Method and composition for preparing in vitro embryoid
Culturing stem cells with a STAT3 activator and TGFβ inhibitor produces iEFCs that efficiently form embryoids with high fidelity to natural embryos, addressing inefficiencies in existing human post-implantation embryo models.
Patent Information
- Application Number
- PCT/CN2025/106680
- Authority / Receiving Office
- WO · WO
- Patent Type
- Applications
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Priority Date
- 2024-07-02
- Filing Date
- 2025-07-02
- Publication Date
- 2026-01-08
AI Technical Summary
Current methods for generating human post-implantation embryo models are inefficient and require intricate procedures involving the mixing of individual cell types, making them less effective in replicating the spatiotemporal organization of pluripotent stem cells.
Culturing stem cells with a STAT3 activator and a TGFβ inhibitor to produce induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) that can develop into embryoids, which efficiently form post-implantation embryo-like structures with high fidelity and similarity to natural embryos.
The method enables the rapid and efficient assembly of high-fidelity embryoids resembling Carnegie Stage 6-7 human embryos, requiring only a single culture dish and commercial medium, surpassing current methods in morphological and molecular similarity.
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Abstract
Description
METHOD AND COMPOSITION FOR PREPARING IN VITRO EMBRYOIDCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONThis application claims priority to Chinese patent application No. 2024108804758, filed on July 2, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety for all purposes.FIELDThe present disclosure in some aspects relates generally to method and composition for preparing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) and embryoids.BACKGROUNDThe spatiotemporal self-organization of pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) has been harnessed to generate 3D structures that mimic aspects of embryo development in vitro. While mouse PSCs, mixed with cell types representative of primitive endoderm and trophectoderm fates, can generate whole-embryo-like structures up to gastrulation stages, human embryo-like structures containing both embryonic and extraembryonic fates are mostly achieved only in pre-implantation models (blastoids) . Creating stem cell-derived models that recapitulate bona fide human post-implantation development remains challenging.Recently, several human post-implantation embryo models have been published using various human PSCs (hPSCs) . Among these, inducible transgenic systems have been employed to initiate extraembryonic programs, and the induced extraembryonic lineages self-organized with hPSCs to form structures that can model key events of post-implantation development. Alternative models with relative morphological and molecular similarity to the in vivo embryo can be generated from transgene-free systems using either hPSCs or extended pluripotent stem cells (EPSCs) . These models show formation of primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) spanning the peri-gastrulation stage to varying degrees. However, organization of embryo-like structures (e.g., embryoid) remains inefficient and most current methods rely on intricate procedures and the mixing of individual cell types. Thus, a more efficient and straightforward approach would be desirable.The disclosures of all publications, patents, patent applications and published patent applications referred to herein are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.SUMMARYThe present application in one aspect provides methods of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, and b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβinhibitor, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid.The present application in another aspect provides methods of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives exhibit a status of STAT3 hyperactivation, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid. The present application in another aspect provides a plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising iEFCs produced by the methods described above or herein.The present application in another aspect provides a plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising cells having at least two of three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR. In some embodiments, the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) . In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics.The present application in another aspect provides a plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising: a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , wherein the EPI-like cells, HYP-like cells, and TE-like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition. In some embodiments, the iEFCs further comprise extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, and wherein the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, the TE-like cells and the Ex-M like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.The present application in another aspect provides methods of producing an embryoid, comprising culturing a plurality of iEFCs described above in a 3D culture. The present application further provides embryoids generated by the methods described above or herein.The present application in another aspect provides embryoids comprising primodial germ cells (PGC) . In some embodiments, the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7. In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB.The present application in another aspect provides a cell culture comprising a) stem cells, b) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβ inhibitor described above) or a nucleic acid thereof, and c) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described herein) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator. The present application in another aspect provides a cell medium for culturing stem cells (e.g., human primed stem cells) comprising b) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβ inhibitor described herein) or a nucleic acid thereof, and c) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described herein) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator.These and other aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the subsequent detailed description and the appended claims. It is to be understood that one, some, or all of the properties of the various embodiments described herein may be combined to form other embodiments of the present invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGSThe drawings illustrate certain embodiments of the features and advantages of this disclosure. These embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the appended claims in any manner.FIGs. 1A-1H shows STAT3 activation synergizes with TGFβ inhibition to induce human identity. (FIG. 1A) Schematic of STAT3 activation to generate hnPSCs. (FIG. 1B) Dome-shaped colonies (indicated by arrows) emerged during STAT3 activation. Scale bar represented 100 μm. (FIG. 1C) Representative immunofluorescent staining images of the dome-shaped colonies expressing both pluripotent marker NANOG and marker KLF4. Scale bar represented 100 μm. n=5. (FIG. 1D) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing colocalization of STAT3 activation (pSTAT3) and pluripotency surface marker (SUSD2) (top) and KLF4 and SUSD2 (bottom) . Scale bar represented 20 μm. n=5 (top) and n=3 (bottom) . (FIG. 1E) Comparison of STAT3-mediated reprogramming efficiency using different TGFβ inhibitors. Mean±s.d., Ordinary one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons test. n=13 for mTeSR1 and SAM (RepSox) , n=6 for SAM (A83-01) . (FIG. 1F) Withdraw of GCSF abolished induction of SUSD2-expressing population. (FIG. 1G) Quantitative comparison of cocktail factors on SUSD2-expressing population proportion. n=2. (FIG. 1H) STAT3 activation level was promoted by synergies with TGFβ inhibition. Mean±s.d., Ordinary one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons test. n=3. hPSCs: human pluripotent stem cells, hnPSCs: human pluripotent stem cells, pSTAT3: phosphorylated STAT3, SAM: STAT3 activation medium, JAKi: JAK inhibitor. See also FIGs. 8A-8H and FIGs. 9A-9H.FIGs. 2A-2I shows STAT3-induced hPSCs generate blastocyst fates. (FIG. 2A) Principal component analysis (PCA) showing co-clustering of hPSCs with STAT3 activated SUSD2-expressing cells. (FIG. 2B) Sorting strategy for single-cell sequencing analysis. Control represents primed hPSCs. (FIG. 2C) Unsupervised clustering analysis of cells sorted from FIG. 2B. Cells are colored by sample collection strategy (left) and clustering affiliations (right) . (FIG. 2D) Pie charts showing SUSD2+, TROP2+ and PDGFRA+ cells were enriched in cluster0, cluster1, and cluster2 respectively. (FIG. 2E) Violin-plots showing expression levels of selected genes for embryo lineages and SAC subclusters. The cross marks inside the violins represent median values. (FIG. 2F) Representative flow analysis results showing emergence of TE-like (TROP2+) and HYP-like (PDGFRA+) populations from SAM-treated hPSCs (left) . n=8. Removing RepSox and GCSF (-RepSox-GCSF) abolished the induction of either TROP2+ or PDGFRA+ cells (right) . (FIG. 2G) Quantitative display of TE-like and HYP-like populations after 120h’s SAM treatment. Mean±s.d. n=8. (FIG. 2H) Uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) of the integrated dataset comprising the 120h SACs (triangle) and human embryo data from E3 to E14 (top) . Clustering results based on the integrated transcriptomic profiles show 120h SACs are identified as EPI-, HYP-, TE-, and ExM-like identities (bottom) . (FIG. 2I) Heatmap showing the Spearman correlation coefficients between SAC subclusters and human early embryo lineages. f. 120h. Susd2+: STAT3 activated cells generated on feeders for 120h and sorted by Susd2 antibody, ecm. 120h. Susd2+: STAT3 activated cells generated on ECM for 120h and sorted by Susd2 antibody, EPS: extended pluripotent stem cells, SAM: STAT3 activation medium, ICM: inner cell mass, EPI: epiblast, TE:trophectoderm, HYP: hypoblast, ES: embryonic stem cells. See also FIGs. 10A-10H.FIGs. 3A-3G shows STAT3 activation drives rapid reprogramming into distinct early human embryo fates. (FIG. 3A) Uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) layout showing the integration of 60h SAC from this study (dots) and embryo lineages (triangles colored by lineage identity) . (FIG. 3B) Expression of SOCS3 and lineage markers in FIG. 3A. (FIG. 3C) Projection of EPI, TE, HYP, ExM-like cells from 60h SACs in FIG. 3A to the embryo data showing good alignment to pre-EPI, E6 TE, HYP and ExM respectively. (FIG. 3D) Heatmap showing GSVA scores of SAC subclusters computed based on the top differentially expressed genes of embryo data. Higher scores indicate higher similarity. (FIG. 3E) STAT3 signaling level during early human embryo development. SOCS3 is an indicator of STAT3 activity level. (FIG. 3F) Representative genome browser snapshots showing similarity and differences in ATAC-seq signals between blastocysts, hPSCs and SACs. (FIG. 3G) Top4 opened Motifs in SACs compared to hPSCs detected via HOMER Discovery analysis. hPSCs: human pluripotent stem cells, EPI: epiblast, pre-EPI: pre-implantation epiblast, post-EPI: post-implantation epiblast, HYP: hypoblast, TE: trophectoderm, YSE: yolk sac endoderm, VE: visceral endoderm, ExM: extraembyonic mesoderm. See also FIGs. 11A-11G, FIG. 12FIGs. 4A-4F shows STAT3 activated cells assemble and develop into bilaminar disc embryo-like structures. (FIG. 4A) Schematic showing the generation of bilaminar disc-like stEM from STAT3 activated cells (SACs) . (FIG. 4B) Representative brightfield images displaying the morphologies of assembloids from Day1-4. n>10. Scale bar, 50 μm. Yellow arrows indicate the typical structures with clear presence of embryonic disk. (FIGs. 4C-4D) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing two types of stEM morphologies with bilaminar disc embryo-like structures. Scale bar, 50 μm. n>10. (FIG. 4E) Diagrams measuring the size and elongation ratio of stEMs generated from 120h SACs. The numbers of measured stEMs were 153 (day2) , 96 (day3) , 28 (day4) , 24 (day5) , 30 (day6) . Mean±s.d., Tukey’s multiple comparison test. (FIG. 4F) Quantitative scoring of stEMs with morphology1 and 2 generated from various cell lines. Mean±s.d. SAC: STAT3 activated cells, stEM: STAT3-mediated embryo model, e-stEM: enhanced stEM, AM: amnion, A.C.: amniotic cavity, EPI: epiblast, PS: primitive streak, YSE: yolk sac endoderm, YSC: yolk sac cavity, SYS: secondary yolk sac, TB: trophoblast. See also FIGs. 14A-14G, FIGs. 18A-18H, FIGs. 19A-19D.FIGs. 5A-5H shows stEM models gastrulation. (FIG. 5A) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing emergence of PS in the posterior region of EPI in Day6 stEM. Scale bar, 50 μm. n>10. (FIG. 5B) Representative immunuofluorescent staining images showing evidence of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 5C) An example of stEM showing a late CS7-like morphology. (FIG. 5D) Zoom-in images of the epiblast disc in FIG. 5C. (FIG. 5E) Schematics of the formation of streak line opposite oropharyngeal hole in CS7 embryo. (FIG. 5F) Quantitative scoring of stEMs / e-stEMs containing PS-like cells (T / Bra+) or bilaminar disc-like structure. Mean±s.d., two-way ANOVA with Sidak’s multiple comparison test. (FIG. 5G) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the migration of PS and specification of MES, marked by MIXL1. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 5H) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the specification of DE.Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. EPI: epiblast, PS: primitive streak, TB: trophoblast, stEM: STAT3-mediated embryo model, SAC: STAT3 activated cells, MES: mesoderm, DE: definitive endoderm. See also FIGs. 14A-14G.FIGs. 6A-6H shows transcriptomic analysis confirms stEMs as high-fidelity embryo models. (FIG. 6A) Uniform manifold approximation and projection (UMAP) analysis showing the developmental stages (left) and lineages (right) of embryo data. (FIGs. 6B-F) UMAP analysis showing integration of stEMs (FIG. 6B) and published human embryo models (FIGs. 6C-F) . (FIG. 6G) Scoring of complex lineage integration in stEM. (FIG. 6H) Bubble plots showing gene expression levels of the annotated clusters in stEMs. CS: Carnegie Stage, post-EPI: post-implantation epiblast, PGC: primodial germ cell, ExE Mesoderm: extraembryonic mesoderm, DE: definitive endoderm, VE / YSE: visceral endoderm / yolk sac endoderm, AVE: anterior visceral endoderm, stEM: STAT3-mediated embryo model, e-stEM: enhanced stEM. See also FIGs. 15A-15E, FIGs. 16A-16F, FIGs. 17A-17E, FIGs. 21A-21D.FIGs. 7A-7N shows stEM model mimics other key developmental events. (FIG. 7A) Subclustering of YS lineages in Day4 and Day6 stEM. (FIG. 7B) Bubble plot displaying gene expression associated with PYS and SYS in the subclusters from FIG. 7A. (FIG. 7C) Proportion of PYS and SYS in the Day4 and Day6 stEM data. (FIG. 7D) Representative fluorescent staining images showing YS development. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIGs. 7E-7F) Representative fluorescent staining images showing PGC specification in CS5 / 6-like (FIG. 7E) and CS6 / 7-like (FIG. 7F) stEMs. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 7G) Representative fluorescent staining images showing the presence of ExM. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=4. (FIG. 7H) Representative fluorescent staining images showing the presence of AVE in the anterior YS region. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=2. (FIGs. 7I-7J) Schematic (FIG. 7I) and representative images (FIG. 7J) showing syn-polar localization of AVE-like cells and PS in stEMs. Red arrow indicates AVE-like clusters. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3 for 60h SAC-stEMs, n=5 for 120h SAC-stEM. (FIGs. 7K-7L) Schematic (FIG. 7K) and representative images (FIG. 7L) showing anti-polar localization of AVE-like cells and PS in stEMs. Scale bar, 50 μm. Red arrow indicates AVE-like clusters. n=1 for 60h SAC-stEMs, n=5 for 120h SAC-stEMs. (FIGs. 7M-7N) Quantitative scoring of AVE and PS polarization in stEMs. AVE: anterior visceral endoderm, PS: primitive streak, stEM: STAT-mediated embryo model. See also FIGs. 18A-18H.FIGs. 8A-8H shows chemical screening for the induction of human pluripotent stem cells through STAT3 activation. Related to FIGs. 1A-1H. (FIG. 8A) STAT3 activation in response to GCSF indicated by SOCS3 expression after treatment for 48h. mean±s.d.; Ordinary one-way ANOVA with Tukey’s multiple comparisons test. (FIG. 8B) Representative immunostaining images showing pluripotent gene NANOG expression is lost in the presence of Chir under STAT3 activation for 60h. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 8C) Representative images of hPSC colony morphologies after treatment of various conditions for 4 days. Yellow arrow indicated dome-shaped colonies. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=4. (FIG. 8D) Impact of ACTIVIN A and FGFs on the cell numbers after the 4-day STAT3 activation treatment. (FIG. 8E) Dome-shaped colonies emerged during STAT3-mediated reprogramming on feeders or commercial extracellular matrix (ECM) . Yellow arrow indicated dome-shaped colonies. Scale bar, 100 μm. (FIG. 8F) Representative immunostaining images of dome-shaped colonies C1&C2 showing co-expression of NANOG and KLF4 after STAT3-mediated reprogramming on feeders for 4 days. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 8G) Representative immunostaining images of flat-and dome-shaped colonies showing distinct gene expression patterns after STAT3-mediated reprogramming on ECM for 7.5 days. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=2. (FIG. 8H) Flow analysis displaying SUSD2-expressing populations in various reprogramming conditions. hPSCs: human pluripotent stem cells, Chir: CHIR99021, L: LIF, P: PD0325901, G: GCSF, F: FGF4, A: ACTIVIN A, X: XAV939, Ti: A83-01, SB43: SB431542, DM: Dorsomorphin.FIGs. 9A-9I shows synergy between TGFβ inhibition and STAT3 activation promotes human pluripotent identity. Related to FIGs. 1A-1H. (FIG. 9A) Representative brightfield images of colony morphologies between GY118F-integrated and GY118F-free hPSC lines after culturing in STAT3 activation medium for 4 days. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 9B) Representative brightfield images of hPSC colonies after cultured in STAT3 activation medium with different conditions for 5 days. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 9C) Representative brightfield image showing emergence of dome-shaped colonies in feeder-free environment. n=3. (FIG. 9D) Representative flow analysis results showing SUSD2+ populations emerged during SAM culture with (top) and without (bottom) RepSox. n=2. (FIG. 9E) Quantitative comparison of populations in the presence and absence of RepSox. Bar heights represent mean value. (FIG. 9F) Relative expression of SOCS3 in response to GCSF and TGFβ inhibitors in GY118F-free hPSC line. Mean±s.d., Ordinary one-way ANOVA and Tukey’s multiple comparisons test. (FIG. 9G) Normalized read counts showing acquisition of pluripotent identity in SUSD2+ SACs. (FIG. 9H) Flow charts showing the emergence of marker SUSD2 and early embryo marker CD75 after SAM treatment for 120h. (FIG. 9I) Proportion of CD75 / SUSD2 dual positive cells in SUSD2+ population in (FIG. 9H) . hESCs: human embryonic cells, hPSCs: human pluripotent stem cells, SAM: STAT3 activation medium, ECM: extracellular matrix, SAC: STAT3 activated cells, f. 120h. Susd2+: STAT3 activated cells generated on feeders for 120h and sorted by Susd2 antibody, ecm. 120h. Susd2+: STAT3 activated cells generated on ECM for 120h and sorted by Susd2 antibody.FIGs. 10A-10H shows SACs contain cell subpopulations similar to blastocyst fates. Related to FIGs. 2A-2H. (FIG. 10A) Flow charts showing the time-course profile of TROP2 and PDGFRA during SAM treatment from 0-96h. (FIG. 10B) Representative brightfield images showing stable propagation of TSC-like colonies from TROP2-sorted SACs. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 10C) Representative immunofluorescent staining images of trophoblast-like colonies derived from TROP2-expressing SACs. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 10D) Representative immunofluorescent staining images of extraembryonic endoderm-like cells derived from PDGFRA-expressing SACs. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 10E) Representative immunofluorescent staining images of colonies derived from SUSD2-expressing SACs. Scale bar, 100 μm. n=3. (FIG. 10F) Spontaneous blastoids generated from SUSD2-expressing SACs after stabilizing for 4 passages. n=1. (FIG. 10G) Zoom-in examples of cavitated spontaneous blastoids in FIG. 10F. (FIG. 10H) Representative immunofluorescent staining images show typical spontaneous blastoid structure. n=1. SAC: STAT3 activated cells.FIGs. 11A-11G shows STAT3 activation generates reprogramming intermediates capable of forming all blastocyst lineages. Related to FIGs. 3A-3G. (FIG. 11A) Force-directed layout embedding (FLE) to visualize the STAT3-mediated reprogramming trajectories, colored by time points (top) and Palantir-inferred pseudo-time (bottom) . (FIG. 11B) Fate probability prediction of EPI, TE, HYP lineages of the SACs. (FIG. 11C) Level of SOCS3 along each trajectory. (FIG. 11D) Dynamics of expression of pluripotent (ARGFX, NANOG) , trophectoderm (ENPEP, HAVCR1) , hypoblast (ANPEP, GATA4) related genes along trajectories. (FIG. 11E) Unsupervised clustering analysis of 60h SACs. Cells are colored based on their clustering affiliations. (FIG. 11F) Bubble plot displaying expression of selected developmental genes in 60h SACs. (FIG. 11G) Expression of lineage markers in (FIG. 11E) .FIG. 12 shows the chromatin state of SACs acquires blastocyst-like features for key representative genes. Related to FIGs. 3A-3G. ATAC-seq profiles for OTX2 (expressed in primed hPSCs) , KLF4 (marker of identitiy) , SOCS3 (indicative of ongoing STAT3 activation) , GATA3 and GATA2 (expressed in TE) , ACTC1 (expressed in extraembryonic mesoderm lineage) and of CLDN4 (expressed in both hypoblast and TE) genomic regions in the indicated cell types (blastocyst, our and reference primed hPSCs, SACs and reference hPSCs) . Please note that SACs ATAC-seq profiles are very similar to those in the blastocyst.FIG. 13 shows SACs maintain imprint integrity. Related to FIGs. 3A-3G. DNA methylation over the paternally imprinted GNAS-AS1 and GRB10 loci and over the maternally imprinted L3MBTL1, MEST, and SNRPN loci. Each bar indicates a single CG, and the height of the bar indicates the fraction of CG methylation. Where multiple CGs are too close to be visually rendered separately, an average value is shown. The ICR (imprinting control region) is clearly demarcated and exhibits dense methylation relative to the surrounding genomic regions. Notably, imprinting is preserved in SACs.FIGs. 14A-14G shows SACs assemble and develop into bilaminar disc-like structures. Related to FIGs. 4A-4F and FIGs. 5A-5H. (FIG. 14A) Representative brightfield and immunofluorescent staining images of the Day6 aggregates generated from primed hPSCs. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=2. (FIG. 14B) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the assembly of 120h SAC from Day1 to Day4. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIGs. 14C-14D) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing bilaminar disc-like structures of morphology2 stEM from different angles. n>10. (FIG. 14E) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing malformation of hnPSC derived blastoids in IVC medium. Scale bar, 20 μm.n=2. (FIG. 14F) Diagrams measuring the size and elongation ratio of stEMs made from 60h SACs. The numbers of measured stEMs were 65 (day2) , 46 (day3) , 41 (day4) , 44 (day5) , 31 (day6) . Mean±s.d., Tukey’s multiple comparison test. (FIG. 14G) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the presence of yolk sac cavity. In the highlighted region of the embryonic disc where SOX2 expression is lost, cells exhibit a clear loss of apical F-actin (Phalloidin) polarity. SAC: STAT3 activated cells, stEM: STAT3-mediated embryo model, EPI: epiblast, PYS: primary yolk sac, SYS: secondary yolk sac, ExM: extraembryonic mesoderm, YSC: yolk sac cavity.FIGs. 15A-15E shows comparison of stEMs to embryo data and published models. Related to FIGs. 6A-6H. (FIGs. 15A-15D) Bubble plots showing maker gene expression levels of the re-annotated lineages in published human embryo models. (FIG. 15E) Heatmap showing Spearman correlation coefficient between annotated lineages in vitro models (stEMs and published models) and embryo data.FIGs. 16A-16G shows integrated single-cell transcriptomic analysis using a standardized annotation framework. Related to FIGs. 6A-6H. (FIG. 16A) Reference embryo atlas used by the Early Embryogenesis Projection Tool (Petropoulos &Lanner labs) . (FIG. 16B) UMAP showing projection of Day 6 stEMs onto the reference. (FIGs. 16C-16F) Projection of published human embryo-like models using the same framework. Cell identities were assigned based on the reference-guided annotation pipeline provided by the tool. ExM_Mes: extraembryonic mesoderm, PriS: primitive streak, DE: definitive endoderm, YSE: yolk sac endoderm, AdvMes: advance mesoderm, Axial Mes: Axial Mesoderm, HEP: Hemogenic Endothelium, CTB: Cytotrophoblast, STB: Syncytiotrophoblast, EVT: Extravillous Trophoblast. (FIG. 16G) Projection of PGCs and PGC-like cells from natural embryo and stEM datasets. Pie chart indicates the re-assignment of PGCs / PGC-like cells to the reference cell types. Please note that the projection of PGCs from natural embryo and stEM datasets is misannotated to primitive streak and epiblast.FIGs. 17A-17E shows anterior-posterior patterning in stEMs. Related to FIGs. 6A-6H. (FIG. 17A) Sub-clustering of selected embryonic lineages in stEMs. (FIG. 17B) Bubble plot displaying gene expression associated with anterior-posterior patterning in the subclusters from FIG. 17A. (FIG. 17C) Signaling gradient along the putative anterior-posterior axis in stEMs. (FIG. 17D) Sub-clustering of selected extraembryonic lineages in stEMs. (FIG. 17E) Bubble plot displaying gene expression associated with anterior-posterior patterning in the subclusters from (FIG. 17D) .FIGs. 18A-18I shows stEM model key developmental events. Related to FIGs. 7A-7N. (FIG. 18A) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the segregation of EPI and YS region by E- / N-cadherins. Scale bar, 50 μm, n=3. (FIG. 18B) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the presence of PYS and SYS in Day6 stEM. Scale bar, 50 μm, n>10. (FIG. 18C) Example of immunofluorescent staining images showing the presence of YSC in Day4 stEM. (FIG. 18D) Table recording the number of YSCs per structure in the Day6 bilaminar disc-like stEM. (FIG. 18E) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing evidence of AM collapse and migrating trajectory of PGCs in CS6 / 7-like stEM. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=1. Blue arrows indicate pro-amnion cells. (FIG. 18F) Representative fluorescent staining images showing the organization of extraembryonic tissues (BST2+ ExM and SDC1+ TB) in the stEM. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=2. (FIG. 18G) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the simultaneous integration of amnionic cavity, yolk sac cavity, and chorionic cavity in the stEMs. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. Yellow arrow indicates SOX2+ / TFAP2A+ pro-amnion cells, pink arrow indicates SOX2- / TFAP2A+ amnion-like cells. (FIG. 18H) Representative immunofluorescent staining images showing the presence of chorionic cavity in ExM region. n=1. (FIG. 18I) Representative fluorescent staining images showing the scattered localization of CER1-expressing cells. n=3.FIGs. 19A-19D shows independent hPSC lines generate stEMs. Related to FIGs. 7A-7N.Representative fluorescent staining images showing bilaminar disc-like stEMs generated from hES1 (FIG. 19A) and hES3 (FIGs. 19B-19D) . Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 19B) Representative images showing the prototypes of bilaminar disc-like stEM in Day4 generated from hES3. Yellow arrows indicate TBs co-expressing TFAP2A and GATA3, pink arrows indicate GATA3+ / TFAP2A-only TBs. (FIG. 19C) Projection and slice of Day6 stEM. (FIG. 19D) Side view (orange box) and dorsal view (blue box) of an example of Day6 stEM. AM: amnion, AC.: amniotic cavity, EPI: epiblast, TB: trophoblast, YSE: yolk sac endoderm.FIGs. 20A-20C shows examples of structures that are not included in lineage integration scoring. Related to FIGs. 7A-7N. (FIG. 20A) Immunofluorescent staining images showing examples of bilaminar disc-like stEM with imbalanced lineages. Scale bar, 50 μm. (FIG. 20B) Representative fluorescent staining images showing concentric bilaminar disc-like structures. Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3. (FIG. 20C) Representative fluorescent staining images showing PGC specification in (FIG. 20B) . Scale bar, 50 μm. n=3.FIGs. 21A-21D shows signaling pathway interactions across the whole stEM resemble those of a Carnegie Stage 6-7 natural embryo. Related to FIGs. 6A-6H. (FIG. 21A) Comparison of WNT signaling between natural embryo and stEMs. (FIG. 21B) Comparison of BMP signaling between natural embryo and stEMs. (FIG. 21C) Comparison of FGF signaling between natural embryo and stEMs. (FIG. 21D) Comparison of NOTCH signaling between natural embryo and stEMs. Biologically meaningful significant interactions (ligand-receptor pairs) within the signaling pathway are selected and visualized. Edge colors are consistent with the signal sources (sender) and edge weight represents the communication strength.DETAILED DESCRIPTIONThe present application in one aspect provides methods of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFC) by activating the STAT3 pathway in stem cells (e.g., human primed pluripotent stem cells) . Such iEFCs derived from a single culture dish can assemble a high fidelity post-implantation embryo-like structure (i.e., embryoid) in vitro with unparalleled high efficiency and unparalleled high similarity to a natural embryo (e.g., a natural human embryo) . The methods described in the present application provides a much more straightforward, potentially scalable, highly efficient and highly valuable tool for generating high fidelity embryoids that are unparallelled in their similarity to natural embryos (e.g., human natural embryos) to the best knowledge of inventors. Such methods provides huge potential for both researches and industry applications.The present application in one aspect provides methods (as described herein) with outstanding advantage to enable the use of primed PSCs (e.g., human primed PSCs) and thereby allowing the use of a culture that is simpler (e.g., only commercial culture medium is required) than those used for culturing PSC. The SAM can simultaneously transform human primed PSCs into cells with three lineage characteristics of the blastocyst stage, namely, epiblast-like cells, hypoblast-like cells, and trophectoderm-like cells as well as ExM cells. The methods of the present application do not require mixing multiple different cell lines to efficiently prepare an embryoid. Instead, they only needs to start from a single culture dish. Additionally, as shown in details in the examples, the methods of the present application enable the preparation of embryoids, which have hallmark structures of the CS6-7 period and are morphologically closer to the real embryo than currently known methods for producing embryoids to inventors’ best knowledge.The present application in another aspect provides a method for preparing an in vitro embryoid from a single culture of primed human pluripotent stem cells. The present application further provides a method for a) reprogramming primed human PSCs into naive PSCs by inhibiting TGFβ to enhance STAT3 pathway activation, and b) obtaining STAT3 activated cells (SACs) by activating the STAT3 pathway in primed human PSCs. SACs contain cells with three lineage characteristics of the blastocyst stage, namely, epiblast-like cells, hypoblast-like cells, and trophectoderm-like cells. Without mixing with other different cultured cells, SACs obtained from a single culture dish can be assembled into embryo-like structures with morphological and molecular characteristics of the CS6-7 period in suspension culture, simulating human post-implantation embryo development.Here it was investigated whether increased STAT3 activation in human PSCs could also generate cells competent to segregate all blastocyst cell fates and if this enabled the generation and development of human embryo-like structures. The findings described herein not only supported the hypothesis, but also resulted in the establishment of a high-fidelity post-implantation human embryo model, termed as STAT3-mediated embryo model (stEM) . This is not only direct and complete, but also notably efficient, accurate and advanced, exhibiting significant molecular and morphological similarities to the gastrulating human embryo. Highlights include: (1) STAT3 activation reprograms hPSCs (SACs) into hypoblast, trophectoderm, and extraembryonic mesoderm; (2) Upon 3D culture SACs form rapidly and efficiently a STAT3-mediated embryo model (stEM) ; (3) Day 6 stEM exhibits accurate morphological and molecular features of a gastrulating human embryo; (4) stEM shows unparalleled molecular alignment and identity with CS6 / 7 embryo reference.I. DefinitionAs used in the present specification, the following words and phrases are generally intended to have the meanings as set forth below, except to the extent that the context in which they are used indicates otherwise.The term “about” indicates and encompasses an indicated value and a range above and below that value. In certain embodiments, the term “about” indicates the designated value ± 10%, ± 5%, or ± 1%. In certain embodiments, the term “about” indicates the designated value ± one standard deviation of that value.The singular forms “a” and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, e.g., reference to “the compound” includes a plurality of such compounds and reference to “the assay” includes reference to one or more compounds and equivalents thereof known to those skilled in the art.The terms “individual” refer to any animal, in some embodiments a mammal, and in some embodiments, a human. The individual may include, for example, dogs, cats, pigs, cows, sheep, goats, horses, rats, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, monkeys, mice, and humans. In some embodiments, the individual is a human.It is understood that aspects and embodiments described herein as “comprising” include “consisting of” and “consisting essentially of” embodiments.The “mammal” described herein may be any mammal, including and not limited to rodents (such as mice and rats) , lagomorphs (rabbits) , carnivores (felines and canines) , artiodactyls (bovines and suids) , odd-toed ungulates (equines) , or primates and simians (humans or monkeys) . In some embodiments, the mammal is human. In some embodiments, the mammal is mouse.The term “antibody” is used in its broadest sense and encompasses various antibody structures, including but not limited to monoclonal antibodies, polyclonal antibodies, multispecific antibodies (e.g., bispecific antibodies) , humanized antibodies, chimeric antibodies, full-length antibodies and antigen-binding fragments thereof, so long as they exhibit the desired antigen-binding activity. Antibodies and / or antibody fragments may be derived from murine antibodies, rabbit antibodies, human antibodies, fully humanized antibodies, camelid antibody variable domains and humanized versions, shark antibody variable domains and humanized versions, and camelized antibody variable domains.In this application, "dissociation" refers to the dissolution of cell aggregates or clusters into smaller aggregates or single cell suspensions. The dissociation of cell aggregates can be achieved by conventional methods, including but not limited to enzymatic, chemical or mechanical methods. Enzymatic dissociation can be performed, for example, using Accutase, dispase, or trypsin.II. Method of producing iEFCs and embryoids, and methods of reprogramming human primed PSCs to PSCs.The present application in one aspect provides methods of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells (e.g., human PSCs, e.g., human primed PSCs) in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, and b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid. In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing the stem cells for at least 48 hours or 60 hours (e.g., about 60 hours to about 180 hours) in the presence of the STAT3 activator and TGFβ inhibitor.The present application in another aspect provides method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives exhibit a status of STAT3 hyperactivation, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid. In some embodiments, the status of STAT3 hyperactivation is inferred from SOCS3 expression levels, serving as a readout for STAT3 activity, and showing at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, or 20-fold higher, e.g., about 10-fold higher to about 40-folder higher) relative to the expression levels in the stem cells before culturing (e.g., maintained under standard culture condition) . In some embodiments, the SOCS3 expression level is assessed by RT-qPCR. “Maintained under standard culture condition” refers to culture with a condition that preserves stem cells’ pluripotency and promote proliferation without unwanted differentiation.In some embodiments, there is provided a method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells (e.g., human PSCs, e.g., human primed PSCs) in the presence of a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) , and b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) , thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid, wherein the method comprises culturing the stem cells for at least 48 hours or 60 hours (e.g., about 60 hours to about 180 hours) in the presence of the STAT3 activator and TGFβinhibitor.In some embodiments, there is provided a method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells (e.g., human PSCs, e.g., human primed PSCs) in the presence of an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) , wherein the cells have been subject to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) under an inducible system (e.g., inducible CRISPR, inducible promotor, inducible sensor) or a nucleic acid encoding same, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid, wherein the method comprises culturing the stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor and simultaneously induce the presence of the STAT3 activator for at least 48 hours or 60 hours (e.g., about 60 hours to about 180 hours) .In some embodiments, there is provided a method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells (e.g., human PSCs, e.g., human primed PSCs) in the presence of an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) wherein the cells have been subject to an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) under an inducible system (e.g., inducible CRISPR, inducible promotor, inducible sensor) or a nucleic acid encoding same, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid, wherein the method comprises culturing the stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 inhibitor and simultaneously induce the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor for at least 48 hours or 60 hours (e.g., about 60 hours to about 180 hours) .In some embodiments, there is provided a method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells (e.g., human PSCs, e.g., human primed PSCs) in the presence of an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) wherein subjecting the cells to a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) under a first inducible system (e.g., inducible CRISPR, inducible promotor, inducible sensor) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, and b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) under a second inducible system (e.g., inducible CRISPR, inducible promotor, inducible sensor) or a nucleic acid encoding same, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid, wherein the method comprises simultaneously inducing the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least 48 hours or 60 hours (e.g., about 60 hours to about 180 hours) .In some embodiments, there is provided a method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives exhibit a status of STAT3 hyperactivation, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid. In some embodiments, the status of STAT3 hyperactivation is inferred from SOCS3 expression levels, serving as a readout for STAT3 activity, and showing at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, or 20-fold higher, e.g., about 10-fold higher to about 40-folder higher) relative to the expression levels in the stem cells before culturing (e.g., maintained under standard culture condition) , optionally wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed by RT-qPCR. In some embodiments, the status of STAT3 hyperactivation is inferred from phosphorated STAT3 (p-STAT) expression levels, serving as a readout for STAT3 activity, and showing at least about1.5-fold higher (e.g., about 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, or 10-fold higher) relative to the expression levels in the stem cells before culturing (e.g., maintained under standard culture condition) , optionally wherein p-STAT3 levels are assessed by western blot.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ, a TGFβ receptor, or a SMAD family member (e.g., SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, SMAD7, SMAD1, SMAD5, or SMAD9) . In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ or a TGFβ receptor (e.g., a TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) (i.e., an ALK5 inhibitor) . In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically neutralizes or blocks a TGFβ receptor. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a soluble receptor or fusion protein that specifically neutralize TGFβ. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, or any combination thereof, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is RepSox. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) , wherein the nucleic acid targets TGFβ or a TGFβ receptor.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises a cytokine that activates STAT3 signaling pathway, optionally wherein the STAT3 activator comprises an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) or a leukemia inhibitory factor ( “LIF” ) (e.g., at a dose of 10-100 ng / mL) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is provided in a pulsed dosing regimen (e.g., replenish every 12-24 hours) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises a) an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , and a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator inhibits a negative regulator of STAT3. In some embodiments, the negative regulator is selected from the group consisting of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3) , Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3) , PTP1B, and a protein tyrosine phosphatase (e.g., SHP-1, SHP-2) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a constitutively active STAT3 variant (e.g., a variant comprises a Y640F or D661Y mutation) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a second agent that activates STAT3 (i.e., indirectly activates STAT3, e.g., MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor) . In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises an agonist that activates a chimeric receptor expressed on stem cells, wherein the chimeric receptor further comprises a STAT3 upstream activator (e.g., JAK1, JAK2, gp130) , a variant thereof, and / or a portion thereof. In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 or a variant thereof (e.g., a gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprising a substitution of Y118 such as Y118F) . In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor comprises the ligand binding domain of a granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) receptor, and the chimeric receptor is GY118F, further optionally wherein the STAT3 activator is GCSF. In some embodiments, the STAT3 inhibitor comprises of LIF and a MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor (PD0325901) , wherein an TGFβ inhibitor is also present in the culture.Stem cellsStem cells with the highest potential are called totipotent stem cells, generally referring to totipotent zygotes, 2-cell stage cells, 4-cell stage cells in the body, which can develop into intraembryonic and extraembryonic tissues. Pluripotent stem cells, generally derived from the inner cell mass of the blastocyst, usually have limited developmental potential and can only develop into intraembryonic tissues.Embryonic stem cells can be divided into and primed states according to their sources. stem cells are derived from pre-implantation embryos, have higher pluripotency, and can differentiate into extraembryonic tissues. The stem cells in the primed state are mainly derived from the epiblast cells after implantation, so they are also called EpiESC. Many researchers have found that human embryonic stem cells can be reversed from the primed state to the state at an earlier stage of development by regulating the cell signal transduction pathway, because the state is generally believed to have higher pluripotency. For example, only human embryonic stem cells have the potential to differentiate into trophectoderm. However, the state of human embryonic stem cells cultured in vitro is not the state, but the primed state. Although scientists have been looking for the acquisition and stable in vitro culture of primitive human embryonic stem cells, the currently commonly used human embryonic stem cell culture method can only maintain the cells in the primed state.In some embodiments, the method of producing iEFCs comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator.In some embodiments, the stem cells are derived from a mammal. In some embodiments, the mammal is a human.In some embodiments, the stem cells are derived from a single individual. In some embodiments, the individual is a male. In some embodiments, the individual is a female.In some embodiments, the stem cells are pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) . In some embodiments, the PSCs are selected from the group consisting of inducible PSCs (iPSCs) , embryonic stem cells (ESCs) , expanded potential stem cells (EPSCs) , somatic cell nuclear transfer stem cells (SCNT-ESCs) , and parthenogenetic stem cells (pESCs) . In some embodiments, the pluripotent stem cells are inducible PSCs (iPSCs) or embryonic stem cells (ESCs) . In some embodiments, the PSCs are primed PSCs.In some embodiment, the pluripotent stem cell population is an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) or an embryonic stem cell (ESC) . IPSCs and ESCs can be produced by any method known in the art. In some embodiments, the pluripotent stem cell (PSC) population comprises an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) . In some embodiments, the induced pluripotent stem cell is produced by introducing only the reprogramming factors OCT4, SOX2, KLF4 and optionally c-MYC or nanog and LIN28 into mature cells. In some embodiments, the induced pluripotent stem cell is produced by introducing the reprogramming factors into mature cells two or more times. In some embodiments, the pluripotent stem cell (PSC) described herein is an induced pluripotent stem cell (iPSC) . The iPSC can be from the same subject. That is, somatic cells can be obtained from a subject and reprogrammed into induced pluripotent stem cells. In some embodiments, the cells used to generate iPSCs are derived from a non-autologous source, for example, a commercial source.The inventors of this application have tested the methods described in Example 2 on five independent iPS an ES cells lines, and all worked. Accordingly, the described methods are believed to be useful independent of specific cell lines.In some embodiments, the stem cells are derived from a cell line. In some embodiments, the cell line is selected from the group consisting of H1, H9, H7, BG01–BG03, SA01–SA02, CHB1–CHB12, ESI-017, ESI-035, ESI-049, UCSF-4, UCSF-6, WTC-11, IMR90-4, a PBMC-derived line (e.g., PCS-201-010) , HUF1, and HUF5.In some embodiments, the stem cells comprise an exogenous nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor or a STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the exogenous nucleic acid encodes a constitutively active STAT3 or an upstream activator of STAT3 or a portion thereof.In some embodiments, the stem cells have been engineered to express a chimeric receptor comprising a) a receptor expressed on surface of cells, and b) a intracellular domain promotes activation of STAT3.TGFβ inhibitorTransforming Growth Factor-beta (TGF-β) is a multifunctional cytokine family (TGF-β1, TGF-β2, TGF-β3) that regulates cell growth, differentiation, and extracellular matrix production, playing a critical role in tissue development and homeostasis. In the TGF-β signaling pathway, TGF-β ligands bind to TGF-β receptor type II (TGFBR2) , which recruits and phosphorylates TGF-β receptor type I (TGFBR1) , activating receptor-regulated SMADs (SMAD2 and SMAD3) . These phosphorylated SMADs form a complex with SMAD4, translocating to the nucleus to regulate gene expression, while inhibitory SMAD7 modulates the pathway by inhibiting SMAD phosphorylation or receptor degradation. In stem cells, particularly pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) like embryonic stem cells (ESCs) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) , TGF-β signaling maintains pluripotency by promoting self-renewal and inhibiting differentiation in certain contexts, but it can also drive differentiation toward mesodermal or endodermal lineages (e.g., in embryoid bodies) depending on the cellular environment and co-signaling pathways.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ, a TGFβ receptor, or a SMAD family member (e.g., SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, SMAD7, SMAD1, SMAD5, or SMAD9) .In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is an inhibitor that targets a TGFβ receptor. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor targets a TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) , a TGFβreceptor type II (TGFβRII) , and / or a TGFβ receptor type III (TGFβRIII) . In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is a TGFβ type 1 receptor inhibitor (i.e., an ALK5 inhibitor) .In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically neutralizes or blocks a TGFβ receptor. In some embodiments, the antibody is a monoclonal antibody. In some embodiments, the antibody is selected from the group consisting of Fresolimumab (GC1008) , LY3022859, MAB240, 1D11, 13A1, 1901, XPA. 42.089, XPA. 42.681, and TGFB / 510.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a soluble receptor or fusion protein that specifically neutralize TGFβ. In some embodiments, the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a portion of a TGFβ receptor. In some embodiments, the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) or a portion thereof, a TGFβ receptor type II (TGFβRI) TGFβRII and / or TGFβRIII. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a fusion protein comprising TGFβRII and TGFβRIII.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is a small molecule. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, Pirfenidone, Tranilast, Fresolimumab, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor is RepSox.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) . In some embodiments, the nucleic acid targets TGFβ or a TGFβ receptor.In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor.In some embodiments, the method comprises subjecting the stem cells to a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., prior to the culturing) thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector, and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible promotor. In some embodiments, a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.In some embodiments, the method described herein comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor.In some embodiments, the method described herein comprises subjecting stem cells to the TGFβ inhibitor or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor.STAT3 activatorSTAT protein, or signal transducer and activator of transcription, can shuttle between the cytoplasm and the nucleus as a transcription factor and is phosphorylated by tyrosine kinases JAKs. It contains multiple domains that perform multiple functions, including SH2 domain, oligomerization domain, DNA binding domain, transcription activation domain, and tyrosine phosphorylation site. The STAT protein family has multiple isoforms, including STAT1, STAT2, STAT3, STAT4, STAT5a / b, and STAT6, which correspond to multiple ligands, including IFN-α / β, γ, IL-6, IL-2, and G-CSF.STAT3, as one of the seven members of the STAT protein family, is a component of the Janus activated kinase (JAK) -STAT signaling pathway, regulating a series of genes related to cancer cell survival, proliferation, angiogenesis, invasion, metastasis, drug resistance, and immune evasion. STAT3 has the dual functions of signal transduction and transcriptional activation in cells. As a signaling molecule expressed in a variety of tissues, STAT3 can be activated by a variety of factors, including cytokines, growth factors, neuroendocrine factors, ischemic hypoxia stimulation, etc. As a transcription factor with diverse functions, STAT3 can interact with a large number of signaling molecules and form a variety of intracellular and extracellular signaling pathways. When cytokines (such as IL-6, IL-10, IL-11) and / or growth factors (such as EGF, VEGF, FGF) bind to the corresponding cell surface receptors as ligands, it will cause the receptor protein to be phosphorylated, and then begin to recruit and activate JAK kinases. Phosphorylated receptors and JAK kinases can bind to the SH2 domain of STAT3 to cause STAT3 phosphorylation activation, and STAT3-STAT3 dimerization occurs, which is then transferred to the cell nucleus, binds to the corresponding DNA sequence, and regulates the transcriptional activity of downstream genes.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises a cytokine that activates STAT3 signaling pathway.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) or a leukemia inhibitory factor ( “LIF” ) (e.g., at a dose of 10-100 ng / mL. / In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is provided in a pulsed dosing regimen (e.g., replenish every 12-24 hours) .In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises a) an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , and a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) .In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator inhibits a negative regulator of STAT3. In some embodiments, the negative regulator is selected from the group consisting of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3) , Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3) , and a protein tyrosine phosphatase (e.g., SHP-1, SHP-2) .In some embodiments, the negative regulator of STAT3 is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid targeting the negative regulator. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) . In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO.In some embodiments, the negative regulator of STAT3 targets SOCS3. In some embodiments, the negative regulator is a) a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) targeting SOCS3. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid targeting SOCS3 is provided every 2-3 days (e.g., at a dose of about 20-50 nM) , or b) a small molecule (e.g., a histone deacetylase inhibitor, e.g., Trichostatine A, e.g., peptide mimetics mimicking SOCS’s kinase inhibitory region, e.g., KIR peptide) . In some embodiments, the small molecule is provided at a dose of about 1-5 uM.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is a phosphatase inhibitor. In some embodiments, phosphatase inhibitor targets SHP1 (e.g., TPI-1) , SHP2 (e.g., SHP009) , or PTP1B.In some embodiments, the phosphatase inhibitor is a SHP2 inhibitor.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a constitutively active STAT3 variant. In some embodiments, the constitutively active STAT3 variant comprises a Y640F or D661Y mutation.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a second agent that activates (e.g., constitutively activates) STAT3. In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator indirectly activates STAT3. In some embodiments, a MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor is used to activate STAT3. In this application, the MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitors include but are not limited to BIX02189, 10Z-Hymenialdisine, PD0325901, PD184352, PD198306, PD334581, PD98059, SL327, U0126, Selumetinib (AZD6244) , Trametinib (GSK1120212) , PD184352 (CI-1040) , PD98059, Pimasertib (AS-703026) , BIX 02188, TAK-733, AZD8330, Binimetinib (MEK162, ARRY-162, ARRY-438162) , PD318088, Refametinib (RDEA119, Bay 86-9766) , BI-847325, Cobimetinib (GDC-0973, RG7420) , GDC-0623 and APS-2-79.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator comprises an agonist that activates a chimeric receptor expressed on stem cells, and wherein the chimeric receptor further comprises a STAT3 upstream activator, a variant thereof, and / or a portion thereof.In some embodiments, the STAT3 upstream activator comprises JAK1, JAK2 or gp130.In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 or a variant thereof. In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprising a substitution of Y118. In some embodiments, the gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprises a Y118F substitution. In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor comprises the ligand binding domain of a granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) receptor. In some embodiments, the chimeric receptor is GY118F.In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator is GCSF.In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator.In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours. In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator for about 48 to about 60 hours.In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing or subjecting stem cells to a nucleic acid (e.g., an mRNA, e.g., a DNA) encoding the STAT3 activator (e.g., prior to the culturing) , thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector (e.g., a viral vector) or a vehicle (e.g., a lipid, e.g., LNP, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., a cell penetrating peptide) , and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible sensor or promotor. In some embodiments, a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.In some embodiments, the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours, 60 hours, 72 hours, 84 hours, 96 hours, 108 hours, 120 hours, 132 hours, 144 hours, 156 hours, 168 hours, or 180 hours) after culturing, have a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold to about 40-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) . In some embodiments, the SOCS3 expression is assessed by RT-qPCR.In some embodiments, the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours) after culturing, have a phosphorylated STAT3 level (i.e., p-STAT3) at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, 35-fold, 40-fold, 45-fold, 50-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) . In some embodiments, p-STAT3 levels are assessed by western blot.Culturing stem cells in the presence of a STAT3 activator and / or TGFβ inhibitor for producing iEFCsAs discussed above, in some embodiments, the method described herein comprise culturing stem cells in the presence of a TGFβ inhibitor (such as any TGFβ inhibitor described herein) and / or a STAT3 activator (such as any STAT3 activator described herein) . In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator and the TGFβ inhibitor for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours. In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator and the TGFβ inhibitor for about 48 to about 60 hours.In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the presence of LIF, a fibroblast growth factor (e.g., FGF2 or FGF4) , an MEK inhibitor (e.g., PD0325901) , a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) and / or a growth factor (e.g., ACTIVIN A) .In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the presence of RepSox, LIF, FGF2, ACTIVIN A, a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) .In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβinhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 48 hours, 50 hours, 52 hours, 54 hours, 56 hours, 58 hours, or 60 hours.In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβinhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about 60 hours to about 180 hours.In some embodiments, the culture does not comprise serum.In some embodiments, the container comprises feeder cells. In some embodiments, the feeder cells are Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts (MEFs) . In some embodiments, the MEFs are inactivated MEFs.In some embodiments, the container does not comprise feeder cells.In some embodiments, the container comprises a basal medium. In some embodiments, the basal medium comprises N2B27, KnockOut DMEM (KO-DMEM) , or DMEM / F12.In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of a Wnt activator. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of a GSK inhibitor. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of Chir99021. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of a Wnt3a protein or a recombinant Wnt3a protein. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of a Wnt5a protein or a recombinant Wnt5a protein. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of R-spondins (RSPO1-4) . In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of lithium chloride. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of SB216763 (GSK-3β inhibitors) . In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of BIO (6-bromoindirubin-3'-oxime) . In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of LY2090314. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of AR-A014418. In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the absence of TWS119.In some embodiments, the present application provides a method for preparing an in vitro embryo-like structure from primed human pluripotent stem cells by activating the STAT3 signaling pathway. The method includes the step of activating the STAT3 signaling pathway. Specifically, culturing the primed hPSC for 60-120 hours using a STAT3 activation medium (STAT3 activation medium, SAM) to obtain SAC (STAT3 activated cells) . The SAC contains at least two or three lineage cells at the blastocyst stage, namely, epiblast-like cells, hypoblast-like cells, and trophectoderm-like cells.In some embodiments, the method comprises the step of assembling STAT3 activated cells in vitro. Specifically, hPSCs cultured in SAM for 60-120 hours are dissociated and inoculated in a 0.1-0.2%gelatin-coated culture plate / dish, cultured in a 37℃ incubator for 30-60 minutes, and then the supernatant is collected and centrifuged to obtain hPSCs without the feeder layer; hPSCs are resuspended in N2B27 basal medium containing 10μM Y27632 or CEPT, and 2-6×105 / well cells are inoculated in a container (e.g., an AggreWellTM400 microplate (STEMCELL) ) , which is recorded as Day 0, and the culture plate is placed in a 37℃ incubator for about 24 hours to allow the cells to assemble into aggregates (assembloids) .In some embodiments, hPSCs can be used in a feeder-free system (e.g., matrigel, geltrex coated culture plate) to obtain SACs using SAM.In some embodiments, the method also includes a step of preparing embryo-like cells by suspension culture. Specifically, before transferring SAC aggregates, preheat the in vitro culture medium (IVC) containing GIBCO FBS at 37℃ for 30-60 min: On Day 1, take the AggreWellTM400 culture plate with assembled aggregates out of the incubator and carefully remove the liquid in the wells. Add 500 μl / well of preheated IVC culture medium to suspend SAC aggregates, and finally transfer all the IVC culture medium with suspended SAC aggregates to the suspension culture plate with the culture medium. Place the suspension culture plate in a shaker and culture at 37℃, 5%CO2, 100%humidity, 70-120 rpm; On Day 2, remove 1 / 2-2 / 3 of the culture medium and add IVC culture medium; Repeat Day 2 on Day 3; On Day 4, remove 1 / 2-2 / 3 of the culture medium and add IVC culture medium; Repeat Day 4 every 24 hours on Day 5 and longer culture. After Day 6, the SAC aggregates will develop into bilaminar disc-like embryos with structures such as trophoblast, amnion, amniotic cavity, epiblast, primitive streak, extraembryoinic endoderm / hypoblast / yolk sac endoderm, primary yolk sac, yolk sac cavity, secondary yolk sac, chorionic cavity, and stalk, which can simulate the embryonic development of CS6-7.In some embodiments, the step of maintaining and expanding the priming hPSC is included before the step of activating the STAT3 signaling pathway. Specifically, the primed hPSCs are maintained on a culture plate or dish coated with a feeder layer, maintained in mTeSR1 medium, and passaged when the confluence reaches 70-90%. During passage, the cells are digested with Accutase or TrypLE Express or pancreatin for 3-5 min, the digestion solution is neutralized and centrifuged to discard the supernatant, the cells are resuspended in fresh mTeSR1 medium, inoculated on a new culture plate or dish, and 5-10μM Y27632 is added; 12-24 hours after inoculation, fresh mTeSR1 medium without Y27632 is replaced and culture is continued, and the medium is subsequently replaced every 24-48 hours. mTeSR1 can also be replaced with commercial primed hPSC maintenance medium such as mTeSR1 plus and eTeSR1.In some embodiments, the method for producing an embryo-like structure comprises transferring GY118F-Hph into a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs) or ES line, assembling after 60 hours of activation in SAM, and culturing in an IVC medium containing GIBCO FBS, so as to obtain an embryo-like model with a complete structure.In some embodiments, the method for producing an embryo-like structure of the present invention comprises transferring GY118F-Hph into a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs) or ES line, assembling after 96 hours of activation in SAM, and culturing in an IVC medium containing GIBCO FBS, so as to obtain an embryo-like model with a complete structure.In some embodiments, the method for producing an embryo-like structure of the present invention comprises transferring GY118F-Hph into a human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs) or ES line, assembling after 120 hours of activation in SAM, and culturing in an IVC medium containing GIBCO FBS, so as to obtain an embryo-like model with a complete structure.In some embodiments, the method of producing an embryo-like model of the present invention includes transferring GY118F-Zeo into the human embryonic stem cell (hESCs) line TJ ES, assembling after 120 hours of activation in SAM, and culturing in IVC medium containing GIBCO FBS, so as to obtain an embryo-like model with a complete structure.In some embodiments, the method of producing an embryo-like model of the present invention includes transferring GY118F-Hph into the human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSCs) or ES line, assembling after 120 hours of activation in SAM, and culturing in IVC medium containing CAPRICORN FBS, thereby obtaining an embryo-like model with a complete structure.Subjecting stem cells to a STAT3 activator and / or TGFβ inhibitor or a nucleic acid encoding thereof for producing iEFCsIn some embodiments, the method comprises subjecting the stem cells to a nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator, thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells. In some embodiments, the method comprises subjecting the stem cells to a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor prior to culturing the stem cells. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is mRNA. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is DNA. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid is comprised in a vector (e.g., viral vector) .The nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator may be delivered by any method for delivering a nucleic acid to a stem cell known in the art. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator is introduced to the stem cells by electroporation. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator is introduced to the stem cells by microinjection. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator is introduced to the stem cells by nanoparticle delivery. In some embodiments, the nanoparticle delivery is lipid nanoparticle delivery of the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator is introduced to the stem cells by chemical transfection. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator comprises a promoter sequence. In some embodiments, the promoter sequence is an inducible promoter. In some embodiments, the inducible promoter is operably linked to each of the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or a STAT3 activator comprises an inducible sensor. In some embodiments, the inducible sensor is operably linked to each of the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is mRNA. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is DNA.
