Blastocyst Models
Blastocyst Models - Related Videos
12:09
Protocol for Human Blastoids Modeling Blastocyst Development and Implantation
0 Views •
Cited by 6 •
2022
A protocol outlining the formation of human blastoids that efficiently, timely, and sequentially generate blastocyst-like cells.
10:59
Human Blastocyst Biopsy and Vitrification
0 Views •
Cited by 36 •
2019
Blastocyst biopsy and vitrification are required to efficiently conduct preimplantation genetic testing. An approach entailing the sequential opening of the zona pellucida and retrieval of 7-8 trophectoderm cells in day 5-7 post-insemination limits both the number of manipulations required and the exposure of the embryo to sub-optimal environmental conditions.
10:19
Derivation of Mouse Trophoblast Stem Cells from Blastocysts
0 Views •
Cited by 7 •
2010
In this video, we demonstrate the isolation of mouse blastocysts and the derivation of trophoblast stem cells from blastocysts. We also describe conditions for maintenance of the stem cell property as well as induction of differentiation in culture.
09:35
Modified MicroSecure Vitrification: A Safe, Simple and Highly Effective Cryopreservation Procedure for Human Blastocysts
0 Views •
Cited by 11 •
2017
MicroSecure Vitrification was developed as a non-commercial, aseptic closed vitrification device system that is compliant with FDA good manufacturing and tissue-handling practices. Due to the withdrawal of hydrophobic plugged embryo straws from the industry, the vitrification procedure was modified to include an inner seal before the standard internal cotton plug.
08:28
Morphometric Protocol for the Objective Assessment of Blastocyst Behavior During Vitrification and Warming Steps
0 Views •
Cited by 3 •
2019
Here we present a time-lapse morphometric protocol to follow the intensity of blastocyst shrinkage and re-expansion during previtrification interventions and post-warming recovery. The application of the protocol is possible in in vitro fertilization laboratories equipped with time-lapse microscopes and is recommended in the development of an optimal blastocyst vitrification method.
FAQs
Self-organization allows stem-cell-derived systems to arrange into populations resembling the inner cell mass and trophectoderm while forming a blastocoel-like cavity. This arrangement is important because it connects cell differentiation with spatial organization, rather than examining each lineage in isolation. Researchers can therefore investigate how early mammalian development establishes embryonic and supporting tissue compartments.
Pluripotent or embryonic stem cells provide the starting material for generating multiple early developmental populations. Under defined culture conditions, they differentiate and arrange into structures resembling blastocyst compartments. Their developmental flexibility makes it possible to examine lineage specification and differentiation in a controlled laboratory system, where genetic or environmental factors can be studied during early organization.
They provide an accessible experimental platform that can reproduce selected structural and cellular features of the early mammalian blastocyst without relying solely on limited embryos. This expands opportunities to study early development repeatedly and under controlled conditions. The models are especially valuable for examining cell-fate decisions and tissue organization that are difficult to investigate directly in scarce early embryos.
A general workflow begins with pluripotent or embryonic stem cells, places them under defined culture conditions, and allows them to self-organize. The resulting system develops distinct populations resembling the inner cell mass and trophectoderm, together with a blastocoel-like cavity. These structural and cellular features provide the basis for subsequent studies of differentiation, lineage specification, and organization.
These models support investigations of lineage specification, cell differentiation, and the organization of early embryonic and supporting tissues. They also offer a platform for studying implantation, infertility, congenital disorders, and the effects of genetic or environmental factors on early development. Their value lies in connecting cellular changes with the formation of organized early developmental structures.
Because the models reproduce key features of the stage that precedes implantation, they can be used to examine developmental events relevant to implantation. The same platform can support research into infertility and congenital disorders by providing an accessible setting for analyzing early cellular organization. Researchers may also investigate how genetic or environmental factors affect these processes.