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 2026 World Intelligent Industry Expo kicked off on Thursday at the National Convention and Exhibition Center (Tianjin) in north China's Tianjin Municipality.

The four-day event, jointly organized by the governments of Tianjin and Chongqing, serves as a bridge for intellectual exchange and pragmatic cooperation in the smart industry through various forms such as exhibitions, experiences, competitions, and the release of achievements.

This year's event features one comprehensive hall and six themed exhibition areas, including core artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, embodied intelligence, and smart living. It also includes a dedicated immersive experience zone, comprehensively showcasing the most representative innovative technologies, cutting-edge products, and advanced achievements in the global smart technology sector.

During the expo, a series of concurrent events will be held, including an AI-themed day, the enterprise ecology conference, and market-oriented forums, as well as other activities such as brand competition, achievement release, bilateral negotiations, investment promotion, projects contract signing, and smart experience.

"The biggest feature of this year's event is that it is both professional and comprehensive. Whether you are a professional buyer or a scientist, you can find what you need here," said Shen Maomao, director of the research office of Tianjin Municipal Bureau of Industry and Information Technology.

The expo has attracted a total of 28 Fortune Global 500 companies, 37 China's top 500 enterprises, and over 400 representative enterprises in the smart industry.

2026 World Intelligent Industry Expo opens in Tianjin