Overview of our tests
Mouse embryo assay (MEA):
One cell-embryos are obtained from C57BLxCBA F1 hybrid mice. 21 embryos are exposed to the test product.
Along with each MEA, a positive control with 15 embryos is included. For a valid test, ≥80% of the embryos included in control group must develop to an expanded blastocyst stage.
Following protocols are distinguished:
- MEA-Culture: one-cell embryos are cultured in triplicate microdroplets of the test product under normal culture conditions (i.e. 37°C and optimal % CO₂ / 5% O₂) for 96 hours or 120 hours.
- MEA-Exposure: one-cell embryos are exposed to the test product according to customer-defined exposure timings and conditions. Subsequently, embryos are cultured in triplicate microdroplets of standard culture medium under normal culture conditions (i.e. 37°C and optimal % CO₂ / 5% O₂) for the remaining of the 96 hours or 120 hours.
- MEA-Sequential: one-cell embryos are sequentially exposed to all solutions according to customer-defined exposure timings and conditions. Subsequently, embryos are cultured in triplicate microdroplets of standard culture medium under normal culture conditions (i.e. 37°C and optimal % CO₂/5% O₂) for the remaining of the 96 hours or 120 hours.
- MEA-Extraction: the test product is extracted in standard culture medium according to customer-defined timing and conditions. Subsequently, one-cell embryos are cultured in triplicate microdroplets of the extracted medium under normal culture conditions (i.e. 37°C and optimal % CO₂ / 5% O₂) for 96 hours or 120 hours.
- MEA-Oil: one-cell embryos are cultured in microdroplets of standard culture medium overlaid with the test oil under normal culture conditions (i.e. 37°C and optimal % CO₂ / 5% O₂) for 96 hours or 120 hours.
By completing and submitting our sample submission form, you agree to our terms and conditions.
Human sperm survival assay (HSSA):
The motility of human sperm (i.e. 100% x (A+B+C)/(A+B+C+D) (motility category system according to the World Health Organisation)) is determined after exposure to a test item (exposure ratio 1:10) for a customer-defined period of time, and compared to sperm exposed to a control medium for the same period of time.
A HSSA is always performed on fresh sperm (no frozen-thawed sperm is used). For a valid test, % motility when compared to the start motility must be ≥ 80% after 1 or 4 hours exposure, or ≥ 75% after 24 hours exposure.
By completing and submitting our sample submission form, you agree to our terms and conditions.