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The use of cell lines derived from elective abortions in the development and production of COVID vaccines was opposed by the Catholic church who encouraged pharmaceutical companies and governmental health agencies to produce and distribute ethical vaccines that do not create problems of conscience for healthcare providers or those requiring vaccination. In response to the church's call for ethical alternatives in research and development of COVID vaccines, we present an approach for the measurement of Anti–SARS-CoV-2 Ig antibodies in blood plasma (COVID-19 Antibody test) that does not utilize any products produced in aborted fetal cell lines. The SARS-CoV-2 RBD protein used in this test was produced in Chinese Hamster Ovary (CHO) cells and test performance for determination of SARS-CoV-2 seroconversion was equivalent to a commercially available COVID-19 antibody test that utilized RBD protein and other reagents produced in embryonic cell lines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a recent court ruling in Alabama that allows parents to sue fertility clinics for wrongful death if their IVF embryos are negligently destroyed. The ruling raises questions about the moral and legal status of embryos created through IVF. The article explores the contradictions and complexities surrounding the personhood of IVF embryos and the implications for the fertility industry. It also highlights a previous case in Virginia where a judge struggled to determine whether frozen embryos should be considered property or persons. The article emphasizes the need to address these issues and the challenges they pose to our moral commitments. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on spatial omics, highlighting its role in understanding human development, particularly in the embryo, discussing its application in revealing spatially resolved gene expression and creating atlases of cellular populations during development. It explores the challenges and potential of spatial transcriptomics, emphasizing its relevance in studying embryonic dynamics and comparing models of development.

The article discusses the recent ruling by the Alabama Supreme Court on frozen embryos and the resulting disagreements among Republicans regarding in vitro fertilization (IVF). The ruling declared that frozen embryos are considered "extrauterine children" under state law, leading to a national debate and political tension. While some prominent GOP leaders expressed support for IVF, many pro-life advocates argued that the legislation granting blanket immunity to IVF clinics ignores ethical problems in the fertility industry. The article also mentions the differing views on IVF within the conservative movement and the need for regulations to promote humane treatment of early-stage embryos. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study has found that a single-celled creature called Chromosphaera perkinsii, which is found in shallow sea sediments around Hawaii, develops into multicellular structures that closely resemble animal embryos. This discovery could provide insights into the evolution of embryonic development. The researchers also found that the way in which the cells divide and the structures the colonies adopt are remarkably similar to animal embryos in the earliest stages of development. These findings challenge previous notions of multicellularity and highlight the diversity and versatility of this process. [Extracted from the article]

Wakayama and his colleagues performed the first steps of the experiment in their lab on Earth, extracting embryos that were at an early two-cell stage from pregnant mice and freezing them. MOUSE embryos have been cultured on the International Space Station (ISS) for the first time, in an effort to explore whether it might be safe for humans to become pregnant in space. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have discovered that the outermost extraembryonic region in chick embryos, known as the area opaca (AO), can induce a ring of epiblast called the marginal zone (MZ). The MZ does not contribute cells to the embryo but is involved in determining the position of primitive streak formation. The researchers found that Wnt8c is highly expressed in the AO, and canonical Wnt signaling is essential for the induction and maintenance of the MZ. This research suggests that canonical Wnt signaling is responsible for the induction of the marginal zone by the area opaca in chick embryos. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the process of epiblast (EPI) fate specification in preimplantation embryos. The study examines the relationship between NANOG-GATA6 and TEAD-YAP, two factors involved in EPI formation. The researchers found that a positive feedback loop exists between NANOG and TEAD-YAP, and that TEAD-YAP is required for pluripotency factor expression. The results suggest that EPI fate specification alters the transcriptional network and activates TEAD-YAP to stabilize the EPI fate. However, it should be noted that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

The article announces that the Alabama Center for Reproductive Medicine (ACRM) is the first fertility clinic in Alabama to adopt TMRW Life Sciences' CryoRobot Select. Topics include ACRM's commitment to high standards of care and patient safety, the benefits of the CryoRobot Select technology for accurate and secure storage, and the enhanced security features, including digital tracking and iris scans, that reduce the risk of errors and unauthorized access.

