First Synthetic Human Embryo Successfully Developed by Researchers

The conventional method of creating a human embryo involves the union of an egg and sperm. However, scientists have achieved a breakthrough by developing human embryos without the need for either. These “synthetic embryos” or “embryo models” are created using reprogrammed embryonic stem cells. Remarkably, they exhibit characteristics of true embryos, including the presence of cells that would normally develop into the placenta, yolk sac, and the embryo itself, as reported by the Guardian. Dr. Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz, a biology professor at CalTech and Cambridge University, explains the significance of their human model, stating that it is the first three-lineage human embryo model that specifies amnion and germ cells, which are precursor cells of egg and sperm.

However, it remains unclear whether these structures have the potential to mature beyond the initial stages of development, according to the Guardian. Zernicka-Goetz previously created synthetic mouse embryos that displayed signs of brain development and a beating heart. However, when these embryos were implanted into female mice, they failed to develop further. Similarly, synthetic embryos failed to progress in monkeys. Presenting her research at the annual meeting of the International Society for Stem Cell Research in Boston, Zernicka-Goetz disclosed that the human embryo models were cultivated only up until the development stage that a natural embryo would reach in 14 days.

The BBC highlights that most countries restrict human-embryo research after 14 days due to ethical concerns. However, synthetic human embryos fall outside the scope of current legislation, leading to calls for policy changes. It is important to note that there are currently no suggestions for growing these embryos into babies, as it would be illegal to do so. Nonetheless, researchers hope that these embryo models can contribute to a better understanding of genetic diseases and early pregnancy loss. Zernicka-Goetz emphasizes their potential in investigating the reasons behind miscarriages, as a large proportion of miscarriages occur during the stages of development represented by these embryo-like structures, as mentioned in CNN. (Read more embryo stories.)