19 August 2026

Scientist creates embryo-like structures without biological reproduction

• Jacob Hanna, a researcher, has developed synthetic embryo models that mimic real embryos but are made without sperm, eggs, or fertilization.
• These models could help scientists understand how human bodies develop and potentially improve transplant medicine.
• The work raises questions about ethical boundaries for this type of research and how it should be regulated.

How it was covered

The AlgorithmMIT Technology Review

Scientist Jacob Hanna specializes in creating synthetic embryo models that resemble real embryos without sperm, eggs, or fertilization. These models could advance understanding of human development and transplant medicine but raise difficult questions about how far the science should go.