Follicular wave synchronization prior to ovum pick-up

• Published in: Theriogenology Vol. 150; pp. 180 - 185
• Main Authors: Seneda, Marcelo Marcondes, Zangirolamo, Amanda Fonseca, Bergamo, Larissa Zamparone, Morotti, Fábio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-07-2020
• Subjects: Animals; Bovine; Cattle - physiology; Female; Fertilization in Vitro - veterinary; Follicular wave; IVEP; Oocyte Retrieval - methods; Oocyte Retrieval - veterinary; Oocytes - physiology; OPU; Ovarian Follicle - physiology; Synchronization; IVEP; Bovine; Synchronization; Follicular wave; OPU
• ISSN: 0093-691X; 1879-3231
• DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.024

Among the reproductive biotechnologies, in vitro embryo production (IVEP) is an important tool for multiplying genetic material of superior merit. Recently, the number of embryos produced and transferred in vitro became significantly higher than that produced in vivo worldwide. In this context, the enhancement was attributable to ovum pick-up (OPU). With the advent of genomic technology, shortened breeding intervals, and increased selection accuracy, IVEP has attracted increasing attention for commercial use. The IVEP technique is well-established, but the embryo production rate has reached a plateau at 30–40%. Despite constant advances, the OPU/IVEP programs face some challenges that hinder the efficient application of the technique. Previous studies have shown that the quantity and quality of aspirated oocytes are essential factors for successful IVEP. This paper presents a brief overview of alternatives that can be employed to improve the process-seeking methods that assist in the recovery of better-quality oocytes and higher competence in OPU to improve embryo production. These strategies include using follicular wave synchronization prior to OPU, employing the influence of antral follicle populations, using the pre-OPU gonadotrophic stimulus and applying non-hormonal methods for selecting female donors.
•The synchronization of follicular wave interferes in the OPU.•The antral follicle count is an interesting tool for oocyte collection.•Strategies for OPU without hormones are growing worldwide.