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have found that the growth of the kelp Saccharina's embryo is dependent on actin filaments that control the formation of an alginate corset in the cell wall. The researchers discovered that the anisotropy in cell shape during embryogenesis is accompanied by a spatio-temporal pattern of accumulation of alginates in the cell wall. They also found that the presence of cortical actin filaments affects the pattern of alginate composition in the walls of the embryo. This research provides insights into the growth and development of Saccharina embryos. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Zhejiang University School of Medicine explored the safety of embryo cryopreservation, a technique used in assisted reproductive technologies. The study used mouse models to investigate the potential risks and mechanisms associated with embryo cryopreservation. The results showed that while there were some negative effects on embryonic development and gene alterations in the placenta, the impact of embryo cryopreservation was less pronounced compared to other in vitro manipulations. The study highlights the need for further research and caution when considering embryo cryopreservation. [Extracted from the article]

Scientists at University College London (UCL) have developed a new method to study spinal cord malformations in embryos. By creating mechanical force sensors directly in the developing brains and spinal cords of chicken embryos, the researchers hope to improve understanding and prevention of birth defects like spina bifida. The study, published in Nature Materials, used innovative biotechnologies to measure the mechanical forces exerted by the embryo during its development. The researchers 3D printed tiny force sensors inside the developing nervous system of chicken embryos, allowing them to measure the minute forces involved in spinal cord formation. This research could lead to the development of new preventative and therapeutic strategies for central nervous system malformations. [Extracted from the article]

The article focuses on a New York Times report discussing a scientific conference on cricket embryos, highlighting the scientists' fascination with the development process and its potential implications for understanding human embryos. Topics include the complexity of cricket embryology, the scientists' focused study, and the moral contrast between the interest in cricket embryos and the liberal media's stance on human embryos in the context of abortion.

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the role of the RNA-binding protein Trim71 in embryonic development. The study found that Trim71-KO embryos in mice displayed severe defects in primitive erythropoiesis, yolk sac vasculature, and heart function during organogenesis. This led to impaired vascular translocation of yolk sac-derived macrophage progenitors to the embryo head. The study also identified the transcription factor Eomes as a direct target of Trim71-mediated mRNA repression, suggesting a functional link between Trim71 and mesodermal development. However, it should be noted that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the concept of cryptic female choice in reproductive selection and its potential effects on offspring development. The study focuses on hybridizing salmonid fishes and examines how female alteration of sperm experience through the use of ovarian fluid may influence offspring development. The researchers found that while sperm experience did create minor changes in offspring development, these changes were biologically irrelevant compared to the effects of hybridization itself. The study suggests that females can bias paternity through ovarian fluid without significant consequences to offspring development. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, avian gastrulation, the process by which the body plan of an embryo is formed, involves coordinated flows of cells. Researchers have identified the fundamental kinematic units involved in these flows and have elucidated the mechanistic origin of one of them, called the attractor. They have also discovered the origins of two other units, called repellers, and have controlled their shape to induce gastrulation flows in chick embryos. The findings reveal the modularity of avian gastrulation flows and offer insights into the mechanistic roles of different processes involved. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, researchers have found that the genes Oct4 and Sox2 play a role in inducing pluripotency in mouse embryos. Through the use of knockout mouse models and genetic sequencing techniques, the study found that Oct4 and Sox2 activate genes related to pluripotency in the early stages of embryo development. The researchers also observed changes in the chromatin landscape and transcriptome during this process. This study provides new insights into the establishment of pluripotency in mouse embryos. Please note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the Australian Regenerative Medicine Institute have conducted a study on human reproduction, specifically focusing on the development of embryos. The study aimed to understand how individual cells function on a subcellular level to build a healthy embryo. Using advanced live imaging techniques, the researchers discovered specific RNA asymmetries in the outer cells of the 16-cell stage mouse embryo, which coincided with cell fate decisions and the emergence of the pluripotent inner cell mass. These findings provide insights into the subcellular mechanisms driving asymmetric RNA localization and compartmentalized translational regulation in early embryogenesis, which may assist in selecting embryos with the highest developmental potential. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania explores the early stages of human embryo development. The study highlights the importance of understanding the morphological changes that occur during the first five days of life, which ultimately lead to the formation of a blastocyst. While significant progress has been made in studying mouse embryos, there is still much to learn about human embryogenesis. The use of live imaging techniques and stem cell-based models may provide valuable insights into human embryo development, with potential implications for improving in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the University of Buenos Aires examined the impact of embryo quality on the secretory profile of tolerogenic dendritic cells (DC-10) during the peri-implantation period. The researchers found that embryonic soluble factors can modify the conditioning of decidual dendritic cells, with normal embryos sustaining a myeloid regulatory cell profile and higher expression of DC-10 markers, while impaired embryos diminished IL-10 production. The study suggests that in the presence of an arrested embryo, dendritic cells may shape the immunological microenvironment differently, potentially contributing to the clearance of arrested embryos during the menstrual phase. Further research is needed to explore these findings. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report discusses research on human reproduction, specifically comparing the use of progestin and GnRH antagonist in egg donation cycles. The study found that the use of progestin resulted in a lower number of oocytes retrieved and faster early morphokinetic parameters of embryos. However, further analysis is needed to determine the clinical implications of these findings. The study was conducted in a single private IVF center in Brazil and included 10 oocyte donors and 20 recipient patients. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Adelaide in Australia have developed a non-invasive method to assess the quality of embryos in IVF. The method uses optical imaging techniques, such as hyperspectral microscopy and digital holographic imaging, to measure cell metabolism and physical parameters of the embryo. The researchers found that these optical approaches can accurately discriminate between good and poor-quality embryos without the need for stains or tags. This research could lead to the development of a more accurate and non-invasive diagnostic tool for embryo quality in IVF. [Extracted from the article]

