Cleavage Stage Embryo

The cleavage stage embryo is an important stage in the development of a baby. It is the earliest period of embryonic growth, beginning immediately after fertilization of the egg and lasting until the blastocyst is formed. During this stage, the embryo becomes divided into increasingly smaller cells. This process of cellular division allows the embryo to become increasingly smaller and eventually form the baby. The cleavage stage is important because it is during this stage that the fertilized egg establishes the basic number of cells that will eventually make up the baby. Moreover, during this stage, the cellular components of the embryo are specified such that the cells are able to differentiate into other tissues that help to form the baby. Cleavage stage embryos are sometimes used in research and medical treatments. In research, scientists examine the cleavage stage embryo to better understand how the embryo begins to develop and to gain insight into the earliest stages of human development. In medical treatments, such as assisted reproductive technology, cleavage-stage embryos may be used to help couples become pregnant.