Methylation Status and Gene Expression of DNA Methyltransferases, Estrogen Receptor1, and NANOG in Fresh and Short-term Stored Equine Embryos

During the development of preimplantation embryos, a major wave of epigenetic reprogramming takes place to establish the totipotent state. Disturbance during this period may lead to failure in embryo development and maternal recognition. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the methylation status and gene expression of estrogen receptor1 (ESR1), NANOG, and DNA methyltransferases (DNMT1, DNMT3a, DNMT3b) in fresh and short-term stored (20 °C or 5°C, 24 h) equine embryos. Equine embryos (n=51) were collected on Day 7 (n=38) or Day 8 (n=13) after ovulation and assigned to 4 groups: Day 7 control (E7F,fresh); Day 7, 24 h at 5°C (E5C); Day 7, 24 h at 20°C (E20C); and Day 8 control (E8F,fresh 24-h time control).
Source: Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research