Cell Biology News

"New self-destructing embryonic cell type discovered by scientists"

Scientists studying gene activity data of the early human embryo have discovered a new type of cell that self-destructs within days of forming, as part of a quality control process to protect the developing fetus. These cells contain "jumping genes" that can cause DNA damage, and their descendants undergo programmed cell death. The researchers suggest that this process is a form of quality control, selecting the good cells and removing the damaged ones. The findings could help improve IVF or regenerative medicine treatments.