Toxicity Testing

Does the chemical agent under study have any potential effects on fertility or embryo development? Which reproductive functions are being affected and at what dosage? You need an accurate and rapid answer. EggCentris advises you on selecting and setting up the right tests, and verifies decisions based on test results.

Which tests do you need to conduct to reliably screen for potential harmful effects of your chemicals on reproductive function? EggCentris advises you what the optimal bioassays are for your chemicals. Our experience with laboratory testing and our in-depth knowledge help us to fine-tune and fully adapt the test set-up according to your needs.

The most appropriate bioassay for each compound

EggCentris has developed a number of advanced in vitro bioassays applicable for most chemical agents:

Female fertility

• Follicle bioassay (FBA) : multiparametric test for simultaneous evaluation of folliculogenesis, steroidogenesis (endocrine disruption), and oogenesis as it mimics the physiological processes of the ovary
• In vitro maturation assay (IVM) : multi parametric assay to evaluate the meiotic process of the oocyte
• In vitro fertilization assay (IVF) : verifies how the compound can disturb the process of conception
• Mouse embryo assay (MEA) : analyses pre-implantation embryo development
• Embryonic stem cell test (EST) : test assay to predict embryo toxicity

Male fertility

• Leydig cell culture: test assay to predict toxicity to the testis and screen for endocrine disruption
• Primary Sertoli cell culture: assay to predict male fertility issues
• Sperm analysis (SMA): evaluates sperm functionality

Embryo toxicity

• Mouse embryo peri-impantation assay (MEPA): analyses pre-implantation embryo development and survival capacity upon implantation
• Embryonic stem cell test (EST): test assay to predict embryo toxicity

EggCentris also performs short term in vivo and ex vivo studies:

• (Super)ovulation induction study : will assess ovarian responsivity to gonadotropins, oocyte quality
• Oestrous cycle follow up: will detect endocrine disruption
• Embryo transfer study : test to assess embryo quality
• Implantation study : test to assess uterine receptivity
• Pharmacokinetic study (PK) : blood collection (plasma/serum by cardiac puncture)

We also develop new testing models on your request, fully adapted to your specific needs and the compounds under study.