Unit 1: Brave New World (1ère AMC_gr1)

 Artificial wombs

The document under study is an extract from an article published in 2018 on a website called “Scientific American”. We have learned about the existence of artificial wombs/uteruses. In fact, in 2017, a group of scientists succeeded in creating artificial wombs for lamb fetuses in later stage of gestation.

The goal of such innovation is to save preterm babies. Indeed, in the USA 17% of infant deaths correspond to preterm babies. The number of babies born preterm corresponds to 1 baby out of 10. The goal is to save babies born between 28 and 37 weeks. In fact, babies who are born too early have low chance to survive. Moreover, when they survive, they have higher chances of having disabilities such as vision problems, breathing issues, cerebral palsy and development delays. Nevertheless, this breakthrough can only be accessible for rich people due to its cost.

To conclude, eventually, thanks to artificial wombs, preterm babies will be able to continue growing more naturally and complete their gestation better.

Homework: Learn the lesson.

Be ready for the Final Task: Tuesday October 1st 

Oral Evaluation (POC-POI)

Scenario: As a talk show host for a special program on scientific innovations, you welcome on your set a scientist and or a user or a citizen who used one of the scientific methods we studied in class: PGD, stem cells, cloning, designer babies, savior siblings, surrogacy,… Your main topic is: What are the effects of medical and technological progress on our society?