Embryonated bird’s egg

Definition

An embryonated bird's egg is a fertilized bird egg containing a developing embryo, often used as a biological system to culture and propagate viruses. This method allows for the growth and multiplication of viruses in a controlled environment.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Embryonated bird's eggs are commonly used for the cultivation of influenza viruses.
2. The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) in the egg provides an ideal site for viral growth.
3. This method was crucial in the development of vaccines, including those for influenza and yellow fever.
4. Different parts of the egg, such as the amniotic cavity, yolk sac, and allantoic cavity, can support different types of viruses.
5. Embryonated bird's eggs offer advantages like low cost, easy availability, and high virus yield.

Review Questions

• What are some advantages of using embryonated bird's eggs for virus cultivation?
• Which part of an embryonated bird’s egg is most commonly used for growing influenza viruses?
• How have embryonated bird’s eggs contributed to vaccine development?

Related terms

Virus Culture: The process of growing viruses in controlled environments to study their characteristics.

Chorioallantoic Membrane (CAM): A highly vascularized membrane in an embryonated egg that supports viral growth.

Viral Propagation: The multiplication or replication of viruses within a host organism or cell culture system.