Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
A Novel Use of Three-dimensional High-frequency Ultrasonography for Early Pregnancy Characterization in the Mouse
Published on: October 24, 2017
An in vivo teratology screen utilizing pregnant mice
Abstract:
Twenty-eight compounds of known teratogenic potential were assayed by an in vivo screening procedure. Postnatal growth and viability of prenatally exposed offspring was used as a measure of developmental toxicity. Gravid CD-1 mice were administered maximum tolerated doses of the compounds for up to 5 consecutive days during the period of major organogenesis. The dams were allowed to give birth, and litter size and weight on postpartum d 1 and 3 were recorded and compared with concurrent controls. All 15 compounds that were teratogenic by standard teratology test criteria exhibited some form of developmental toxicity. Four chemicals known to produce only fetal toxicity (reduced weight or supernumerary ribs) were tested and the screen successfully identified those that reduced weight. Finally, of the 9 compounds that show no effect in standard tests, 6 were also negative in the screen and 3 demonstrated either reduced viability or weight.
Insights
This study evaluated a novel in vivo screening method for developmental toxicity. The assay successfully identified teratogenic compounds and detected fetal toxicity, proving effective for chemical safety assessment.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Developmental Biology
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Teratogenic compounds pose significant risks to prenatal development.
- Standard teratology tests can be time-consuming and resource-intensive.
- There is a need for efficient in vivo screening methods to assess developmental toxicity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate an in vivo screening procedure for identifying developmental toxicity.
- To assess the utility of postnatal growth and viability as indicators of toxicity.
- To compare the screening results with established teratology test criteria.
Main Methods:
- Twenty-eight compounds with known teratogenic potential were tested.
- Gravid CD-1 mice received maximum tolerated doses during organogenesis.
- Postnatal offspring viability and weight were recorded and compared to controls.
Main Results:
- All 15 known teratogenic compounds showed developmental toxicity in the screen.
- The screen correctly identified compounds causing fetal weight reduction.
- Three compounds with no prior indication of toxicity exhibited adverse effects in the screen.
Conclusions:
- The in vivo screening procedure is effective for detecting developmental toxicity.
- The method successfully identified known teratogens and fetal toxicants.
- This assay offers a valuable tool for early-stage chemical safety evaluation.
