1
|
Ahuja K, Batra V, Kumar R, Datta TK. Transient suppression of Wnt signaling in poor-quality buffalo oocytes improves their developmental competence. Front Vet Sci 2024; 10:1324647. [PMID: 38274663 PMCID: PMC10808588 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1324647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction One of the most evolutionary conserved communication systems, the Wnt signaling pathway is a major gene regulatory pathway that affects the developmental competence of oocytes and regulates most embryonic developmental processes. The present study was undertaken to modulate the canonical Wnt (Wingless/integration) signaling pathway in the poor-quality (colorless cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB-) buffalo cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) to improve their in vitro maturation (IVM) and embryo production (IVEP) rates. Methods The expression of key Wnt pathway genes was initially assessed in the good (blue cytoplasm after Brilliant Cresyl Blue staining, BCB+) and poor quality (BCB-) buffalo COCs to establish a differential activity of the Wnt pathway. The BCB- COCs were supplemented with the Wnt pathway inhibitor, Dickkopf-related protein 1 (DKK1) and later subjected to IVM and IVEP along with the BCB+ and BCB- controls. The cumulus expansion index (CEI), rate of nuclear maturation (mean percentage of oocytes in the MII stage) and embryo production, and the expression of developmentally important genes were evaluated to assess the effect of Wnt pathway inhibition on the development competence of these poor-quality oocytes. Results The Wnt pathway genes exhibited a significantly higher expression (p < 0.05) in the poor-quality BCB- oocytes compared to the good-quality BCB+ oocytes during the early maturation stages. The supplementation of BCB- COCs with 100 ng/mL DKK1 effectively inhibited the expression of the key mediators of the Wnt pathway (β-catenin and dishevelled homolog 1, DVL1). DKK1 supplemented BCB- COCs exhibited significantly improved cytoplasmic and nuclear maturation indices, development rates and significantly elevated expression (p < 0.05) of genes implicated in germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) and embryonic genome activation (EGA) vis-à-vis BCB- control COCs. Conclusion These data indicate that inhibition of the Wnt pathway during the initial course of oocyte maturation can improve the development competence of poor-quality buffalo oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kriti Ahuja
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Vipul Batra
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- Lifespan and Population Health, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, United Kingdom
| | - Rakesh Kumar
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
| | - Tirtha Kumar Datta
- Animal Genomics Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute, Karnal, India
- ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Srirattana K, Hufana‐Duran D, Atabay EP, Duran PG, Atabay EC, Lu K, Liang Y, Chaikhun‐Marcou T, Theerakittayakorn K, Parnpai R. Current status of assisted reproductive technologies in buffaloes. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13767. [PMID: 36123790 PMCID: PMC9787342 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 08/05/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Buffaloes are raised by small farm holders primarily as source of draft power owing to its resistance to hot climate, disease, and stress conditions. Over the years, transformation of these animals from draft to dairy was deliberately carried out through genetic improvement program leading to the development of buffalo-based enterprises. Buffalo production is now getting more attention and interest from buffalo raisers due to its socioeconomic impact as well as its contribution to propelling the livestock industry in many developing countries. Reproduction of buffaloes, however, is confronted with huge challenge and concern as being generally less efficient to reproduce compared with cattle due to both intrinsic and extrinsic factors such as poor estrus manifestation, silent heat, marked seasonal infertility, postpartum anestrus, long calving interval, delayed puberty, inherently low number of primordial follicles in their ovaries, high incidence of atresia, and apoptosis. Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are major interventions for the efficient utilization of follicle reserve in buffaloes. The present review focuses on estrus and ovulation synchronization for fixed time artificial insemination, in vitro embryo production, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos, somatic cell nuclear transfer, the factors affecting utilization in various ARTs, and future perspectives in buffaloes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kanokwan Srirattana
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural TechnologySuranaree University of TechnologyNakhon RatchasimaThailand
| | - Danilda Hufana‐Duran
- Reproduction and Physiology SectionDepartment of Agriculture‐Philippine Carabao CenterScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines,Department of Animal ScienceCentral Luzon State UniversityScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines
| | - Eufrocina P. Atabay
- Reproduction and Physiology SectionDepartment of Agriculture‐Philippine Carabao CenterScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines
| | - Peregrino G. Duran
