Groundbreaking: In Vitro Fertilization in White Rhinoceros
Scientists Make Breakthrough in Rhino Conservation with First In Vitro Fertilization Pregnancy
In a groundbreaking achievement, scientists have successfully achieved the world’s first “in vitro fertilization” rhino pregnancy by transferring a rhino embryo created in a laboratory to a surrogate mother. This procedure marks a significant stride in the efforts to save the critically endangered northern white rhino species.
The successful procedure was performed using southern white rhinos, a subspecies of northern white rhinos. With this milestone achieved, the next step in the study is to repeat the process with northern white rhino embryos.
The urgency of this research is underscored by the alarming fact that only two northern white rhinos remain in the wild – both female. Najin and her daughter Fatu live under tight security at the Ol Pejeta Conservancy in Kenya, and their species is on the brink of extinction due to illegal hunting and demand for rhino horn.
The species’ inability to reproduce naturally means it is technically considered extinct. However, scientists are now turning to fertility studies to bring the northern white rhinos back from the brink.
The project has faced numerous challenges and took years to develop. From researching how to collect eggs from the massive rhinos to creating the first rhino embryos in the laboratory, the process has been complex and demanding. Despite facing 13 attempts, the team has remained undeterred in their efforts to achieve the first in vitro fertilization pregnancy using southern white rhinos.
While the success of the in vitro fertilization procedure was marred by the tragic death of the surrogate mother, it showcased the viability of the technique and the potential for a successful pregnancy through in vitro fertilization. Now, the focus shifts to utilizing northern white rhino embryos, with only 30 of these precious embryos stored in liquid nitrogen in Germany and Italy.
The birth of a northern white rhino will require the use of a southern white rhino as a surrogate mother – another scientific first. The team is confident that this approach will work, representing a ray of hope for the survival of the northern white rhino species.
This groundbreaking achievement in rhino conservation holds promise for not only the northern white rhinos but also for the larger effort to save endangered species through cutting-edge scientific advancements.
