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Recent progress in bovine in vitro‐derived embryo cryotolerance: Impact of in vitro culture systems, advances in cryopreservation and future considerations
Author(s) -
Ferré Luis B.,
Kjelland Michael E.,
Taiyeb Ahmed M.,
CamposChillon Fernando,
Ross Pablo J.
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
reproduction in domestic animals
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.546
H-Index - 66
eISSN - 1439-0531
pISSN - 0936-6768
DOI - 10.1111/rda.13667
Subject(s) - cryopreservation , vitrification , embryo cryopreservation , biology , embryo , reproductive technology , embryo transfer , embryo culture , microbiology and biotechnology , andrology , medicine
Contents Cryopreservation of in vitro‐derived bovine embryos is a crucial step for the widespread reproduction and conservation of valuable high‐merit animals. Given the current popularity of bovine in vitro embryo production (IVP), there is a demand for a highly efficient ultra‐low temperature storage method in order to maximize donor ovum pickup (OPU) turn‐over, recipient availability/utilization and domestic/overseas commercial trading opportunities. However, IVP bovine embryos are still very sensitive to chilling and cryopreservation, and despite recent progress, a convenient (simple and robust) protocol has not yet been developed. At the moment, there are two methods for bovine IVP embryo cryopreservation: slow programmable freezing and vitrification. Both of the aforementioned techniques have pros and cons. While controlled‐rate slow cooling can easily be adapted for direct transfer (DT), ice crystal formation remains an issue. On the other hand, vitrification solved this problem but the possibility of successful DT commercial incorporation remains to be determined. Moreover, simplification of the vitrification protocol (including warming) through the use of an in‐straw dilution without the use of a microscope is a prerequisite for its use under farm conditions. This review summarizes the bovine IVP embryo cryopreservation achievements, strengths and limitations of both freezing systems and prospective improvements to enhance cryosurvival, as well as perspectives on future directions of this assisted reproductive technology.