- Reproduction and Physiology SectionDepartment of Agriculture‐Philippine Carabao CenterScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines,Department of Animal ScienceCentral Luzon State UniversityScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines
| | - Edwin C. Atabay
- Reproduction and Physiology SectionDepartment of Agriculture‐Philippine Carabao CenterScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines,Department of Animal ScienceCentral Luzon State UniversityScience City of MunozNueva EcijaPhilippines
| | - Kehuan Lu
- Animal Reproduction InstituteGuangxi UniversityNanningGuangxiChina
| | - Yuanyuan Liang
- Department of Reproductive MedicineLiuzhou General HospitalLiuzhouGuangxiChina
| | - Thuchadaporn Chaikhun‐Marcou
- Obstetrics Gynecology Andrology and Animal Biotechnology Clinic, Faculty of Veterinary MedicineMahanakorn University of TechnologyBangkokThailand
| | - Kasem Theerakittayakorn
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural TechnologySuranaree University of TechnologyNakhon RatchasimaThailand
| | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Institute of Agricultural TechnologySuranaree University of TechnologyNakhon RatchasimaThailand
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Khanmohammadi F, Shahrooz R, Ahmadi A, Razi M. Possible protective effects of crocin on destructive side effects of cyclo-phosphamide in mice ovarian tissue: Evaluation of histomorphometrical and biochemical changes. VETERINARY RESEARCH FORUM : AN INTERNATIONAL QUARTERLY JOURNAL 2021; 12:217-222. [PMID: 34345389 PMCID: PMC8328250 DOI: 10.30466/vrf.2019.103192.2453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 07/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
One of the side effects of cyclophosphamide (CP) is low fertility. In this study, we investigated the protective role of crocin (Cr) against CP chemotherapy-induced changes in ovarian tissue. In the current study, we treated 15 female mice aged 6-8 weeks old for 21 days. The mice were distributed into three groups including control received normal saline (0.10 mL; IP), CP or sham-control group (CP once a week, 15.00 mg kg-1; IP) and experimental (CP + Cr) group received CP along with Cr (200 mg kg-1 daily; IP). After completing the procedure, levels of total anti-oxidant capacity (TAC), superoxide dismutase (SOD) and sex hormones in serum as well as malondialdehyde (MDA) in the left ovarian tissue were measured. The right ovaries were used for histological and morphological tests. The obtained data were statistically analyzed by SPSS software using ANOVA and Tukey follow-up studies. Results showed that in the CP group a significant decrease was observed in ovarian follicles, the number of corpus luteum, levels of TAC, SOD and sex hormones; while, there was a significant increase in the number of atretic follicles and mast cells and level of MDA compared to control group. Administration of Cr along with CP caused a significant ameliorative effect on the studied parameters. In conclusion, the Cr could significantly decrease the side effects caused by CP chemotherapy in mice ovarian tissue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Abbas Ahmadi
- Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Urmia University, Urmia, Iran.
| | | |
Collapse
|
4
|
Maksura H, Akon N, Islam MN, Akter I, Modak AK, Khatun A, Alam MH, Hashem MA, Amin MR, Moniruzzaman M. Effects of estradiol on in vitro maturation of buffalo and goat oocytes. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:62-70. [PMID: 33488284 PMCID: PMC7812509 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The effects of estradiol on oocyte development seem to be varied among species. The present study investigated the effects of 17β-estradiol on in vitro maturation of buffalo and goat oocytes. METHODS Cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated from large antral follicles of slaughtered buffalo and goat ovaries. COCs were cultured in TCM-199 medium supplemented with 0, 0.5, 1, and 1.5 µg/mL of 17β-estradiol for in vitro maturation. Then, oocytes were used for the examination of state of nuclear maturation and cumulus expansion. RESULTS In both species, oocytes treated with 17β-estradiol showed higher cumulus expansion rate than control (0 µg/mL treated). In buffalo, the percentage of oocytes matured to the metaphase II (MII) stage increased in the concentration-dependent manner of 17β-estradiol. Similarly, estradiol positively influenced nuclear maturation of goat oocytes in vitro. CONCLUSIONS Estradiol has promoting effects on normalprogress of in vitro oocyte meiosis in buffalos and goats.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hurum Maksura
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Narsisa Akon
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Md Nuronnabi Islam
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Ireen Akter
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Avijit Kumar Modak
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Asma Khatun
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Md Hasanur Alam
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Md Abul Hashem
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | - Md Ruhul Amin
- Department of Animal ScienceBangladesh Agricultural UniversityMymensinghBangladesh
| | | |
Collapse
|
5
|
