New Embryonic Cell Type Self-Destructs to Protect Development.
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 discovery sheds light on the earliest stages of human development and could have implications for improving IVF and regenerative medicine treatments.