First use of precision editing to study human embryo development reveals role of master gene
Peer-Reviewed Publication
Updates every hour. Last Updated: 30-Oct-2026 07:15 ET (30-Oct-2026 11:15 GMT/UTC)
- Scientists have, for the first time, used an extremely precise genome editing technique called base editing to study gene function in human embryos.
- Using the technique, they found that a gene called NANOG is essential for forming the future body from an embryo. Without it, the embryo loses its ability to differentiate into different body tissues.
- This reveals fundamental differences between early development in human and mouse embryos, underscoring the importance of directly investigating human embryonic development.