Widayati DT, Pangestu M. Effect of follicle-stimulating hormone on Bligon goat oocyte maturation and embryonic development post in vitro fertilization. Vet World 2020; 13:2443-2446. [PMID: 33363339 PMCID: PMC7750243 DOI: 10.14202/vetworld.2020.2443-2446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aim Bligon goat is a crossbreed between Etawah and Kacang goat. This crossbreed goat is mostly reared by small farmers. In vitro maturation allows female goat (does) contributes toward reproduction despite the fact that the animal has been slaughtered. The aim of this study was to determine the in vitro maturation rate of Bligon goat oocytes supplemented with follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and their ability for further embryonic development after in vitro fertilization. Materials and Methods Experiment was conducted at the Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, using Bligon goat ovaries obtained from local slaughterhouse around Yogyakarta. One thousand five hundred cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured for 24 h in tissue culture medium 199 supplemented with 50 IU/L FSH or without FSH (control). First, matured oocytes were evaluated its morphology based on the expansion of cumulus cells and PB1 extrusion. Next, 600 oocytes were then stained with 1% aceto-orcein to examine maturation based on changes in the configuration of chromosomes and nuclear membrane breakdown. Oocytes were considered mature when they reached metaphase II. To prove the ability of mature oocytes to develop into embryos, 900 oocytes were processed for fertilization in vitro. The data were analyzed using analysis of variance. Results The results indicated that FSH supplementation significantly increased oocyte maturation rate (65.21±7.26 vs. 43.25±6.23%) as indicated by extrusion of PB1 and homologous chromosome pairing and lined in the equator. The rate of degeneration was lower in the FSH-supplemented medium (3.21±0.25 vs. 10.17±3.15%). The blastocyst stage of oocyte developed embryos was reached by 12.43±2.15% and 22.28±4.86% of the control and treatment groups, respectively. Conclusion FSH supplementation significantly improves oocyte maturation and yields mature oocytes for future embryo development in vitro.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Diah Tri Widayati
- Department of Animal Breeding and Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Science, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta 55281, Indonesia
| | - Mulyoto Pangestu
- Department of Animal Reproduction, Faculty of Animal Science, Jenderal Soedirman, Purwokerto, Central Java 53122 Indonesia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Monash University, Clayton 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Abizadeh M, Novin MG, Amidi F, Ziaei SA, Abdollahifar MA, Nazarian H. Potential of Auraptene in Improvement of Oocyte Maturation, Fertilization Rate, and Inflammation in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Mouse Model. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:1742-1751. [PMID: 32124396 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00168-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/13/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary with poor-quality oocytes has remained problematic in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) patients. It is well documented that the inflammation and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in PCOS ovaries are significantly higher than normal voluntaries. In this study, we hypothesized that auraptene (AUR), as a coumarin derivative with anti-inflammatory properties, may be effective in improvement of oocyte maturation and fertilization rate in PCOS patients. For this purpose, PCOS model was induced in NMRI mice and confirmed by ovarian histopathology observations and hormonal assays. PCOS-induced mice were administrated with AUR (PCOS-AUR) and metformin (PCOS-MET), and their effects on inflammation, apoptosis rate, oocyte maturation, and in vitro fertilization capacity were determined and compared with those normal and PCOS animals treated with sesame oil (PCOS-sesame oil) and no treatment (PCOS). Treatment with AUR and MET decreased the inflammation and apoptosis rates in PCOS mice compared with PCOS animals with no treatment. PCOS-AUR and PCOS-MET oocytes also showed higher intracellular glutathione and lower ROS concentrations compared with PCOS mice, indicating improved oocyte maturation rate. PCOS-AUR and PCOS-MET groups showed higher percentages of expansion rate and MII stage oocytes, and lower rate of abnormal oocytes compared with PCOS with no treatment. The rate of fertilization in the oocytes isolated from PCOS-AUR and PCOS-MET groups was higher than PCOS-sesame oil and PCOS groups. Our findings suggest that AUR can be considered as a potential candidate for improvement of oocyte maturation and fertilization capacity in PCOS patients, comparable to MET.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marzieh Abizadeh
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Marefat Ghaffari Novin
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fardin Amidi
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Seyed Ali Ziaei
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohammad Amin Abdollahifar
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Hamid Nazarian
- Department of Biology and Anatomical Sciences, School of Medicine, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
- Men's Health and Reproductive Health Research Center, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Abdoon AS, Fathalla SI, Shawky SM, Kandil OM, Kishta AA, Masoud SR. In Vitro Maturation and Fertilization of Donkey Oocytes. J Equine Vet Sci 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2018.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
|
8
|
