• UGI USER
  • Nov 28, 2023
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MECHANISM OF EARLY CELL ELIMINATION IN HUMAN EMBRYO DEVELOPMENT

Why in the News?

  • Researcher Manvendra Singh’s analysis revealed a group of non-committed cells within the ICM.
  • Non-committed cells fail to contribute to later embryo stages and are eliminated early.
Source: MDPI

Embryonic Development Overview

  • Origin: Single-celled zygote from fusion of paternal and maternal cells.
  • Multiplication: Zygote multiplies, initiating embryonic development.
  • Cell Differentiation: Cells diversify into various cell types (skin, muscles, nerves).

Unveiling the Role of HERVH and Transposons

  • HERVH Presence: Pluripotent stem cells in ICM express HERVH.
  • Transposon Activity: Non-committed cells lacking HERVH express transposons, causing DNA damage and cell death.
  • Protective Role: HERVH safeguards cells from transposon-induced damage.

Implications and Insights

  • HERVH Significance: HERVH contributes to cell survival and potential implications for regenerative medicine.
  • Fitness Impact: Healthier embryos likely have more HERVH-expressing ‘good’ cells and fewer non-committed cells.
  • Potential Applications: Speculations about infertility treatment and in vitro fertilization based on altering transposon activity.

Placenta’s Role and Consequences

  • Transposon Activity: Cells forming the placenta also express transposons but exhibit more tolerance and survive without HERVH protection.
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis: The placenta, while different from fetal cells, serves a temporary purpose and is discarded after childbirth.