Teratogenicity Testing : Methods and Protocols

This detailed book provides a compilation of laboratory techniques and tests to assess the risks to embryo-fetal development from drug exposure during early developmental stages. After an introduction to teratogenicity testing, the contents explore both in vitro and in vivo techniques in the study of the teratogenic and fetotoxic effects of drugs, as well as numerous animal-based teratology methods. Written in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology series format, chapters include introductions to their respective topics, lists of the necessary materials and reagents, step-by-step, readily reproducible laboratory protocols, and tips on troubleshooting and avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and comprehensive, Teratogenicity Testing: Methods and Protocols describes methods that integrate a battery of tests that can be performed in cells, organs, tissues, and animal models for evaluating toxicity and/or the safety of compounds in early developmental stages with the goal of estimating, preventing, or minimizing the teratogenic potential of drugs.