In Vitro Comparative Effect of Cd super(2+), Ni super(2+), and Co super(2+) on Mouse Postblastocyst Development

The in vitro implantation method, which is described, was used to examine the effects of cadmium, nickel, and cobalt ions on mouse embryogenesis during the peri-implantation stage. The expanded blastocysts were flushed on day 4 of pregnancy and then cultured for 4 d in the presence of each metal. Adverse effects were noted at concentrations of 2.2, 10, and 100 mu M for Cd, Ni, and Co, respectively. The specific postblastocyst disturbances induced by each metal ion are described.