Date: October 20, 2023
St. Louis, MO – In a groundbreaking development, the Oyen Lab at Washington University has acquired state-of-the-art pregnancy phantoms, providing an unprecedented glimpse into the intricate world of maternal health research. These phantoms, meticulously crafted replicas of a pregnant woman’s womb during the second trimester, aim to showcase the lab’s pioneering work to the scientific community and the public.
The centerpiece of these phantoms is a lifelike representation of a developing fetus, affectionately named Duncan in honor of James Matthew Duncan, a renowned figure who helped kickstart the research into bioengineering and pregnancy. Duncan symbolizes the lab’s dedication to advancing knowledge in maternal health and pregnancy-related studies.
Adding another layer of innovation, an external model within the womb has been aptly named EpiLume. Derived from “epidermis” meaning skin and “lumen” the latin word for light. This external model serves as a visual beacon, shedding light on the intricacies of fetal development.
Professor Michelle L. Oyen, the lab’s principal investigator, expressed enthusiasm about the potential impact of these phantoms. “These pregnancy phantoms offer a tangible representation of our research focus. We believe that by bringing attention to the intricacies of pregnancy, we can foster a deeper understanding of maternal health and inspire advancements in the field.”
The unveiling of these pregnancy phantoms marks a significant milestone for the Oyen Lab, opening new avenues for communication in the realm of women’s health research. As these phantoms take center stage, they serve not only as scientific tools but also as beacons of education and awareness in the fascinating world of pregnancy studies.
Disclaimer: The pregnancy phantoms are for research and educational purposes and do not represent real individuals.