When you hear the word “embryology,” what comes to mind? You might think of a complex and seemingly foreign scientific topic like most people. But the field of embryology is quite interesting and relevant to our everyday lives. If you consider visiting an embryology lab Fort Worth, it helps to take a closer look at embryology and explore some things you can expect to encounter in a lab setting.
Overview of embryology and its science
An embryology lab is a place of wonder. As you enter, walls with glass jars containing all sorts of embryos surround you. Some are beautiful, some are grotesque, but all are fascinating. It is a place where you can see the science of embryology in action. You will get to see how embryos develop and grow and learn about the amazing process of human development. It is a truly thrilling experience for any curious mind.
Essential tools and equipment used in the embryology lab
The embryology lab is where you can expect to find important tools and equipment used to study embryos. You can expect to see a few key pieces of equipment in any lab: microscopes, culture dishes and media, and micropipettes.
Microscopes magnify objects and allow researchers to see them in greater detail. Culture dishes and media are used to culture embryos, while micropipettes measure and transfer small quantities of liquid.
Investigating methods for collecting embryos
When you go for your first embryology lab, you will be asked to investigate the different collection methods.
Three methods are commonly used:
- The first method is called the scraping method. In this method, the embryologist scrapes the inside of the uterus with a curette. It is done to remove the embryos from the wall of the uterus.
- The second method is called the aspiration method. This method inserts a needle into the uterus, and embryos are aspirated with a syringe.
- The third method is called the lavage method. In this method, saline solution is injected into the uterus and drained. It is done to flush out any embryos that are in the uterus.
Techniques for preserving and storing embryos
Once your doctor has your embryos, preserving and storing them is important. A few different techniques can be used, and it is important to talk to your embryologist about which one is best for you. One common technique is vitrification, a process of flash-freezing the embryos. It can be done using either a cryoprotectant solution or direct immersion in liquid nitrogen.
Another option is freezing embryos in a controlled-rate freezer. It is a slower process than vitrification but does not require using a cryoprotectant solution. Once the embryos are frozen, they can be stored in liquid nitrogen indefinitely.
Embryology is an exciting and rewarding field of study, providing insight into the development of life from the earliest stages. With a deeper look into embryology, the lab can be a place to explore the incredible complexity and beauty of life. Unlock the mysteries of embryology in the lab and discover what to expect and how you can take advantage.