First experiment on planarian regeneration conducted at China's space station

The Shenzhou-20 crew has carried out its first experiment on planarian regeneration aboard China's space station.

Planarians, flatworms with an evolutionary history spanning over 520 million years, are one of the widely used experimental animal models in biological research. These organisms demonstrate an exceptional capacity for tissue repair: when bisected, planarians can regenerate lost muscles, skin, intestines, and even an entire brain from each segment -- a process that can be repeated indefinitely.

Researchers aim to investigate how the space environment affects the regenerative processes and physiological behavior of planarians. They will also explore the molecular mechanisms behind space-induced effects on planarian regeneration, thereby advancing scientists' understanding of regenerative biology.

Inside the Wentian laboratory module, the Shenzhou-20 crew observed samples in the biotechnology experiment cabinet and used the scientific glovebox to collect solid culture samples. The collected data and samples will assist researchers on Earth in studying the microbial mechanisms affecting cell tissue culture modules.

This initiative follows the successful inclusion of zebra fish and fruit flies in science experiments conducted aboard China's space station.

The Shenzhou-20 crew will carry out 59 additional space science experiments and technology tests in fields such as space life science, microgravity physics, and new space technologies, with potential breakthroughs in cultivation of vascularized brain organoid chips, soft matter non-equilibrium dynamics, and high-temperature superconducting material preparation.

First experiment on planarian regeneration conducted at China's space station

First experiment on planarian regeneration conducted at China's space station

First experiment on planarian regeneration conducted at China's space station

Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi held talks with Brunei's second minister of foreign affairs Dato Erywan Pehin Yusof in Beijing on Thursday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said China is willing to take the important consensus reached by the two heads of state as the fundamental guideline and take new steps in building a China-Brunei community with a shared future.

Wang elaborated on China's principled position on the Taiwan question, and on the grave harm of the erroneous statements made by Japan's current leader regarding Taiwan.

For his part, Erywan said that Brunei attaches high importance to growing ties with China and recognizes that Taiwan is an inalienable part of the People's Republic of China, will stay committed to the one-China policy, and will support China's great cause of national reunification.

The two sides also exchanged views on international and regional issues of shared interest.

China, Brunei reaffirm commitment to strengthening ties as senior diplomats meet in Beijing