Lipid metabolism and developmental potential of mammalian oocytes and embryos

Developmental potential of oocytes and embryos is one of the key factors determining success in reproduction. In vitro produced embryos display reduced quality thus development of non-invasive approaches for quality assessment is a priority. Lipid metabolism belongs to fundamental mechanisms affecting reproductive processes and shaping the quality of gametes and embryos. The cytoplasm of oocytes and embryos contains specialized organelles for lipid storage (lipid droplets) whose number and size is species dependent. The growth and maturation of the oocyte/embryo is accompanied by a great fluctuation in lipid quality and quantity which in turn affects their quality and freezing suitability. There is a possibility to modify lipid parameters both in vivo and in vitro by supplementing fat to diet and culture media. The manuscript presents the current state of knowledge on lipid engagement in the process of quality acquirement by oocytes and embryos of two livestock species – cattle and pig.