The article discusses the author's personal experience of freezing her embryos at the age of 39. She reflects on her decision to freeze her embryos and the emotional journey she went through. The author also mentions the importance of finding the right clothing for her IVF appointments and how the Hill House Nap Dress provided comfort and convenience during the process. The article concludes with the author's thoughts on motherhood and her gratitude for the opportunity to grieve and forgive herself. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University examined the impact of transferring a low-quality embryo along with a high-quality embryo on pregnancy outcomes. The study included 1506 fresh embryo transfer cycles and found that adding a low-quality embryo improved the live birth rate by 8.7% and the multiple pregnancy rate by 10.0%. However, the study also found that in women aged 35 or older or in patients with multiple cycles of embryo transfer, adding a low-quality embryo did not significantly improve live birth rates but increased the multiple pregnancy rate. The researchers concluded that they prefer to transfer a high-quality embryo, but the addition of a low-quality embryo may be beneficial in certain cases. [Extracted from the article]

A new report from Tam Anh General Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam discusses research on fertility and sterility. The study aimed to compare the outcomes of transfers of euploid blastocysts with different qualities and timings of blastulation. The results showed that transfers of excellent euploid blastocysts on day 5 yielded superior clinical outcomes compared to transfers on day 6. The study emphasizes the importance of embryo quality and timing of blastulation in determining the success of in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures. This information can be valuable for IVF teams and patients when selecting embryos for transfer. [Extracted from the article]

