embryo transfer

embryo transfer

n.

After artificial insemination, the process by which the fertilized ovum is transferred at the blastocyst stage to the recipient's uterus.

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embryo transfer,

a process of implanting a fertilized ovum in a uterus.

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embryo

a new organism in the earliest stage of development, i.e. from the time that the fertilized embryo begins to develop a long axis up to the time that the major structures have begun to develop, when it becomes a fetus.

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embryo collection

collection of an embryo from the genital tract for the purposes of embryo transfer; surgical and nonsurgical techniques available.

embryo cryopreservation

preservation of embryos by freezing.

hexacanth embryo

the larva with six hooks present in the cestode egg when it escapes from the uterus of the adult tapeworm. Called also oncosphere.

embryo micromanipulation

handling of an embryo under a microscope, for examination, dissection.

embryo transfer

collection of fertilized ova from one female before they become implanted and transfer to another female to complete the gestation. The donor is usually superovulated and then inseminated. Collection may be surgical via a laparotomy or nonsurgical by flushing through the cervix. Collected embryos must be stored carefully. They are evaluated in terms of fertilization, possibly cleaved artificially to create clones, and washed to eliminate the possibility of transferring infection with the embryo. Long-term storage by freezing is a practicable procedure. The recipient needs to be in appropriate stage of uterine receptivity, effected by synchronizing the estrus cycle with that of the donor.

embryo transplant

see embryo transfer (above).