Konrad J, Clérico G, Garrido MJ, Taminelli G, Yuponi M, Yuponi R, Crudeli G, Sansinena M. Ovum pick-up interval in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) managed under wetland conditions in Argentina: Effect on follicular population, oocyte recovery, and in vitro embryo development. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 183:39-45. [PMID: 28662882 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Revised: 06/07/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The excellent adaptation of water buffalo (Bubalis bubalis) to swampy environments means that animals are frequently managed in areas with restricted access for reproductive procedures. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of the ovum pick-up (OPU) interval on follicular population, oocyte recovery, oocyte quality and in vitro embryo production. Twelve Murrah buffaloes were subjected to two consecutive dominant follicle reductions, and randomly assigned to either 7-day (n=6) or 14-day (n=6) OPU interval groups. Although there was no significant difference in the average number of small (<3mm) and large (>8mm) diameter follicles available per OPU, a higher proportion of medium-sized follicles (3-8mm) were observed in the 14-day interval group (5.129 vs 3.267; p<0.05). The number of recovered oocytes per donor was also significantly higher (4.51 vs. 2.8; p<0.05) in the 14-day interval group, although this was attributed to an increase in the proportion of lower quality oocytes (grades III and IV). After in vitro fertilization, embryo developmental competence from grade I and II oocytes was superior to that from grade III and IV oocytes, irrespective of OPU interval group. There was no significant difference in the proportion of grade I and II oocytes cleaved after sperm co-incubation; however, there was a higher proportion of blastocysts produced in 14-day interval group (28 vs. 6%, p<0.05). No blastocysts were produced from grade III and IV oocytes. This study indicates it is possible to use a 14-day interval for oocyte collection in water buffalo; this approach could be considered as an alternative when access to animals is restricted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J Konrad
- Cátedra de Teriogenología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Clérico
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Agrarias, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M J Garrido
- Cátedra de Teriogenología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Taminelli
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Agrarias, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - M Yuponi
- Cátedra de Teriogenología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - R Yuponi
- Cátedra de Teriogenología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - G Crudeli
- Cátedra de Teriogenología, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias, Universidad Nacional del Nordeste, Corrientes, Argentina
| | - M Sansinena
- Facultad de Ingeniería y Ciencias Agrarias, Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
H. Abd El- A, E. Mahrous U, Z. Kamel S, A. Sabek A. Factors Influencing in vitro Production of Bovine Embryos: A Review. ASIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL AND VETERINARY ADVANCES 2016; 11:737-756. [DOI: 10.3923/ajava.2016.737.756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
|
10
|
Franciosi F, Manandhar S, Conti M. FSH Regulates mRNA Translation in Mouse Oocytes and Promotes Developmental Competence. Endocrinology 2016; 157:872-82. [PMID: 26653334 PMCID: PMC4733122 DOI: 10.1210/en.2015-1727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
A major challenge in assisted reproductive technology is to develop conditions for in vitro oocyte maturation yielding high-quality eggs. Efforts are underway to assess whether known hormonal and local factors play a role in oocyte developmental competence and to identify the molecular mechanism involved. Here we have tested the hypothesis that FSH improves oocyte developmental competence by regulating the translational program in the oocyte. Accumulation of oocyte proteins (targeting protein for the Xenopus kinesin xklp2 and IL-7) associated with improved oocyte quality is increased when cumulus-oocyte complexes are incubated with FSH. This increase is due to enhanced translation of the corresponding mRNAs, as indicated by microinjection of constructs in which the 3' untranslated region of the Tpx2 or Il7 transcripts is fused to the luciferase reporter. A transient activation of the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-phosphate/AKT cascade in the oocyte preceded the increase in translation. When the epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor is down-regulated in follicular cells, the FSH-induced rate of maternal mRNA translation and AKT activation were lost, demonstrating that the effects of FSH are indirect and require EGF receptor signaling in the somatic compartment. Using Pten(fl/fl):Zp3cre oocytes in which the AKT is constitutively activated, translation of reporters was increased and was no longer sensitive to FSH stimulation. More importantly, the oocytes lacking the phosphate and tensin homolog gene showed increased developmental competence, even when cultured in the absence of FSH or growth factors. Thus, we demonstrate that FSH intersects with the follicular EGF network to activate the phosphatidyl-inositol 3-phosphate/AKT cascade in the oocyte to control translation and developmental competence. These findings provide a molecular rationale for the use of FSH to improve egg quality.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Federica Franciosi
