Artificial Gametes

Reproductive cells created from the DNA of a Rul or the fictional genes of an Artificial Sapient.

Utility

Artificial gametes enable parents to conceive children when this is not possible by natural means. Examples include:

• one or both parents being sterile
• same-sex couples
• one parent being an Artificial Sapient, i.e. without a physical body

Manufacturing

DNA sequence calculation

The DNA of a prospective parent is analyzed and fed into a computer simulation which calculates possible mutations. If the parent in question is an Artificial Sapient, a preparation step maps their known traits to the appropriate genotype and inter- or extrapolates the remaining genes.

Realization

The artificial DNA sequences are filtered to rule out fatal genetic diseases. Suitable candidates are translated to the respective nucleotides and matching haploid cells are produced via molecular 3D printing. A nutrient solution and controlled electrical impulses activate the resulting gamete so that it can be combined with an appropriate counterpart. Said counterpart can be either natural or equally artificial.

Incubation

After the gametes in question have fused, the resulting zygote is preferably implanted in one of the parents' uterus. If no suitable uterus is available, it is left to grow in a nutrient solution until it can be encased in an artificial egg shell. Yolk and albumen are supplied accordingly.

Social Impact

While adoption is still a common practice, this technology effectively erased the remaining differences between traditional male-female couples and other family models. Same-sex parents with biological children are a common sight in modern Rilsu society. Children of Artificial Sapients are still rare, given that most software which qualifies as such shows no interest in sexual and/or romantic relationships. However, as technology progresses, more organic-artificial pairings are expected to emerge.
The cost of producing and incubating artificial gametes is usually covered by health insurance. The only prerequisites are that the parent in question is legally responsible for their actions and consents to the creation of such gametes.

Access & Availability

common

Complexity

laboratory for genetic analysis
computer simulations
molecular 3D printing