Method and device for dividing embryos

Abstract

An apparatus for dividing embryos that are maintained in a flushing or saline solution is provided for removable insertion within a test tube-like container having an open container end and a sealed rounded end. The apparatus assembles within or without the container and includes a generally cylindrical partition cup having a rounded end that conforms to the rounded sealed end of the container and an elongated cylindrical central barrel having an elongated chamber, the central barrel having a portion thereof which is placed contiguous to the partition cup. The apparatus also includes an elongated, generally cylindrical embryo guide funnel having a funnel-shaped end further defined by an elongated member. The elongated member further defines a tubular passageway that allows the embryo to pass therethrough for division or bisection by a cutting edge attached to the partition cup and positioned adjacent the passageway. The apparatus can be used with a centrifugal method or a negative pressure method to force or propel the embryo through the passageway and against the cutting edge in order to divide the embryo in half. A pair of embryo holding chambers formed within the partition cup are adapted to hold each half of the divided embryo until transfer to a recipient as part of the process of genetically improving livestock and other animals.