Ectogenesis allow to grow up the child in an artificial womb

18.08.2014

According to some optimistic estimates, in 30 years children can be grown in artificial wombs outside the human body.

Technology called ectogenesis is developing since 2001. In previous experiments, the researchers cultured mouse embryos in the wombs attached by the placenta to a special machine.

According to scientists, thus, will be able to reduce the number of still births, as the fetus will remain more under control. However, critics argue that such technology can change the social roles of people.

For others, it breaks the natural maternal-infant bonding.

Ektogenez - a growing organism outside the body, it is used today, both in animal and in bacteria.

For others, it breaks the natural maternal-infant bonding.

Ectogenesis - a growing organism outside the body, it is used today, both in animal and in bacteria.

Artificial womb need artificial uterus, which will supply nutrients and oxygen to the fetus. Also there is need in creation of special bags to collect the liquid to eliminate waste. All of this will stick to the underlying hardware placenta, and the wires will monitor all changes that occur: weight, heart rate and development.

Technology can be used on women who are not able to bear a child naturally, for example, due to damage to the uterus. The technology also can eliminate the need for a surrogate mother for traditional and non-traditional couples.

Besides artificial womb reduce mortality among infants increase childbearing age in the case of disease of the fetus, the drug can be administered directly into his body before birth.

In the case of the development of such technology it will be possible for pregnant women who want to have an abortion, do not kill the child, but simply put it in an artificial womb, where it will continue to live and grow.

Futurist Zoltan Istvan believes that in 20 years the technology will be ready for use, and after 30 years - would be widely available. He claims that this technology is largely already exist, but clinical trials in humans are prohibited by law.

Source: eurolab.ua