E29: How can we grow models of embryos in the lab? [SJK Audio Edition]

Read this article at https://www.sciencejournalforkids.org/articles/how-can-we-grow-models-of-embryos-in-the-lab/ or watch at https://youtu.be/LZwOoGVGVFISummary: Scientists used stem cells to grow 3D models of blastocysts to be able to study the development of embryos. Abstract: Studying embryos is important to understanding how humans develop. It can also help us understand some pregnancy complications. But access to embryos is very limited. We wanted to find a way to study embryos without actually needing any! We used stem cells to grow models of blastocysts – young embryos. Our experiments showed that stem cells can form structures that look like blastocysts. We called these models blastoids. Blastoids grow and develop at a similar speed as blastocysts. They also have the same size and cell composition. They are not embryos and cannot develop into an organism. But blastoids are a useful way to study human development. About us: Science Journal for Kids is a non-profit organization that “translates” academic papers into easy-to-understand science articles for school students. Why? Because children have the right to know about the latest scientific discoveries. #science #article #teach #STEM #students #readaloud #embryos #stemcells #embryogenesis #development #blastocyst #blastoid This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit sciencejournalforkids.substack.com