Related Experiment Videos
Short-term preservation of mouse oocytes at 5 degrees C
H Tsuchiya1, N Ogonuki, T Kuwana
1Tsukuba Primate Center, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, 1 Hachimandai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0843, Japan.
Abstract:
The temporary preservation of oocytes without freezing would be useful for some experiments. ICR mouse oocytes were kept in a preservation medium under mineral oil for 1, 2, 3, 4 or 7 days at 5 degrees C, and 1 or 2 days at 37 degrees C. In vitro fertilization was attempted on oocytes rinsed with TYH medium after preservation. More than 70% of morphologically normal oocytes were recovered from each preservation group. Fertilization rates of oocytes preserved for 1, 2, 3, 4 or 7 days at 5 degrees C were 69.9, 66.5, 45.3, 26.7 and 8.8% respectively. Fertilization rates of oocytes preserved for 1 or 2 days at 37 degrees C were 9.6 and 1.6%, respectively. Preservation of oocytes at 5 degrees C has some capability as a method of short-term storage without freezing.
Insights
Short-term oocyte preservation without freezing is possible at 5°C. This method allows for the temporary storage of oocytes (egg cells) for experimental use, maintaining viability for several days.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Cryobiology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Cryopreservation of oocytes is standard but can damage cells.
- A non-freezing method for short-term oocyte preservation is needed for specific experimental protocols.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of temporary oocyte preservation without freezing at different temperatures and durations.
- To determine the fertilization rates of oocytes after short-term storage at 5°C and 37°C.
Main Methods:
- ICR mouse oocytes were stored in a preservation medium under mineral oil.
- Storage conditions included 5°C for 1-7 days and 37°C for 1-2 days.
- In vitro fertilization was performed after rinsing oocytes with TYH medium.
Main Results:
- Over 70% of morphologically normal oocytes were recovered across all preservation groups.
- Fertilization rates at 5°C decreased with storage duration: 69.9% (1 day) to 8.8% (7 days).
- Fertilization rates at 37°C were significantly lower: 9.6% (1 day) and 1.6% (2 days).
Conclusions:
- Oocyte preservation at 5°C without freezing demonstrates potential for short-term storage.
- Lower temperatures (5°C) are more conducive to maintaining oocyte viability for fertilization compared to 37°C.
- This non-freezing method offers a viable alternative for specific experimental needs requiring temporary oocyte storage.