A study analyzed the effects of perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS) exposure on zebrafish embryos, specifically comparing the responses of wild-type (WT) and oatp1d1 mutant embryos. The study found that oatp1d1 mutants were more susceptible to PFOS toxicity, with higher mortality rates compared to WT embryos. The Oatp1d1 transporter was identified as playing a crucial role in mediating the toxic effects of PFOS, potentially related to detoxification processes or regulation of bioavailability. The study also revealed developmental abnormalities and disruptions in lipid metabolism in the embryos. These findings have implications for aquatic ecosystems and human health, emphasizing the need for regulatory measures and remediation strategies to address PFOS contamination. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses the evolutionary modifications of a protein called Activator of G-protein Signaling (AGS) in sea urchin embryos. The researchers found that the AGS protein plays a crucial role in the formation of a specific type of cell called micromeres in sea urchins. They also discovered that the AGS protein and its associated factors are present in all echinoderms and most metazoans, raising the question of what modifications allowed for the evolution of micromeres only in echinoids. The study suggests that the GoLoco motifs at the AGS protein's C-terminus are critical for regulating micromere formation. The findings indicate that the molecular evolution of this polarity factor contributes to the diversity of asymmetric cell division (ACD) among echinoderms and beyond. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the regulation of cell division, specifically cytokinesis, in different cell types within the early C. elegans embryo. The study found that each cell type had unique profiles and responses to disruptions in actomyosin and spindle signaling. Interestingly, disrupting two members of the same complex could result in different phenotypes, and protection against actomyosin inhibition did not always protect against spindle signaling inhibition. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

According to a preprint abstract, smoking cigarettes can cause morphological and histological changes in human and animal tissues. This study specifically focuses on the effects of cigarette smoke exposure on the liver of mouse embryos. The study found that exposure to cigarette smoke resulted in changes in cellular architecture, veins, inflammatory cells, and hepatocytes in the liver. Additionally, the weight of the embryos, liver, and CR (possibly crown-rump length) significantly decreased in the smoke-exposed groups compared to the control group. It is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted at Columbia University in New York City explored the relationship between embryonal carcinoma (EC) cells and early embryonic cells. The researchers found that EC cells, which are stem cells derived from germ cell- or embryo-derived teratocarcinoma tumors, could be used as in vitro models for embryogenesis and provide insights into the relationship between malignancy and differentiation. However, despite their potential, EC cells fell short as a means of genetic manipulation of the germ line. The study ultimately paved the way for the development of embryonic stem (ES) cells that fulfilled this goal. [Extracted from the article]

A new Code of Practice has been released for the use of stem cell-based embryo models (SCBEMs) in research. SCBEMs are three-dimensional structures created in the lab from stem cells that mimic aspects of early human embryo development. The Code sets out standards to ensure rigorous research, upholding ethical principles and maximizing potential benefits. It includes guidelines for decision-making, limits on the length of experiments, and prohibitions on transferring SCBEMs into a womb or allowing them to develop into viable organisms. The Code was developed by a working group of researchers and practitioners from various institutions in the UK, and it was informed by public dialogue to include public perspectives. While the Code is not legislative, it is expected to be widely adopted and set a new precedent for reporting research using SCBEMs. Regular reviews of the Code will be conducted to keep up with the evolving science. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers from Wageningen University and Research in the Netherlands have conducted a study on transcription factors and their role in early embryo development. The study focused on PLETHORA/AINTEGUMENTA-LIKE (PLT/AIL) transcription factors, which are known to regulate post-embryonic meristem function and maintain stem cell pools. The researchers found that PLT2 and PLT4/BABY BOOM (BBM) are expressed in the zygote and are essential for the progression of embryogenesis beyond the zygote stage. The study suggests that PLT factors play a crucial role in early embryo development by inducing meristematic potential. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at Manipal Academy of Higher Education in India explored the effects of varying oxygen tension during in vitro embryonic development in mice with induced hyperglycemia to mimic childhood diabetes. The study found that embryos from hyperglycemic mice responded differently to oxygen tension, with embryos cultured at low oxygen tension (LOT) showing higher rates of fertilization, blastocyst formation, and inner cell mass (ICM) proliferation compared to embryos cultured at atmospheric oxygen tension (HOT). However, blastocysts from the hyperglycemic group cultured at HOT had increased apoptotic cells and lower Hif1a transcripts in ICM outgrowths. The findings suggest the need for individualized conditions for embryo culture systems in assisted reproductive technology (ART) clinics, particularly when maternal pathology affects the ovarian environment. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from biorxiv.org discusses the dynamic process of morphogen-mediated patterning in the early development of Drosophila embryos. The study focuses on the NF-{kappa}B homolog Dorsal (Dl) and its gradient formation, which is controlled by the inhibitor Cactus/I{kappa}B (Cact). The researchers used scanning fluorescence correlation spectroscopy to measure the mobility of GFP-tagged Dl and found that DNA binding and mobility varied along the dorsal-ventral axis, with the highest DNA binding on the ventral side. The study concludes that Dl-GFP/Cact interactions in the nuclei are responsible for the variation in Dl-GFP/DNA binding, impacting the spatial range of the Dl gradient and downstream gene expression. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted in Valencia, Spain, explored the use of an automatic embryo assessment algorithm for embryo selection in IVF cycles. The algorithm, which combines morphological evaluation with morphokinetic timings, was found to be significantly predictive of blastocyst development, implantation, and live birth. However, it was not predictive of euploidy. The study suggests that combining the algorithm with conventional morphological evaluation can improve the accuracy of embryo selection and increase success rates in assisted reproduction cycles. The research was supported by the European Social Fund and involved a large sample size of embryos. [Extracted from the article]

