Scientists grow mini amniotic sacs in the lab using stem cells

Scientists have developed a lab-grown model of the human amniotic sac using stem cells. Called post-gastrulation amnioids (PGAs), this model replicates the sac's complex structure and survives for months, providing insights into early human development. The PGAs form a two-layered, fluid-filled structure up to an inch in size, mimicking a month-old amniotic sac. Researchers identified the GATA3 gene as crucial for development and showed the sac's ability to influence surrounding cells. This breakthrough may lead to improved treatments for burns and cornea repairs.