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Cyclosporin-induced embryotoxicity in mice
A Fein1, M Vechoropoulos, L Nebel
1Department of Embryology and Teratology, Tel-Aviv University Medical School, Tel-Hashomer, Israel.
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1989
Summary
Cyclosporin (CS) administration during pregnancy in mice did not increase maternal death but caused significant embryotoxicity. The drug reduced viable embryos and increased resorptions, indicating a clear adverse effect on fetal development.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Immunology
Background:
- Cyclosporin (CS) is an immunosuppressive drug with potential effects on pregnancy.
- Understanding CS's impact on embryonic development is crucial for risk assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the embryotoxic effects of cyclosporin (CS) in pregnant ICR mice.
- To evaluate the impact of CS on maternal organs and embryonic development at various gestational stages.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant ICR mice received daily injections of 30 mg/kg cyclosporin (CS) on gestational days 6-8 or 10-12.
- Control groups received saline injections.
- Mice were sacrificed at different time points (days 12, 15, 17, 19) for analysis.
- Embryos, placentae, and maternal organs were examined macroscopically and microscopically.
Main Results:
- Cyclosporin (CS) administration did not increase maternal mortality.
- Histological examination revealed transient pathological alterations in maternal thymus, liver, kidney, and spleen.
- CS significantly reduced the number of viable embryos and increased embryo resorptions.
- Microscopic examination indicated no adverse effects on embryonic organogenesis.
Conclusions:
- Cyclosporin (CS) at 30 mg/kg exhibits clear embryotoxic effects in ICR mice.
- The drug impacts pregnancy outcomes by reducing viable fetuses and increasing resorptions.
- While maternal organs showed transient changes, the primary concern is the drug's adverse effect on embryonic development.