Project De-Extinction: A New Frontier in Reproductive Medicine and Fertility Preservation

A bi-monthly column offering an informed insight into the latest cutting-edge advancements in gynecology and women’s health by experts in women’s reproductive health.

The concept of de-extinction has captured the public imagination in recent years, with ambitious projects aiming to revive species like the woolly mammoth through advanced genetic technologies. The woolly mouse, a laboratory hybrid model with unique hair follicle characteristics, has also contributed to our understanding of developmental biology and genetic engineering techniques. These resurrection projects, while focused on wildlife conservation, have parallels in the field of reproductive medicine where scientists are working to “resurrect” lost fertility and preserve reproductive potential for women facing medical challenges.

Dr. Nahla Kazim
Consultant Reproductive and
Medicine and Infertility
Founder, CEO of Kazim’s Fertility Barza

Just as researchers use CRISPR technology to edit elephant DNA with mammoth genes, reproductive specialists are exploring how gene editing can address infertility, genetic diseases, and fertility preservation in women. The same precision that might someday bring back the woolly mammoth could potentially repair or permanently eliminate genetic mutations that cause conditions like premature ovarian failure or hereditary reproductive cancers.

Gene editing, for women’s reproductive health

This intersection of de-extinction science and women’s health represents a fascinating frontier where technologies developed for one purpose may transform another field entirely. As we explore these scientific frontiers, we must consider how innovations intended for conservation might ultimately enhance human reproductive possibilities and address previously incurable conditions affecting women’s health.

Traditional gene-editing methods, such as Zinc Finger Nucleases (ZFNs) and TALENs, required scientists to engineer custom proteins for each DNA target—a slow, expensive process. CRISPR-Cas9 revolutionized this field by acting as molecular “scissors” guided by RNA to precise genomic locations. This system is faster, cheaper, and more accurate, enabling edits in days rather than months.

Applications in  Reproductive Medicine

Embryo Editing: CRISPR allows researchers to correct disease-causing mutations in embryos before implantation including the structural and the numerical chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s Syndrome

Germline Cells: Editing sperm, eggs, or their precursor cells could eliminate hereditary disorders like cystic fibrosis or sickle cell anemia from future generations.

Fertility Preservation: Inspired by biodiversity restoration efforts, CRISPR could theoretically recreate functional gametes from somatic cells, offering hope to individuals with no viable eggs or sperm. CRISPR also is being tested to repair genetic defects in eggs or ovarian tissue, offering hope for women with premature ovarian failure or age-related infertility.

Endometriosis and PCOS: Gene editing could target hormonal pathways, offering new therapeutic options for these common reproductive disorders.

Risks and Dilemmas

Off-Target Effects: CRISPR can inadvertently edit unintended parts of the genome, causing off-target mutations that may lead to chromosomal rearrangements or impact other genes. These errors can compromise the safety and viability of edited embryos or gametes. These can lead to unforeseen health issues in individuals and their offspring, making safety a paramount concern before clinical application.

Incomplete Genome Reconstruction: CRISPR cannot create exact replicas of extinct species or traits; instead, it produces hybrids with partial restoration of genetic features, raising questions about the reliability and functionality of the edited genomes.

Intergenerational Impact: Germline genome editing alters DNA in a way that can be passed to future generations. While this could eliminate hereditary diseases, it also risks transmitting harmful edits or creating irreversible changes in the human gene pool, raising concerns about long-term consequences and risks of developmental abnormalities.

Ethical Boundaries of Treatment vs. Enhancement: Genome editing for therapeutic purposes (e.g., curing infertility or genetic disorders) may be considered ethically acceptable than for the intentions of enhancement (e.g., selecting traits like intelligence, appearance or making Designer Babies). The potential misuse for non-medical indications could lead to societal inequality and a resurgence of eugenics, highlighting the need for robust biosecurity measures.

Societal and Cultural Implications: Genome editing challenges societal norms about “naturalness” and raises concerns about “playing God.” Public awareness is essential to build consensus on acceptable uses of advanced health innovations, empowering them with balanced knowledge while maintaining diverse cultural values.

Regulatory Landscape: The lack of uniform international regulations on genome editing creates risks of unethical practices in jurisdictions with lenient oversight. Globally, 70 countries ban heritable genome editing (changes passed to offspring), while 11 permit limited research. In the UAE, the regulatory environment is evolving to support innovative therapies while prioritizing safety and ethics. Initiatives under government-backed programs aim to integrate cutting-edge technologies into healthcare frameworks responsibly.  Since January 2025, mandatory premarital genetic testing screens Emirati couples for 840 genetic conditions, empowering informed family building options. The UAE’s National Genome Strategy aims to build a genetic database to guide personalized treatments and preventive care. Department of Health regulates CRISPR-based therapies like CASGEVY under its robust gene-editing framework, aligning with global safety standards while advancing treatments for blood disorders and other innovative therapies.

Balancing Hope & Responsibility

CRISPR’s potential in reproductive medicine is vast, from eradicating inherited disorders to extending fertility windows or restoring lost fertility. Yet, as de-extinction projects remind us, tampering with genetics demands humility and robust measures to combat unintended consequences. For the UAE and the world, the path forward lies in rigorous oversight, public dialogue, and prioritizing safety over speed.

As the woolly mice and mammoth ambitions continue to unfold, let’s ensure these projects empower—not endanger future generations.