Extracellular Vesicles in Reproduction: Biology, Production, and Potential Applications in Livestock Breeding.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Cellular Biology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are cell-secreted particles mediating intercellular communication via bioactive molecules.
• EVs are crucial in reproductive processes, including gamete maturation, fertilization, and maternal-fetal interactions.
• Their role extends to both human and livestock reproductive medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the significance of EVs in reproductive biology.
• To understand EV mechanisms in male and female reproduction.
• To highlight the diagnostic and therapeutic potential of EVs in reproductive health.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on Extracellular Vesicles in reproduction.
• Analysis of EV roles in gametogenesis, fertilization, and pregnancy.
• Examination of diagnostic and therapeutic applications of EVs.

Main Results:

• EVs from seminal plasma and epididymis impact sperm function.
• Female reproductive tract EVs mediate oocyte-embryo-maternal communication.
• Placental EVs regulate immune tolerance and fetal development.
• EVs show promise as non-invasive biomarkers for fertility and pregnancy assessment.

Conclusions:

• EVs are vital mediators in reproductive processes, offering diagnostic and therapeutic avenues.
• Further research is needed to standardize EV isolation and characterization for clinical application.
• Optimizing EV-based technologies can enhance reproductive health and assisted reproductive technologies.