Immobilization of preimplantation mammalian embryos by microcapsulation
Torner, H.; Kauffold, P.; Götze, M.; König, I.; Dautzenberg, H.; Loth, F.
Archiv für Experimentelle Veterinarmedizin 40(4): 541-547
1986
ISSN/ISBN: 0003-9055 PMID: 3767575 Document Number: 275658
First results of the new technique of microencapsulation of mouse and cattle embryos prior to implantation are described. The microcapsules are produced through the reaction of sodium cellulose sulphate, as a polyanion, with poly (dimethyldiallylic ammonium chloride) as a polycation, to give a complex producing a spherical membrane. The immobilised embryo and culture medium are contained in the liquid nucleus of the capsule. Protection of oocytes or preimplantation embryos through immobilisation is a useful tool in research and embryo transfer. Culture trials showed no adverse effects of microencopsulation on embryo viability. The membrane was permeable to essential high molecular weight serum components of the culture medium.