Let’s Grow Babies

Scientists at the Weizmann Institute have successfully developed a human embryo model, accomplished without the need for sperm, eggs, or a womb. This “embryo model,” created using stem cells, mimics a genuine 14-day-old embryo. These artificial embryos aim to offer an ethical means of comprehending the initial stages of human life. The first few weeks following fertilization by sperm are marked by profound transformations, evolving from a few cells into a baby. This critical period is a significant contributor to miscarriages and birth defects yet remains poorly understood.
Obviously, this new scientific milestone does not aim to” create” babies. The goal is to better understand how different types of cells emerge, which could boost the research focusing on growing organs in laboratories and genetic diseases. The possibility of using this method to improve IVF success rate is also being discussed. However, the own success rate of the model would need to be drastically improved to seriously consider this project.
Remain the ethical and legal dimensions of this achievement. Legally, embryo models and human embryos are two distinct entities. But it’s not that simple when it comes to our ethics, especially as the models are getting closer to the original. As of now, the artificial embryos have a lifespan of 14 days. But how far can we extend that phase in the name of science?

Source: https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-66715669