Gene editing and multi-omics approaches to study early embryogenesis in cattle
Kun Zhang1,2, Yassin Kassim1,3, Xu Xu1,2
1Key Laboratory of Dairy Cow Genetic Improvement and Milk Quality Research of Zhejiang Province, College of Animal Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 310058, China.
Reproduction, Fertility, and Development
|November 26, 2025
Summary
Recent advancements in multi-omics and functional tools enhance understanding of early bovine embryo development. These technologies offer new insights into embryo loss, crucial for improving fertility in cattle breeding.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Developmental Biology
- Genomics
Background:
- Early embryonic loss is a significant issue in the beef and dairy industries.
- Understanding early embryonic development is key to improving reproductive efficiency.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the application of advanced omics technologies and functional tools in studying early bovine embryogenesis.
- To highlight how these methods elucidate developmental dynamics and inform strategies to reduce embryo loss.
Main Methods:
- Single-cell and integrative low-input omics: single-cell RNA-seq, ATAC-seq, metabolomics, proteomics.
- Functional genomic tools: CRISPR/Cas9, RNA editing, base editing, Trim-Away for gene/protein analysis.
Main Results:
- These technologies reveal complex developmental dynamics during the first week of bovine embryogenesis.
- Integration of molecular profiling and functional tools allows high-resolution analysis of key developmental events.
Conclusions:
- Advanced omics and functional tools provide a comprehensive mechanistic understanding of early embryogenesis.
- These approaches are vital for translational research aimed at improving bovine fertility and reducing embryo loss.
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