Caspian Ostadian: Why Can’t We Grow a Human Embryo in the Lab for More Than a Few Days?
Caspian Ostadian, Embryologist at Mehr Assistant Reproductive Center, shared on LinkedIn:
“Why can’t we grow a human embryo in the lab for more than a few days?
In IVF, embryos are typically cultured for 5-6 days, up to the blastocyst stage. After that, they must be transferred or frozen. Here’s why we can’t go further:
The uterus is an active partner, not just a container.
After implantation, the embryo depends on hormonal and molecular signals from the endometrium. Culture media only partly mimic this dialogue.
Nutrients and oxygen run short. In a dish, the embryo relies on simple diffusion. As it grows, demand rises, but there are no blood vessels or placenta to meet it.
Supportive structures are missing. Normal development after implantation requires the placenta and interaction with maternal tissue.
Without them, development becomes disorganized.”
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