- Many mammals can pause a pregnancy by using diapause.
- Seals delay embryo implantation until the female has enough fat.
- Hundreds of species use this strategy, from mice to moose.
- Humans do not enter embryonic diapause like other mammals.
- Scientists studied cells from mice to learn how diapause works.
- The cells slowed metabolism and produced much less RNA and protein.
- Despite low energy, the cells could still become any cell type.
- When stress ended, cells resumed normal development and function.
Difficult words
- diapause — A temporary stop of development in early embryos.embryonic diapause
- implantation — When an embryo attaches to the mother's uterus.
- embryo — An animal in very early development before birth.
- embryonic — Relating to an embryo or early development.
- metabolism — All chemical processes that keep a cell alive.
- protein — A molecule that cells make and use.
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Which animal in the article do you find most interesting?
- Have you ever seen a seal, mouse, or moose?
- Would you like to learn more about how cells can pause and then resume?
Related articles
Untreated Sleep Apnea Speeds Heart Aging and Raises Death Risk
A laboratory study using a long-term mouse model finds that untreated obstructive sleep apnea — recreated by repeated drops in oxygen during sleep — leads to faster cardiovascular aging and higher mortality. Researchers call for early screening and treatment.
Father’s microplastic exposure affects offspring health
A mouse study found that when fathers were exposed to microplastics, their offspring developed metabolic problems. Female offspring showed diabetic signs and researchers linked the effect to changes in sperm small RNAs; the work was published in the Journal of the Endocrine Society.
Blocking a key immune signal may prolong post-surgery pain
A study led by Geoffroy Laumet found that blocking the immune molecule TNF-α after surgery in mice made pain last longer. The authors warn this does not mean stopping all anti-inflammatory treatment and call for targeted approaches.
