Scientists at the University of Cambridge reported creation of three‑dimensional embryo‑like structures—termed hematoids—that recapitulate aspects of very early human development and produce blood stem cells, according to Cell Reports. The model provides a new experimental system to study human hematopoiesis and early lineage specification without using intact embryos. Authors emphasize the platform's utility for dissecting developmental mechanisms and for preclinical modeling of blood disorders; the structures are an in‑vitro model that mimic key developmental stages rather than true embryos.