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Shila Manandhar
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| | - Marco Conti
- Center for Reproductive Sciences (F.F., S.M., M.C.), Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research (F.F., M.C.), and Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences (F.F., M.C.), University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, California 94143
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
α-Tocopherol and l-ascorbic acid increase the in vitro development of IVM/IVF swamp buffalo ( Bubalus bubalis) embryos. Animal 2012; 2:1486-90. [PMID: 22443906 DOI: 10.1017/s1751731108002541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
This study was conducted to investigate the effects of capacitating agents added at in vitro fertilization (IVF) and antioxidants supplemented during in vitro culture (IVC) on the development of buffalo embryos. In experiment I, in vitro embryo development of buffalo embryos was compared when the IVF medium was supplemented with heparin, caffeine and calcium ionophore A23187 either alone or in combination. There was no significant difference (P > 0.05) in the cleavage rates of oocytes among the treatment groups but the development rate to the blastocyst stage and the cell numbers of blastocyst in the heparin-treated group were significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of other treatments. In experiment II, in vitro embryo development of buffalo embryos was compared when IVC medium was supplemented with either α-tocopherol (250 and 500 μM) or l-ascorbic acid (250 and 500 μM). The rate of development to the blastocyst stage of embryos cultured in medium supplemented with 250 μM α-tocopherol (33%, 41/123) and 250 μM l-ascorbic acid (31%, 38/123) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than that of those cultured in medium alone (19%, 20/108) but not significantly different (P < 0.05) from medium supplemented with either 500 μM α-tocopherol (24%, 30/123) or 500 μM l-ascorbic acid (25%, 33/133). These results suggest that buffalo spermatozoa treated with heparin were suitable for IVF and that α-tocopherol and l-ascorbic acid added during IVC increased the rate of buffalo embryo development.
Collapse
|
12
|
Lacking expression of paternally-expressed gene confirms the failure of syngamy after intracytoplasmic sperm injection in swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). Theriogenology 2012; 77:1415-24. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2011.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2011] [Revised: 10/03/2011] [Accepted: 11/12/2011] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
|
13
|
Liang Y, Rakwongrit D, Phermthai T, Somfai T, Nagai T, Parnpai R. Cryopreservation of immature buffalo oocytes: effects of cytochalasin B pretreatment on the efficiency of cryotop and solid surface vitrification methods. Anim Sci J 2012; 83:630-8. [PMID: 22943529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2012.01013.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare the efficiency of the solid surface (SSV), cryotop (CT) vitrification methods and cytochalasin B (CB) pretreatment for cryopreservation of immature buffalo oocytes. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were placed for 1 min in TCM199 containing 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), 10% ethylene glycol (EG), and 20% fetal bovine serum, and then transferred for 30 s to base medium containing 20% DMSO, 20% EG and 0.5 mol/L sucrose. CB pretreated ((+)CB) or non-pretreated ((-)CB) COCs were vitrified either by SSV or CT. Surviving vitrified COCs were selected for in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). The rate of viable oocytes after vitrification in CT groups (82%) was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that in a fresh control group (100%), but significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in SSV groups (71-72%). Among vitrified groups, the highest maturation rate was obtained in the CT (-)CB group (32%). After IVF, the cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were similar among vitrified groups but significantly lower than those of the control group. In conclusion, a higher survival rate of oocytes after vitrification and IVM was obtained in the CT group compared with that in the SSV group, indicating the superiority of the CT method. Pretreatment with CB did not increase the viability, maturation or embryo development of vitrified oocytes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Liang
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center and School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
14
|
Chankitisakul V, Tharasanit T, Tasripoo K, Techakumphu M. Chronological Reorganization of Microtubules, Actin Microfilaments, and Chromatin during the First Cell Cycle in Swamp Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Embryos. Vet Med Int 2010; 2010:382989. [PMID: 21234419 PMCID: PMC3014712 DOI: 10.4061/2010/382989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2010] [Accepted: 11/03/2010] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
