Same-sex couples may soon be able to have their own biological children after stem cell breakthrough

SAME-sex couples may never have to turn to adoption again thanks to a stem cell research breakthrough allowing them to have their own biological children.

SAME-SEX couples might soon be able to have their own biological children following a stem cell research breakthrough.

A team of researchers from Cambridge University claim to have reprogrammed skin cells from adults and converted them into embryonic-like stem cells.

When comparing the engineered stem cells to human cells from foetuses, it was found they were identical.

Investigator with the Weizmann Institute of Science in Israel Dr Jacob Hanna said while the first steps have been taken towards creating artificial sperm and eggs, it is still early days for this type of research.

“We have succeeded in the first and most important step of the process,” he told ABC News.

“It has already caused interest from gay groups because of the possibility of making egg and sperm cells from parents of the same sex.”

The researchers now face the challenge of creating fully developed artificial sperm and eggs.

Hanna said if researchers can successfully achieve the technique, it could help any individual with fertility problems.

“It is really important to emphasise that while this scenario might be technically possible and feasible, it is remote at this stage and many challenges need to be overcome,” he said.

“Further, there are very serious ethical and safety issues to be considered when and if such scenarios become considered in the distant future.”

The findings were published in the journal Cell.