[0001] In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is comprised in a vector, wherein the stem cells are subjected to the viral vector. In some embodiments, the vector is a viral vector. In some embodiments, the viral vector is selected from the group consisting of a lentivirus vector, an adenovirus vector, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, a vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) vector, a herpes simplex virus (HSV) vector, a vaccinia virus vector, a pox virus vector, an influenza virus vector, a respiratory syncytial virus vector, a parainfluenza virus vector, a foamy virus vector, oncolytic viruses, and a retrovirus vector. In some embodiments, the one or more viral vectors is selected from the group consisting of a lentivirus vector, an adenovirus vector, an adeno-associated virus (AAV) vector, a herpes simplex virus (HSV) vector, and a retrovirus vector. In some embodiments, the viral vector is a lentiviral vector or AAV vector. In some embodiments, the viral vector is an adeno-associated virus type 2 (AAV2) vector.In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is introduced to the stem cells via a knock-in system. In some embodiments, a genome-editing enzyme is introduced into the stem cells. In some embodiments, the genome-editing enzyme is a CRISPR-associated enzyme. In some embodiments, the knock-in system is an inducible CRISPR system. In some embodiments, the CRISPR-associated enzyme is a Cas9, a Cas1, or a Cas2. In some embodiments, the CRISPR-associated enzyme is a Cas protein. In some embodiments, the CRISPR-associated enzyme is a Cas nuclease. In some embodiments, the Cas nuclease is selected from the group consisting of c2c1, C2c2, c2c3, Casl, Cas1B, Cas2, Cas3, Cas4, Cas5, Cas5e (CasD) , Cas6, Cas6e, Cas6f, Cas7, Cas8a, Cas8a1, Cas8a2, Cas8b, Cas8c, Cas9 (Csnl or Csx12) , Cas10, CaslOd, Cas10, CaslOd, CasF, CasG, CasH, Cpfl, Csyl, Csy2, Csy3, Csel (CasA) , Cse2 (CasB) , Cse3 (CasE) , Cse4 (CasC) , Cscl, Csc2, Csa5, Csn2, Csm2, Csm3, Csm4, Csm5, Csm6, Cmrl , Cmr3, Cmr4, Cmr5, Cmr6, Csbl, Csb2, Csb3, Csx17, Csx14, Csx10, Csx16, CsaX, Csx3, Csxl, Csx15, Csfl, Csf2, Csf3, Csf4, and Cul966, and homologs or modified versions thereof, or one or more vectors comprising nucleotide sequences encoding the aforementioned CRISPR-associated enzymes. In some embodiments, the inducible CRISPR system comprises the CRISPR-associated enzyme and a crRNA or guide RNA, or a nucleotide sequence encoding the crRNA or guide RNA. In some embodiments, the crRNA or guide RNA comprises a spacer that is cognate to a protospacer in a target sequence. In some embodiments, the target sequence is a safe harbor locus for inserting the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the inducible CRISPR system further comprises a host modifying DNA encoding the TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator.In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is for insertion into the genome of the stem cell. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor and / or STAT3 activator is for insertion into a safe harbor locus within the genome of the stem cell. In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the AAVS1 (PPP1R12C locus, e.g., at 19q13.42) . In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the CCR5 (e.g., at 3p21.31) . In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the hROSA26. In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the CLYBL (e.g., at 13q14.2) . In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the hROSA26. In some embodiments, the safe harbor locus is the H11 (e.g., on chromosome 22) .In some embodiments, the STAT3 activator encoded by the nucleic acid subjected to the stem cells comprises a sequence expressing phosphorylated STAT3. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid subjected to the stem cells comprises STAT3 operably linked to a constitutive promoter. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid subjected to the stem cells comprises STAT3 is operably linked to an inducible promoter. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid subjected to the stem cells comprises STAT3 operably linked to an inducible sensor.In some embodiments, the TGFβ inhibitor encoded by the nucleic acid subjected to the stem cells comprises a sequence that is capable of silencing or repressing TGFβ. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence that is capable of silencing or repressing TGFβcomprises a sequence that targets the TGFβ gene or a portion of the TGFβ gene. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence that targets the TGFβ gene or a portion of the TGFβgene is operably linked to a constitutive promoter. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence that targets the TGFβ gene or a portion of the TGFβ gene is operably linked to an inducible promoter. In some embodiments, the nucleic acid sequence that targets the TGFβ gene or a portion of the TGFβ gene is operably linked to an inducible sensor.In some embodiments, the methods described above produce a plurality of induced EFCs such as those described in the Section “induced Embryo Feeder Cells. ” In some embodiments, these iEFCs are capable of developing into embryoids such as those described in the Section “Embryoids. ”The present application further provides a cell culture for producing iEFCs and / or embryoids. In some embodiments, there is provided a cell culture comprising a) stem cells (e.g., any of the stem cells described herein) , b) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβ inhibitor described herein) or a nucleic acid thereof, and c) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described herein) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator. In some embodiments, the stem cells comprise or are primed PSCs. In some embodiments, the cell culture promotes production of induced embryo founder cells (e.g., any of the iEFCs described above) . In some embodiments, the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid (e.g., any of the embryoids described above) . In some embodiments, the cell culture or the culture medium comprises a) a TGFβ inhibitor, b) a IL-6 and c) a soluble IL-6 receptor. In some embodiments, the cell culture or the culture medium comprises 1) LIF, 2) a MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor (PD0325901) , and 3) an TGFβ inhibitor. In some embodiments, the cell culture or the culture medium comprises or further Activin A, 2) FGF2 and / or FGF4, 3) a Tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) .The present application further provided methods of producing an embryoid, comprising culturing a plurality of iEFCs (such as any of the iEFCs described herein) in a 3D culture, thereby producing the embryoid. In some embodiments, the iEFCs described in the present application are capable of developing into an embryoid in the absence of a cell derived from a different culture or source. In some embodiments, the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of Chroman 1, Emricasan, Polyamines, and Trans-ISRIB. In some embodiments, the iEFCs are cultured in a CEPT cocktail. CEPT enhances the cell survival rate of genetically stable hPSCs by simultaneously blocking several stress mechanisms that usually damage cell structure and function. In some embodiments, a ROCK inhibitor is used in lieu of CEPT. In some embodiments, the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of a ROCK inhibitor. In some embodiments, the iEFCs are cultured without serum. In some embodiments, the plurality of iEFCs comprise about 100-200 cells, optionally iEFCs comprise about 120-180 cells. In some embodiments, the method comprises culturing the iEFCs for about or at least about 4-6 days in the 3D culture. In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure.The present application further provides method of reprogramming human primed pluripotent stem cells (hpPSC) to pluripotent stem cells (hnPSCs) comprising culturing the hpPSC in a container comprising a STAT3 activator (e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described herein) . In some embodiments, the stem cells are cultured in the presence of1) LIF, 2) a MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor (PD0325901) , and 3) an TGFβ inhibitor. In some embodiments,the stem cells are cultured in the presence of 1) Activin A, 2) FGF2 and / or FGF4, 3) a Tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) , and / or 4) an TGFβ inhibitor. In some embodiments, the hnPSCs 1) form dome-shaped colonies, 2) express NANOG, 3) express KLF4, and / or 4) express STELLA.III. Induced Embryo Feeder Cells (iEFC)The present application further provides novel inducible embryo feeder cells that are capable of developing into an embryoid.In some embodiments, the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid in the absence of a cell derived from a different culture or source.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having at least two of three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR. In some embodiments, the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) . See e.g., FIGs. 12-13. In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics comprising a) expressing OCT4 and NANOG, b) expressing GATA6 and / or GATA3, and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR.In some embodiments, cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) .In some embodiments, cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells that express Sushi Domain Containing 2 (SUSD2) , NANOG, and / or KLF4. In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells that express SUSD2, NANOG and KLF4.In some embodiments, the iEFCs have an upregulated expression of one or more PSC associated gene as compared to stem cells, wherein the stem cells are primed PSCs. In some embodiments, the one or more PSC associated gene comprise DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, and / or PRDM14.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise SUSD2+CD75+ cells. In some embodiments, at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85%of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and CD75.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise SUSD2-CD75+ cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise a plurality of cells comprising a) at least one or more TROP2+ cells, and b) at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells, wherein a) and b) are different cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise at least one or more SUSD2high cells (as indicated by a higher SUSD2 expression as compared to the expression on stem cells such as primed PSCs in maintenance culturing condition) , wherein the at least one or more SUSD2high cells are different cells from the at least one or more TROP2+ cells or the at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) . In some embodiments, the EPI-like cells have upregulated expression of ARGFX and / or NANOG as compared to stem cells; the HYP-like cells have upregulated expression of GATA4 and / or ANPEP as compared to stem cells; and / or the TE-like cells have upregulated expression of ENPEP and / or HAVCR1 as compared to stem cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise a) EPI-like cells, b) HYP-like cells, c) TE-like cells, and d) extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells. In some embodiments, the EPI-like cells are capable of forming blastoid after being cultured in a hnPSC medium, the HYP-like cells are capable of being expanded in a hypoblast medium, and / or the TE-like cells are capable of being expanded in a TSC medium and / or generating TSC-like colonies, wherein the TSC-like colonies express GATA3, TP63 and / or low CDX2. In some embodiments, the EPI-like cells express NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, and / or TDGF1; the HYP-like cells express SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, and / or PDGFRA; the TE-like cells express GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, and / or ABCG2; and / or the ExM-like cells express NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, and / or VIM.In some embodiments, after about 60 to about 168 hours of culturing, about 10%to about 20%of the total cells are EPI-like cells, about 5%to about 10%of the total cells are HYP-like cells or ExM-like cells, and / or about 20%to about 60%of the total cells are TE-like cells.In some embodiments, the ratio between EPI-like cells and TE-like cells is about 2: 3.In some embodiments, the ratio between EPI-like cells and (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) are about 1: 1 to about 2: 1.In some embodiments, the ratio between (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) and TE-like cells are about 2: 3 to about 1: 3.In some embodiments, the ratio of EPI-like cells : (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) : TE-like cells is about 2: 2: 3 or 2: 1: 3.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more 8-cell associated genes as compared to stem cells. In some embodiments, the one or more 8-cell associated genes comprise DPPA5, KHDC3L, and / or TRIM60 .In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more morula associated genes as compared to stem cells. In some embodiments, the one or more merula associated genes comprise ARGFX, TBC1D23, and / or ZNF534.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more inner cell mass (ICM) associated genes as compared to stem cells. In some embodiments, the one or more ICM associated genes comprise ASRGL1, UPP1, and / or GDF3.In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of POU5F1, UTF1, and / or DUSP4 as compared to stem cells.In some embodiments, the iEFCs have one or more opened transcriptional motifs associated with one or more STAT3 downstream targets. In some embodiments, the one or more STAT3 downstream targets comprise GATA family (e.g., GATA3, GATA2, GATA6, and / or GATA4) , TFAP2C1, AP1, and / or TEAD family (e.g., TEAD4, TEAD3, and / or TEAD1) .In some embodiments, the iEFCs comprise hemi-methylated pattern characteristics or better hemi-methylated pattern characteristics of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of one or more imprinted genes than PSCs. In some embodiments, the one or more imprinted genes comprise one or more genes selected from the group consisting of H19 (maternal) , IGF2 (paternal) , DLK1 (paternal) , MEG3 (maternal) , RTL1 (paternal) , SNRPN (paternal) , UBE3A (maternal) , PEG10 (paternal) , PEG3 (paternal) , NNAT (paternal) , KCNQ1OT1 (paternal) , CDKN1C (maternal) , MEST (paternal) , ZDBF2 (paternal) , and SGCE (paternal) .IV. EmbryoidsThe present application further provides novel in vitro embryoids. Embryoid described herein refers to an embryo model comprising a bilaminar disc like structure. These structures mimic some aspects of early embryonic development, such as cell differentiation and organization.Embryo refers to developing organism in its early stages, typically from fertilization to the end of the eighth week of pregnancy in humans (after which it is called a fetus) . The embryo includes the preimplantation embryo stage, which covers all developmental stages from oocyte fertilization, morula, blastocyst stage, hatching and implantation. The term "embryo" may include oocytes fertilized after implantation in the uterus until 8 weeks after fertilization, at which stage they become, for example, human fetuses. Fertilized oocytes are often referred to as preimplantation embryos or preimplantation embryos until implantation occurs.The embryo is approximately spherical and consists of one or more cells (blastomeres) surrounded by an acellular matrix called the zona pellucida. During embryonic development, the number of blastomeres increases in a geometric manner (1-2-4-8-16-etc. ) . In human embryos, synchronous cell division is usually maintained until the 8-cell stage. Thereafter, cell division becomes asynchronous and eventually individual cells have their own cell cycle.Embryonic development generally includes the following stages: fertilized oocyte, totipotent zygote, 2-cell stage cell, 4-cell stage cell, 8-cell stage cell, 16-cell stage cell, morula, blastocyst, expanded blastocyst and hatched blastocyst, as well as stages in between (such as 3-cell or 5-cell) .The blastocyst is a spherical structure that is a hallmark of normal development and is essential for uterine implantation. Its formation begins with the delamination of trophectoderm cells on the surface of the morula on day 4 after fertilization. The trophectoderm forms a fluid-filled cavity, and the inner cell mass (ICM) cells further differentiate into two lineages -the ectoderm and the hypoblast (also known as the primitive endoderm) . The blastocyst-like, or blastocyst-like structure, not only mimics the overall structure of the blastocyst and systematically simulates the early development of the fertilized embryo, but also supports the growth of pluripotent stem cells and trophoblast stem cells.In some embodiments, the present application provides embryoids comprising primodial germ cells (PGC) . In some embodiments, the embryoids further comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) . In some embodiments, the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid. In some embodiments, “ahigh-fidelity embryoid” described herein refers to an embryoid a) have major lineages present in the natural embryo of the corresponding developmental stage including EPI-like cells, trophoblast (e.g., CTB or STB) , YS, amnion, ExM-like cells, AVE, PS, Mesoderm, DE, and PGC (see, e.g., FIG. 6 and 16) , b) integrate the above lineages (i.e., including EPI-like cells, trophoblast (e.g., CTB or STB) , YS, amnion, ExM-like cells, AVE, PS, Mesoderm, DE, and PGC) at the correct locations (See, e.g., FIGs. 4, 5, 7, 18, 19) , c) can recapitulate gastrulation, PGC specification, york-sec development, and A-P Patterning (see, e.g., Figs. 5, 7, 18) , and / or d) have high molecular similarity to the natural embryo (see, e.g., Fig. 15E, 21) . In some embodiments, In some embodiments, “ahigh-fidelity embryoid” described herein refers to an embryoid a) have major lineages present in the natural embryo of the corresponding developmental stage including EPI-like cells, trophoblast (e.g., CTB or STB) , YS, amnion, ExM-like cells, AVE, PS, Mesoderm, DE, and PGC (see, e.g., FIG. 6 and 16) , b) integrate the above lineages (i.e., including EPI-like cells, trophoblast (e.g., CTB or STB) , YS, amnion, ExM-like cells, AVE, PS, Mesoderm, DE, and PGC) at the correct locations (See, e.g., FIGs. 4, 5, 7, 18, 19) , c) can recapitulate gastrulation, PGC specification, yolk sac development, and A-P Patterning (see, e.g., Figs. 5, 7, 18) .In some embodiments, the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7. In some embodiments, the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7.In some embodiments, the iEFCs develop into the embryoid without going through a blastocyst stage.In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) .In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region.In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) . In some embodiments, the embryoid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB.In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) .In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises primodial germ cells (PGC) .In some embodiments, the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB. In some embodiments, the MES comprises a) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1, b) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts, c) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / or d) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5.In some embodiments, the embryoid has an A-P patterning.In some embodiments, the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern.In some embodiments, the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS -Part A1. A method for producing embryo-like cells in vitro, the method comprising the step of activating the STAT3 pathway in primed pluripotent stem cells.2. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the method comprises the step of activating the STAT3 pathway in the primed pluripotent stem cells using a composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells, wherein: preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells comprises granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells comprises granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in the cells comprises granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, fibroblast growth factor, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, fibroblast growth factor, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor.3. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein: the fibroblast growth factor is fibroblast growth factor FGF2 and / or fibroblast growth factor FGF4; the MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor is PD0325901; the Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor is one or more selected from XAV939, IWP, IWR, Pyrvinium, ICG-001 and PKF115-584; and / or the TGF-βinhibitor is one or more selected from A83-01, SB431542, DORSOMORPHIN and REPSOX.4. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, fibroblast growth factor FGF2, PD0325901, activin, XAV939 and REPSOX; or the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, IL6 and its receptor IL6R, fibroblast growth factor FGF2, PD0325901, activin, XAV939 and REPSOX.5. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the primed pluripotent stem cells are human induced pluripotent stem cells hiPSC or human embryonic stem cells hESC.6. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the primed pluripotent stem cells are primed pluripotent stem cells with or without GY118F gene integrated.7. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the method obtains STAT3 activated cells, wherein the STAT3 activated cells include epiblast-like cells, hypoblast-like cells and trophectoderm-like cells.8. The method according to embodiment 7, wherein the method further comprises the step of assembling the STAT3 activated cells into aggregates in vitro, preferably, the STAT3 activated cells are cultured using a culture plate or a culture dish to obtain aggregates; wherein: preferably, the STAT3 activated cells with the feeder layer removed are cultured in an AggreWellTM400 microplate to obtain aggregates.9. The method according to embodiment 8, wherein the method further comprises the step of suspending and culturing the aggregates to obtain embryo-like cells, wherein preferably, the embryo-like cells have one or more structures of trophoblast, amnion, amniotic cavity, epiblast, primitive streak, extraembryonic endoderm, primary yolk sac, yolk sac cavity, secondary yolk sac, chorionic cavity, and connecting pedicle.10. A composition, wherein the composition can activate the STAT3 pathway in stem cells.11. The composition according to embodiment 10, comprising leukemia inhibitory factor LIF and TGF-β inhibitor; wherein preferably, the composition comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor; preferably, the composition comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, fibroblast growth factor, MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor, Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor and TGF-β inhibitor.12. The composition according to embodiment 11, wherein the fibroblast growth factor is fibroblast growth factor FGF2 or fibroblast growth factor FGF4; the MEK / ERK signaling pathway inhibitor is PD0325901; the TGF-β inhibitor is one or more selected from A83-01, SB431542, DORSOMORPHIN and REPSOX; and / or, the Wnt / β-catenin signaling pathway inhibitor is one or more selected from XAV939, IWP, IWR, Pyrvinium, ICG-001 and PKF115-584.13. A composition according to embodiment 10, comprising leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, granulocyte colony stimulating factor GCSF, fibroblast growth factor 2, PD0325901, activin, XAV939 and REPSOX; or the composition capable of activating the STAT3 pathway in cells comprises leukemia inhibitory factor LIF, IL6 and its receptor IL6R, fibroblast growth factor 2, PD0325901, activin, XAV939 and REPSOX.14. A culture medium, comprising the composition of any one of embodiments 10-13.15. The culture medium according to embodiment 14, further comprising an embryonic stem cell basal medium, the basal medium being a basal medium comprising DMEM, Knockout DMEM, RPMI 1640 or DMEM / F12; preferably, the basal medium comprises DMEM / F‐12 and Neurobasal; preferably, the basal medium is N2B27.16. The culture medium according to embodiment 14, further comprises anti-hemoglobin Vc.17. A culture obtained by culturing primed pluripotent stem cells using the method of any one of embodiments 1 to 9, the composition of any one of embodiments 10 to 13, or the culture medium of any one of embodiments 14 to 16.18. The culture according to embodiment 17, comprising blastocyst two or three lineage-like cells; or comprising epiblast-like cells, hypoblast-like cells and trophectoderm-like cells; preferably, comprising epiblast-like cells with SUSD2+ marker, hypoblast-like cells with PDGFRA+ marker, and trophectoderm-like cells with trophoblast cell surface antigen marker TROP2+; preferably, the epiblast-like cells express markers including one or more of SUSD2, KLF4, KLF17, PRDM14, APPL2, ARGFX and STELLA; preferably, the hypoblast-like cells express markers including one or more of PDGFRA, GATA4, GATA6, ANPEP, SOX17, FOXA2 and RSPO3; preferably, the epiblast-like cells express markers including one or more of TROP2, GATA3, ENPEP, HARVC1, CLDN4 and ELF5; preferably, the culture is embryo-like, The embryo-like has one or more structures of trophoblast, amnion, amniotic cavity, epiblast, primitive streak, extraembryonic endoderm, primary yolk sac, yolk sac cavity, secondary yolk sac, chorionic cavity, and connecting pedicle; preferably, the culture simulates the embryo of CS6-7 period; preferably, the culture contains cells similar to the epiblast EPI, hypoblast HYP and trophectoderm TE of the blastocyst stage.19. Use of the method of any one of embodiments 1-9, the composition of any one of embodiments 10-13 or the culture medium of embodiment 14 or 16 in the preparation of embryoid bodies, embryo-like bodies, chimeric blastocysts and chimeric animals, in the simulation of implantation, or in the preparation of drugs for cell therapy.EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS -Part B1. A method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, and b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid.2. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor.3. The method according to embodiment 1, wherein the method comprises subjecting stem cells to the TGFβ inhibitor or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor.4. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-3, wherein the TGFβinhibitor targets TGFβ, a TGFβ receptor, or a SMAD family member (e.g., SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, SMAD7, SMAD1, SMAD5, or SMAD9) .5. The method according to embodiment 4, wherein the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ.6. The method according to embodiment 4, wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is an inhibitor that targets a TGFβ receptor, optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor targets a TGFβreceptor type I (TGFβRI) , a TGFβ receptor type II (TGFβRII) , and / or a TGFβ receptor type III (TGFβRIII) , further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is a TGFβ type 1 receptor inhibitor (i.e., an ALK5 inhibitor) .7. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-6, wherein the TGFβinhibitor is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid.8. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the TGFβinhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically neutralizes or blocks a TGFβ receptor, optionally wherein the antibody is a monoclonal antibody, further optionally wherein the antibody is selected from the group consisting of Fresolimumab (GC1008) , LY3022859, MAB240, 1D11, 13A1, 1901, XPA. 42.089, XPA. 42.681, and TGFB / 510.9. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the TGFβinhibitor comprises a soluble receptor or fusion protein that specifically neutralize TGFβ, optionally wherein the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a portion of a TGFβ receptor, further optionally wherein the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) or a portion thereof, a TGFβ receptor type II (TGFβRI) TGFβRII and / or TGFβRIII, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a fusion protein comprising TGFβRII and TGFβRIII.10. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the TGFβinhibitor is a small molecule, optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, Pirfenidone, Tranilast, Fresolimumab, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof, optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, or any combination thereof, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is RepSox.11. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-7, wherein the TGFβinhibitor comprises a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) , optionally wherein the nucleic acid targets TGFβ or a TGFβ receptor.12. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor, optionally wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours.13. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-11, wherein the method comprises culturing the stem cells in the presence of, or subjecting the stem cells to a nucleic acid (e.g., an mRNA, e.g., a DNA) encoding the TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., prior to the culturing) thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells, optionally wherein the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector (e.g., a viral vector) or a vehicle (e.g., LNP, e.g., a cell penetrating peptide) , and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible sensor or promotor, further optionally wherein a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.14. A method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives exhibit a status of STAT3 hyperactivation, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid.15. The method according to embodiment 14, wherein the status of STAT3 hyperactivation is inferred from SOCS3 expression levels, serving as a readout for STAT3 activity, and showing at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, or 20-fold higher, e.g., about 10-fold higher to about 40-folder higher) relative to the expression levels in the stem cells before culturing (e.g., maintained under standard culture condition) , optionally wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed by RT-qPCR.16. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-15, wherein the stem cells are derived from a mammal.17. The method according to embodiment 16, wherein the mammal is a human.18. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-17, wherein the stem cells are derived from a single individual.19. The method according to embodiment 18, wherein the individual is a male.20. The method according to embodiment 18, wherein the individual is a female.21. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-20, wherein the stem cells are pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) , optionally wherein the PSCs are selected from the group consisting of inducible PSCs (iPSCs) , embryonic stem cells (ESCs) , expanded potential stem cells (EPSCs) , somatic cell nuclear transfer stem cells (SCNT-ESCs) , and parthenogenetic stem cells (pESCs) .22. The method according to embodiment 21, wherein the pluripotent stem cells are inducible PSCs (iPSCs) or embryonic stem cells (ESCs) .23. The method according to embodiment 21 or embodiment 22, wherein the PSCs are primed PSCs.24. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-23, wherein the stem cells are derived from a cell line, optionally wherein the cell line is selected from the group consisting of H1, H9, H7, BG01–BG03, SA01–SA02, CHB1–CHB12, ESI-017, ESI-035, ESI-049, UCSF-4, UCSF-6, WTC-11, IMR90-4, a PBMC-derived line (e.g., PCS-201-010) , HUF1, and HUF5.25. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-24, wherein the stem cells comprise an exogenous nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor or a STAT3 activator, optionally wherein the exogenous nucleic acid encodes a constitutively active STAT3 or an upstream activator of STAT3 or a portion thereof, further optionally wherein the nucleic acid further comprises an inducible promoter controlled by the STAT3 activator.26. The method according to embodiment 25, wherein the stem cells have been engineered to express a chimeric receptor comprising a) a receptor expressed on surface of cells, and b) a intracellular domain promotes activation of STAT3.27. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein the STAT3 activator comprises a cytokine that activates STAT3 signaling pathway.28. The method according to embodiment 27, wherein the STAT3 activator comprises an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) or a leukemia inhibitory factor ( “LIF” ) (e.g., at a dose of 10-100 ng / mL) , further optionally wherein the STAT3 activator is provided in a pulsed dosing regimen (e.g., replenish every 12-24 hours) .29. The method of , wherein the STAT3 activator comprises a) an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , and a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) .30. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein the STAT3 activator inhibits a negative regulator of STAT3, optionally wherein the negative regulator is selected from the group consisting of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3) , Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3) , PTP1B, and a protein tyrosine phosphatase (e.g., SHP-1, SHP-2) .31. The method according to embodiment 30, wherein the negative regulator of STAT3 is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) targeting the negative regulator) .32. The method according to embodiment 30 or embodiment 31, wherein the negative regulator of STAT3 targets SOCS3, optionally wherein the negative regulator is a) a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) targeting SOCS3, further optionally wherein the nucleic acid targeting SOCS3 is provided every 2-3 days (e.g., at a dose of about 20-50 nM) , or b) a small molecule (e.g., a histone deacetylase inhibitor, e.g., Trichostatine A, e.g., peptide mimetics mimicking SOCS’s kinase inhibitory region, e.g., KIR peptide) , further optionally wherein the small molecule is provided at a dose of about 1-5 uM.33. The method according to embodiment 30 or embodiment 31, wherein the STAT3 activator is a phosphatase inhibitor, optionally wherein phosphatase inhibitor targets SHP1 (e.g., TPI-1) , SHP2 (e.g., SHP009) , or PTP1B.34. The method according to embodiment 33, wherein the phosphatase inhibitor is a SHP2 inhibitor.35. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a constitutively active STAT3 variant, optionally wherein the constitutively active STAT3 variant comprises a Y640F or D661Y mutation.36. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-26, wherein the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a second agent that constitutively activates STAT3.37. The method according to embodiment 36, wherein the STAT3 activator comprises an agonist that activates a chimeric receptor expressed on stem cells, and wherein the chimeric receptor further comprises a STAT3 upstream activator, a variant thereof, and / or a portion thereof.38. The method of 37, wherein the STAT3 upstream activator comprises JAK1, JAK2 or gp130.39. The method according to embodiment 37 or embodiment 38, wherein the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 or a variant thereof, optionally wherein the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprising a substitution of Y118, further optionally the gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprises a Y118F substitution, optionally wherein the chimeric receptor comprises the ligand binding domain of a granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) receptor, further optionally wherein the chimeric receptor is GY118F.40. The method according to embodiment 39, wherein the STAT3 activator is GCSF.41. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-40, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator.42. The method according to embodiment 41, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours.43. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-40, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells with or subjecting stem cells to a nucleic acid (e.g., an mRNA, e.g., a DNA) encoding the STAT3 activator (e.g., prior to the culturing) , thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells, optionally wherein the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector (e.g., a viral vector) or a vehicle (e.g., a lipid, e.g., LNP, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., a cell penetrating peptide) , and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible sensor or promotor, further optionally wherein a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.44. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-43, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours) after culturing, have a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold to about 40-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , optionally wherein the SOCS3 expression is assessed by RT-qPCR.45. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-44, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours) after culturing, have a phosphorylated STAT3 level (i.e., p-STAT3) at least about 1.5-fold higher (e.g., about 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, or 10-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , optionally wherein p-STAT3 levels are assessed by western blot.46. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-45, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβ inhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 48 hours, 50 hours, 52 hours, 54 hours, 56 hours, 58 hours, or 60 hours, optionally wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβ inhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about 60 hours to about 180 hours.47. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-46, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of LIF, a fibroblast growth factor (e.g., FGF2 or FGF4) , an MEK inhibitor (e.g., PD0325901) , a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) and / or a growth factor (e.g., ACTIVIN A) .48. The method according to embodiment 47, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of RepSox, LIF, FGF2, ACTIVIN A, a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) .49. The method of any of embodiments 1-48, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of feeder cells, optionally wherein the feeder cells comprise Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts (MEFs) , further optionally wherein the MEFs are inactivated MEFs.50. The method of any of embodiments 1-48, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the absence of feeder cells.51. The method according to embodiment 49 or embodiment 50, wherein the container comprises a basal medium, optionally wherein the basal medium comprises N2B27, KnockOut DMEM (KO-DMEM) , or DMEM / F12.52. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-51, wherein the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid in the absence of a cell derived from a different culture or source.53. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-52, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having at least two of three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR, optionally the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) .54. The method according to embodiment 53, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics comprising a) expressing OCT4 and NANOG, b) expressing GATA6 and / or GATA3, and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR.55. The method according to embodiment 53 or embodiment 54, wherein cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) .56. The method according to embodiment 55, wherein cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells.57. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-56, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express Sushi Domain Containing 2 (SUSD2) , NANOG, and / or KLF4, optionally wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express SUSD2, NANOG and KLF4.58. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-57, wherein the iEFCs have an upregulated expression of one or more PSC associated gene as compared to stem cells, wherein the stem cells are primed PSCs, optionally wherein the one or more PSC associated gene comprise DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, and / or PRDM14.59. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-58, wherein the iEFCs comprise SUSD2+CD75+ cells, optionally wherein a) at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85%of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75 and / or b) at least 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20%(e.g., 5%-30%, e.g., 10%-30%, e.g., 20%-30%) of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75.60. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-59, wherein the iEFCs comprise SUSD2-CD75+ cells.61. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-60, wherein the iEFCs comprise a plurality of cells comprising a) at least one or more TROP2+ cells, and b) at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells, wherein a) and b) are different cells.62. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-61, wherein the iEFCs comprise at least one or more SUSD2high cells (as indicated by a higher SUSD2 expression as compared to the expression on stem cells such as primed PSCs in maintenance culturing condition) , wherein the at least one or more SUSD2high cells are different cells from the at least one or more TROP2+ cells or the at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells.63. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-62, wherein the iEFCs comprise a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , optionally wherein:i) the EPI-like cells have upregulated expression of ARGFX and / or NANOG as compared to stem cells;ii) the HYP-like cells have upregulated expression of GATA4 and / or ANPEP as compared to stem cells; and / oriii) the TE-like cells have upregulated expression of ENPEP and / or HAVCR1 as compared to stem cells.64. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-63, wherein the iEFCs comprise a) EPI-like cells, b) HYP-like cells, c) TE-like cells, and d) extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein:a) the EPI-like cells are capable of forming blastoid after being cultured in a hnPSC medium,b) the HYP-like cells are capable of being expanded in a hypoblast medium, and / orc) the TE-like cells are capable of being expanded in a TSC medium and / or generating TSC-like colonies, wherein the TSC-like colonies express GATA3, TP63 and / or low CDX2; further optionally wherein:a) the EPI-like cells express NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, and / or TDGF1;b) the HYP-like cells express SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, and / or PDGFRA;c) the TE-like cells express GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, and / or ABCG2; and / ord) the ExM-like cells express NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, and / or VIM.65. The method according to embodiment 64, wherein after about 60 to about 168 hours of culturing,a) about 10%to about 20%of the total cells are EPI-like cells,b) about 5%to about 10%of the total cells are HYP-like cells or ExM-like cells, and / orc) about 20%to about 60%of the total cells are TE-like cells.66. The method according to any one of embodiments any one of embodiments 63-65, wherein the ratio between EPI-like cells and TE-like cells is about 2: 3.67. The method according to embodiment 64 or embodiment 65, wherein the ratio between EPI-like cells and (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) are about 1: 1 to about 2: 1.68. The method according to embodiment 64, 65 or 67, wherein the ratio between (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) and TE-like cells are about 2: 3 to about 1: 3.69. The method according to any one of embodiments 64-65 and 67-68, wherein the ratio of EPI-like cells : (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) : TE-like cells is about 2: 2: 3 or 2: 1: 3.70. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-69, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more 8-cell associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more 8-cell associated genes comprise DPPA5, KHDC3L, and / or TRIM60 .71. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-70, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more morula associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more merula associated genes comprise ARGFX, TBC1D23, and / or ZNF534.72. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-71, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more inner cell mass (ICM) associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more ICM associated genes comprise ASRGL1, UPP1, and / or GDF3.73. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-72, wherein the iEFCs have one or more opened transcriptional motifs associated with one or more STAT3 downstream targets.74. The method according to embodiment 73 wherein the one or more STAT3 downstream targets comprise GATA family (e.g., GATA3, GATA2, GATA6, and / or GATA4) , TFAP2C1, AP1, and / or TEAD family (e.g., TEAD4, TEAD3, and / or TEAD1) .75. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-74, wherein the iEFCs comprise hemi-methylated pattern characteristics or better hemi-methylated pattern characteristics of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of one or more imprinted genes than PSCs, optionally wherein the one or more imprinted genes comprise one or more genes selected from the group consisting of H19 (maternal) , IGF2 (paternal) , DLK1 (paternal) , MEG3 (maternal) , RTL1 (paternal) , SNRPN (paternal) , UBE3A (maternal) , PEG10 (paternal) , PEG3 (paternal) , NNAT (paternal) , KCNQ1OT1 (paternal) , CDKN1C (maternal) , MEST (paternal) , ZDBF2 (paternal) , and SGCE (paternal) .76. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-75, wherein the iEFCs are capable of developing into a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure, optionally the iEFCs are capable of developing into a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure within about 4-6 days after being transferred to a 3D culture.77. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-76, wherein the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid.78. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-77, wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7.79. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-78, wherein the iEFCs develop into the embryoid without going through a blastocyst stage.80. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-79, wherein the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) .81. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-80, wherein the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region.82. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-81, wherein the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB.83. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-82, wherein the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) .84. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-83, wherein the embryoid comprises primodial germ cells (PGC) .85. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-84, wherein the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:a) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,b) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,c) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / ord) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5.86. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-85, wherein the embryoid has an A-P patterning.87. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-86, wherein the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern.88. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-87, wherein the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.89. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-88, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least about any of 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20% (e.g., about 20%to about 60%) of developing into an embryoid comprising a bilaminar disc. In some embodiments, efficiency of developing into an embryoid described herein is determined by immunostaining. In brief, any embryo model containing T-expressing cells were calculated as T / Bra+. For the term ‘bilaminar’ , only those embryo model showing co-existence of epiblast (SOX2+ or OCT4+) , yolk sac (GATA6+) , yolk sac cavity-like space in the yolk sac region, and T-expressing cells sitting between epiblast and yolk sac, or those showing co-existence of epiblast disc (SOX2+) , yolk sac endoderm disc (SOX17+) , and trophoblast (GATA3+) , were calculated as bilaminar disc-like structure, regardless of the cavity size.90. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-89, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, or 11% (e.g., about 7.6%to about 14.8%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, and TB.91. The method according to any one of embodiments 1-90, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 1%, 3%, 4%, or 5% (e.g., about 4.2%to about 6%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, CC, and TB.92. A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising iEFCs produced by any one of embodiments 1-91.93. A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising cells having at least two of three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR, optionally the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) .94. The plurality of iEFCs of embodiment 92 or 93, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics comprising a) expressing OCT4 and NANOG, b) expressing GATA6 and / or GATA3, and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR.95. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-94, wherein cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) .96. The plurality of iEFCs of embodiment 95, wherein cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells.97. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-96, wherein the iEFCs further comprise a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) .98. The plurality of iEFCs of embodiment 97, wherein the cells having two or three characteristics, the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, and the TE-like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.99. The plurality of iEFCs of embodiment 97 or 98, wherein the iEFCs further comprise extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein the cells having two or three characteristics, the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, the TE-like cells and the Ex-M like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.100. A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising: a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , wherein the EPI-like cells, HYP-like cells, and TE-like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.101. The plurality of iEFCs of embodiment 100, wherein the iEFCs further comprise extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, the TE-like cells and the Ex-M like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.102. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 95-101, wherein:i) the EPI-like cells have upregulated expression of ARGFX and / or NANOG as compared to stem cells;ii) the HYP-like cells have upregulated expression of GATA4 and / or ANPEP as compared to stem cells; and / oriii) the TE-like cells have upregulated expression of ENPEP and / or HAVCR1 as compared to stem cells.103. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 95-102, wherein:a) the EPI-like cells are capable of forming blastoid after being cultured in a hnPSC medium,b) the HYP-like cells are capable of being expanded in a hypoblast medium, and / orc) the TE-like cells are capable of being expanded in a TSC medium and / or generating TSC-like colonies, wherein the TSC-like colonies express GATA3, TP63 and / or low CDX2.104. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 95-103, wherein:a) the EPI-like cells express NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, and / or TDGF1;b) the HYP-like cells express SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, and / or PDGFRA;c) the TE-like cells express GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, and / or ABCG2; and / ord) the ExM-like cells express NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, and / or VIM.105. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 95-104, wherein:a) about 10%to about 20%of the total cells are EPI-like cells,b) about 5%to about 10%of the total cells are HYP-like cells or ExM-like cells, and / orc) about 20%to about 60%of the total cells are TE-like cells.106. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 99, and 101-105, wherein the ratio between EPI-like cells and TE-like cells is about 2: 3.107. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 99, and 101-106, wherein the ratio between EPI-like cells and (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) are about 1: 1 to about 2: 1.108. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 99, and 101-107, wherein the ratio between (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) and TE-like cells are about 2: 3 to about 1: 3.109. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 99, and 101-108, wherein the ratio of EPI-like cells : (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) : TE-like cells is about 2: 2: 3 or 2: 1: 3.110. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-109, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express Sushi Domain Containing 2 (SUSD2) , NANOG, and / or KLF4, optionally wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express SUSD2, NANOG and KLF4.111. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-110, wherein the iEFCs have an upregulated expression of one or more PSC associated gene as compared to stem cells, wherein the stem cells are primed PSCs, optionally wherein the one or more PSC associated gene comprise DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, and / or PRDM14.112. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-111, wherein the iEFCs comprise SUSD2+CD75+ cells, optionally wherein a) at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85%of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75 and / or b) at least 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% (e.g., 5%-30%, e.g., 10%-30%, e.g., 20%-30%) of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75.113. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-112, wherein the iEFCs comprise SUSD2-CD75+ cells.114. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-113, wherein the iEFCs comprise at least one or more SUSD2high cells (as indicated by a higher SUSD2 expression as compared to the expression on stem cells such as primed PSCs in maintenance culturing condition) , wherein the at least one or more SUSD2high cells are different cells from the at least one or more TROP2+ cells or the at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells.115. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-114, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more 8-cell associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more 8-cell associated genes comprise DPPA5, KHDC3L, and / or TRIM60 .116. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-115, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more morula associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more merula associated genes comprise ARGFX, TBC1D23, and / or ZNF534.117. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-116, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more inner cell mass (ICM) associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more ICM associated genes comprise ASRGL1, UPP1, and / or GDF3.118. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-117, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of UTF1 and / or DUSP4 as compared to stem cells.119. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-118, wherein the iEFCs have one or more opened transcriptional motifs associated with one or more STAT3 downstream targets, optionally wherein the one or more STAT3 downstream targets comprise GATA family (e.g., GATA3, GATA2, GATA6, and / or GATA4) , TFAP2C1, AP1, and / or TEAD family (e.g., TEAD4, TEAD3, and / or TEAD1) .120. The plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-119, wherein the iEFCs comprise hemi-methylated pattern characteristics or better hemi-methylated pattern characteristics of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of one or more imprinted genes than PSCs, optionally wherein the one or more imprinted genes comprise one or more genes selected from the group consisting of H19 (maternal) , IGF2 (paternal) , DLK1 (paternal) , MEG3 (maternal) , RTL1 (paternal) , SNRPN (paternal) , UBE3A (maternal) , PEG10 (paternal) , PEG3 (paternal) , NNAT (paternal) , KCNQ1OT1 (paternal) , CDKN1C (maternal) , MEST (paternal) , ZDBF2 (paternal) , and SGCE (paternal) .121. A method of producing an embryoid, comprising culturing a plurality of iEFCs of any one of embodiments 92-120, comprising culturing iEFCs in a 3D culture, thereby producing the embryoid.122. The method according to embodiment 121, wherein the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of Chroman 1, Emricasan, Polyamines, and Trans-ISRIB, optionally wherein the iEFCs are cultured in a CEPT cocktail.123. The method according to embodiment 121, wherein the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of a ROCK inhibitor.124. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-123, wherein the plurality of iEFCs comprise about 100-200 cells, optionally iEFCs comprise about 120-180 cells.125. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-124, wherein the method comprises culturing the iEFCs for about or at least about 4-6 days in the 3D culture, and wherein the embryoid comprises a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure.126. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-125, wherein the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid.127. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-126, wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7.128. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-127, wherein the iEFCs develop into the embryoid without going through a blastocyst stage.129. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-128, wherein the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) .130. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-129, wherein the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region.131. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-130, wherein the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB.132. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-131, wherein the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) .133. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-132, wherein the embryoid comprises primodial germ cells (PGC) .134. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-133, wherein the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:a) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,b) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,c) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / ord) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5.135. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-134, wherein the embryoid has an A-P patterning.136. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-135, wherein the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern.137. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-136, wherein the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.138. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-137, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least about any of 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20% (e.g., about 20%to about 60%) of developing into an embryoid comprising a bilaminar disc.139. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-138, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, or 11% (e.g., about 7.6%to about 14.8%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, and TB.140. The method according to any one of embodiments 121-139, wherein the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 1%, 3%, 4%, or 5% (e.g., about 4.2%to about 6%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, CC, and TB.141. An embryoid generated by the method according to any one of embodiments 121-140.142. An embryoid comprising primodial germ cells (PGC) optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7.143. The embryoid according to embodiment 141 or 142, wherein the embryoid are derived from primed PSCs, optionally the primed PSCs are human primed PSCs.144. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-143, wherein the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid.145. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-144, wherein the embryoid is developed without going through a blastocyst stage.146. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-145, wherein the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) .147. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-146, wherein the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region.148. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-147, wherein the embryoid comprises chorionic cavity (CC) .149. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-148, wherein the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB.150. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-149, wherein the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) .151. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-150, wherein the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:a) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,b) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,c) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / ord) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5.152. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-151, wherein the embryoid has an A-P patterning.153. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-152, wherein the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern.154. The embryoid according to any one of embodiments 141-153, wherein the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.155. A culture medium comprising a) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβ inhibitor described above) or a nucleic acid thereof, and b) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described above) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator.156. A cell culture comprising a) stem cells, b) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβinhibitor described above) or a nucleic acid thereof, and b) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells (“STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described above) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator.157. The cell culture according to embodiment 156, wherein the stem cells comprise or are primed PSCs.158. The culture mediuam or cell culture according to embodiment any of 155-157, wherein a) the cell culture promotes production of induced embryo founder cells (e.g., any of the iEFCs described above) , and / or the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid (e.g., any of the embryoids described above) .159. A method of reprogramming human primed pluripotent stem cells (hpPSC) to pluripotent stem cells (hnPSCs) comprising culturing the hpPSC in a container comprising a STAT3 activator.160. The method according to embodiment 159, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of a) LIF, 2) a MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor (PD0325901) , and / or d) an TGFβinhibitor.161. The method according to embodiment 159 or 160, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of a) Activin A, b) FGF2 and / or FGF4, c) a Tankyrase inhibitor, and / or d) an TGFβ inhibitor.162. The method according to any one of embodiments 159-161, wherein the hnPSCs a) form dome-shaped colonies, b) express NANOG, c) express KLF4, and / or d) express STELLA.EXAMPLESHuman embryo models hold great promise for studying development and advancing medicine. However, current models lack efficiency and fidelity in replicating post-implantation stages. Here, it was investigated whether STAT3 activation can reprogram pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) into early fates that self-organize into embryo models. Using a medium enhancing STAT3 activity (SAM) , PSCs reprogram within 60-hours into hypoblast, trophectoderm, epiblast, and extraembryonic-mesoderm. Dissociating SAM-treated PSCs at 60-120 hours, followed by 3D culture, results in dynamic development of post-implantation embryo-like replicas with up to 52.41±8.92%efficiency. Resulting day 6 examples range from Carnegie Stages (CS) 5 to 7-embryo, displaying a bilaminar disc structure with epiblast and yolk-sac, amniotic cavity, mesenchymal tissue, chorionic cavity, and trophoblast. Notably, CS6 / 7-like examples exhibit gastrulation, including the formation and correct positioning of primitive streak, epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition, mesoderm, and definitive endoderm. The STAT3-mediated embryo model (stEM) also displays unparalleled molecular alignment with CS6 / 7 embryo reference. Thus, stEM offers a state-of-the-art model for advancing human embryogenesis research.The examples below are intended to be purely exemplary of the application and should therefore not be considered to limit the application in any way. The following examples and detailed description are offered by way of illustration and not by way of limitation.Example 1: Screening of factors promoting STAT3-mediated primed to reprogrammingTo investigate if increased STAT3 activity can mediate the reprogramming of primed hPSCs (hpPSCs) into intermediates resembling earlier developmental stages, its potential to induce hpPSCs towards a humanpluripotent cell identity was first examined. The aim was to determine if STAT3 activity can facilitate a transition from primed pluripotency to earlier developmental stages, producing cells capable of giving rise to or representing all blastocyst fates. A human primed iPSC line with an inducible STAT3 activation system (GY118F) (Stuart, H.T., et al. (2019) . Cell Stem Cell 25, 388-406. e8) was used. This allowed for specifically activating STAT3 signaling using the cytokine GCSF (G) , while ensuring that this activation was not affected by the intrinsic negative feedback regulatory circuit. Therefore, the STAT3 negative feedback regulator SOCS3 can serve as an indicator of the level of STAT3 activation (FIG. 8A) . In the murine system, increased STAT3 activation in LIF plus Chir (CHIR99021, GSK3βinhibitor) culture condition is sufficient to mediatetransition (Stuart, H.T., et al. (2019) . Cell Stem Cell 25, 388-406. e8; Stuart, H.T., et al. (2014) . Curr. Biol. 24, 340–346; Van Oosten, A.L., et al. (2012) . Nat. Commun. 3) . To evaluate if this is also sufficient in the human system, hpPSCs were treated with GCSF for 60h in 0.3 μM Chir or in standard Chir concentration (1 μM) . In contrast to expectations, NANOG expression was downregulated in 0.3 μM Chir condition and was completely abolished in standard Chir concentration (FIG. 8B) . This phenomenon is however consistent with the fact that unlike mouse (n) PSCs, human nPSCs often required low or non Chir environment (Theunissen, T.W., et al. (2014) . Cell Stem Cell 15, 471–487; Guo, G., et al. (2017) . 144, 2748–2763; Guo, G., et al. (2021) . Cell Stem Cell 28, 1040-1056. e6) . Based on this, the conditions for STAT3-mediated reprogramming of hpPSCs under a Chir-free medium were explored.It was found that only STAT3 activation in combination with LIF (L) , MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor PD0325901 (P) and TGFβ inhibitor A83-01 (Ti) led to the emergence of dome-shapedcolonies (FIG. 8C) . ACTIVIN A (A) , FGF2 / 4 (F) , and XAV939 (X) (Tankyrase inhibitor) , known to support humanpluripotency (Theunissen, T. W., et al. (2014) . Cell Stem Cell 15, 471–487; Bredenkamp, N., et al. (2019) . Stem cell reports 13, 1083–1098) , were also tested. Neither of these are required to induce formation ofcolonies, however, ACTIVIN A and FGF2 / 4 were able to increase cell viability / proliferation (FIG. 8C-D) and XAV939 is known to stabilize the humantranscription factor network (Guo, G., et al. (2017) . Development 144, 2748–2763; Zimmerlin, L., et al. (2016) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1242 / dev. 138982) . These results show that, LIF, MEKi, and TGFβi cooperate with STAT3 activation to putatively induce hnPSCs (FIG. 8E) .To validate the generation of induced hnPSCs, the expression levels ofPSC-associated markers were looked at. Immunofluorescence data showed that the dome-shaped colonies co-expressed NANOG and themarker KLF4 (FIG. 8F) . STELLA, also known as DPPA3 and expressed in both pre-implantation embryos and primordial germ cells, was found to colocalize with OCT4 in dome-shaped colonies (FIG. 8G) . These results reveal that increased STAT3 activation promotes the formation of atranscription factor network, thereby reprogramming hpPSCs into apluripotent cell identity.Example 2: STAT3 activation synergizes with TGFβ inhibition to inducepluripotencyTo evaluate the impact of individual factors on the efficiency ofreprogramming, the proportion of cells expressingsurface marker SUSD2 (Bredenkamp, N., et al. (2019) . Stem Cell Reports 12, 1212–1222) were analyzed by flow cytometry after a 4-day treatment. As expected, SUSD2+ population was barely detected in hpPSCs (FIG. 8H) . Treatment of LPGFAXTi medium induced 6.51%SUSD2+ cells from hpPSCs and this was completely abolished by the withdrawal of GCSF (0.021%) (FIG. 8H) , demonstrating an indispensable role of increased STAT3 activation (pSTAT3) in this reprogramming system. Consistent with the morphology data, removing ACTIVIN A, FGF4, XAV939 respectively or replacing FGF4 with FGF2 did not greatly alter the proportion of the emerging SUSD2+ population (FIG. 8H) . However, the removal of A83-01 (Ti) led to a significant decrease in the SUSD2+ population (FIG. 8H) . To further investigate this, A83-01 was replaced with either SB431542, Dorsomorphin (DM) or RepSox, all of which also known as TGFβ type 1 receptor (also known as ALK5) inhibitors. Interestingly, it was noted that all these chemicals could replace A83-01 in generating SUSD2+ cells upon STAT3 activation, albeit to differing degrees of efficiency (3.24%-25.1%) (FIG. 8H) . As RepSox induced the greatest reprogramming efficiency compared to other TGFβ inhibitors and because FGF2 induced better cell survival compared to FGF4, these were included in the optimized STAT3 Activation Medium hereby defined as SAM, which includes LIF, PD0325901, FGF2, ACTIVIN A, XAV939, RepSox and GCSF. When culturing in SAM for 120h, colonies robustly emerged from hpPSCs harboring the GY118F transgene but not from hpPSCs without GY118F, further demonstrating increased pSTAT3 is necessary in this system (FIGs. 1A-1B and FIGs. 9A-9C) . A closer look at the time course emergence of SUSD2+ population during SAM culture showed thatpopulation continued to increase reaching 28.6%by 120h, but the removal of TGFβi, RepSox, from SAM resulted in the failure to induce SUSD2+ cells (FIGs. 9D-9E) . Consistently, a corresponding medium with only GCSF and a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., A83-01) but without LIF, PD0325901, FGF2, ACTIVIN A, and XAV939 also similarly reprogramed the PSCs.Profiling of 120h SAM cultured cells confirmed the co-expression of NANOG and the gene KLF4 (FIG. 1C) , as well as the correlation between emerging SUSD2+ cells and active STAT3 (pSTAT3) along withgene expression (FIG. 1D) . Quantitative comparison showed also that TGFβi RepSox optimizes SAM-mediated reprogramming efficiency in generating SUSD2+ cells (FIG. 1E) . In agreement with the abovementioned results, while ACTIVIN A, FGF2, XAV939 only slightly affected proportion of SUSD2+ cells in reprogramming, JAK inhibition and RepSox removal severely impaired it (FIGs. 1F-1G) . Interestingly, STAT3 activation in combination with TGFβi synergistically enhances SOCS3 expression, a proxy reporter for the level of STAT3 activation (Yoshiura, S., et al. (2007) . Proc. Natl. Acad. Sci. U.S.A. 104, 11292–11297) (FIG. 1H and FIG. 9F) .Collectively, it is concluded that TGFβ inhibition and STAT3 activation work together to mediate humanreprogramming in the SAM culture condition.Example 3: STAT3 induced hpPSCs generate all blastocyst fatesNext, SUSD2 positive cells cultured in SAM for 120h on feeders (f. 120h. Susd2+) or on extracellular matrix (ecm. 120h. Susd2+) were sorted, for bulk RNA-seq analysis. SUSD2+ cells generated in 5iLAF for 8 days (5iLAF. Susd2) were also collected as control representative of successful reprogramming (Theunissen, T.W., et al. (2014) . Cell Stem Cell 15, 471–487) . Principle component analysis (PCA) segregated the samples and reference samples as either primed pluripotent, capacitated, pluripotent, or extended pluripotent (FIG. 2A) . Control 5iLAF. Susd2 samples overlapped with referencehPSCs and with both f. 120h. Susd2+ and ecm. 120h. Susd2+ (FIG. 2A) . Normalized gene levels confirmed the upregulation ofassociated genes DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, PRDM14 in f. 120h. Susd2+ and in ecm. 120h. Susd2+ (FIG. 9G) . Interestingly, 120h. Susd2+ cells also showed upregulation of 8-cell enriched genes, ARGFX and ZSCAN4 (FIG. 9G) . Primed pluripotent related gene ZIC2 was downregulated in 120h. Susd2+ (FIG. 9G) . These results demonstrate that human pluripotent identity can be rewired efficiently and rapidly from hpPSCs by increased STAT3 activation.Interestingly, when flow cytometry analysis on SAM-treated hpPSCs was performed, hereafter referred to as SACs (STAT3-activated cells) , using the marker SUSD2 in combination with CD75, a surface marker exclusively expressed in pre-implantation embryos but absent from primed pluripotent cells and post-implantation fates (Collier, A. J., et al. (2017) . Cell Stem Cell 20, 874-890. e7) , a high proportion of dual-positive cells was observed. Specifically, SUSD2+ / CD75+ cells accounted for 87.6%of the total SUSD2+ population in hiPSC-derived SACs (19.0%out of 21.68%) , and 72.6%in hESC-derived SACs (25.2%out of 34.73%) (FIGs. 9H-9I) . Notably, CD75 marks all blastocyst lineages, including ICM, hypoblast (HYP) , and trophectoderm (TE) . The presence of CD75+ / SUSD2- cells suggests that, beyond pluripotent cells, other early embryonic lineages may also be induced following SAM treatment.To comprehensively understand the molecular features of the overall SAM-treated hpPSC population, 120h SACs with high SUSD2 (SUSD2H) and low / negative SUSD2 (SUSD2L) expression were sorted and analyzed by single-cell sequencing using SMART-seq2 (FIG. 2B) . Interestingly, unsupervised clustering analysis segregated SUSD2H and SUSD2L SACs into 3 clusters (FIG. 2C) . While cluster0 predominantly comprised SUSD2+ (SUSD2H) cells, SUSD2L cells were roughly divided into cluster1 and cluster2 that were respectively enriched for Trophectoderm (TE) marker TROP2+ (TACSTD2) and Hypoblast (HYP) marker PDGFRA+ (FIGs. 2D-2E) . SUSD2, TROP2 and PDGFRA are three surface markers associated with the 3 different blastocyst cell fates and these also define each of the three SAC clusters-cluster0, cluster1, and cluster2 respectively. In agreement with the transcriptomic data, flow cytometry analysis confirmed emergence of TROP2+ and PDGFRA+ cells during the 120h SAM treatment (FIG. 10A) . TROP2+ and PDGFRA+ cells could be sorted out from SUSD2-negative population using flow antibodies, and removing key signaling modulators RepSox or GCSF blocked the emergence of the two populations (FIGs. 2F-2G) . Notably, at the earliest analyzed timepoint (48 hours) , a striking upregulation of PDGFRA was observed, with the proportion of positive cells rising from 0%to over 40% (FIG. 10A) . In contrast, the proportion of cells showing upregulation of SUSD2-positive cells was comparably low, only approximately 3%at this stage (FIG. 9D) . Over the time course, while PDGFRA expression peaks at day 3 and then gradually declines, the proportion of SUSD2-positive cells steadily increased.When mapping the 120h SACs to E3-E14 embryo data, four distinct cell populations were identified: EPI-like, HYP-like, TE-like, and extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells (FIG. 2H) . GSVA score confirmed that the 4 populations shared great similarities to the corresponding embryo fates (FIG. 2I) .Next, it was tested if relevant cell types could be derived from specific SACs. As expected, TE-like cells could be sorted by TROP2 and expanded in TSC medium, deriving typical TSC-like colonies that co-expressed high GATA3 / TP63 but low CDX2 (FIGs. 10B-10C) . Similarly, HYP-like cells could be sorted by PDGFRA and expanded in hypoblast medium (FIG. 10D) . EPI-like cells could also be sorted using SUSD2 flow antibody, and after stabilization and expansion in hnPSC medium they were competent to form blastoids in self-renewing medium upon suspension using our previously published protocol (Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x) (FIGs. 10E-10H) .Together, these findings demonstrate that STAT3 activation in hpPSCs mediates the generation of early embryo cell identities, including all blastocyst fates. This method has been confirmed at least for cells obtained from 48 hours after culture to 180 hours after culture.Example 4: STAT3 Activation Drives Rapid Reprogramming into distinct Early Human Embryo fatesTo delineate reprogramming trajectories, scRNA-seq was performed on whole 60h SACs population and integrated this dataset with the three clusters identified from SUSD2 sorted 120h SACs (FIG. 2C) . Control hpPSCs were also integrated as the starting point (FIG. 11A) . Pseudo-time analysis predicted three distinct trajectories towards 120h SAC cluster0 (Trajectory0) , cluster1 (Trajectory1) , cluster2 (Trajectory2) respectively (FIG. 11A and FIG. 11B) . SOCS3 increased along each trajectory, in accordance with the fact that STAT3 signaling is active in all blastocyst lineages (FIG. 11C and FIG. 3E) . Of note, SOCS3 level reached a plateau approximate to the terminal of Trajectory0, which is consistent with knowledge in the mouse system that activated STAT3 signaling is important for transition (Van Oosten, A.L., et al. (2012) . Nat. Commun. 3; Yang, J., et al. (2010) . Cell Stem Cell 7, 319–328) . In line with the findings in FIGs. 2A-2H, EPI markers (ARGFX, NANOG) exclusively increased along Trajectory0, while TE markers (ENPEP, HAVCR1) (Io, S., et al. (2021) . Cell Stem Cell 28, 1023-1039. e13) increased along Trajectory1 (FIG. 11D) . Of note, although the level of ANPEP, a recently recognized HYP specific marker (Okubo, T., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) , increased along Trajectory2, its level decreased at 120h, probably due to the sustained presence of MEK inhibitor PD0325901 in SAM which is known to suppress HYP specification (Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x) . Nevertheless, conventional endoderm marker GATA4 was substantially increased along Trajectory2, indicating the establishment of HYP-like fate (FIG. 11D) . Collectively, the genes were categorized into several modules according to their expression pattern. Intriguingly, a shared set of genes upregulated in the initial STAT3 activation in all 3 trajectories were detected (data not shown) , including the genes that are enriched in 8-cell (DPPA5, KHDC3L, TRIM60) , morula (ARGFX, TBC1D23, ZNF534) and ICM (ASRGL1, UPP1, GDF3) stages, as well as some transcription factors including POU5F1, UTF1, DUSP4 that were recently reported to collaborate with STAT3 signaling to plasticize mouse primitive endoderm-like cells for all early lineages (Linneberg-agerholm, M., et al. (2024) . Cell 187, 1–20) .It was asked if any in vivo counterpart in the human early embryo was induced early during STAT3 activation, and thus the 60h SACs population was further analyzed (FIGs. 11E-11F) . Unsupervised clustering analysis divided the 60h SACs into 10 clusters (FIG. 11E) . While post-implantation developmental genes were not upregulated, high or moderate OCT4 (POU5F1) level was retained in majority of the clusters (FIG. 11F) . Similar to 120h SACs, it was observed that primed PSCs were reprogrammed into four main distinct cell fates. Specifically, reprogramming was detected into pre-implantation EPI-like (NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, TDGF1) , HYP-like (SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, PDGFRA) , TE-like (GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, ABCG2) , and ExM-like cells (NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, VIM) (FIGs. 3A-3D and FIG. 11G) . The molecular marker expression, molecular identity similarity to natural embryo cell types, and the mapping of the cells to reference embryo datasets were also all consistent with the reprogramming of primed PSCs into the four earliest cell fates in human embryo development. Interestingly, it was found out that human STAT3 activation, as measured by SOCS3 expression, first occurs in the early blastocyst, and coincides with the timing of lineage segregation (EPI, HYP, and TE) (FIG. 3E) . After implantation, STAT3 activation level diminishes quickly in most of the post-implantation lineages. In mice, STAT3 hyperactivation precedes the specification of early embryo lineages (Morgani, S. M., and Brickman, J.M. (2015) . Dev. 142, 3488–3499) and when induced in mouse PSCs it drives a morula-like molecular identity (Li, H., et al. (2023) . Dev. Cell 58, 2510-2527. e7) . A recently published work confirmed such divergence in proteomics (Zhu, W., et al. (2025) . Cell 188, 814-831. e21) .An assay for transposase-accessible chromatin with high throughput sequencing (ATAC-seq) was then performed to gain insight into the STAT3-mediated mechanisms involved in the generation of SACs. ATAC-seq profiles of SACs for representative loci associated with either EPI, TE, ExM and HYP closely resembled those of the blastocyst, while distinctly differing from the profiles ofhPSCs and of parental primed PSCs (FIG. 3F and FIG. 12) . The ATAC-seq results revealed also the transcriptional motifs that opened following STAT3 activation (FIG. 3G) . The top four enriched transcriptional motifs corresponded to known STAT3 downstream targets previously identified in the same GY118F system: GATA2 / 3 / 6 (Stuart, H.T., et al. (2019) . Cell Stem Cell 25, 388-406. e8; Li, H., et al. (2023) . Dev. Cell 58, 2510-2527. e7; Van Oosten, A.L., et al. (2012) . Nat. Commun. 3) , TFAP2C1 (Van Oosten, A.L., et al. (2012) . Nat. Commun. 3; Tai, C.I., et al. (2014) . Biol. Open 3, 958–965) and AP1 (Van Oosten, A.L., et al. (2012) . Nat. Commun. 3; Bourillot, P.Y., et al. (2009) . Stem Cells 27, 1760–1771) . Additionally, the analysis revealed the TEAD family of transcription factors among the top four motifs. These motifs are associated with transcription factors that play well established roles in early embryonic cell fate specification. For example, recent studies have shown that TEAD4 and TFAP2C are critical for establishing embryonic bipotency in the human embryo, specifying TE and ICM fates, respectively (Zhu, M., et al. (2024) . Nat. Struct. Mol. Biol. 31, 964–976) .Next, whole-genome-bisulfite-sequencing (WGBS) was performed to investigate the status of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of imprinted genes in 120h SACs. The ICRs of imprinted genes known to undergo erasure underculture conditions were analyzed (Theunissen, T.W., et al. (2016) . Cell Stem Cell 19, 502–515; Pastor, W.A., et al. (2016) . Cell Stem Cell 18, 323–329) . In all cases, the hemi-methylated pattern characteristic of ICRs, which was found to be present in the parental cell line, was maintained in 120h SACs (FIG. 13) . This result underscores a significant advantage of our cells overpluripotent cells which are characterized by imprint erasure (Pastor, W.A., et al. (2016) . Cell Stem Cell 18, 323–329) .Together, these results provide mechanistic insights into the STAT3-mediated generation of SACs and further draw parallels between our system and the natural embryo.Example 5: SACs self-assemble and develop into bilaminar disc embryo-like structuresGiven that SACs contained populations resembling all the early embryo lineages, it was asked if these could self-assemble into embryo-like structures in vitro (FIG. 4A) . The SACs were harvested to self-assemble in AggreWell400 containing basal medium supplemented with CEPT cocktail (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16) for 24h, to ensure cell viability. After transfer to suspension plates in an in vitro culture (IVC) system (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) , the assembloids grew and developed into organized embryo-like structures within 4 days (FIG. 4B) . Notably, on Day 4, a clear organized structure was observed in the spindle-shaped structures (FIG. 4B) . In parallel, non-STAT3 activated parental hpPSCs were subjected to the same assembly procedure, however, these could only form non-organized cell aggregates and no development was observed (FIG. 14A) .The SAC assembly process was analyzed from Day1 to Day4 by immunostaining (FIG. 14B) . The results showed the presence of SOX2+, GATA6+ and GATA3+ cells, likely representing the EPI, HYP and ExM, and TE fates, respectively, in the Day1 SAC assembloids. Days 0-1 involved the aggregation step in basal medium with CEPT. As a result, little to no pattern of lineage integration was observed in the Day 1 assembloids. From Day2 onward, assembly / organization could be observed. For example, SOX2+ cells and GATA6+ cells segregated into different regions on Day2. On Day3, the lineage organization became more evident, and in some cases rosette-like EPI (yellow circle) and small YS-like disc (red circle) were noted. By Day4, consistent with the brightfield images (FIG. 4B) , the lineage organization was completed, and typical bilaminar disc-like structures were clearly observed (FIG. 14B) .From Day4 to Day6, typical bilaminar-disc-like structures could be observed (FIGs. 4C-4D, FIG. 14C) , hereafter termed STAT3-mediated embryo model (stEM) . On Day6, stEMs were categorized into two main types of morphologies (FIGs. 4C-4D) . The viewer’s angle could also create the perception of additional morphologies, but when viewing in 3D, these would fall into just two distinct morphologies (FIG. 14C) . While EPI-like and YS-like compartments were clearly regionalized in both types, amnion (AM) , which is marked by TFAP2A (Zheng, Y., et al. (2019) . Nature 573, 421–425) , was more apparent in morphology1, sitting to the dorsal side of EPI to form an amniotic cavity (AC, indicated by white asterisk) (FIG. 4C) . Morphology2 stEMs usually showed thicker EPI-like region and AC seemed to have collapsed (FIG. 4D) . Another distinguishing feature was that although trophoblast (TB) , marked by GATA3, could be observed in both morphologies, it encompassed the whole structure in morphology1 while in morphology2 most of the TB became restricted to surrounding the region where extraembryonic tissues, including YS-like (SOX17+) and ExM (GATA6+) compartments, were present. It is worth noting that although TFAP2A was also expressed in the trophoblast (TB) , GATA3 serves as a more comprehensive TB marker. Therefore, in this study, GATA3 was relied on to label TB rather than TFAP2A. By carefully comparing with human natural Carnegie Stage (CS) embryos (https: / / embryology. med. unsw. edu. au / embryology / index. php / Carnegie_Stages) , it was concluded that these remarkable morphologies resemble those of CS5-7. Specifically, morphology1 stEM represents an earlier developmental stage similar to CS5b / c embryo, while morphology2 stEM reflects a more advanced CS6-7 stage.Of note, such structures could only be achieved by leveraging SACs. hnPSCs alone, or even after blastoid formation, resulted in malformed structures in the IVC system (FIG. 14E) , highlighting the unique merit of SACs as the starting cells.Interestingly, it was noted that the stEMs derived from either 60h or 120h SACs grew in similar size and elongation during the 6-day culture (FIG. 4E and FIG. 14F) , and 120h SAC-stEM showed very high efficiency in generating the two types of morphologies. This was consistently replicated across multiple cell lines, including one iPSC line and two independent ESC lines, yielding an average proportion of morphology types 1 and 2 of 32.0±7.8% (FIG. 4F) .These findings suggest that SACs efficiently generate stEMs that resemble human CS5-7 embryos, offering a valuable platform to study human post-implantation development in vitro.Example 6: stEMs recapitulate gastrulationGastrulation is a key event in post-implantation mammalian development, marked by the emergence of the primitive streak (PS) from the epiblast. The spatial development of the PS defines the body’s first axis and specifies the definitive endoderm (DE) and mesoderm (MES) , a process known as anterior-posterior (A-P) patterning. In Day 6 stEMs, a distinct posterior region containing T-expressing PS-like cells was observed (FIG. 5A) . Using Phalloidin staining to visualize F-actin (FIG. 14G) , it was observed that in the highlighted region of the embryonic disc where SOX2 expression is lost, cells exhibited a clear loss of apical F-actin polarity, consistent with the onset of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) (Migeotte, I., et al. (2010) . PLoS Biol. 8, 37–38) . Supporting this, colocalization of N-cadherin with the MIXL1-positive primitive streak (PS) and emerging mesoderm / endoderm regions was also observed (FIG. 5B) , further indicative of EMT. In morphology 2 stEMs, T-expressing cells were also visible from a dorsal view, marking the posterior region of the stEM, and a streak-like line was visible along the embryonic disc (FIGs. 5C-5E) . As expected, PS-like compartment was absent in morphology 1 (CS5 / early 6-like) stEMs, as gastrulation had not yet begun at this developmental stage.To evaluate the development efficiency, the proportion of structures that contained T-expressing cells were scored and the ratio of bilaminar disc-like stEMs among them was recorded (FIG. 5F) . It was found that extending STAT3 activation did not significantly affect the proportion of structures exhibiting emergence of T+ cells. However, while 60h SACs gave rise to 20.98±6.62%bilaminar disc-like stEMs with gastrulating cells, the efficiency was further increased to 52.41±8.92%when using 120h SACs (FIG. 5F) . Based on these results, stEMs derived from 120h SACs were focused on for the remainder of the study.To confirm gastrulation, stEMs were stained for MIXL1 and FOXA2 to identify emerging MES and DE. As expected, gastrulating cells (blue arrows, MIXL1high) initiated at the posterior side of the epiblast (EPI) , migrated to occupy the space adjacent to EPI and elongated anteriorly to form SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES (yellow arrows) (FIG. 5G) . T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells were also detected in the posterior region, indicating PS progression. Additionally, some SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells marked the onset of DE specification, while T-SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region suggested DE cells (FIG. 5H) .These results indicate that stEMs efficiently develop into bilaminar disc embryo-like structures and recapitulate gastrulation resembling the human embryo at CS6-7 stages.Example 7: Transcriptomic analysis validates stEM as high-fidelity embryo modelsTo gain a comprehensive understanding of stEM, 10X Genomics analysis was performed and the results were compared to reference embryo data (Tyser, R.C.V., et al. (2021) . Nature 600, 285–289; Ai, Z., et al. (2023) . Cell Res. 33, 661–678) as well as to recently published state-of-the-art embryo models (Pedroza, M., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 