There is variability in when and how cells divide during the development of embryos. While researchers traditionally believed this variability was an obstacle that needed to be regulated, the Hiiragi ...

Life begins with a single fertilized cell that gradually transforms into a multicellular organism. This process requires precise coordination; otherwise, the embryo could develop serious complications ...

The first embryonic division represents a starting point for the development of a new individual. In many species, tight control over the first embryonic division ensures its accuracy. However, the ...

During development, a group of cells called organizers plays critical roles by sending signals to adjacent cells and controlling embryonic and tissue patterning. Recent studies suggest that these ...

A zebrafish embryo during the first cell division cycle, with the structural protein actin labelled, which marks the cell boundary and ingressing furrow. The image shows a time course from dark orange ...

Scientists are exploring ways to mimic the origins of human life without two fundamental components: sperm and egg. They are coaxing clusters of stem cells – programmable cells that can transform into ...

University of Cambridge scientists have used human stem cells to create three-dimensional embryo-like structures that replicate certain aspects of very early human development—including the production ...