Israeli scientists create complete human-like embryo models from stem cells

The team headed by Prof. Jacob Hanna managed to grow the models outside the womb up to day 14, after culturing in the lab. Cellular aggregates derived from human stem cells in previous studies could not be considered genuinely accurate human embryo models, because they lacked nearly all the defining hallmarks of a post-implantation embryo.

Reported in the journal Nature, the new synthetic embryo models had all the structures and compartments characteristic of this stage, including the placenta, yolk sac, chorionic sac and other external tissues that ensure the models' dynamic and adequate growth.

Every compartment and supporting structure was not only there, but in the right place, size and shape. Even the cells that make the hormone used in pregnancy testing were there and active: When the scientists applied secretions from these cells to a commercial pregnancy test, it came out positive.

The Shillong Times, a leading news organisation in Meghalaya, brings to you news and information from across the state, the Northeast region and the country.

Like, Share and Subscribe to TST channel for latest news and updates.

We are also on: