Embrionót

Embrionót is a neologism used in speculative biology and philosophy to refer to a hypothetical embryonic unit or embryo-like system with high potential for self-organization and development. It is not part of established biology, and usage varies by author.

Etymology: The term is formed from the root embryon- (embryo) with a suffix used in some languages to create nouns; there is no single standard etymology.

Definition and scope: An embrionót is described as a minimal, modular embryo-like construct that could give rise to a complete organism under appropriate signals and conditions. It is distinguished from natural embryos by its hypothetical or artificial origin, and from cell aggregates by its emphasis on embryonic developmental potential.

Characteristics: Conceptually embrionóts are associated with developmental plasticity, modular organization, and the capacity to initiate morphogenesis across multiple lineages.

Context and usage: In science fiction and philosophical debates, embrionóts are used to probe questions of identity, continuity, and the boundaries between life stages. In mainstream biology, the term is generally treated as speculative or metaphorical rather than as a precise scientific category.

See also: Embryogenesis; Synthetic embryo; Embryoid body; Developmental biology; Bioethics.