Factors affecting oocyte developmental competence in buffalo

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Animal Science
• Genomics

Background:

• Buffalo reproductive efficiency is limited by oocyte quality and seasonal variations.
• Low oocyte competence during the non-breeding season increases embryo production costs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review factors influencing oocyte developmental competence in buffalo.
• To emphasize the seasonal effects on the follicular environment and oocyte quality.

Main Methods:

• Integration of transcriptomic, miRNA, and metabolomic analyses.
• Investigation of molecular shifts in follicular fluid and extracellular vesicles.
• Evaluation of corrective strategies such as dietary supplementation and in vitro interventions.

Main Results:

• Decreased oocyte competence during the non-breeding season is linked to altered gene/miRNA expression affecting metabolism, oxidative balance, and inflammation.
• Follicular fluid metabolite variations and extracellular vesicle cargo changes are associated with reduced oocyte quality.
• Green tea extract supplementation and in vitro addition of breeding season extracellular vesicles show promise in improving oocyte competence and embryo yield.

Conclusions:

• Oocyte competence acquisition is multifactorial, influenced by season and follicular environment.
• A multi-omic approach can identify biomarkers for improved buffalo reproductive efficiency.
• In vivo and in vitro interventions are crucial for enhancing buffalo reproductive technologies.