Embryonal Carcinoma Cells

Question 1

Teratoma

Answer 1

Tumour containing cells that form themselves into tissues of the 3 germ layers

Question 2

Characteristics/Morphology

Answer 2

1. Small and rounded
2. High nucleus to cytoplasm ratio
3. Prominent nucleolus
4. Distinct chromatin structure
5. Rapid growth - abbreviated G1 phase

Question 3

Stevens, 1959 and Pierce et al, 1960.

Answer 3

First to publish on ECCs

Question 4

Chimeras

Answer 4

Used to test for potency - use an EC from black mouse and implant into blastocyst from white mouse. See which tissues the EC cell colonised

Question 5

Disadvantages of ECCs

Answer 5

1. Low proportion of successful chimeras generated

2.