How to Raise a Chick in a 3D-Printed Artificial Eggshell

Introduction

Imagine watching a chick peck its way out of a clear plastic cup. That’s exactly what scientists at Colossal Biosciences have achieved—a fully artificial eggshell that supports embryonic development from egg transfer to hatching. This groundbreaking technique, part of their plan to resurrect extinct birds like the dodo and giant moa, shows how modern biotech can bypass natural eggs. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll break down the process Colossal used to nurture chicks inside a 3D-printed shell, from materials to hatching. Whether you’re a researcher or a curious science enthusiast, this guide will walk you through the key stages.

How to Raise a Chick in a 3D-Printed Artificial Eggshell — Source: www.technologyreview.com

What You Need

3D-printed lattice eggshell: An oval, grid-like structure (e.g., from biocompatible plastic) that mimics the porous nature of a real eggshell.
Silicone-based membrane: A special coating applied to the inside of the lattice to allow oxygen exchange while containing the embryo.
Freshly laid chicken eggs (less than 24 hours old for best viability).
Sterile transfer tools: Pipettes, beakers, and a sterile work area to prevent contamination.
Incubator: A temperature- and humidity-controlled environment (37.5°C, ~55% humidity) for artificial eggs.
Transparent viewing window: An optional clear cover on top of the shell to observe development.
Gene-editing tools (optional): For those aiming to modify the embryo’s genome (e.g., for de-extinction projects).

Step-by-Step Procedure

Step 1: Prepare the Artificial Eggshell

Start by 3D-printing the lattice eggshell. Use a biocompatible polymer that can withstand sterilization (e.g., via autoclave or UV light). The lattice should have small pores to allow air exchange. Once printed, coat the interior thoroughly with a thin layer of food-grade silicone. This membrane must be breathable—it lets oxygen in while keeping the liquid contents inside. Let the silicone cure completely (follow manufacturer’s instructions, typically 24 hours). Add a transparent cover on top with a small window or sealable port for observation and gas exchange.

Step 2: Source and Prepare Fresh Eggs

Obtain recently laid chicken eggs (ideally within a few hours of laying) from a reliable source. Gently wash the shells with warm water and mild disinfectant (e.g., 70% ethanol) to reduce surface contamination. Work in a sterile hood or clean room to minimize risks. Keep the eggs in a warm, stable environment until transfer.

Step 3: Transfer the Egg Contents

This is the most delicate step. Using sterile technique, carefully crack each chicken egg and pour its contents—yolk, albumen, and embryo—into a sterile beaker. Then slowly pour or pipette the contents into the pre-prepared artificial shell. Avoid breaking the yolk or damaging the embryo. Ensure the cup is not overfilled; leave a small air pocket (about 1/10 of total volume) for the chick’s first breath. Seal the cover securely but not airtight—the silicone membrane already provides gas exchange, but a small vent may be needed.

Step 4: Incubate the Artificial Egg

Place the sealed artificial egg inside an incubator set to 37.5°C (99.5°F) with relative humidity around 55%. Rotate the egg gently (if possible) twice a day to prevent the embryo from sticking to the membrane—though the container’s shape may make this tricky. Monitor the internal environment using sensors for temperature, humidity, and oxygen levels. The transparent window allows visual checks without opening the incubator.

Step 5: Monitor Development and Hatching

After approximately 21 days (standard for chickens), the embryo will pip—break into the air pocket. You may see the chick moving and hear faint peeping. Provide additional support if needed: some artificial shells have a soft top that can be peeled back to assist hatching if the chick struggles. Once the chick is fully out, transfer it to a brooder with regulated temperature (starting at 35°C and gradually decreasing) and provide starter feed and water.

Tips for Success

Sterility is critical: Any bacterial contamination can kill the embryo. Use autoclaved tools and a laminar flow hood if possible.
Work quickly: The embryo is extremely vulnerable once removed from its natural shell. Complete transfer in under 10 minutes.
Optimize the membrane: Choose a silicone with correct gas permeability (e.g., medical-grade PDMS). Run tests with non-viable eggs first.
Scale up carefully: Colossal’s “salad spinner” artificial egg for the moa will be much larger; ensure structural integrity and gas exchange at scale.
Document everything: Record temperature, humidity, and timing—this helps refine the process for endangered species or de-extinction projects.
Expect failures: Many early attempts may not hatch. Learn from each experiment to improve the seal, membrane, and incubation conditions.

With patience and precision, you can successfully grow a chick outside its natural eggshell—a technique that paves the way for conserving rare birds and even bringing back species like the dodo and moa. Remember, this is a complex biological procedure; always consult with avian reproductive specialists before attempting on a large scale.