Inventor: Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe

In vitro fertilization (IVF) was introduced, which led to cloning of human embryos.  This procedure is done by extracting a sperm cell and an egg cell and allowing them to combine in a laboratory dish.  The nature of this procedure is what led to the term “test tube baby”.  Once the cells mature into an embryo, it is then placed back in the uterus for implantation.
The first successful in vitro fertilization procedure was performed in England by Robert Edwards and Patrick Steptoe. The procedure produced a child, whose name is Louise Brown.  This procedure has helped many people deal with infertility and has led to further research in the field of human embryology.

*Pictures from Microsoft Electronic Encarta Encyclopedia Standard Edition 2002

Sources:
West, Michael D. The Immortal cell : one scientist's quest to solve the mystery of human aging. New York: Doubleday, 2003 (primary)

“Invitro Fertilization (IVF)”. Microsoft Electronic Encarta Encyclopedia Standard Edition 2002.

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