University of Cambridge scientists have achieved a breakthrough in stem cell research. Through this research, they’ve created the first three-dimensional, embryo-like structures of human hematopoiesis, called hematoids. These cutting-edge models leverage human stem cells to recreate the early stages of human development. We have high hopes in relationship to understanding the process of blood formation and blood diseases as well.
Hematoids begin their life cycle in the lab. Within only two days’ time, they spontaneously arrange themselves into three separate germ layers – ectoderm, mesoderm and endoderm. This tiering is similar to the basic anatomical structure of the body itself. It is a critical ingredient in shaping all organ and tissue, even blood. By day eight of development, scientists can observe the cells of the heart beginning to beat. At day thirteen, they see very significant red cell areas — or erythrocytic areas to mean blood-producing areas.
The Development Process of Hematoids
The production of hematoids requires the use of human stem cells to replicate the complex series of events that occur during natural embryonic development. Once these structures are created, the newly formed structures and the growing human body undergo a series of highly structured events that reflect the early processes of human development.
Even in the first few days, the hematoids are great at self-organizing. They form the three germ layers, which are the foundation of creating the various body systems. This quick advance is all the more remarkable because it illustrates just how well and powerfully stem cells can be controlled in the lab.
Additionally, hematoids mature over the course of about two weeks and start generating blood stem cells. This is a watershed moment for research. These cells are the basis for producing every kind of blood cell in the human body.
Applications and Implications
The studies about hematoids has especially interesting impacts on blood formation in early human development. The ability to create models that closely mimic natural embryonic processes allows scientists to explore deeper into the mechanisms that govern blood cell production.
Additionally, hematoids may become potent platforms to investigate other hematologic diseases such as leukemia. By recreating these processes in the lab, scientists can better understand how disease progresses and what possible therapeutic approaches might be effective. That, in turn, might enable us to make real progress in developing treatments and interventions for those who suffer from these devastating disorders.
Along with their modeling value in disease contexts, hematoids exist with the notable potential to generate durable blood stem cells. We can then harvest these stem cells and use them for transplants. This provides fresh optimism for patients who require blood transfusions or stem cell treatments.
Future Directions
With the successful creation of hematoids comes endless opportunities for future research and innovation. Scientists always want to operate at the limits of what is possible. They are interested in how these structures can further mirror other areas of human development, in addition to forming blood.
Further research will likely be aimed at improving hematoid production efficiency and optimizing their use within a regenerative medicine context. Researchers intend to investigate how these models can be utilized to develop personalized treatments for patients with various blood-related conditions.
The implications of this breakthrough reach far beyond teriparatide’s immediate medical applications. These obstacles don’t stop researchers, who are really deepening our understanding of early human development. This knowledge inspires great debate on the morals of embryonic science and its effect on civilization.