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

The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) released its latest World Oil Outlook 2050 on Sunday, projecting a 23-percent increase in global energy demand by mid-century.

The report emphasizes that meeting this rising demand and tackling associated challenges will require a comprehensive approach leveraging all forms of energy, advanced technologies, and broad social engagement.

According to the outlook, oil will remain the largest single source of energy through 2050, accounting for just under 30 percent of the global energy mix. Combined, oil and natural gas are expected to sustain a majority share of the world's energy consumption, representing more than half of the total between 2024 and 2050.

The report highlights a stark regional divide in energy trends as nearly all of the projected growth in energy demand will come from developing countries. In contrast, energy consumption in developed nations is expected to remain flat or decline over the same period.

OPEC forecasts 23 pct rise in global energy demand by 2050