Related Experiment Videos
The effects of simulated microgravity on avian embryonic development
1Dept of Cardiac Physiology, National Cardiovascular Center, Suita Osaka.
Uchu Seibutsu Kagaku
|April 29, 2005
Summary
Microgravity (MG) hinders early avian embryo development, specifically the chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) vascularization. However, prolonged MG exposure may not prevent hatching, though it could subtly impact hatchling physiology.
Area of Science:
- Developmental biology
- Space biology
- Embryology
Background:
- Microgravity (MG) may adversely affect avian embryo development, particularly vascularized extra-embryonic membranes.
- The roles of gravity and oxygen availability in chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) blood vessel development are not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the influence of simulated microgravity on avian embryo and CAM development.
- To determine if CAM angiogenesis is directed by oxygen tension or gravity.
Main Methods:
- Chicken embryos were incubated in a 3D-clinostat for simulated microgravity (MG) or control conditions.
- Wax treatment was applied to partially cover the shell surface to assess oxygen tension effects under MG.
Main Results:
- Clinostat MG caused embryonic failure by impeding CAM-shell membrane complex development.
- Acute MG increased CAM mass but did not affect embryo mass.
- Combined MG and wax treatment did not significantly impact embryonic growth but retarded CAM growth in controls.
Conclusions:
- Simulated microgravity significantly disrupts early avian embryo development and CAM formation.
- Prolonged MG exposure may allow for normal growth and hatching, but can lead to subtle physiological changes in hatchlings, such as reduced heart mass.