Abstract
In 1997, an embryonic stem cell test (EST) for in vitro
embryotoxicity was developed in Germany. This test
could accurately predict the embryotoxicities of unknown
chemicals, as demonstrated by an international validation
test. However, the metabolic factors of chemicals should be
considered because their embryotoxicities cause systemic
effects. In the present study, chemicals were metabolized
using a culture system of rat liver hepatocytes. Then, the
culture medium was used to differentiate mouse ES cells.
Myocardial pulse rates were compared using Ag, Pd,
Cu, and In, metal elements used in the upper structure of
dental implants, depending on the presence or absence of
metabolism.
As a result, Ag, Pd, and In had significant effects on
cell differentiation, while Cu had reduced effects due to
metabolism. These results may be explained by the effects of
metallothionein in the liver. Thus, metabolic factors should be
considered for the embryotoxicity test.
