ABSTRACT
This chapter covers the progress in producing so-called "artificial oocytes" from a range of cell types and consider the technology of growing oocytes in vitro from the most immature stages to maturity. Hikabe et al. developed a multi-step system that supports in vitro differentiation, in vitro growth, and in vitro maturation to produce developmentally competent oocytes entirely in vitro. Stage two supports follicle/oocyte growth in vitro in media containing BMP15, GDF-9, and FSH to produce fully grown oocyte cumulus complexes that can be matured in stage three. Whilst this is not the production of "artificial gametes" the techniques to support in vitro oocyte growth are essential to support the development of a gamete being developed from any source. Complete growth in vitro from the most immature oocytes (primordial stages) with subsequent in vitro fertilization and production of live young has only been achieved in mice.
