China builds space embryo research system to lay groundwork for deep space exploration

China is completing a research system for embryonic development in orbit spanning from lower vertebrates to higher mammals in a bid to decode how space environments affect reproduction and lay the groundwork for future long-term human habitation in space.

As space exploration pushes further into the cosmos, whether life can be nurtured in space has become a key question for scientists, because any long-term human presence in space -- or eventual interstellar migration -- will require solving the challenges of reproduction and health maintenance beyond Earth.

To this end, Chinese researchers have designed a comprehensive research system to study the development of zebrafish embryos, mouse embryos, and artificial embryos derived from stem cells, covering lower vertebrates, lower mammals, and higher mammals.

On Monday morning, China sent payloads for five space life science experiments to its space station aboard the Tianzhou-10 cargo craft, targeting critical issues such as how the space environment damages early-stage mammalian embryos, the regulatory mechanisms behind bone loss and myocardial changes under microgravity, and the construction and development of artificial human embryos in space.

The human embryo research of the latest mission will be the finishing touch to build the research system, according to Li Tianda, associate researcher at the Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences.

"We hope to integrate our researches on mice, zebrafish, the current research on embryos, and future gestation studies on mice to systematically understand how the space environment influences embryonic development in Earth-originating life forms, including vertebrates like zebrafish, mammals like mice, and primates like human in future studies. In the future, we will develop regulatory and intervention mechanisms to gain a deeper understanding of the reproductive process during long-term manned space missions," Li said.

China builds space embryo research system to lay groundwork for deep space exploration

China builds space embryo research system to lay groundwork for deep space exploration

A major cultural and tourism trade promotion event was held in Beijing on Wednesday, connecting Chinese creative industries with international partners.

The Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs organized the event "The Finest Cultural Gifts from China," with a special session on "Connecting Cultures, Going Global. " The event attracted ambassadors and diplomats from 14 countries and regions, as well as senior officials from the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

More than 30 organizations and companies showcased offerings ranging from creative cultural products and intangible heritage crafts to cultural and technological innovation and cross-border commerce.

The event provided a platform for live demonstrations, matchmaking, and negotiations, creating more opportunities for cultural and tourism enterprises aiming to expand internationally. It underscores the unique value and huge potential of Chinese cultural products and services in global trade.

"This event has been tremendously helpful for us in building our reputation, developing our brand, and expanding our customer base. It really supports our efforts in both bringing Chinese culture to the world and inviting global tourists to China," said Fu Yao, an exhibitor.

The "Finest Cultural Gifts from China" program brings together Chinese and international companies, traders, cross-border e-commerce, and media to build an effective trading platform for top-quality products and enterprises. Since its launch in 2022, the initiative has held 18 editions in China and abroad, featuring topics from fashion and creative living to time-honored heritage brands, and has achieved strong results, according to its organizers.

Beijing hosts cultural tourism trade event to connect with global markets