This paper aimed to study the dynamics of early embryonic development, in terms of redistribution of cytoskeleton (microtubules, actin microfilaments) and chromatin configurations during the first cell cycle in swamp buffalo embryos. Oocytes were matured and fertilized in vitro, and they were fixed at various time points after IVF. At 6 h after IVF, 44.4% matured oocytes were penetrated by spermatozoa. Partial ZP digestion, however, did not improve fertilization rate compared to control (P > .05). At 12 h after IVF, the fertilized oocytes progressed to the second meiotic division and formed the female pronucleus simultaneously with the paternal chromatin continued to decondense. A sperm aster was observed radiating from the base of the decondensing sperm head. At 18 h after IVF, most presumptive zygotes had reached the pronuclear stage. The sperm aster was concurrently enlarged to assist the migration and apposition of pronuclei. Cell cleavage was facilitated by microfilaments and firstly observed by 30 h after IVF. In conclusion, the cytoskeleton actively involves with the process of fertilization and cleavage in swamp buffalo oocytes. The centrosomal material is paternally inherited. Fertilization failure is predominantly caused by poor sperm penetration. However, partial digestion of ZP did not improve fertilization rate.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vibuntita Chankitisakul
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
15
|
Kandil OM, Ghanem N, Abdoon ASS, Hölker M, Phatsara C, Schellander K, Tesfaye D. Transcriptional Analysis of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Oocytes DuringIn VitroMaturation Using Bovine cDNA Microarray. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 45:63-74. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2008.01238.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
16
|
Barakat IAH, Hassan AM, Alam SS, Khalil WKB. Genetic and Biochemical Effects of Natural Extracts on in Vitro Maturation of Egyptian Buffalo Oocytes. CYTOLOGIA 2010. [DOI: 10.1508/cytologia.75.243] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
17
|
Suresh KP, Nandi S, Mondal S. Factors affecting laboratory production of buffalo embryos: a meta-analysis. Theriogenology 2009; 72:978-85. [PMID: 19695691 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.06.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2009] [Revised: 06/25/2009] [Accepted: 06/28/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) provides an excellent and inexpensive source of embryos for carrying out basic research on developmental physiology, farm animal breeding, and for commercial applications. Meta-analysis of the results from different publications rather than a narrative review may provide a current status of this technology in buffalo (Bubalus bubalis). In order to gain an idea of the factors affecting the IVF in buffalo, a review of the various studies conducted on buffalo IVF and a meta-analysis of their findings was undertaken. More than 100 articles published from 1991 to 2008 were searched, and results were subjected to meta-analysis to determine the treatment variations without any bias. Thirty factors affecting in vitro embryo production in buffalo were considered. Initially, both fixed- and random-effect models were used. We did not observe any heterogeneity between the studies. Thereafter, all the studies were pooled using the fixed-effect model for analysis. Our analysis suggested that good buffalo oocytes with more than three to five cumulus layers recovered from large-sized follicles in cold seasons when cultured in TCM-199 supplemented with serum, follicle-stimulating hormone, and cysteamine resulted in maximum maturation rate and subsequent embryonic development after insemination. The values obtained in the current study may be considered for a simulation model in establishing a cost-effective suitable method for buffalo IVF in further planned research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K P Suresh
- National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
18
|
Amer HA, Hegab ARO, Zaabal SM. Some studies on the morphological aspects of buffalo oocytes in relation to the ovarian morphology and culture condition. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2009. [PMID: 19585176 DOI: 10.1007/s11626-009-9224-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2007] [Accepted: 06/11/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to establish the effects of ovarian morphology on oocyte quantity and quality, as well as the effect of preincubated granulosa cells (PGCs) on in vitro maturation of buffalo oocytes and steroid hormones production. A total of 52 ovarian pairs were grouped into three types: type I (with functional corpus luteum), type II (with regressed corpus luteum), and type III (without corpus luteum). The number of follicles and oocytes/ovary were documented. The follicles were classified into three groups (<2, 2-6, and >6 mm Ø). Oocytes were classified according to their morphology into four grades (grades A, B, C, and D), or according to their cumulus compactness into four groups (more than three layers, one to three layers of cumulus cells, partial remnants of cumulus cells, and no cumulus cells). A PGCs was used to investigate their steroidogenic potential on the in vitro maturation. The highest number of follicles and oocytes was found in type III than types II and I. Grades A and B oocytes were significantly higher (P < 0.01) in number in type III ovaries. Oocytes with more than three layers of cumulus cells showed higher maturation rate than oocytes with partial remnants or no cumulus cells but with small difference from oocytes having one to three layers of cumulus cells. Beside the higher maturation rate in compact than denuded oocytes, a significantly higher (P < 0.01) rates obtained in compact or denuded oocytes when cultured in vitro with PGCs than the corresponding oocytes with no PGCs. These maturation rates coincided with higher level (P < 0.05) of estradiol-17ss when compact oocytes cultured with or without PGCs than denuded oocytes and higher level (P < 0.05) of progesterone after culture with PGCs for both compact and denuded oocytes than the corresponding oocytes with no PGCs. In summary, buffalo ovaries with no corpus luteum may be suggested for obtaining high number of follicles and good oocytes than the others. Oocytes with intact cumulus showed better maturation than those with partial or denuded cumulus, although the denuded oocytes improved their meiotic competence to a less or greater extent when cultured in vitro with PGCs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hussein A Amer
