Laser-assisted blastocyst dissection and subsequent cultivation of embryonic stem cells in a serum/cell free culture system: applications and preliminary results in a murine model
2006

Laser-Assisted Techniques for Harvesting Embryonic Stem Cells

Sample size: 34 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Tanaka Noriko, Takeuchi Takumi, Neri Queenie V, Sills Eric Scott, Palermo Gianpiero D

Primary Institution: Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Medical College of Cornell University

Hypothesis

To evaluate embryonic stem cell (ESC) harvesting methods with an emphasis on derivation of ESC lines without feeder cells or sera.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that cell/serum free murine ESC harvest and propagation are feasible procedures for an embryology laboratory.

Supporting Evidence

  • 34 mated mice produced a total of 613 zygotes, with 566 developing to blastocyst stage.
  • ESC harvest rate was significantly higher in serum-free medium compared to standard DMEM.
  • All established ESC lines maintained typical morphology and pluripotency markers.

Takeaway

Scientists found a way to grow special cells called embryonic stem cells without using other cells or serum, which is important for future research.

Methodology

Laser-assisted blastocyst dissection was performed and compared to conventional immunosurgery to assess a novel laser application for inner cell mass (ICM) isolation.

Limitations

The efficiency of ESC lines established without feeder layers and sera was lower than desired.

Participant Demographics

B6D2-F1 (C57BL/6J ♀ × DBA/2J ♂) mice were used in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p < 0.01

Statistical Significance

p < 0.01

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1186/1479-5876-4-20

Want to read the original?

Access the complete publication on the publisher's website

View Original Publication