Related Experiment Videos
In vitro fertilization in the horse. A retrospective study
E Palmer1, J Bézard, M Magistrini
1I.N.R.A. Reproductive Physiology, Nouzilly, France.
Journal of Reproduction and Fertility. Supplement
|January 1, 1991
Summary
In vitro fertilization in horses remains challenging, but this study achieved the first full-term pregnancy and live foal following equine oocyte fertilization and embryo transfer.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Science
- Reproductive Biology
- Animal Biotechnology
Background:
- Equine oocyte collection via non-surgical puncture is established, but subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) success rates, indicated by segmented embryos, are historically low.
- Previous attempts, including those using follicular puncture, yielded limited success, with significant oocyte damage noted prior to or during collection.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the efficacy of in vitro fertilization protocols for equine oocytes.
- To establish a successful method for achieving full-term pregnancy following equine IVF.
Main Methods:
- Oocytes were collected via non-surgical puncture. Fertilization was attempted using semen treated with Ionophore A23187 and a basic IVF protocol.
- Embryo development was assessed, and viable embryos were transferred to recipient mares.
- Pregnancy rates and foaling outcomes were monitored.
Main Results:
- Out of 113 inseminated oocytes with ionophore-treated semen, 16 segmented, indicating fertilization. A basic protocol applied to 60 oocytes resulted in 11 (18%) embryos.
- Protocol modifications did not improve fertilization or segmentation rates.
- Eight in vitro fertilized embryos were transferred, resulting in one pregnancy that progressed to a full-term foaling.
Conclusions:
- This study reports the first successful full-term pregnancy and live birth in horses following in vitro fertilization.
- The findings highlight the potential of IVF in equine reproduction, despite challenges with oocyte quality and fertilization rates.