Scientists at Weizmann Institute of Science created embryo-like structures from stem cells (SEMs) that closely mimic human embryo development, without using sperm, eggs, or a womb.
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Mimicking human development
The team utilized naive stem cells and chemicals to encourage growth, resulting in structures that mimic real human embryos.
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Two-week-old embryo
These models were allowed to develop until they reached a stage equivalent to a two-week-old embryo after fertilization, demonstrating the ability to progress to the next developmental stage.
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Ethical research advancements
These models offer an ethical way to study early human development and potentially uncover causes of birth defects and miscarriages.
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Regulatory framework required
As human embryo models become more advanced, experts stress the need for a robust regulatory framework.