They are trying to deceive nature: scientists have created a prototype of an artificial uterus to save premature babies
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Scientists in Barcelona have created a prototype of an artificial uterus for premature babies born at 6 months of pregnancy and less. They managed to create an artificial placenta and simulated amniotic fluid inside, writes Reuters. A fetus aged six months or less is considered premature and has a high risk of death or disability. According to the World Health Organization, in 2019, about 900,000 premature babies died in the world. Therefore, scientists decided to find a solution to this problem in order to save as many small lives as possible. Photo: alexraths/Depositphotos Researchers created a protective environment from an artificial placenta with a translucent container made of biocompatible material. In it, the lungs, intestines and brain of the fetus continue to develop. Thanks to the amniotic fluid (amniotic fluid), the fetus is isolated from external stimuli, but accessible for ultrasound control and monitoring. “We are trying to develop a system that allows us to keep the fetus outside the mother, but still in the conditions of intrauterine development: so that it continues to breathe and eat through the umbilical cord, and remains surrounded by amniotic fluid at a constant temperature,” said project leader Eduard Gratakos. Scientists first tested the artificial uterus on lambs. Babies stayed alive in it for 12 days. Scientists plan to further test the artificial organ on pigs before offering human trials. “An extremely complex project involves many different medical specialties and requires different types of engineers. It’s a challenge to trick nature to make it possible,” said the project leader. Kelly Werner, associate professor of pediatrics at Columbia University, added that the artificial placenta is not intended to replace the natural one. “Despite these achievements, we still need to make every effort to support maternal health and reduce the risk factors that lead to preterm birth,” she said. The doctor also noted that the scientists’ invention must undergo thorough clinical trials to verify safety and detect side effects. Read also: Without sperm and egg: scientists for the first time in the world created artificial embryos similar to human ones
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