Machine learning successfully replicates cell architecture

A new study published in the journal Cell Systems on November 20, 2019, reports the use of machine learning to help form complex cell architectures from pluripotent stem cells, a sophisticated technology that could solve multiple issues that currently hampers the production of artificial tissues and organs. Medical scientists faced with irreparably damaged organs have long wanted to know how to stimulate their regeneration or to replace them with new ones, to prolong survival and to provide improved quality of life. Another equally important area of research involves creating artificial tissues which are identical to those in the body, in order to help understand how disease processes evolve and which drugs can be used to treat such disorders. This means that scientists must know how to direct the development of stem cells in the desired pattern to form multiple tissues in the right way. Pluripotent ('capable of multiple tasks') stem cells are cells that can divide indefinitely or can develop into any of the three germ layers found in the early embryo.