574–583; Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593; Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) (FIGs. 6A-6F) . Except for Liu et al. ’s model who only presented Day11 data in their study, Day 6 was selected from the models of Oldak et al. ’s , Weatherbee et al. ’s , Pedroza et al. ’s for comparison. This was because Day 6 represented the best match to the reference embryo CS6 / 7 data, and all these models, including ours, claim to exhibit some CS6-7 embryo-like features at this specific time point. Consistent with staining results, UMAP analysis revealed that Day6 stEMs closely align with CS6-7 natural embryo reference data and encompassed all lineages including post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB (FIG. 6B) .MES development was extensive, with Mesoderm1 showing early markers (TBXT, MIXL1, MESP1) and Mesoderm2 showing advanced markers (SNAI2, HAND1) (FIG. 6H) . ExM was abundant in stEMs and showed enrichment in BST2 transcripts, with the identification of hemogenic endothelium indicating advanced development of the ExM lineage. Remarkably, unlike other models, PGC specification in stEM was robust (FIGs. 6B-6F) . Although few TB cells were captured in stEMs due to technical limitations in collecting TBs from human embryo models (Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) , these showed strong trophoblast-specific markers, such as NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1. These cells were further classified into cytotrophoblast (CTB) and syncytiotrophoblast (STB) based on marker expression (Io, S., et al. (2021) . Cell Stem Cell 28, 1023-1039. e13) (GJA5, PEG10, SIGLEC6 for CTB, and SDC1, PSG3 / 5 for STB) (FIGs. 6A-6B, 6H) .To better compare our stEM to published models, all the datasets were re-annotated using the same criteria (FIGs. 15A-15D) . Of great significance, when compared to other embryo models, it was found that stEM data exhibited a uniquely strict alignment to the embryo reference (FIGs. 6A-6F) . In support of this, individual lineages from stEM had much greater correlation scores with the embryo reference dataset than that of any other embryo models (FIG. 15E) . These results indicate that our stEM have also high-fidelity molecular similarity to the natural CS6-7 embryos.In addition to molecular characterization, the integration efficiency of key lineages was quantitatively assessed using immunofluorescence (IF) , including bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) (FIG. 6G) . The results demonstrated a high efficiency in generating well-organized stEMs. Notably, 11.2±3.6%of the total structures simultaneously contained bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, and TB, approximately tenfold higher than previously reported (Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) . When incorporating additional complexity, an average of 5.1±0.9%of stEMs exhibited co-exsistence of bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, TB, and CC.Our annotation was also tested using a standardized pipeline (Zhao, C., et al. (2025) . Nat. Methods 22, 193–206) . Consistently, stEM emerged as the model most closely resembling natural embryos, with 11 distinct cell identities identified within the stEM structures (FIGs. 16A-16F) . However, it was noted that, as also reported by the method (Zhao, C., et al. (2025) . Nat. Methods 22, 193–206) , certain limitations remain with this approach. Notably, while primordial germ cells (PGCs) are present in the underlying datasets, the annotation framework did not recover them. In fact, due to the low abundance of PGCs in embryo datasets, they were frequently misannotated as primitive streak (PriS) or epiblast. When previously annotated PGCs from stEM were projected together with embryo PGCs, they clustered together within PriS and Pre-EPI domains (FIG. 16G) . These metrics underscore the robustness and reproducibility of our manual annotation strategy, which were applied to all subsequent analyses presented in FIGs. 6A-6H.The emergence of PS marks the onset of A-P patterning. To further investigate how well stEMs model this process, a high-resolution analysis of sequencing data was conducted for Post-EPI, Amnion, PS, MES and DE (FIG. 17A) . Significant gene expression gradients could be observed across the sub-clusters (FIG. 17B) . Specifically, higher NODAL level in PS1 / 2 compared to EPI implied posterior allocation of primitive streak to epiblast, which agrees with the natural embryo. Higher SOX2 in PS1 suggested anterior PS, while higher CDX1 in PS2 suggested posterior PS (Zorn, A.M., and Wells, J.M. (2009) . Annu. Rev. Cell Dev. Biol. 25, 221–251; Gong, Y., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 2092-2110. e23) . Mesoderm lineage was divided into several subclusters with varying mesodermal genes, MIXL1 and MESP1 / 2. In accordance with the highest CER1 level in MES1, LHX1, which plays a critical role in anterior embryo (Ip, C.K., et al. (2014) . Dev. 141, 3859–3867) , was elevated in MES1 but decreased in MES2-7, indicating a distinct pattern along the A-P axis. To confirm the existence of A-P axis, signaling patterns were examined along the putative axis. As expected, WNT and BMP signaling, which play crucial roles in determining the A-P axis, exhibited a biased gradient in stEMs (FIG. 17C) . Likewise, although distal visceral endoderm (GPR83+) was not identified (Zhu, Q., et al. (2023) . Dev. Cell 58, 63-79. e4) , axial patterning of extraembryonic endodermal lineages was observed based on LHX1, CDH1 / 2, and COL6A1 expression (FIGs. 17D-17E) . Collectively, the hierarchical expression of key gastrulation genes across sub-clusters further supports the occurrence of A-P patterning in stEMs.Example 8: stEMs recapitulate multiple post-implantation developmental eventsIt was observed that E-Cadherin preferentially marked the trophoblast region, whereas N-Cadherin robustly defined the yolk sac (YS) domain in stEMs (FIG. 5B and FIG. 18A) . Additionally, Day6 stEMs frequently exhibited more than one cavity within the YS and ExM compartments (FIG. 4D, FIG. 5A, FIG. 14G, FIG. 18B) . Hence, it was asked if YS development was recapitulated in our stEM. Primary to secondary YS development is a unique event in primates (Ross, C., and Boroviak, T.E. (2020) . Nat. Commun. 11, 1–14) . Primary YS (PYS) emerges in CS4, when HYP bifurcates into visceral endoderm (VE) and parietal endoderm (PE) to form a YSC. From CS6 onward, PYS is thought to atrophy, and the secondary YS (SYS) subsequently pinches off from PYS, forming a smaller cavity. Meanwhile, SOX17-GATA6+ PE delaminates and forms the ExM. As a result, SYS replaces PYS in situ and the remaining PYS rearranges to the meshwork of ExM (Ross, C., and Boroviak, T.E. (2020) . Nat. Commun. 11, 1–14) .The YS data subset was first captured from Day4 and Day6 stEM, and in-depth analysis revealed the presence of both PYS and SYS (FIGs. 7A-7B) . Of note, the proportion of SYS increased from less than 10%on Day4 to exceeding 50%on Day6, indicating primary to secondary YS development (FIG. 7C) . Next, it was attempted to validate the results by staining. Indeed, it was found that Day4 stEMs often contained only 1 SOX17+ YSC (FIG. 18C) . However, an average of 2 YSCs per stEMs were observed on Day6 (FIG. 18D) , with the SYS located beneath the EPI-like compartment and PYS vesicles immersed in the mesh-like ExM (FIG. 7D) . Interestingly, our stEM may provide evidence for the hypothesis that the SYS emerges from VE and that PE contributes to the ExM formation. It was observed that most of the GATA6+ cells co-expressed SOX17 in Day2, Day3, and Day4 suggesting there was only PYS (FIG. 14B, FIG. 18C) . However, on Day6, the segregation of abundant SOX17-GATA6+ ExM-like cells suggests they may originate from the PE in the PYS (FIG. 4D and FIG. 7D) .Germ cell development is another important development event that starts at the pre-gastrulation stage, evidenced by the emergence of primordial germ cells (PGCs) . It was asked if our stEM could also replicate PGC specification. Sequencing data revealed our Day6 stEM contained a profound quantity of PGC-like cells (FIG. 6B, FIG. 6H) with great similarity to the in vivo PGCs (FIG. 15E) . Of note, potential emergence of PGCs was captured in CS5 / 6-like stEM (morphology1) , where strong TFAP2C+ cells connecting to the dorsal AM inside the embryo-like structure was observed (FIG. 7E) . In CS6 / 7-like stEM (morphology2) , which is representative of a more progressed developmental status, immunostaining showed the presence of OCT4 / SOX17 / BLIMP1 (also known as PRDM1) triple positive PGC-like cells (PGCLCs) beneath the posterior epithelial OCT4+ region and towards the SOX17+ VE / YSE region in Day6 stEMs (FIG. 7F) . This result is in agreement with the fact that PGCs migrate to visceral endoderm after being specified from amnion / EPI (Irie, N., et al. (2015) . Cell 160, 253–268) . In support, TFAP2C+ PGC trajectory migrating from the AM region to visceral endoderm (VE) was also observed (FIG. 18E) . Therefore, our stEM is likely recapitulating PGC specification and location.The presence of ExM was also confirmed by BST2 staining (FIGs. 7G-7H) . The cells expressing strong BST2 located in the GATA6+ region and adjacent to the GATA3+ or SDC1+ TB cells, indicating ExM (FIGs. 7G-7H and FIG. 18F) . In some cases, the ExM in the posterior region formed a stalk (SK) -like structure connecting to the outer layer of stEM, consistent with its location in vivo (FIG. 7H) . Interestingly, the emergence of a cavity in the ExM region between SOX17+ YS and GATA3+ or SDC1+ TBs was frequently observed, suggesting the formation of chorionic cavity (CC) (FIG. 18G) . Staining against BST2 confirmed YSC located in the BST2-low / negative region, and CC located in the BST2-high ExM region (FIG. 18H) .The extraembryonic tissues, especially anterior visceral endoderm (AVE) , are thought to play an essential role in determining the PS. AVE functions as a signaling center that secretes WNT and BMP antagonists including DKK1 and CER1 (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573; Luckett, W.P. (1978) . Am. J. Anat. 152, 59–97; Mackinlay, K.M.L., et al. (2021) . Elife 7, 1–28) . As a result, AVE defines the anterior part of EPI and confines the PS to the posterior EPI. Since PS-like structure was well established in stEM, it was asked if an AVE center was present. In our stEM, cells secreting CER1 were present and localized in the GATA4+ YS-like compartment, confirming the presence of AVE-like cells / cell cluster (FIG. 7H) . Of note, CER1+ / GATA6+ cells were sometimes scattered across the dividing line between EPI-and YS-like compartments, implying colocalization of AVE-like cells and the PS region (FIG. 18I) . This was in contrast with common knowledge. However, in a recently published human embryo-like model similar colocalization of CER1+ and T+ cells was also observed in two thirds of the embryo models (Hislop, J., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) .Therefore, the polarity of AVE and PS was scrutinized in our models by co-staining CER1 and T. When AVE-like (CER1+) and PS-like (T+) cells appeared in the same radial region, it was defined as syn-polar localization (FIGs. 7I-7J) . When they appeared in different radial regions, it was defined as anti-polar localization (FIGs. 7K-7L) . Around 100 samples were detected for both stEM made from 60h or 120h SACs and it was found CER1 and T co-exist in all the embryo models with bilaminar disc-like structure (17 / 17 and 49 / 49 respectively) . Interestingly, syn-polar localization could be frequently observed (14 / 17 and 29 / 49) , while only a fraction of embryo models showed anti-polar pattern. While the latter situation where AVE locates opposite to PS is described in other human embryo models, the efficiency is low (Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) or not reported (Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593; Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Okubo, T., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) . Of note, the percentage of anti-polar pattern was elevated from 17.6% (3 / 17) to 40.8% (20 / 49) in 120h SAC-stEM (FIGs. 7M-7N) . Whether the two distinct patterns would affect development was never explored, but despite the similarity to natural layout it was surmised an anti-polar localization should be preferable as these examples usually showed clearer cavities and better morphologies (FIG. 7L) .To demonstrate stEM is neither cell line specific nor reagent biased, the experimental setup was replicated using other two hES cell lines with different serum batches. This experiment also resulted in stEM exhibiting CS6-7 embryo-like structures (FIG. 4F and FIG. 19) .In addition to the scored stEMs exhibiting typical bilaminar disc embryo-like structures (FIGs. 4A-5H, FIGs. 7A-7N) , the remaining structures that did not meet the stEM criteria were characterized by improper lineage proportions (FIG. 20A) , mislocalization of cell fates, or mis-integrated EPI and YS (FIG. 20B) . Notably, PGC-like cells were observed in some of these structures that did not meet our stringent criteria (FIG. 20C) . These examples help clarify the criteria used for quantification in this study and highlight that, with a more lenient approach, efficiency estimates would increase substantially.Together, these results highlight that stEMs are capable of faithfully mirroring important developmental processes, including primitive streak formation, primordial germ cell specification, anterior-posterior patterning, and extraembryonic tissue development.Example 9: Signaling landscape in stEMsGastrulation is a result of complex signaling interactions between embryo lineages, especially WNT and BMP signaling. Orientation of both signaling along axis was aforementioned (FIG. 17C) , and the comprehensive signaling network in our models was next interrogated. As expected, WNT and BMP signaling in stEM were nearly identical to the CS6 embryo (FIGs. 21A-21B) . For example, WNT6 signal was robustly secreted from amnion-late in our models, consistent with its active role in the second wave of amniogenesis (Rostovskaya, M., et al. (2022) . Cell Stem Cell 29, 744-759. e6) . BMP2 / 6 was robustly predicted from VE, in agreement with recent findings that these signals are highly active in hypoblast-origin lineages (Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593; Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2024) . Nat. Cell Biol. 26, 353–365) . Interestingly, FGF and NOTCH signaling in stEM were like a mix of CS6 and CS7 (FIGs. 21C-21D) . The main interactions (the thickest arrows) of FGF2-FGFR1 / 2 signaling in stEMs are a combination of CS6 (AM to VE, PS, and mesoderm) and CS7 (EPI to YSE, HYP, DE, PS) . Likewise, NOTCH signaling in stEMs shows a combined pattern of CS6 (EPI, PS, AM to ExM) and CS7 (PGC to ExM, MES and MES to ExM) embryos.Taken together, stEM replicates both the key signaling networks and the morphological and molecular features characteristic of CS6-7 embryos.As shown in the examples above, the stEM model demonstrates substantial potential in replicating human embryonic development, offering several key advancements that distinguish it from other systems: 1) STAT3 activation introduces a novel conceptual approach for generating a human embryo model (stEMs) and may parallel natural human early embryo cell fate specification. In addition, unlike other embryo models, stEMs do not require mixing different cell cultures. Instead, it involves simply replating treated cells into 3D culture, streamlining the process of model generation. 2) The efficiency of generating bilaminar disc-like structures, along with gastrulating cells and trophoblast, is high in stEMs, and this configuration closely mirrors the natural embryo. 3) The lineages derived from stEMs exhibit significantly higher correlation scores with in vivo embryo data, and are also the most complete embryo model, providing a more accurate representation of human embryonic development; 4) stEMs model embryonic development dynamics and accurately model human gastrulation.Mapping SACs to the natural embryo, it was found that after 60 hours of STAT3 activation, EPI, HYP, TE, and ExM-like populations had already emerged (FIGs. 3A-3G) . This is consistent with the STAT3 signaling pattern in natural embryos, where STAT3 activation coincides with lineage segregation in the human blastocyst (FIG. 3H) . Considering the relatively synchronized cell identities and the appropriate lineage proportion, 60 or 120-hour reprogrammed SACs were assembled and cultured them in the IVC system. The IVC system has been widely reported to support the in vitro development of monkey embryos (Gong, Y., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 2092-2110. e23; Zhai, J., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 2078-2091. e18) and human embryo-like models (Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593; Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) . stEMs were morphologically and molecularly similar to CS5-7 embryos and these could be generated efficiently and from a single culture (FIGs. 4A-7N and FIGs. 14A-21D) . stEMs exhibit the typical structures of embryonic and extraembryonic tissues, including amnion, amnion cavity, epiblast (EPI) , yolk sac (YS) , bilaminar disc, yolk sac cavity (YS cavity) , extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) , and primitive streak (PS) , and reflected key developmental processes such as gastrulation, primordial germ cell (PGC) specification, primary to secondary YS development and anterior-posterior (A-P) patterning (FIGs. 7A-7N and FIGs. 15A-20C) .The strategy of assembling multilineages has been successfully applied to model blastocysts in both human (Fan, Y., et al. (2021) . Cell Discov. 7) and mouse (Lau, K.Y.C., et al. (2022) . Cell Stem Cell 29, 1445-1458. e8; Sozen, B., et al. (2019) . Dev. Cell 51, 698-712. e8) . However, the post-implantation developmental success of these blastocyst-like models is extremely low in the human system, highlighting limitations in these models. To investigate whether the lack of implantation was a key constraint, the use of extracellular matrix in 3D culture enabled two of these models to develop into post-implantation stages (Karvas, R.M., et al. (2023) . Cell Stem Cell 30, 1148-1165. e7; Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x) . Mixing embryonic and extraembryonic lineages has also been shown to facilitate post-implantation development of human embryo models (Simunovic, M., et al. (2022) . Cell Stem Cell 29, 962-972. e4) . Given that the lack of (Okubo, T., et al. (2023) . Nature 626; Moris, N., et al. (2020) . Nature 582, 410–415) or mis-integrated (Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593) extraembryonic tissues makes it difficult to fully recapitulate post-implantation morphogenetic events, it was hypothesize that using hPSC STAT3 reprogrammed cells, SACs, may provide a much improved starting point for generating human embryo models.In previous studies, emphasis was laid more on efficiency of individual lineages or simple structures. Not until recently, scoring of the reconstruction of sophisticated morphologies was addressed (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573; Hislop, J., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) . As an integrated model, our stEM shows bona fide size and structures of CS7-like embryo with unprecedented efficiency (FIG. 4F, and FIG. 6G) . Single-cell sequencing data also confirmed that stEMs contain comprehensive CS6-7 lineages, and the quality of the cell identities is unprecedently similar to embryo reference, suggesting that our system recapitulates human embryo development with high-fidelity (FIGs. 6A-6B) .It is also noteworthy to mention that structures not classified as meeting the criteria included those with mis-integrated bilaminar disc-like configurations, where the EPI disc was located outside and encircling the YS disc, with depleted TB (FIG. 20B) . This configuration is similar to the ex utero monkey CS7 embryo, which is also cultured in IVC medium (Gong, Y., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 2092-2110. e23) . These structures exhibited some degree of development, including PGC specification (FIG. 20C) .In our SAM-treated cells at 120h, TE-like cells robustly emerge, comprising up to 40%of the total population (FIG. 2G) , providing a solid foundation for integrating trophoblast lineages into the embryo model. Additionally, in our CS5-like stEM examples (morphology 1) , the trophoblast fully encircles the structure, resembling the human late CS5 embryo counterpart (FIG. 4C) . As stEMs progress to CS6 and CS7 stages (morphology 2) , the trophoblast becomes restricted to surrounding only the extraembryonic tissues (FIG. 4D) , which aligns with human embryo developmental progression. Likewise, although both amnion (AM) and trophoblast (TB) exhibited upregulation of common markers such as GATA3 and NR2F2 (FIG. 6H) , AM was absent in CS6 / 7-like stEMs, despite the frequent presence of a well-defined amniotic cavity in CS5 / 6-like stEMs (FIG. 4C, FIG. 18G, FIGs. 19C-19D) . This observation suggests that the stability of the amnion structure may be sensitive to current culture conditions as stEMs advance to later developmental stages.Blastoid protocols were tried (Kagawa, H., et al. (2022) . Nature 601, 600–605; Yu, L., et al. (2021) . Nature 591, 620–626; Liu, X., et al. (2021) . Nature 591, 627–632; Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x) on SACs but these did not yield blastoids. It is likely that these methods are only effective starting from homogeneous hnPSCs. Under blastoid media cell clusters made of SACs collapsed, disaggregated or did not grow at all. Given that the earliest stage at which the cells were reprogrammed is E6 and that these cells may begin developing thereafter in SAM medium, followed by an additional six days of self-organization under embryo culture conditions, it is reasonable to expect that the resulting structures exhibit post-implantation morphologies corresponding to developmental stages ranging from day 12 to day 18.In our study, it was found that the synergy between TGFβ inhibition and STAT3 activation mediatedtransition in human pluripotent stem cells (FIGs. 1A-1H and FIGs. 8A-9H) . Strikingly, this process also generated cells resembling hypoblast, extraembryonic mesoderm and trophectoderm (FIGs. 2A-2H and FIGs. 10A-10H) . Notably, using cell surface markers to track the emergence of key lineages: SUSD2 (marker) , PDGFRA (HYP and ExM marker) , and TROP2 (TE marker) , a rapid induction of PDGFRA-positve cells was observed that peaked at 72h whilepopulation was comparably low (FIG. 9D and FIG. 10A) . These dynamics suggest that the emergence of other lineages, such as HYP, may not occur via a SUSD2-positiveintermediates.A plethora of stem cell types have been used for generating human embryo models, including primed pluripotent (hpPSCs) , pluripotent (EPSCs, hnPSCs) , and extraembryonic stem cells (TSCs, XENs) . The reported data appears to show that the integration of extraembryonic endoderm and mesoderm lineages improves post-implantation embryonic development of human embryo models. Where TB lineages are often depleted in some models, they still recapitulate key aspects of human post-implantation embryogenesis to some degree (Weatherbee, B.A.T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593; Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Okubo, T., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) . It enlightens that crosstalk between the extraembryonic endoderm / mesoderm lineages and post-EPI governs key developmental events. Here it was found that SACs remodel chromatin state, maintain the imprints and competently specify extraembryonic lineages, which likely accounts to their ability to generate stEMs displaying high development competence and efficiency and exceptional molecular and morphological similarity to the natural embryo.In conclusion, stEMs are proposed as an integrated human post-implantation embryo model generated from hpPSCs in a single culture using STAT3-mediated reprogramming. stEMs faithfully mirror human post-implantation developmental with high efficiency, recapitulating lineage specification and reflecting key morphogenesis events occurring in the gastrulating human embryo. Looking forward, our model provides a platform to investigate human development beyond gastrulation.Example 10: Experimental model, subject details, and methods used in above examples Stem cell lines and culture conditionsSeveral cell lines, including both male and female hiPS and hES lines, were used in this study. Primed cells were cultured in mTeSR1 on Mitomycin C inactivated mouse embryonic fibroblasts (feeders) or on geltrex coated plates. cells were cultured in 5iLAF medium on feeders. For routine maintenance, hiPS or hES cells were plated at 0.5x104 / cm2 under 5%CO2 and 20%O2 at 37℃. Medium was refreshed daily, and cells were passaged every 4-5 days for primed cell lines or 6 days forcell lines. For primed cells, additional 5 μM Y-27632 was added to the medium while passaging, but Y-27632 was removed after 24h. Cell number and viability were determined using Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining.5iLAF medium was made from N2B27 basal medium, supplemented with 1 μM PD0325901, 1 μM IM-12, 0.5 μM SB590885, 1 μM WH-4-023, 10 μM Y-27632, 20 ng / mL recombinant human LIF, 20 ng / mL Activin A, 8 ng / mL FGF2 and 0.5%KnockOut Serum Replacement.N2B27 basal medium was comprised of 1: 1 DMEM / F12 and Neurobasal, supplemented with 1X N2 supplement, 1X B27 supplement, 1X GlutaMAX, 1%MEM Non-Essential Amino Acids, 1X Penicillin / Streptomycin (P / S) , 0.1mM β-mercaptoethanol, 50 μg / mL bovine serum albumin (BSA) .Conversion of primed human PSCs to hPSCsPrimed hPSCs were cultured until 70-80%confluency prior to the conversion. Cells were dissociated with TrypLE Express and seeded at 0.5-1x104 / cm2 in mTeSR1 on feeder-or geltrex-coated plates under 5%CO2 and 20%O2 at 37℃. 24h later when small cell clumps appeared, the cells were rinsed once with DPBS and medium was replaced with 5iLAF medium, day of which was denoted as day0. 5iLAF medium was refreshed daily and dome-shaped like colonies could be observed after day6. At day8-10, the SUSD2 expressing subpopulation was FACS sorted and replated at 1-2x104 / cm2 in 5iLAF medium on feeders. For the first passage of reset cells, it could take as long as 10 days for the colonies to grow large enough for passaging, but after 2-3 passages the reset cells could be readily passaged every 6 days at an initial density of 0.5x104 / cm2. Pure dome-shaped colonies and stable passaging cycles were considered sign of successful establishment of hnPSCs.Generation of inducible STAT3 activation system in hPSCs.Primed hPSCs cultured on geltrex-coated plate were dissociated when confluency reached 70-80%. PB-CAG-GY118F-Hph or PB-CAG-GY118F-Zeo vector and CAG-PBase vector were co-transfected into the dissociated cells by NEON electroporation system according to the user’s guide. 2x105 electroporated cells / well were seeded onto 24-well plate in mTeSR1, supplemented with 10 μM Y-27632.48h post-electroporation, medium was removed and cells were rinsed with DPBS for 1 time to wash off the dead cells. mTeSR1 containing 50-100 μg / mL Hygromycin B was used to screen for the cells transfected with PB-CAG-GY118F-Hph, or 50 μg / mL Zeocin was used to screen for the cells transfected with PB-CAG-GY118F-Zeo. After 3-5 rounds of screening, the transfected cells could be stably maintained in medium containing the antibiotics. Inducible STAT3 activation was validated by analyzing the SOCS3 expression level 24h after exposure to 30 ng / mL GCSF. In this study, only the cell lines after at least 5 rounds of screening and with validated performance in response to GCSF treatment were selected and denoted as GY118F-hPSCs.Chemical screening for STAT3-mediated reprogramming to human pluripotencyTo screen for the chemicals that allowed induction of human pluripotency, 2000 hPSCs / well were seeded onto feeder-coated 24-well plates in mTeSR1 supplemented with 5 μM Y-27632. 24h later, medium was replaced with N2B27 basal supplemented with 50 μg / mL Vc (ascorbic acid) , 30 ng / mL GCSF and combinations of selected chemicals. Afterwards, the medium was refreshed daily for 4 days, and morphology was observed. hPSCs maintained in mTeSR1 were parallelly cultured as primed control. Those that allowed emergence of dome-shaped colonies were considered potential candidates for inducing STAT3-mediated human pluripotency.The tested chemicals and concentrations were LIF (10-20 ng / mL) , CHIR99021 (0.3, 1, 3 μM) , PD0325901 (1 μM) , FGF2 (20 ng / mL) , FGF4 (12.5 ng / mL) , ACTIVIN A (10, 20, 40 ng / mL) , XAV939 (2 μM) , A83-01 (1 μM) , SB431542 (1 μM) , Dorsomorphin (1 μM) , RepSox (1-10 μM) .Impact of chemicals on cell growth during STAT3 activation in hPSCsTo evaluate the ability of chemicals to promote cell growth, equal number of feeders were plated onto 24-well plates by stringent distribution of the feeder cell suspension 24 h prior to experiments. On the day of experiment, feeder-free hPSCs were dissociated and resuspended in mTeSR1. The cell suspension was spun down and filtered twice to remove dead cell debris. Cell number and viability were determined by Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining. For quality control, only the cell suspension with over 95%viability were administered for the following experiment. Strictly, 5000 hPSCs / well were seeded onto the feeder-coated 24-well plates in mTeSR1 supplemented with 10 μM Y27632.24 h later, cells were rinsed with DPBS twice and the medium was replaced with testing medium. Medium was refreshed daily. 4 days later, cells were dissociated and singularized by TrypLE Express. After neutralization, cells were spun down and resuspended in exact 1 mL DMEM / F12. Cell number was determined by Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining. Cell growth was evaluated by the fold change of cell number of D4 / D1.Enhanced STAT3 activation in hPSCsPrimed GY118F-hPSCs were plated at 1x104 / cm2 in mTeSR1 on feeders. 