Our systematic review of the literature indicated that in animals live births have already been achieved using artificial gametes of varying (cell type) sources. Although experimental biological research is progressing steadily towards future clinical application, data on functionality, safety and efficiency of (human) artificial gametes are still preliminary. Although defining artificial gametes by start- and end-points limited the number of included studies, the search resulted in a clear overview of the subject. Clinical use of artificial gametes would expand the treatment possibilities of MAR and would have implications for society. Before potential clinical use, the societal and ethical implications of artificial gametes should be reflected on.

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