Vitrification of mouse embryos with super-cooled air

Abstract

Objective: To develop a closed vitrification device (i.e., one that requires no direct contact with liquid nitrogen) for successful cryostorage of embryos. Design: Prospective laboratory research study. Setting: University-based research laboratory. Animal(s): F1 mice and mouse embryos. Intervention(s): Mouse embryos were vitrified using two methods and compared with nonvitrified controls. Embryos were vitrified on a device by either [1] presealing it within a straw before plunging into liquid nitrogen or [2] placing the straw into liquid nitrogen so that the air inside the straw is super-cooled before inserting the device holding the embryos. Main Outcome Measure(s): Survival, subsequent em..