A human-based assisted reproduction protocol for the menstruating spiny mouse, Acomys cahirinus

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Comparative Endocrinology
• Animal Models in Research

Background:

• The Egyptian spiny mouse (Acomys cahirinus) exhibits human-like reproductive characteristics, including menstruation and decidualization.
• Existing rodent models have limitations for studying human reproductive physiology.
• A. cahirinus presents a promising alternative animal model for human reproduction research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and optimize laboratory-based assisted reproduction protocols for A. cahirinus.
• To establish superovulation, in-vitro fertilization, embryo cryopreservation, and embryo transfer techniques.
• To enhance the utility of A. cahirinus as a model for human reproductive studies.

Main Methods:

• Administered GnRH agonist implants followed by ovarian stimulation with FSH and hCG analogues.
• Collected oocytes and two-cell embryos for in-vitro insemination and cryopreservation.
• Utilized cryopreservation methods adapted from the Mongolian gerbil and performed non-surgical embryo transfer.

Main Results:

• Successfully adapted a human-based superovulation protocol for A. cahirinus, overcoming limitations of standard rodent methods.
• Developed in-vitro fertilization and embryo cryopreservation techniques applicable to this species.
• Demonstrated the feasibility of non-surgical embryo transfer to surrogate mice.

Conclusions:

• The developed assisted reproduction protocols significantly enhance the potential of A. cahirinus as a valuable model for human reproductive research.
• These advancements will facilitate broader applications of this species in understanding human reproductive processes.
• The study establishes a foundation for future research utilizing A. cahirinus in reproductive biology.