Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) in neotropical primates of Amazonia: a post mortem model study

Neotropical primates from the Amazon are valuable models for biomedical research. However, several species are currently under threat of extinction, which highlights the need for reproductive conservation strategies. Laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) is a promising technique for oocyte retrieval in wild mammals. This study assessed the feasibility of LOPU in eight cadavers (n = 8) from six neotropical primate species: Alouatta caraya, Ateles marginatus, Plecturocebus pallescens, Cebus albifrons, Saimiri collinsi and Saguinus niger. The ovaries were initially evaluated via ultrasonography to locate and assess their morphology, followed by laparoscopy to identify the gonads and aspirate the follicles. A macroscopic examination of the reproductive tract was subsequently performed to confirm the anatomical position. At least one ovary was identified by ultrasonography in all animals and by laparoscopy in 75% of them. Ovarian follicles were observed in only one female S. collinsi and were successfully aspirated. Failures in ovarian identification are associated with postmortem changes or species-specific anatomical features. These findings support the technical applicability of LOPU in neotropical primates and suggest that adjustments to the procedure are needed according to the reproductive anatomy of different species.