The BCNatal group has presented advances in an artificial placenta prototype that allowed a sheep fetus to survive for 21 days. A sheep named Gaia, after 10 days in the system, now lives at 13 months with normal development.
Researchers from the fetalLife project, involving hospitals Clínic and Sant Joan de Déu, presented results from the study's second phase this Friday. They have raised survival in the liquid incubator from the previous 12 days to 21 days.
Eduard Gratacós, project leader, explained that exceeding 14 days shows the system works. The prototype recreates uterine conditions through a liquid environment and extracorporeal circulation via the umbilical cord.
Gaia, who spent 10 days in the device, now shows normal neurological development at 13 months. Medical coordinator Elisenda Eixarch noted that the transition to a conventional incubator is the phase most similar to standard neonatal care.
The team plans to start human studies in two or three years after technological improvements and ethical and legal preparations. Fundación la Caixa has invested 7 million euros in the project.