An Israeli team, led by Professor Jacob Hanna of the Weizmann Institute, managed to create complete models of human embryos and grow them for up to 14 days without the involvement of sperm, eggs, or a uterus. The researchers described their work, which could open the door to new avenues of research into infertility and congenital diseases, in the journal Nature on September 6, 2023.
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Models of human embryos created with stem cells
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To create these “look-alike” human embryos, the researchers used pluripotent stem cells. Pluripotent stem cells are capable of transforming into different types of cells in the body. In this experiment, some were selected to be the embryo itself, while others had specific genes activated to become one of the three types of tissue needed for embryonic development: the placenta, the yolk sac, and the extra-embryonic membrane of the mesoderm (which creates the chorionic sac).
Around 1% of the stem cells, gathered in groups, organized themselves, and developed into synthetic “embryo models”. They had all the characteristics of a human embryo, including a placenta. Their growth was stopped after 14 days, which is the legal limit for embryo research in many countries.
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Stem cell embryo: a breakthrough for research
For the researchers, this discovery will allow them to study the little-known early stages of embryonic development. “This first month (of embryonic development) is still largely a black box. Our stem cell-derived human embryo model offers an ethical and affordable way to study this box. It faithfully mimics the development of a real human embryo, especially the emergence of its exquisitely fine architecture,” explains Professor Jacob Hanna in a press release.
Synthetic embryo models can also contribute to a better understanding of the causes of infertility, congenital malformations, and the effects of certain drugs. In fact, they have already made a first breakthrough. In their work, the researchers discovered that if the embryo is not adequately surrounded by the cells that form the placenta, other parts of the embryo cannot form. This could explain some cases of early miscarriage.
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If these synthetic embryos can help science, can they become human? For Dr. Peter Rugg-Gunn, a specialist in embryonic development at the Babraham Institute, who was invited by the Guardian to comment on this study, the answer is no. “This model of embryo would not be able to develop if it were transferred to a uterus, because it skips the step necessary to attach itself to the uterine wall,” he explained to the British newspaper. However, he acknowledged that experiments of this kind “raise important ethical considerations” and that it is necessary for scientists to reflect on this area of research before going further.
Final thoughts
The Weizmann Institute’s research could redefine family planning and conception. As we explore embryonic advancements, traditional family notions are set for a shift. Balancing scientific marvels with ethical considerations will be key. The future of family life may intertwine both old and new scientific insights.
References
Oldak, B., Wildschutz, E., Bondarenko, V. et al. Complete human day 14 post-implantation embryo models from naïve ES cells. Nature (2023). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41586-023-06604-5
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