The cells, known as induced pluripotent stem cells, are ideal because they are able to become any cell in the body - including reproductive cells or gametes.

The researchers, from the Monash Institute of Medical Research, Queensland and Monash Universities, achieved the milestone by taking ear tissue samples from a snow leopard at Mogo Zoo.

The adult ear cells were then manipulated to behave like embryonic stem cells which have the potential to become gametes and ultimately, scientists hope, ‘‘test tube cubs’’.

Rajneesh Verma from the Monash Institute of Medical Research said the results opened the door for high-tech conservation methods — not just for the snow leopard but for other endangered and threatened cat species.

‘‘At the moment it’s only IVF and captive breeding that is available to save the species,’’ Mr Verma said.

‘‘We are saying we don’t need an egg or a sperm to get an embryo.’’