Live-cell imaging of mouse preimplantation embryos using a simple closed glass capillary method

Live-cell imaging is a popular method for analyzing mammalian preimplantation embryos, but it often requires expensive equipment and skilled techniques. We previously developed a simply and costly embryo-culture system in a sealed tube that does not require a CO2 incubator. In the present study, we developed a new live-cell imaging system using our previous culture method and a glass capillary. Zygotes were placed in a glass capillary and sunk in oil for observation under a stereomicroscope. Warming the capillary using a thermoplate enabled most of the zygotes to develop into blastocysts and produce healthy offspring. This live-cell imaging system captured images every 30 min for up to 5 days, which confirmed that the developmental speed and quality of the embryos were not affected, even with fluorescence. Overall, this new system is a reasonable, cost-effective, live-cell imaging method for preimplantation embryos that does not require dedicated machines and advanced techniques.