24h later when small cell clumps could be observed, medium was replaced by STAT3 activation medium (SAM) followed by additional 3-5 days’ culture. SAM was refreshed daily. Massive cell death could be observed in the first 24-48h and dome-shaped colonies would emerge after 72h. When STAT3 activation was initiated for cells cultured on geltrex-coated plates, 0.5x104 / cm2 primed GY118F-hPSCs were plated in mTeSR1, SAM was replaced 24h later and refreshed daily for the following 4-7 days. Only a few dome-shaped colonies could be observed after 5 days.SAM comprised of N2B27 basal medium without P / Ssupplemented with 50 μg / mL Ascorbic acid, 20 ng / mL recombinant human LIF, 1 μM PD0325901, 30 ng / mL GCSF, 10 ng / mL FGF2, 20 ng / mL Activin A, 2 μM XAV939, 1 μM A83-01. When indicated, A83-01 could be substituted with 1 μM SB431542 or 1μM Dorsomorphin or 5 μM RepSox / E616452. The optimal concentration of A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin or RepSox varied based on cell lines.Flow analysis and Fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS)Cells were dissociated into single cells with TrypLE Express and spun down by centrifuge at 300g. Cells were then resuspended in 100-500 μl cold FACS buffer and incubated with flow antibodies for 45-60 min on ice in the dark. After incubation, cells were rinsed with FACS buffer for 3 times and resuspended with appropriate volume of FACS buffer. Subsequently, the resuspended cells were filtered through a 40-μm strainer and transferred to a flow tube. Flow analysis was performed on BD LSRFortessa X-20. FACS was performed on BD FACSAriaIII and the sorted cells were collected in collecting buffer.FACS buffer was comprised of DPBS+0.2%BSA. Collecting buffer was comprised of N2B27 basal medium supplemented with 2X P / Sand 10 μM Y27632. Data was processed in FlowJo10.Immunofluorescent stainingFor planar staining, cells were cultured on coverslips pre-coated with geltrex or feeders in 24-well plate. On the day of staining, cells were rinsed once with DPBS followed by fixing with 4%paraformaldehyde (PFA) for 1 h in the dark. Subsequently, cells were rinsed with DPBS for 3 times and then blocked with 2D staining buffer for 1 h at room temperature. After blocking, the buffer was replaced with fresh 2D staining buffer containing indicated primary antibodies and the coverslips were incubated at 4℃ overnight. Then, the cells were rinsed once with DPBS+0.1%Trtion-X, and twice with DPBS. After rinsing, the cells were incubated with staining buffer containing secondary antibodies for 2-3h at room temperature in the dark. Then, the cells were rinsed once with DPBS+0.1%Trtion-X, and twice with DPBS. Finally, the coverslips were mounted with 3-5 μL anti-quenching agent on glass slides and ready for imaging.For 3D staining, the cell aggregates / stEMs were first rinsed with DPBS once and fixed with 4%PFA in 4℃ for 3 h. Then the samples were incubated with blocking / permeabilizing solution in 4℃. Next, the samples were stepwise incubated with 3D staining solution containing primary antibodies and secondary antibodies in 4℃. Finally, the samples were stored in DPBS in 4℃ or transferred for imaging. After fixation, in each step the samples were rinsed with DPBS for 3 times and incubated for overnight.2D staining buffer was comprised of DPBS+5%non-fat milk+0.1%Triton-X. Blocking / permeabilizing solution was comprised of DPBS+4%BSA+5%FBS+0.5%Trition-X. 3D staining solution was comprised of DPBS+4%BSA+5%FBS+0.5%Trition-X+0.1%Tween20. DAPI was added with secondary antibodies.For planar staining, all solutions were made with DPBS that did not contain Ca2+ and Mg2+. For 3D staining, all solutions were made with DPBS that contained Ca2+ and Mg2+.When clearing was needed, after incubation with secondary antibodies the samples were gradient treated by 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 97%fresh-made 2, 2’ -Thiodiethanol in PBST for 5 min and finally settled in 100%2, 2’ -Thiodiethanol. PBST was made with DPBS+0.1%Triton-X.Imaging was performed on a confocal laser scanning microscope (CLSM) Olympus FV3000 and processed in ImageJ 1.51j8. Three-side views were generated from whole mount staining samples in the Olympus software FV315-SW.Derivation of pluripotent / trophoblast / hypoblast stem cells from SACs120 h SACs were first dissociated and incubated with SUSD2, PDGFRA, and TROP2 Flow antibodies. EPI-like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , HYP-like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and TE-like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) were FACS sorted and plated at 2x104 / cm2 in 5iLAF medium (Theunissen, T.W., et al. (2014) . Cell Stem Cell 15, 471–487) , hypoblast medium (Yu, L., et al. (2021) . Nature 591, 620–626) , trophoblast medium (Dong, C., et al. (2020) . Elife 9, e52504) respectively. Additional 10 μM Y27632 was supplemented for the first 24 h after sorting. Medium was refreshed daily.Hypoblast medium was comprised of N2B27 basal medium supplemented with 20 ng / mL Activin A, 3 μM Chir, and 20 ng / mL FGF2. Trophoblast medium was comprised of DMEM / F12 supplemented with 0.1 mM β-mercaptoethanol, 0.2%FBS, 0.5%P / S, 0.3%BSA, 1%ITS-X, 1.5 μg / mL Vc, 50 ng / mL hEGF, 2 μM Chir, 0.5 μM A83-01, 1 μM SB431542, 0.8 mM VPA, and 5 μM Y27632.Generation of STAT3-mediated Embryo Models (stEMs)hPSCs were reprogrammed in SAM for 3-5 days followed by digestion using TrypLE express. Feeders were removed by replating the dissociated cells onto gelatin-coated plate in SAM supplemented with 10 μM Y27632 for 30-60 min at 37℃ and subsequently the supernatant was collected, centrifuged, resuspended, and filtered through a 40-μm strainer. Cell number and viability were determined using Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining. For quality control, cell resuspension could be optionally centrifuged and filtered again. For a better outcome, it was suggested the resuspension containing cells with over 90%viability to be administered for generating stEMs.During feeder removal, AggreWell400 plate was pre-treated with anti-adhesion rinsing solution at 500 μL / well in ambient for at least 30 min. Prior to cell transfer, the anti-adhesion rinsing solution was aspirated and each well was rinsed with 500 μL DMEM / F12 once, followed by adding 500 μL N2B27 basal medium supplemented with CEPT cocktail. Indicated number of filtered cells were resuspended in 500 μL N2B27 basal medium supplemented with CEPT and distributed into the well to reach a final volume of 1 mL / well. The AggreWell was then incubated at 5%CO2, 20%O2, 37℃ for 24 h to form assembloids (Day1 stEMs) . For generating primed assembloids, hPSCs were dissociated and replated on gelatin-coated plate in mTeSR1 supplemented with 10 μM Y27632 for 15-20min at 37℃ to remove feeders, and then the cell suspension was collected to generate primed assembloids as illustrated above. Primed hPSCs would attach and be barely collected if feeder removal was conducted for too long. CEPT cocktail: 50 nM Chroman1, 5 μM Emricasan, 1x Polyamines, and 0.7 μM trans-ISRIB.In vitro culture (IVC) system (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) with some modifications was used for generating stEMs. In particular, prior to generating stEMs, 6-well suspension culture plate was pre-treated with 1 mL / well anti-adhesion rinsing solution for at least 30 min in ambient, followed by being rinsed with 1 mL DPBS or DMEM / F12 per well once. Subsequently, 1 mL pre-balanced IVC medium was added to each well. Then, assembloids from the AggreWell were resuspended in 500 μL pre-balanced IVC medium / well and carefully transferred to 6-well suspension culture plate using tips with a cut head. Usually, 2 wells of assembloids from AggreWell plate were combined and transferred to 1 well of the suspension plate. An additional 1 mL IVC medium was added to each suspension well for a final volume of 3 mL. After transfer, the suspension plate was moved to a shaker and incubated at 5%CO2, 20%O2, 37℃, and 70-100 rpm. Sufficient sterile water was placed in the incubator to create humidity. Fresh medium was always pre-balanced in 5%CO2, 20%O2, 37℃ for 30-60 h prior to use. Medium was changed daily by replacing 2 mL old medium with fresh pre-balanced IVC medium. 5 days after suspension culture (atotal of 6 days’ culture) , stEMs were collected for downstream analysis.The IVC medium was described in literature (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16; Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) with some modifications. IVC medium was comprised of Advanced DMEM / F12, 0.5X Glutamax, 1X Insulin-Transferrin-Selenium-Ethanolamine (ITS-X) , 1X P / S, 8 nM β-estradiol, 25 μM N-acetyl-L-cysteine, 200 ng / ml progesterone. Of note, FBS was added with increasing concentration: 20% (0-24h) , 30% (24-72h) , 50% (72-120h) . 3 mg / mL glucose was supplemented from 72h on. The fresh-made IVC medium was stored in 4℃ and used within 5 days. For generating high-efficient stEMs with good morphology, the initial cell number of each well in the AggreWell400 plate (1200 microwells per well) should be carefully tuned. In this study, 100-500 cells / microwell were validated to be all feasible to generate bilaminar disc embryo-like structures with varying efficiency. Starting from 150--300 cells / microwell was used for generating the stEM figures in this study.Size measurement of stEMsDuring culture, images of stEMs were taken at random locations in the suspension culture plate. The images were loaded in ImagePro Plus and outline of the stEMs were manually circled. Length and width were automatically measured by the software algorithm. For each day, at least 3 locations with a total of more than 25 samples were imaged and all images were processed. Elongation was calculated as the ratio of length to width.Scoring of bilaminar disc-like stEMsScoring of stEMs was conducted based on immunofluorescent imaging. In particular, Day6 stEMs were stained against SOX2 / OCT4, GATA6 and T or SOX2, SOX17 and GATA3 / 6. Sufficient number of stEMs were collected without selection by a cut-tip and the samples were observed under CLSM FV3000.Any stEMs containing T-expressing cells were calculated as T / Bra+. For the term ‘bilaminar’ , only those stEMs showing co-existence of epiblast (SOX2+ or OCT4+) , yolk sac (GATA6+) , yolk sac cavity-like space in the yolk sac region, and T-expressing cells sitting between epiblast and yolk sac, or those showing co-existence of epiblast disc (SOX2+) , yolk sac endoderm disc (SOX17+) , and trophoblast (GATA3+) , were calculated as bilaminar disc-like structure, regardless of the cavity size. Typical bilaminar disc-like stEMs were displayed in FIG. 4D and FIG. 4G.Scoring of stEM lineage integrationsScoring of stEM lineage integration was conducted based on immunofluorescent imaging. EPI was marked by SOX2 or OCT4. YS was marked by SOX17 or GATA6. ExM was marked by GATA6 or BST2. TB was marked by GATA3 or TFAP2A. AM was marked by TFAP2A. AC was noted by the cavity between AM and EPI. CC was noted by the cavity encircled by TB and adjacent to ExM. For each setup, a combination of the aforementioned markers was used for imaging. Only the stEMs with reasonable lineage proportion and positioning were included in the scoring.Scoring of relative localization of AVE and PS in the stEMsScoring of relative localization of AVE and PS in the stEMs was conducted based on immunofluorescent imaging. Day6 stEMs were stained against SOX2, CER1 and T. Approximately 100 60h SAC-stEMs and 100h SAC-stEMs were collected without selection by a cut-tip and the samples were observed under CLSM FV3000. In our experiment, CER1 expression was only detected in the stEMs / e-stEMs with bilaminar disc-like structures.The criteria to determine syn-polar or anti-polar was in large consistent with literature (Hislop, J., et al. (2023) . Nature 626) . In brief, when AVE-like (CER1+) and PS-like (T+) cells appeared in the same radial region, it was defined as syn-polar localization; when they appeared in the different radial region, it was defined as anti-polar localization.RNA extract and bulk RNA-seq preparationFor quantitative PCR analysis, the cells were dissociated with TrypLE Express and spun down at 300g. After carefully removal of medium, the cells were lysed and total RNA extracted by Ultrapure RNA kit at 1x106 / mL.For bulk RNA-seq, 1x106 SUSD2+ cells were sorted by FACS and lysed in 1 mL Trizon. Total RNA was extracted from the cell lysis by Ultrapure RNA kit and stored in -80℃. At least 500 ng total RNA were sent for bulk RNA-seq library. Bulk RNA-seq library were generated and sequencing was conducted on Illumina platform with PE150 strategy by Novogene Bioinformatics Technology Co., Ltd (Beijing, China) .RT-qPCRTotal RNAs were reverse-transcribed by Maxima First Strand cDNA Synthesis Kit for RT-qPCR following the manufacturer’s instructions. cDNA was amplified with TB Premix Ex TaqTM II following the manufacturer’s instructions and RT-qPCR was conducted on QuantStudio 3. Data was processed in Excel.scRNA-seq sample preparation, library generation and sequencingThe STAT3 activated cells cultured in SAM for 120h were FACS sorted against SUSD2. 50 SUSD2+ and 50 SUSD2-cells were sorted into 96-well plate containing lysis (1 cell per well) for Smart-seq2 library construction and the libraries were sequenced on MGISEQ2000 (MGI Tech) platform to generate 100-bp paired-end reads.The STAT3 activated cells cultured in SAM for 60h were first dissociated and re-plated on gelatinized plates for 20 min to remove feeders. The feeder removal period was shortened to avoid attachment of non-reprogrammed cells so that the single-cell transcriptome library can fully reflect the status of all intermediates. The cell suspension was collected and centrifuged at 300g for 5 min. After removal of medium, cells were resuspended in 500 μL cold DPBS+0.04%BSA and filtered through a 40-μm strainer. Then the cells were centrifuged again at 300g for 3 min, resuspended in 100 μL cold DPBS+0.04%BSA and filtered through a 40-μm strainer again. Cell concentration and viability were determined using Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining. The samples with over 90%viability and 0.6-1.2x106 / mL concentration were sent for scRNA-seq.The stEMs in suspension plate were rinsed twice with DPBS. Solution was carefully removed under a dissection microscope. 1.5 mL TrypLE Express was added into each well and the plate was incubated in 37℃ for 20-30 min. The digesting solution was gently pipetted using a cut 1-mL tip every 2 min to help dissociation. 30 min later, 0.5 mL extra TrypLE Express was added to enhance dissociation. When the aggregates were all dissociated and no cell clusters could be observed under microscope, 3 mL DMEM / F12 was added to neutralize the enzyme, and the cell suspension was collected and centrifuged at 300g for 5 min. After removal of medium, cells were resuspended in 500 μL cold DPBS+0.04%BSA and filtered through a 40-μm strainer. Then the cells were centrifuged again at 300g for 3 min, resuspended in 100 μL cold DPBS+0.04%BSA and filtered through a 40-μm strainer again. Cell concentration and viability were determined using Countstar Mira FL with AOPI fluorescence staining. The samples with over 90%viability and 0.6-1.2x106 / ml concentration were sent for scRNA-seq.Library construction was performed according to the manufacturer’s instructions (single cell 3’ v3 protocol, 10x Genomics) . In brief, the cell suspension was loaded into Chromium microfluidic chips with 3’ v3.1 chemistry and barcoded with a 10×Chromium Controller (10X Genomics) . RNA from the barcoded cells was subsequently reverse-transcribed and sequencing libraries constructed with reagents from a Chromium Single Cell 3’ v3.1 reagent kit (10X Genomics) according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The cDNA libraries were sequenced on the Illumina sequencing platform by MGI Tech and CHI BIOTECH CO., LTD.Bioinformatic analysisBulk RNA-seq data pre-processing and quality controlFor bulk RNA seq, Fastp (Chen, S., et al. (2018) . Bioinformatics 34, i884–i890) (v.0.23.1) was used to perform basic statistics on the quality of the raw reads. The steps of data processing were as follows: (1) Discard a paired reads if either one read contains adapter contamination; (2) Discard a paired reads if more than 10%of bases are uncertain in either one read; (3) Discard a paired reads if the proportion of low quality (Phred quality <5) bases is over 50%in either one read. Alignment, annotation, and gene expression quantification were performed with STAR software (Dobin, A., et al. (2013) . Bioinformatics 29, 15–21) (v. 2.7.9a) . References, including pre-built genome sequences and gene annotations, were downloaded from Ensembl GRCh38 release 104 (http: / / www. ensembl. org / Help / ArchiveList) . Default parameters were used when implementing STAR workflow except the following: ‘--twopassMode Basic’ for novel splice detection via two-pass method and ‘--quantMode GeneCounts’ for gene expression quantification. The second columns of the output ‘ReadsPerGene’ tables were aggregated into a gene count table.Principal componence analysis (PCA)Downstream analyses were performed in R 4.2.2 using DESeq2 (Love, M. I., et al. (2014) . Genome Biol. 15, 1–21) and limma (Ritchie, M. E., et al. (2015) . Nucleic Acids Res. 43, e47) packages. Raw count matrices from public data GSE138762 (Dong, C., et al. (2020) . Elife 9, e52504) , GSE252114 (Guo, M., et al. (2024) . https: / / doi. org / 10.1038 / s41467-024-44969-x) , GSE80732 (Yang, Y., et al. (2017) . Cell 169, 243-257. e25) and GSE76970 (GSM2041716, GSM2041717) (Pastor, W. A., et al. (2016) . Cell Stem Cell 18, 323–329) were downloaded from NCBI Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) . Data transformation, including normalization for library size and vst transformation, were performed according to the pipeline suggested by the development team of DESeq2 package (http: / / www. bioconductor. org / packages / release / bioc / vignettes / DESeq2 / inst / doc / DESeq2. html#c ountmat) . Batch effects between public data and the data from this study were corrected with function removeBatchEffect from limma package. PCA was subsequently performed on the batch-corrected data, using the top 500 most variable genes, via plotPCA function from DESeq2 package. The results were visualized with ggplot2 (Wickham, H. (2016) . ggplot2: Elegant Graphics for Data Analysis (Springer-Verlag New York) ) package (https: / / ggplot2. tidyverse. org) . DESeq2 normalized counts were log transformed with a pseudo count 1 and visualized with bar charts with ggplot2.ATAC-seq data processingATAC-seq datasets generated in this study and downloaded from Pastor et al. (Pastor, W.A., et al. (2018) . Nat. Cell Biol. 20, 553–564) (GEO: GSE101074) were first trimmed and filtered by TrimGalore with default parameter. Qualified read pairs were then aligned to human genome (GRC h38) by Bowtie2 (Langmead, B., et al. (2019) . Bioinformatics 35, 421–432) (release 2.5.4) with parameters “--local --very-sensitive --no-mixed --no-discordant -X 700” . Picard (v 3.3.0) were used for duplication removal (http: / / broadinstitute. github. io / picard) . SAMtools (Danecek, P., et al. (2021) . Gigascience 10, 1–4) (v1.21) was used to filter low quality signals with parameters “-h -b -f 2 -F 1548 -q 30” and BEDTools (Quinlan, A. R., and Hall, I. M. (2010) . Bioinformatics 26, 841–842) was used to remove reads that overlap with the blacklisted genomic regions downloaded from https: / / github. com / Boyle-Lab / Blacklist / blob / master / lists / hg38-blacklist. v2. bed. gz. MACS2 (Zhang, Y., et al. (2008) . Genome Biol., R317) was then used for peak calling (release 2.2.9.1, parameters: -g hs --nomodel --shift -100 --extsize 200 -q 0.01) . Motif enrichment analysis of peaks was performed using HOMER’s “findMotifsGenome” (Heinz, S., et al. (2010) . Mol. Cell 38, 576–589) for known motifs with parameter “-size 200 -mask” (v4.11) . Visualization was performed in R with ggplot2 package.WGBS data processingWGBS datasets generated in this study were first trimmed and filtered by TrimGalore with parameter “-j 4 --fastqc_args” . Qualified read pairs were then aligned to human genome (hg19) by Bismark (Krueger, F., and Andrews, S. R. (2011) . Bioinformatics 27, 1571–1572) (release 0.24.2) with parameter “-N 1 –local” and deduplicate_bismark for duplication removal. Then bismark_methylation_extractor was used to extract methylation information with default parameters. Visualization was performed in R with ggplot2 package. The genomic coordinates of ICRs (Theunissen, T. W., et al. (2016) . Cell Stem Cell 19, 502–515) within selected gene regions were downloaded and highlighted using ggplot2 package.scRNA-seq data pre-processing and quality controlSingle-cell RNA-seq data generated in this study and raw reads from public data E-MTAB-3929 (Petropoulos, S., et al. (2016) . Cell 165, 1012–1026) , GSE136447 (Xiang, L., et al. (2020) . Nature 577, 537–542) and E-MTAB-9388 (Tyser, R. C. V., et al. (2021) . Nature 600, 285–289) were trimmed using Trim Galore (v. 0.6.4, http: / / www. bioinformatics. babraham. ac. uk / projects / trim_galore / ) coupled with FastQC (v.0.11.2) (https: / / www. bioinformatics. babraham. ac. uk / projects / fastqc / ) or fastp software with default parameters to generate clean reads. Alignment, annotation, PCR duplicate removal and gene expression quantification were subsequently performed using the STARsolo pipeline (https: / / github. com / alexdobin / STAR / blob / master / docs / STARsolo. md) with STAR (v. 2.7.9a) . In particular, for Smart-seq2 data, trimmed reads were aligned to the reference and uniquely mapped reads were quantified with parameter ‘--soloType SmartSeq’ . PCR duplicate removal was performed with parameter ‘--soloUMIdedup Exact’ . 10× genomics data were processed via the same pipeline with parameter ‘--soloType Droplet, --soloCBstart 1, --soloCBlen 16, --soloUMIstart 17, --soloUMIlen 12, --soloBarcodeReadLength 0, --soloFeatures Gene Velocyto’ with ‘3M-february-2018. txt’ downloaded from cellranger website as whitelist file (https: / / github. com / 10XGenomics / cellranger / blob / master / lib / python / cellranger / barcodes / translati on / 3M-february-2018. txt. gz) . Raw count matrix of E10-E14 embryo data from Ai et al. (Ai, Z., et al. (2023) . Cell Res. 33, 661–678) was kindly provided by the authors. Raw count matrices from studies of post-implantation integrative models were downloaded from GEO with accession codes: GSE208195 (Pedroza, M., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 574–583) , GSE218314 (Weatherbee, B.A. T., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 584–593) , GSE232861 (Liu, L., et al. (2023) . Cell 186, 3776-3792. e16) and GSE239932 (Oldak, B., et al. (2023) . Nature 622, 562–573) . Further analyses were performed in R 4.2.2 with Seurat (Hao, Y., et al. (2021) . Cell 184, 3573-3587. e29) (v. 4.3.0.1) and default parameters were used unless otherwise specified. For datasets of 60h SACs, 120h SACs, stEM (Day4 and Day6) respectively, cells that satisfy “1000 < nFeature_RNA < 4000 and percent. mt < 10” , “8000 < nFeature_RNA < 13000 and percent. mt < 40” , “nFeature_RNA > 2000 and nCount_RNA < 100000 and percent. mt < 20” , “nFeature_RNA >1500&nCount_RNA<50000&percent. mt<10” and “nFeature_RNA > 2000 and nCount_RNA <60000 and percent. mt < 20” were retained. Here, nFeature_RNA, nCount_RNA and percent. mt respectively refer to total number of detected genes, total number of detected reads and mitochondrial gene percentage. DoubletFinder (McGinnis, C. S., et al. (2019) . Cell Syst. 8, 329–337) software was used to detect and filter hybrid cells among 60h SACs. For embryo datasets, cells with less than 2000 detected genes or >= 15%mitochondrial gene percentage were filtered out. Log-normalization, centering and scaling of the filtered count data were performed with NormalizeData and ScaleData functions sequentially and top 2000 highly variable genes were selected with FindVariableFeatures function.Dimensional reduction and clustering analysisPCA was applied on the scaled data using RunPCA function in Seurat with default parameters based on the selected highly variable genes. A shared nearest neighbor (SNN) was constructed with the PCA coordinates using FindNeighbors function with parameter “dims =1: 30” (FIG. 11E) , “dims = 1: 10” (FIG. 2C) , “dims = 1: 15” (FIG. 17A) and “dims = 1: 5” (FIG. 17D) , which were subsequently partitioned via Louvain algorithm implemented via FindClusters function at the resolution of 0.3 (FIG. 17D) , 0.5 (FIG. 2C, FIG. 11E) and 1.4 (FIG. 17A) . UMAP was implemented using RunUMAP function for visualization with parameters “dims = 1: 30” (FIG. 11E) , “dims = 1: 15, min. dist = 0.2” (FIG. 17A) and “dims = 1: 5” (FIG. 17D) .Integrative analysis with public dataA dataset-wise batch effect was observed between our data and the public ones, and accordingly implemented batch effect correction and data integration pipelines. In the following analysis, top 2000 most variable genes were involved, and default parameters were used unless otherwise mentioned. For integrative analysis between E3-E14 embryos and our 120h SACs (FIG. 2H) , all collected SACs were involved. For integrative analysis between selected embryo cell types, ESCs and our 60h SACs (FIG. 3A) , all collected SACs were included, except for a low-quality cluster enriched for ribosomal genes. For integrative analysis between E3-CS7 embryos and our 60h SACs (FIG. 3C) , cells that clustered with nES, HYP, TE and ExM at a resolution of 2 in Fig. 3A were involved. For integrative analysis between stEMs and public reference datasets, 10000 (stEM) and 5000 (public studies) randomly sampled cells per study were involved in the analysis (FIGs. 6A-6F) . The fastMNN approach was adopted and each dataset from different studies was considered as a batch. Only genes that were expressed in at least 5 cells in each of the datasets were kept. Log-normalization was performed using computeSumFactors function from scran (Lun, A.T.L., et al. (2016) . [version 1; referees: 5 approved with reservations] . F1000Research 5) package (v. 1.20.1) and scaling normalization across batches was then performed with multiBatchNorm function in batchelor (Haghverdi, L., et al. (2018) . Nat. Biotechnol. 36, 421–427) package (v. 1.8.1) . The log-normalized, batch-effect corrected datasets were thereafter integrated using the fastMNN approach implemented via SeuratWrappers (v. 0.3.0) . The MNN-derived low-dimensional coordinates were subsequently used for graph-based clustering and visualization, following the procedures described in previous sections. Specifically, the parameters used were as follows: “reduction = ‘mnn’ , dims = 1: 20, min. dist = 0.6” (FIG. 2H) , “reduction = ‘mnn’ , dims = 1: 15, min. dist = 0.3” (FIGs. 3A-3B) , “reduction = ‘mnn’ , dims = 1: 10, min. dist = 0.6” (FIG. 3C) , and “reduction = ‘mnn’ , dims =1: 30, min. dist = 0.4” (FIGs. 6A-6F) , as applied in the RunUMAP and FindNeighbors functions. For clustering analysis, FindClusters was used with the parameters “resolution = 0.1” (FIG. 2H) and “resolution = 2” (related to FIGs. 3A-3C) . Note that for all analyses involving 60h SACs, ribosomal genes were excluded. Cell-type annotation was based on the co-clustering results of the embryo models and natural embryo and the expression levels of canonical lineage markers, validated by GSVA scores computed with differentially expressed genes of embryo cell lineages using gsva function from GSVA (S., et al. (2013) . BMC Bioinformatics 14) package (FIG. 2I, FIG. 3D) . AverageExpression function from Seurat, with parameter “assays ='RNA' , slot = 'scale. data' ” , were used to compute the mean values of scaled counts of highly variable features used in the integration section for each cell groups (FIG. 15E) . The resulting average scaled count matrices were used as input of Spearman correlation analysis between human embryo and in vitro embryo-like models, which were implemented using cor function in r with parameter “method = 'spearman' ” . The correlation heatmaps were then generated with pheatmap function from pheatmap package (https: / / github. com / raivokolde / pheatmap) in r.Annotation benchmarking and agreement metricsTo evaluate the consistency of our manual annotation strategy, five embryo model datasets were re-annotated using the Early Embryogenesis Projection Tool developed by Petropoulos &Lanner labs (Zhao, C., et al. (2025) . Nat. Methods 22, 193–206) (FIGs. 16A-16G) . Manual annotations were originally assigned based on canonical lineage marker expression descripted in previous sections.Trajectory inference of the reprograming processTo map the trajectories of STAT3-mediated reprogramming process, data of primed H9 cells were downloaded from Kagawa, H. et al. (Kagawa, H., et al. (2022) . Nature 601, 600–605) and defined these cells as the start point of the trajectory. The union of the top 1000 HVGs (highly variable genes) of each dataset were selected for analysis. Considering only a subset of SACs at 120h (Susd2 sorted) were collected, WOT was applied, an optimal transport-based approach, to infer ancestor–descendant relationships between 60h and 120h cells. The cell trajectory scores were computed via tmap_model. trajectories implemented with the Python package WOT (Schiebinger, G., et al. (2019) . Cell 176, 928-943. e22) (v. 1.0.8. post2) . The 60h SACs with trajectory scores > 0.0001 for 120h SAC sub-clusters were considered as progenitors and were retained. These cells, combined with 120h SAC and primed H9 cells, were employed in reprogramming trajectory construction using harmonyTS (Nowotschin, S., et al. (2019) . Nature 569, 361–367) (v. 0.1.4) coupled with Palantir (Setty, M., et al. (2019) . Nat. Biotechnol. 37, 451–460) (v. 1.0.1) package in Python. The forced directed layout was computed using function harmony. plot. force_directed_layout to visualize relationships between timepoints. The reprogramming pseudo-time and branch probability of 120h cluster 0, 1 and 2 (TE-and HYP-like clusters respectively) were inferred via function palantir. core. run_palantir. Then palantir. utils. run_magic_imputation and palantir. presults. compute_gene_trends were used to impute, smooth and infer gene trends along the defined trajectories. Gene modules were detected using palantir. presults. cluster_gene_trends function. The developmental trajectory from EPI to Mesoderm lineages were constructed using the same pipeline. GO terms and KEGG / reactome pathways were enriched with clusterProfile using genes within modules or within manually defined patterns (listed in supplementary tables) .Cell-cell communication analysisTo study the communication between lineages in the stEM and CS6-7 human embryos, the activities of ligand-receptors pairs were measured between cell types within each time point with CellChat (Jin, S., et al. (2021) . Nat. Commun. 12, 1–20) (v. 1.1.0) following the detailed instruction in https: / / github. com / jinworks / CellChat / tree / main / tutorial, default parameters were used except following: in the process of identifying biologically significant cell-cell communication pathways, population. size = TRUE was set when applying the computeCommunProb function to take the effect of cell proportion into consideration in the probability calculation. In order to balance between public dataset and data from our study, 200 cells per cell type per study were random sampled for this analysis.Quantification and statistical analysisQuantification and detailed statistical analysis of the experiments were indicated in the corresponding figure legends. P-values in all diagrams were determined by GraphPad Prism. Unless specifically stated, ‘n’ in the figure legends represented independent experiments. Statistical analyses of the sequencing data were indicated in the Bioinformatic analysis section.
