the research findings on new methods of marmoset eggs and embryo production

A significant milestone has been achieved through the successful production of marmoset eggs and embryos from xenotransplanted ovary tissues. This achievement was recently shared with the world in Scientific Reports. An online press conference was held on November 21, 2023, where a panel of researchers participated. Among them were Runa Hirayama (a graduate student, Dept of Animal Model Development at the time, currently studying at the University of Toyama), Dr Hiroaki Taketsuru (Specially Appointed Assistant Professor, Dept of Comparative & Experimental Medicine), Dr Kenji Sakimura (Professor Emeritus of Niigata University), Dr Toshikuni Sasaoka (Professor, Dept of Comparative & Experimental Medicine), and Professor Keizo Takao from the University of Toyama.

This approach has the potential to contribute to advancements in genetic modification research and disease modeling through the use of primate models, promoting biotechnology with non-human primates and the 3Rs principle* in animal experimentation.

*The principles of the 3Rs (Replacement, Reduction and Refinement) were developed over 50 years ago as a framework for conducting more humane animal research: Replacing animal experiments with alternative methods when possible, reducing the number of animals used, and refining methods and procedures to minimize pain and discomfort.

▶ Details of the research

• Dept of Animal Model Development
• Dept of Comparative & Experimental Medicine