Scientists develop human embryo model to study spine development at Francis Crick Institute

Scientists at the Francis Crick Institute have created human stem cell models with a functional notochord, a key tissue for spine and nervous system development. This breakthrough allows for better study of early human development and related disorders. Researchers used data from chicken, mouse, and monkey embryos to develop a method for creating the notochord in the lab. The resulting structure mimics early human embryonic development, indicating successful guidance of cell differentiation. This advancement provides a new tool for investigating spinal birth defects and conditions like disc degeneration. The study, published in Nature, enhances understanding of human development and may lead to future therapeutic options.