[In search of an in vitro model for neuroteratology]

In vitro models for neuroteratology are briefly reviewed with emphasis on embryonic brain cells in vitro (in Petri dishes and as aggregate cultures under constant gyratory movement). A new model on randomly aggregated cells from embryonic chick brain (embryonic day 7) to detect potential toxic insults is presented. The same cell population is observed on Petri dishes and as aggregate cultures under various treatment schedules. Cell development and differentiation of the various cell types are monitored by qualitative PAP-staining of specific antibodies against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP, marking type-2 astrocytes), 68kD-neurofilament (marking nerve cells) and tyrosine hydroxylase, as well as quantitative ELISA using cytotoxicity end-points (neutral red uptake). Drugs and other chemicals are selected on the basis of their known interference with behavior and with the dopaminergic system (neurotoxic and neuromodulatory drugs) in order to evaluate the usefulness of a stable and fully differentiating brain tissue model for screening a neuroteratogenic activity.