ATLA::Alternatives to Laboratory Animals

Volume 30, Supplement 2

Development of a testing strategy for detecting embryotoxic hazards of chemicals in vitro by using embryonic stem cell models

ATLA 30, Supplement 2, 107-109, 2002

Susanne Bremer, Cristian Pellizzer, Sarah Adler, Martin Paparella and Jan De Lange

ECVAM, Institute for Health & Consumer Protection, European Commission Joint Research Centre, 21020 Ispra (VA), Italy

SUMMARY

The importance of developing in vitro tests for embryotoxicity is discussed, and ECVAM's work with its collaborators is summarised. Studies are in progress to find new endpoints for use in the scientifically validated embryonic stem (ES) cell test, so that the potential for chemical effects on endodermal, mesodermal and/or ectodermal differentiation can be identified. This involves, inter alia, the use of genetically modified ES cells.

Keywords: cardiotoxicity, embryonic stem cells, embryonic stem cell test, embryotoxicity, green fluorescent protein, P19 teratocarcinoma cell line, retinoic acid