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, El-Zeraa Str. 114, 1134, Zagazig, Egypt,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
19
|
Verma V, Gautam S, Palta P, Manik R, Singla S, Chauhan M. Development of a pronuclear DNA microinjection technique for production of green fluorescent protein-expressing bubaline (Bubalus bubalis) embryos. Theriogenology 2008; 69:655-65. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2007.09.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2007] [Revised: 08/22/2007] [Accepted: 09/15/2007] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
20
|
BOEDIONO ARIEF, YULNAWATI, SETIADI MOHAMADAGUS. Tingkat Pematangan Inti Oosit Domba dari Ovarium dengan Status Reproduksi dan Medium Maturasi yang Berbeda. HAYATI JOURNAL OF BIOSCIENCES 2006. [DOI: 10.1016/s1978-3019(16)30307-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
|
21
|
Moulavi F, Hosseini SM, Ashtiani SK, Shahverdi A, Nasr-Esfahani MH. Can Vero cell co-culture improve in-vitro maturation of bovine oocytes? Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:404-11. [PMID: 16984774 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61446-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
This study was carried out to evaluate the effect of Vero cell co-culture on developmental competence of immature oocytes. Bovine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC) were matured in presence or absence of Vero cells. Matured oocytes were inseminated and cultured for up to 9 days. Cleavage percentages were recorded on day 2 after insemination and embryos were evaluated on a daily basis. Expanding/expanded and hatching/hatched blastocysts were used for cell number assay. Results indicated a significantly greater cleavage percentage in oocytes matured in presence of Vero cells than control (86% versus 76%, P < or = 0.05). The percentages of advanced embryos appear to be greater on a daily basis in COC matured in presence of Vero cells compared with control. However, these differences were not significant. Blastocysts derived from COC matured in the presence of Vero cells had a significantly higher (P < or = 0.05) number of inner cell mass, trophectoderm and total cell number in expanding/expanded (65.25, 224.5 and 289.7 respectively) and hatching/hatched (67.75, 289.75 and 357.5) embryos in comparison to the control (42, 203.5, 245.5 and 51.3, 265, 316.3 respectively). Results confirm that co-culture of bovine COC during in-vitro maturation, enhances their ability for cleavage and for producing blastocysts with higher quality.
Collapse
|
22
|
Mahmoud KGM, Scholkamy TH, Farghaly A, Nawito MF. Chromosomal Aberrations, Sister Chromatid Exchanges and Nuclear Status of Immature Oocytes in Relation to Age of Dromedary Camels. CYTOLOGIA 2005. [DOI: 10.1508/cytologia.70.295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Affiliation(s)
| | - T. H. Scholkamy
- Department Field Investigation, Animal Reproduction Research Institute
| | - A. Farghaly
- Department Genetic and Cytology, National Research Center, Egypt
| | - M. F. Nawito
- Department of Animal Reproduction & A.I, National Research Center, Egypt
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Argov N, Arav A, Sklan D. Number of oocytes obtained from cows by OPU in early, but not late lactation increased with plasma insulin and estradiol concentrations and expression of mRNA of the FSH receptor in granulosa cells. Theriogenology 2004; 61:947-62. [PMID: 14757479 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2003.07.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
The effects of lactation stage and hormonal profile on the quality and quantity of oocytes and the gonadotrophic sensitivity of granulosa cells (GC) from small antral follicles obtained by sequential aspirations from ovaries of high producing dairy cows were examined. Cows in late lactation (263(+/- 60) days postpartum) and 98(+/- 16) days pregnant in positive energy balance (EB) showed no significant changes in plasma concentrations of estradiol, progesterone, insulin, IGF1 or expression of mRNA of the FSH receptor in GC from small antral follicles during the 49 days experimental period. There were no changes in the number and quality of oocytes obtained from each aspiration. In cows in early lactation (72.8 +/- 6 days postpartum), plasma insulin concentrations increased and were positively correlated with plasma estradiol concentration. Due to the sequential aspirations progesterone blood concentrations were low in early lactation cows. Expression of mRNA of the FSH receptor increased in GC from small antral follicles of early lactation cows together with the number of oocytes obtained with aspiration sessions. No differences were found in morphological quality or function between oocytes obtained from small antral follicles from cows in early or late lactation. In early, but not late lactation, the number of oocytes was correlated with both insulin and E2 plasma concentrations. Improved EB and sensitivity of GC to FSH may be involved in oocyte recruitment in early lactation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N Argov