Claims
1.A method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to a) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, and / or b) an agent that inhibit a Transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling pathway ( “TGFβ inhibitor” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the TGFβ inhibitor, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid.2.The method of claim 1, wherein the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ, a TGFβ receptor, or a SMAD family member (e.g., SMAD2, SMAD3, SMAD4, SMAD7, SMAD1, SMAD5, or SMAD9) , optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor targets TGFβ or is an inhibitor that targets a TGFβ receptor, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor targets a TGFβreceptor type I (TGFβRI) , a TGFβ receptor type II (TGFβRII) , and / or a TGFβ receptor type III (TGFβRIII) , further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is a TGFβ type I receptor inhibitor (i.e., an ALK5 inhibitor) .3.The method of claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid, optionally wherein:a) the TGFβ inhibitor comprises an antibody that specifically neutralizes or blocks a TGFβ receptor, optionally wherein the antibody is a monoclonal antibody, further optionally wherein the antibody is selected from the group consisting of Fresolimumab (GC1008) , LY3022859, MAB240, 1D11, 13A1, 1901, XPA. 42.089, XPA. 42.681, and TGFB / 510,b) the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a soluble receptor or fusion protein that specifically neutralize TGFβ, optionally wherein the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a portion of a TGFβ receptor, further optionally wherein the soluble receptor or fusion protein comprises a TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) or a portion thereof, a TGFβreceptor type II (TGFβRI) TGFβRII and / or TGFβRIII, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a fusion protein comprising TGFβRII and TGFβRIII, c) the TGFβ inhibitor is a small molecule, optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, Pirfenidone, Tranilast, Fresolimumab, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof, optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, Galunisertib (LY2157299) , Vactosertib (TEW-7197) , LY364947, SB-505124, GW6604, GW788388, LY2109761, IN-1130, SD-208, or any combination thereof, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is selected from the group consisting of RepSox, A83-01, SB431542, Dorsomorphin, or any combination thereof, further optionally wherein the TGFβ inhibitor is RepSox, ord) the TGFβ inhibitor comprises a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) , optionally wherein the nucleic acid targets TGFβ or a TGFβ receptor.4.The method of any one of claims 1-3, wherein the method comprises:a) culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor, optionally wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the TGFβ inhibitor for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours (e.g., for at least 48 hours, e.g., for at least 60 hours) , orb) the method comprises culturing the stem cells in the presence of, or subjecting the stem cells to a nucleic acid (e.g., an mRNA, e.g., a DNA) encoding the TGFβinhibitor (e.g., prior to the culturing) thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells, optionally wherein the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector (e.g., a viral vector) or a vehicle (e.g., LNP, e.g., a cell penetrating peptide) , and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible sensor or promotor, further optionally wherein a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.5.A method of producing induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) in a container, comprising culturing stem cells in the presence of or subjecting the stem cells to an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” ) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, thereby obtaining the iEFCs, wherein the stem cells or their derivatives exhibit a status of STAT3 hyperactivation, wherein iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid, optionally wherein the status of STAT3 hyperactivation is inferred from SOCS3 expression levels, serving as a readout for STAT3 activity, and showing at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, or 20-fold higher, e.g., about 10-fold higher to about 40-folder higher) relative to the expression levels in the stem cells before culturing (e.g., maintained under standard culture condition) , optionally wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed by RT-qPCR.6.The method of any one of claims 1-5, wherein the stem cells are derived from a human, optionally wherein:a) the stem cells are derived from a single individual, and / orb) the individual is a male or a female.7.The method of any one of claims 1-6, wherein the stem cells are pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) , optionally wherein the PSCs are selected from the group consisting of inducible PSCs (iPSCs) , embryonic stem cells (ESCs) , expanded potential stem cells (EPSCs) , somatic cell nuclear transfer stem cells (SCNT-ESCs) , and parthenogenetic stem cells (pESCs) , further optionally wherein the pluripotent stem cells are inducible PSCs (iPSCs) or embryonic stem cells (ESCs) , further optionally wherein PSCs are primed PSCs.8.The method of any one of claims 1-7, wherein the stem cells comprise an exogenous nucleic acid encoding a TGFβ inhibitor or a STAT3 activator, optionally wherein the exogenous nucleic acid encodes a constitutively active STAT3 or an upstream activator of STAT3 or a portion thereof, further optionally wherein the nucleic acid further comprises an inducible promoter controlled by the STAT3 activator, further optionally wherein the stem cells have been engineered to express a chimeric receptor comprising a) a receptor expressed on surface of cells, and b) a intracellular domain promotes activation of STAT3.9.The method of any one of claims 1-8, wherein:a) the STAT3 activator comprises a cytokine that activates STAT3 signaling pathway, optionally wherein the STAT3 activator comprises an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) or a leukemia inhibitory factor ( “LIF” ) (e.g., at a dose of 10-100 ng / mL) , further optionally wherein the STAT3 activator is provided in a pulsed dosing regimen (e.g., replenish every 12-24 hours) , further optionally wherein the STAT3 activator comprises a) an IL-6 (e.g., at a dose of 5-600 ng / mL) , and a soluble IL-6 receptor (e.g., 100-400 ng / mL) ;b) the STAT3 activator inhibits a negative regulator of STAT3, optionally wherein:i) the negative regulator is selected from the group consisting of Suppressor of Cytokine Signaling 3 (SOCS3) , Protein Inhibitor of Activated STAT3 (PIAS3) , PTP1B, and a protein tyrosine phosphatase (e.g., SHP-1, SHP-2) , further optionally wherein the negative regulator of STAT3 targets 1) SHP-2 (e.g., SHP009) , 2) SOCS3, 3) SHP1 (e.g., TPI-1) , or 4) PTP1B, and / orii) the negative regulator of STAT3 is selected from the group consisting of an antibody, a small molecule, a soluble receptor, a fusion protein, and / or a nucleic acid (e.g., an antisense oligonucleotide (ASO) , e.g., an siRNA, an shRNA, an miRNA, or a gapmer, a locked nucleic acid ASO) targeting the negative regulator;c) the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a constitutively active STAT3 variant, optionally wherein the constitutively active STAT3 variant comprises a Y640F or D661Y mutation; and / ord) the STAT3 activator is an agent that induces a second agent that constitutively activates STAT3, optionally wherein the STAT3 activator comprises an agonist that activates a chimeric receptor expressed on stem cells, and further optionally wherein:1) the chimeric receptor further comprises a STAT3 upstream activator, a variant thereof, and / or a portion thereof,2) the STAT3 upstream activator comprises JAK1, JAK2 or gp130,3) the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 or a variant thereof, optionally wherein the chimeric receptor comprises a gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprising a substitution of Y118, further optionally the gp130 cytoplasmic domain comprises a Y118F substitution, and / or4) wherein the chimeric receptor comprises the ligand binding domain of a granulocyte colony stimulating factor (GCSF) receptor, further optionally wherein the chimeric receptor is GY118F, further optionally wherein the STAT3 activator is GCSF.10.The method of any one of claims 1-9, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator, optionally wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells in the presence of the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 6, 12, 24, 36, 48, or 60 hours (e.g., for at least 48 hours, e.g., for at least 60 hours) .11.The method of any one of claims 1-10, wherein the method comprises culturing stem cells with or subjecting stem cells to a nucleic acid (e.g., an mRNA, e.g., a DNA) encoding the STAT3 activator (e.g., prior to the culturing) , thereby introducing the nucleic acid into the stem cells, optionally wherein the nucleic acid is comprised in a) a vector (e.g., a viral vector) or a vehicle (e.g., a lipid, e.g., LNP, e.g., cationic lipid, e.g., a cell penetrating peptide) , and / or b) a polynucleotide comprising a inducible sensor or promotor, further optionally wherein a genome-editing enzyme (e.g., a CRISPR-associated enzyme, e.g., an inducible CRISRR system) is introduced into the stem cells.12.The method of any one of claims 1-11, wherein:a) the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours) after culturing, have a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold to about 40-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , optionally wherein the SOCS3 expression is assessed by RT-qPCR, orb) the stem cells or their derivatives, about 24 to 48 hours (e.g., 48 hours) after culturing, have a phosphorylated STAT3 level (i.e., p-STAT3) at least about 1.5-fold higher (e.g., about 2-fold, 3-fold, 4-fold, 5-fold, 6-fold, 7-fold, 8-fold, 9-fold, or 10-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , optionally wherein p-STAT3 levels are assessed by western blot.13.The method of any one of claims 1-12, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβ inhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about any of 48 hours, 50 hours, 52 hours, 54 hours, 56 hours, 58 hours, or 60 hours, optionally wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of both the TGFβ inhibitor and the STAT3 activator for at least about 60 hours to about 180 hours.14.The method of any one of claims 1-13, wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of LIF, a fibroblast growth factor (e.g., FGF2 or FGF4) , an MEK inhibitor (e.g., PD0325901) , a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) and / or a growth factor (e.g., ACTIVIN A) , optionally wherein the stem cells are cultured in the presence of RepSox, LIF, FGF2, ACTIVIN A, a tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) .15.The method of any of claims 1-14, wherein the stem cells are cultured:a) in the presence of feeder cells, optionally wherein the feeder cells comprise Mouse Embryonic Fibroblasts (MEFs) , further optionally wherein the MEFs are inactivated MEFs, orb) in the absence of feeder cells,further optionally wherein the container comprises a basal medium, optionally wherein the basal medium comprises N2B27, KnockOut DMEM (KO-DMEM) , or DMEM / F12.16.The method of any one of claims 1-15, wherein the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid in the absence of a cell derived from a different culture or source.17.The method of any one of claims 1-16, wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having at least two of three or all three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR, optionally the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) .18.The method of claim 17, wherein the cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , optionally wherein the cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells.19.The method of any one of claims 1-18, wherein:a) the iEFCs comprise cells that express Sushi Domain Containing 2 (SUSD2) , NANOG, and / or KLF4, optionally wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express SUSD2, NANOG and KLF4,b) the iEFCs have an upregulated expression of one or morePSC associated gene as compared to stem cells, wherein the stem cells are primed PSCs, optionally wherein the one or morePSC associated gene comprise DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, and / or PRDM14,c) the iEFCs comprise SUSD2+CD75+ cells, optionally wherein a) at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85%of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75 and / or b) at least 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% (e.g., 5%-30%, e.g., 10%-30%, e.g., 20%-30%) of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75,d) the iEFCs comprise SUSD2-CD75+ cells,e) the iEFCs comprise a plurality of cells comprising a) at least one or more TROP2+ cells, and b) at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells, wherein a) and b) are different cells, and / orf) the iEFCs comprise at least one or more SUSD2high cells (as indicated by a higher SUSD2 expression as compared to the expression on stem cells such as primed PSCs in maintenance culturing condition) , wherein the at least one or more SUSD2high cells are different cells from the at least one or more TROP2+ cells or the at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells.20.The method of any one of claims 1-19, wherein the iEFCs comprise a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , optionally wherein:i) the EPI-like cells have upregulated expression of ARGFX and / or NANOG as compared to stem cells;ii) the HYP-like cells have upregulated expression of GATA4 and / or ANPEP as compared to stem cells; and / oriii) the TE-like cells have upregulated expression of ENPEP and / or HAVCR1 as compared to stem cells.21.The method of any one of claims 1-20, wherein the iEFCs comprise a) EPI-like cells, b) HYP-like cells, c) TE-like cells, and d) extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein:a) the EPI-like cells are capable of forming blastoid after being cultured in a hnPSC medium,b) the HYP-like cells are capable of being expanded in a hypoblast medium, and / orc) the TE-like cells are capable of being expanded in a TSC medium and / or generating TSC-like colonies, wherein the TSC-like colonies express GATA3, TP63 and / or low CDX2; further optionally wherein:a) the EPI-like cells express NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, and / or TDGF1;b) the HYP-like cells express SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, and / or PDGFRA;c) the TE-like cells express GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, and / or ABCG2; and / ord) the ExM-like cells express NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, and / or VIM.22.The method of claim 21, wherein after about 60 to about 168 hours of culturing,a) about 10%to about 20%of the total cells are EPI-like cells,b) about 5%to about 10%of the total cells are HYP-like cells or ExM-like cells, and / orc) about 20%to about 60%of the total cells are TE-like cells.23.The method of any one of claims claim 21 or claim 22, wherein:a) the ratio between EPI-like cells and TE-like cells is about 2: 3,b) the ratio between EPI-like cells and (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) are about 1: 1 to about 2: 1,c) the ratio between (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) and TE-like cells are about 2: 3 to about 1: 3, and / ord) the ratio of EPI-like cells : (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) : TE-like cells is about 2: 2: 3 or 2: 1: 3.24.The method of any one of claims 1-23, wherein:a) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more 8-cell associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more 8-cell associated genes comprise DPPA5, KHDC3L, and / or TRIM60,b) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more morula associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more merula associated genes comprise ARGFX, TBC1D23, and / or ZNF534,c) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more inner cell mass (ICM) associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more ICM associated genes comprise ASRGL1, UPP1, and / or GDF3,d) the iEFCs have one or more opened transcriptional motifs associated with one or more STAT3 downstream targets, optionally wherein the one or more STAT3 downstream targets comprise GATA family (e.g., GATA3, GATA2, GATA6, and / or GATA4) , TFAP2C1, AP1, and / or TEAD family (e.g., TEAD4, TEAD3, and / or TEAD1) , and / ore) the iEFCs comprise hemi-methylated pattern characteristics or better hemi-methylated pattern characteristics of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of one or more imprinted genes thanPSCs, optionally wherein the one or more imprinted genes comprise one or more genes selected from the group consisting of H19 (maternal) , IGF2 (paternal) , DLK1 (paternal) , MEG3 (maternal) , RTL1 (paternal) , SNRPN (paternal) , UBE3A (maternal) , PEG10 (paternal) , PEG3 (paternal) , NNAT (paternal) , KCNQ1OT1 (paternal) , CDKN1C (maternal) , MEST (paternal) , ZDBF2 (paternal) , and SGCE (paternal) .25.The method of any one of claims 1-24, wherein the iEFCs are capable of developing into a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure, optionally the iEFCs are capable of developing into a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure within about 4-6 days after being transferred to a 3D culture.26.The method of any one of claims 1-25, wherein:a) the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid,b) the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7, and / orc) the iEFCs develop into the embryoid without going through a blastocyst stage.27.The method of any one of claims 1-26, wherein:a) the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) ,b) the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region,c) the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB, and / ord) the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) .28.The method of any one of claims 1-27, wherein the embryoid comprises primodial germ cells (PGC) .29.The method of any one of claims 1-28, wherein the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:a) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,b) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,c) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / ord) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5.30.The method of any one of claims 1-29, wherein:a) the embryoid has an A-P patterning, and / orb) the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern.31.The method of any one of claims 1-30, wherein the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.32.The method of any one of claims 1-31, wherein:a) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least about any of 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20% (e.g., about 20%to about 60%) of developing into an embryoid comprising a bilaminar disc,b) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, or 11% (e.g., about 7.6%to about 14.8%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, and TB, and / orc) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 1%, 3%, 4%, or 5% (e.g., about 4.2%to about 6%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, CC, and TB.33.A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising iEFCs produced by any one of claims 1-32.34.A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising cells having at least two of three characteristics comprising a) expressing a pluripotent stem cell associated gene (e.g., OCT4 and NANOG) , b) expressing an early embryo lineage marker (e.g., GATA6, GATA3, TRIM60, ARGFX, ASRGL1, and / or UPP1) , and c) having a SOCS3 expression level at least about 10-fold higher (e.g., about 12-fold, 15-fold, 18-fold, 20-fold, 25-fold, 30-fold, or 35-fold higher, e.g., about 20-fold higher) , compared to stem cells before culturing (e.g., in a maintenance culture condition) , wherein the SOCS3 expression level is assessed via RT-qPCR, optionally the cells having at least two of three characteristics have a similar epigenetic pattern to an early embryo (e.g., blastocyst) , optionally wherein the iEFCs comprise cells having three characteristics.35.The plurality of iEFCs of claim 34, wherein:a) cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into i) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , ii) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and iii) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , and / orb) cells having at least two of three characteristics or three characteristics are capable of differentiating into extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells.36.The plurality of iEFCs of claim 34 or claim 35, wherein the iEFCs further comprise a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , optionally wherein:a) the cells having two or three characteristics, the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, and the TE-like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition, and / orb) the iEFCs further comprise extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein the cells having two or three characteristics, the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, the TE-like cells and the Ex-M like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.37.A plurality of induced embryo founder cells (iEFCs) comprising: a) epiblast (EPI) -like cells (SUSD2+PDGFRA-TROP2-) , b) hypoblast (HYP) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA+TROP2-) , and c) trophectoderm (TE) -like cells (SUSD2-PDGFRA-TROP2+) , wherein the EPI-like cells, HYP-like cells, and TE-like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.38.The plurality of iEFCs of claim 37, wherein the iEFCs further comprise extraembryonic mesoderm (ExM) -like cells, optionally wherein the EPI-like cells, the HYP-like cells, the TE-like cells and the Ex-M like cells are derived from a single source of stem cells under a same culturing condition.39.The plurality of iEFCs of any one of claims 36-38, wherein:a) the EPI-like cells have upregulated expression of ARGFX and / or NANOG as compared to stem cells; the HYP-like cells have upregulated expression of GATA4 and / or ANPEP as compared to stem cells; and / or the TE-like cells have upregulated expression of ENPEP and / or HAVCR1 as compared to stem cells,b) the EPI-like cells are capable of forming blastoid after being cultured in a hnPSC medium, the HYP-like cells are capable of being expanded in a hypoblast medium, and / or the TE-like cells are capable of being expanded in a TSC medium and / or generating TSC-like colonies, wherein the TSC-like colonies express GATA3, TP63 and / or low CDX2,c) the EPI-like cells express NANOG, SOX2, POU5F1, SUSD2, and / or TDGF1; the HYP-like cells express SOX17, GATA4, FOXA2, GATA6, and / or PDGFRA; the TE-like cells express GATA3, GATA2, CLDN4, ZFHX3, and / or ABCG2; and / or the ExM-like cells express NNMT, COL3A1, ACTC1, LGALS1, and / or VIM,d) about 10%to about 20%of the total cells are EPI-like cells, about 5%to about 10%of the total cells are HYP-like cells or ExM-like cells, and / or about 20%to about 60%of the total cells are TE-like cells, optionally wherein 1) the ratio between EPI-like cells and TE-like cells is about 2: 3, 2) the ratio between EPI-like cells and (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) are about 1: 1 to about 2: 1, 3) the ratio between (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) and TE-like cells are about 2: 3 to about 1: 3, 4) the ratio of EPI-like cells : (HYP-like cells + ExM cells) : TE-like cells is about 2: 2: 3 or 2: 1: 3.40.The plurality of iEFCs of any one of claims 34-39, wherein:a) the iEFCs comprise cells that express Sushi Domain Containing 2 (SUSD2) , NANOG, and / or KLF4, optionally wherein the iEFCs comprise cells that express SUSD2, NANOG and KLF4,b) the iEFCs have an upregulated expression of one or morePSC associated gene as compared to stem cells, wherein the stem cells are primed PSCs, optionally wherein the one or morePSC associated gene comprise DPPA5, TET2, TFCP2L1, KLF4, and / or PRDM14,c) the iEFCs comprise SUSD2+CD75+ cells, optionally wherein a) at least 50%, 55%, 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, or 85%of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75 and / or b) at least 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% (e.g., 5%-30%, e.g., 10%-30%, e.g., 20%-30%) of the iEFCs express SUSD2 and / or CD75,d) the iEFCs comprise SUSD2-CD75+ cells,e) the iEFCs comprise at least one or more SUSD2high cells (as indicated by a higher SUSD2 expression as compared to the expression on stem cells such as primed PSCs in maintenance culturing condition) , wherein the at least one or more SUSD2high cells are different cells from the at least one or more TROP2+ cells or the at least one or more PDGFRA+ cells,f) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more 8-cell associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more 8-cell associated genes comprise DPPA5, KHDC3L, and / or TRIM60,g) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more morula associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more merula associated genes comprise ARGFX, TBC1D23, and / or ZNF534,h) the iEFCs comprise cells having upregulated expression of one or more inner cell mass (ICM) associated genes as compared to stem cells, optionally wherein the one or more ICM associated genes comprise ASRGL1, UPP1, and / or GDF3,i) the iEFCs have one or more opened transcriptional motifs associated with one or more STAT3 downstream targets, optionally wherein the one or more STAT3 downstream targets comprise GATA family (e.g., GATA3, GATA2, GATA6, and / or GATA4) , TFAP2C1, AP1, and / or TEAD family (e.g., TEAD4, TEAD3, and / or TEAD1) , and / orj) the iEFCs comprise hemi-methylated pattern characteristics or better hemi-methylated pattern characteristics of imprinting control regions (ICRs) of one or more imprinted genes thanPSCs, optionally wherein the one or more imprinted genes comprise one or more genes selected from the group consisting of H19 (maternal) , IGF2 (paternal) , DLK1 (paternal) , MEG3 (maternal) , RTL1 (paternal) , SNRPN (paternal) , UBE3A (maternal) , PEG10 (paternal) , PEG3 (paternal) , NNAT (paternal) , KCNQ1OT1 (paternal) , CDKN1C (maternal) , MEST (paternal) , ZDBF2 (paternal) , and SGCE (paternal) .41.A method of producing an embryoid, comprising culturing a plurality of iEFCs of any one of claims 33-40, comprising culturing iEFCs in a 3D culture, thereby producing the embryoid.42.The method of claim 41, wherein:a) the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of Chroman 1, Emricasan, Polyamines, and Trans-ISRIB, optionally wherein the iEFCs are cultured in a CEPT cocktail,b) the iEFCs are cultured in the presence of a ROCK inhibitor,c) the iEFCs are cultured without serum,d) the plurality of iEFCs comprise about 100-200 cells, optionally iEFCs comprise about 120-180 cells, and / ore) the method comprises culturing the iEFCs for about or at least about 4-6 days in the 3D culture, and optionally wherein the embryoid comprises a bilaminar disc embryo-like structure.43.The method of claim 41 or claim 42, wherein:a) the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid,b) the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7,c) the iEFCs develop into the embryoid without going through a blastocyst stage,d) the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) ,e) the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region,f) the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB,g) the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) ,h) the embryoid comprises primodial germ cells (PGC) ,i) the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:1) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,2) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,3) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / or4) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5,j) the embryoid has an A-P patterning,k) the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern, and / orl) the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.44.The method of any one of claims 41-43, wherein:a) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least about any of 10%, 12%, 14%, 16%, 18%, 20% (e.g., about 20%to about 60%) of developing into an embryoid comprising a bilaminar disc,b) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 2%, 3%, 4%, 5%, 6%, 7%, 8%, 9%, 10%, or 11% (e.g., about 7.6%to about 14.8%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, and TB, and / orc) the iEFCs have an efficiency of at least 1%, 3%, 4%, or 5% (e.g., about 4.2%to about 6%) of developing an embryoid comprising bilaminar disc, ExM, AM, CC, and TB.45.An embryoid generated by the method of any one of claims 41-44.46.An embryoid comprising primodial germ cells (PGCs) optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-7, optionally wherein the embryoid resembles a human embryo of CS5-6 or CS6-7.47.The embryoid of claim 45 or claim 46, wherein:a) the embryoid are derived from primed PSCs, optionally the primed PSCs are human primed PSCs,b) the embryoid is a high-fidelity embryoid,c) the embryoid is developed without going through a blastocyst stage,d) the embryoid comprises gastrulating cells (e.g., MIXL1high cells) ,e) the embryoid comprises SOX2lowGATA6highMIXL1high nascent MES, T+ and T+ / SOX2+ cells in the posterior region, SOX2lowFOXA2low cells adjacent to T+ cells, and -SOX2-FOXA2high cells between the EPI and YSE-like region,f) the embryoid comprises chorionic cavity (CC) ,g) the embryoid comprises streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , and yolk sac (YS) , optionally wherein the embroid further comprises at least one, two, three, four or five of post-EPI, MES, ExM, DE, PGC, and TB,h) the embryoid comprises bilaminar disc, primitive streak (PS) , amnion (AM) , trophoblast (TB) , chorionic cavity (CC) , and yolk sac (YS) ,i) the embryoid comprises post-EPI, AM, PS, MES, ExM, DE, YS, PGC, and TB, optionally wherein:1) the MES comprises i) Mesoderm1 expressing TBXT, MIXL1, and MESP1; and ii) Mesoderm 2 expressing SNAI2, and HAND1,2) the ExM comprise enriched BST2 transcripts,3) TB expresses NRF2, VGLL1, GATA2, and ERVW-1, and / or4) TB comprises i) cytotrophoblast (CTB) expressing GJA5, PEG10, and SIGLEC6, and ii) syncytiotrophoblast (STB) expressing SDC1, PSG3, and PSG5,j) the embryoid has an A-P patterning,k) the embryoid has an anti-polar or a syn-polar AVE-PS pattern, and / orl) the embryoid has post-EPI, PGC, amnion-early, amnion-late, primitive streak, mesoderm1, mesoderm 2, ExM, DE, VE / YSE, YS endoderm, AVE, CTBs, STBs, and hemogenic endothelium.48.A culture medium comprising a) a TGFβ inhibitor (e.g., any of the TGFβ inhibitor described above) or a nucleic acid thereof, and / or b) an agent that activates Signal Transducer and Activator of Transcription 3 (STAT3) signaling pathway in the stem cells ( “STAT3 activator” , e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described above) or a nucleic acid encoding the STAT3 activator, optionally wherein the culture medium is a medium for a cell culture comprising stem cells.49.The culture medium of claim 48, wherein:a) the stem cells comprise or are primed PSCs,b) the cell culture promotes production of induced embryo founder cells (e.g., any of the iEFCs described above) , and / orc) the iEFCs are capable of developing into an embryoid (e.g., any of the embryoids described above) .50.A method of reprogramming human primed pluripotent stem cells (hpPSC) to pluripotent stem cells (hnPSCs) comprising culturing the hpPSC in a container comprising a STAT3 activator (e.g., any of the STAT3 activator described above) .51.The method of claim 50, wherein:a) the stem cells are cultured in the presence of 1) LIF, 2) a MEK / ERK signaling inhibitor (PD0325901) , and 3) an TGFβ inhibitor,b) the stem cells are cultured in the presence of 1) Activin A, 2) FGF2 and / or FGF4, 3) a Tankyrase inhibitor (e.g., XAV939) , and / or 4) an TGFβ inhibitor, and / orc) the hnPSCs 1) form dome-shapedcolonies, 2) express NANOG, 3) express KLF4, and / or 4) express STELLA.
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