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Updated: Aug 16, 2026
A Mouse Model of in Utero Transplantation
Published on: January 27, 2011
In utero hematopoietic stem cell transplantation: a caprine model for prenatal therapy in inherited metabolic
K L Lovell1, S A Kraemer, J R Leipprandt
1Neuroscience Program, and Center for Clinical Neuroscience, Colleges of Human and Osteopathic Medicine, Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing 48824, USA. lovell@msu.edu
Objectives:
We explored the feasibility and efficacy of in utero hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in the caprine animal model system with the objectives of determining procedures for transplantation and establishing methods for detecting engraftment.
Methods:
Male fetal liver hematopoietic stem cells were injected into female fetuses during the immunotolerant period, using either hysterotomy or ultrasound-guided injections.
Results:
The rate of fetal death was much lower for the ultrasound-guided injections. Donor cells were observed in the peritoneal fluid of 4 fetuses 3 days after injection, but no donor cells were detected in tissues at longer time periods.
Conclusions:
Ultrasound-guided injection of hematopoietic stem cells into the abdomen of a developing fetus is safe and feasible. The parameters required for successful engraftment have not yet been identified.
