Prolonged In Vitro Maturation Time and Increased Intensity of Piezo Pulses During ICSI Enhance Cleavage and Embryo Development in the Horse

The use of assisted reproduction techniques in horses is increasing, in particular in vitro embryo production by OPU and ICSI. Compared to cattle the percentage of oocytes that become transferable blastocysts is lower both under experimental [1] and clinical settings [2]. The horse has peculiar features, showing a varied population of immature oocytes that require different timing for reaching both nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Immature oocytes can also be put on hold at room temperature with no loss of viability [3].
Source: Journal of Equine Veterinary Science - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research