#reproduction

All articles tagged with "reproduction"

Study Finds Simulated Microgravity Can Disrupt Key Steps in Fertilization

New lab work suggests microgravity may interfere with how sperm locate and fertilize eggs, raising fresh questions about human reproduction during long-duration space missions.

Key Takeaways

Researchers simulated microgravity to study how sperm from humans, pigs, and mice behaves during fertilization-related processes.
Human sperm remained able to swim but showed altered navigation, a problem the study said could be addressed with progesterone cues.

DT Editorial Team·Apr 28, 2026·via universetoday.com

Harvard-linked research shows octopuses can mate using a ‘taste by touch’ system

A new study says octopuses can locate mates and reproduce at arm’s length using a sensory system that lets them effectively ‘taste by touch.’

Key Takeaways

Researchers say octopuses use a taste-by-touch sensory system during mating.
The study suggests they can couple at arm’s length without seeing each other.

DT Editorial Team·Apr 2, 2026·via phys.org

Space Reproduction Research Keeps Finding New Friction, Literally

A new experiment using a tiny plastic obstacle course suggests sperm may struggle to navigate during sex in weightlessness, adding another complication to long-term life beyond Earth.

Key Takeaways

Scientists used a tiny plastic obstacle course to study sperm navigation in weightlessness.
The experiment suggests sex and reproduction in space may involve more biological friction than assumed.

DT Editorial Team·Mar 30, 2026·via medicalxpress.com