A recently launched clinical trial, NCT06454058, aims to investigate the association between advanced maternal age and the grading of euploid embryos. Advanced maternal age is known to be linked to a decrease in live birth rates after assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, primarily due to a lower number of oocytes, developing embryos, and euploid embryos available for transfer. The trial will be a retrospective cross-sectional study of euploid embryos from patients who have undergone in vitro fertilization (IVF) with preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) at a fertility clinic in The Prelude Network. The study will compare embryo grades between different age groups, controlling for baseline demographic characteristics. [Extracted from the article]

A recent preprint abstract discusses the expression and function of the histone H2B isoform H2bc27 in the developing brain of mouse embryos. Histones are proteins that bind to DNA and play a role in regulating gene expression. The study generated mice lacking the H2bc27 gene and found that it is associated with regulating the expression of several functional genes involved in mouse brain development. The research provides insights into the role of H2B isoforms in brain development and may facilitate further analysis in this area. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not yet undergone peer review. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by researchers at Universiti Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia investigated the effects of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) supplementation on the development of mouse embryos after vitrification. The study found that a concentration of 40 mM CoQ10 significantly increased blastocyst formation compared to other concentrations and the control group. Additionally, supplementation of CoQ10 improved embryo quality post-vitrification. These findings suggest that CoQ10 supplementation has the potential to enhance preimplantation embryo development and improve outcomes in assisted reproductive technology. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University Cardenal Herrera-CEU examined the effects of embryo reinsertion immediately after embryo flushing in donor mares. The study involved a total of 20 mares and found that fewer pregnancies resulted after transfer in cycles where embryo flushing and transfer were performed compared to cycles where only embryo transfer was done. Progesterone concentration decreased significantly in the group where embryo flushing and transfer were performed, and some mares in this group showed signs of endometritis. The study also found that more high-quality embryos were recovered in the group where only embryo transfer was done. Positive bacterial cultures were obtained in a small number of embryo flushes. Further information on this research can be obtained from the Equine Fertility Group at the University Cardenal Herrera-CEU in Spain. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study presented at the annual conference of the European Society of Human Genetics has shed light on how mosaic embryos, which contain both normal and abnormal cells, can self-correct and develop into healthy babies. This understanding could improve the success rates of in vitro fertilization (IVF) by increasing the number of embryos suitable for transfer. The research also addresses the challenges faced by women who produce genetically abnormal embryos as they age. The study utilized advanced single-cell transcriptomic analysis and post-implantation embryo culturing systems to investigate the mechanisms behind the self-correction process. The findings suggest that abnormal cells have a lower survival rate compared to normal cells. The researchers plan to further validate their findings using gene editing technology and stem cell-derived embryo models. The ultimate goal is to optimize patient treatment, prevent the transfer of non-viable embryos, and reduce the emotional and psychological stress associated with IVF. [Extracted from the article]