A device for the simple and rapid transcervical transfer of mouse embryos eliminates the need for surgery and potential post-operative complications

Abstract

We describe a novel device that can be used for the transcervical transfer of embryos into pseudopregnant female mice. This nonsurgical embryo transfer (NSET) device is as efficient as standard surgical embryo transfer in the production of transgenic mice, and can also be used for the transfer of embryonic stem cell-containing chimeric blastocysts and cryopreserved embryos. In addition to the elimination of surgery, recipient females do not have to be anesthetized. The NSET device eliminates a painful surgical procedure as well as potential complications associated with anesthesia/post-operative care, reduces the technical expertise and equipment needed for surgical transfer, and represents substantial cost savings and regulatory reduction. NSET technology provides an easy and rapid alternative to surgical embryo transfer. Address correspondence to Brett Spear, Room 210, Combs Building, University of Kentucky College of Medicine, 800 Rose Street, Lexington, KY, 40536-0298, USA. email: