Ultrapure water for BPA-free culture media in embryology research

In this application note, Merck presents a study to establish a technique to detect low levels of endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) in water and to document how a Milli-Q^® IQ 7000 water purification system equipped with a Biopak^® ultrafilter (configuration recommended for molecular biology applications) produces reference ultrapure water that is suitable for BPA-sensitive embryology research.

Endocrine disruptors are chemicals that interfere with the endocrine system of humans and animals. They affect growth as well as reproduction, immune, and nervous systems, causing adverse health consequences. Found in plastics (including laboratory consumables and equipment), lacquers, resins, and surfactants, endocrine disruptors are regarded as omnipresent.

Among the various industrially produced endocrine disruptors, BPA is one of the most widespread. BPA is known as a ‘xenoestrogen’ as it mimics the estrogen hormone, and therefore raises major health concerns. Several studies have confirmed that BPA interferes with the production of hormones and the expression of their genes.