Abstract
Chimeric hamsters were produced by the aggregation of eight-cell embryos obtained from two stains (golden and albino) of Syrian hamster. Eight-cell embryos were collected by flushing of oviduct and uterus using HEPES-HECM-3 medium. The aggregated embryos by PHA were cultured in HECM-3 medium for 20 h under 10%O2-10%CO2-80%N2 at 37.5°C. Of 354 aggregated embryos, 87 (25%) and 234 (66%) had developed into morulae and blastocysts, respectively. Total 90 aggregates (morulae and blastocysts) were transferred to 3 recipients at Day 3 of pseudopregnancy. Of 3 recipients, 2 became pregnant. Seven pups were born from the two recipients. Of 7 pups born, 6 were determined as chimeric hamsters by coat color (agouti). Of 6 chimeras, 5 were phenotypic males, and 1 was a phenotypic female. All chimeric hamsters had normal external genitalia.
