In quest to fend off looming extinction, researchers create rhino embryo in a lab

Unless humans intervene, the northern white rhinos will soon vanish. 

Fortunately for this dwindling subspecies, a group of scientists performing research at a renowned animal reproduction lab in Italy are attempting to stave off the subspecies’ extinction. As there are no males left to mate with the two remaining females, an embryo must be created in a laboratory.

The scientists had the foresight to acquire 300 milliliters of northern white rhino sperm from three males before they died, and they recently used the valuable sperm to create the first-ever rhino embryo in a lab. Their research was published Wednesday in the journal Nature Communications.  Read more…

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