Scientists have successfully captured real-time 3D footage of a human embryo implanting into a synthetic uterus. This significant achievement shows the detailed process of embryo implantation, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining about six to 12 days post-ovulation. Researchers developed a platform enabling controlled conditions for implantation, combining collagen and uterine tissue. Findings reveal that human embryos not only stick to but completely absorb into the uterine tissue, contrasting with mouse embryos that only adhere to the surface. Observations include the forces exerted during this invasive process, which may correlate with common implantation experiences such as pain and bleeding.
We have observed that human embryos burrow into the uterus, exerting considerable force during the process. These forces are necessary because the embryos must be able to invade the uterine tissue, becoming completely integrated with it.
Although it is known that many women experience abdominal pain and slight bleeding during implantation, the process itself had never been observed before.
A platform that allows embryos to implant outside the uterus under controlled conditions was developed by the researchers. This platform, based on a gel made partly by collagen and uterine tissue, then enabled real-time fluorescence imaging and analysis.
Researchers carried out experiments with human and mouse embryos to compare the two implantation processes, discovering that while a mouse embryo sticks to its surface, a human embryo penetrates the uterine tissue completely.
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