AgResearch scientists in Hamilton have discovered a special type of bovine stem cell, which could dramatically accelerate genetic improvements in cattle.
A team led by Dr Bjorn Oback has produced what are called induced pluripotent stem cells, which can develop into any kind of tissue and so are useful for animal breeding.
He says they could be used to generate eggs and sperm and eventually generate animals.
Dr Oback says it could be another five years before the research is completed.