- Faculty of Agriculture, Hebrew University, Rehovot, Israel
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Nandi S, Ravindranatha BM, Gupta PSP, Raghu HM, Sarma PV. Developmental competence and post-thaw survivability of buffalo embryos produced in vitro: effect of growth factors in oocyte maturation medium and of embryo culture system. Theriogenology 2003; 60:1621-31. [PMID: 14580645 DOI: 10.1016/s0093-691x(03)00148-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The present study was conducted to examine the effects of supplementation to IVM medium of epidermal growth factor (EGF), fibroblast growth factor (FGF) and vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) along with pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG) on oocyte maturation and cleavage of buffalo embryos (experiment 1). The developmental competence of cleaved embryos cultured in either a complex co-culture system (TCM-199+10% serum+oviduct cell monolayer) or defined media (a) modified form of synthetic oviductal fluid (mSOF) was evaluated (experiment 2). The post-thaw morphology and survivability of frozen blastocysts developed from embryos cultured either in complex or defined medium was compared (experiment 3). Aspirated oocytes were cultured in maturation medium (TCM-199+PMSG (40 IU/ml-control)) supplemented with EGF (20 ng/ml), FGF (20 ng/ml) and VIP (20 ng/ml), either alone or in combination, in a CO(2) incubator at 38.5 degrees C for 24h. Maturation rate was assessed and oocytes were inseminated in vitro with frozen-thawed sperm processed in Brackett and Oliphant (BO) medium. The cleaved embryos were cultured either in complex co-culture system or mSOF. Results suggested that EGF had more beneficial effect on buffalo oocyte maturation, and embryo cleavage than FGF. Addition of VIP to the oocyte maturation medium did not improve the results. Blastocyst yields from buffalo oocytes were significantly higher in a complex co-culture system than in defined media (mSOF) when oocytes were matured in presence of EGF either alone or in combination with FGF and VIP. The mean percent of morphologically normal blastocysts after thawing and their survivability were significantly higher in blastocysts obtained from embryos cultured in mSOF than those cultured in complex co-culture system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Nandi
- National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Adugodi, Bangalore 560 030, India
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Raghu HM, Nandi S, Reddy SM. Effect of insulin, transferrin and selenium and epidermal growth factor on development of buffalo oocytes to the blastocyst stage in vitro in serum-free, semidefined media. Vet Rec 2002; 151:260-5. [PMID: 12233827 DOI: 10.1136/vr.151.9.260] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
The in vitro development of buffalo oocytes up to the blastocyst stage was studied in serum-free, semidefined media containing bovine serum albumin, follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), insulin, transferrin and selenium (ITS) and epidermal growth factor (EGF). In experiment 1, oocytes aspirated from abattoir-derived ovaries were cultured in eight serum-free, semidefined culture media containing different combinations of these four factors. In experiment 2, the maturation of buffalo oocytes and the development of the embryos were compared in a complex co-culture system and in the serum-free, semidefined media. Supplementation with FSH and EGF significantly (P < 0.05) increased the maturation rates of buffalo oocytes, and the yield of blastocysts was higher (P < 0.05) in media containing EGF and ITS. The yield of blastocysts was lower in the serum-free semidefined media (P < 0.05) than in the complex co-culture system.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H M Raghu
- University of Agricultural Sciences, Hebbal, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
26
|
Nandi S, Raghu HM, Ravindranatha BM, Chauhan MS. Production of buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) embryos in vitro: premises and promises. Reprod Domest Anim 2002; 37:65-74. [PMID: 11975742 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0531.2002.00340.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Techniques for in vitro production (IVP) of buffalo embryos adopting the procedures developed in cattle have received increasing interest in the recent times. A high oocyte maturation, fertilization and cleavage rate and a low rate of blastocyst yield and calving following transfer of in vitro produced buffalo embryos have been obtained. The efficiency of IVP in buffalo is much lower than that in cattle. Several problems need to be resolved before IVP technology can be used regularly in buffalo breeding. This review attempts to present an overview of the different techniques used in buffalo to produce transferable embryos in vitro, namely in vitro maturation and fertilization of immature oocytes and in vitro development of the resulting cleaved embryos to the blastocyst stage before transfer. The problems associated with IVP, the possible solutions and the new biotechniques linked to IVP are discussed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Nandi
- National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bangalore, Department of Veterinary Physiology and Climatology, Indian Veterinary Research Institute, Bareilly, India.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|