Caltech researchers have developed a powerful new method for creating embryo-like structures from stem cells that could transform how we study fertility.
Using stem cells rather than a traditional fertilized egg, the team has built mouse embryo models called iG4-blastoids that closely mimic natural blastocysts, the stage of development when an embryo implants into the uterus. This implantation stage is when the majority of pregnancies fail, including those resulting from in vitro fertilization, and little is known about why. The new models will enable researchers to study the effects of environmental factors, such as exposure to caffeine, nicotine, alcohol, and diet.
The research was led by the laboratory of Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz, Bren Professor of Biology and Biological Engineering at Caltech and affiliated faculty member with the Tianqiao and Chrissy Chen Institute for Neuroscience at Caltech, and is described in a paper appearing in the journal Developmental Cell.