Bovine in vitro embryo production: the effects of fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10).

PURPOSE:In an attempt to improve in vitro embryo production, we investigated the effect of fibroblast growth factor 10 (FGF10) during in vitro maturation on the developmental capacity of bovine oocytes. MATERIAL AND METHODS:Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were aspirated from follicles of 3-8 mm diameter. After selection, the COCs were matured in medium with or without 0.5 ng/mL of FGF10. The effect of FGF10 during in vitro maturation (IVM) on nuclear maturation kinetics and expansion of the cumulus cells was investigated. Oocyte competence was assessed by the production and development speed of embryos and the relative expression of genes associated with embryo quality. RESULTS:FGF10 delayed the resumption of meiosis from 8 h onwards, but did not affect the percentage of oocytes reaching metaphase II, nor did it increase cumulus expansion at 22 h of maturation. We found no difference between treatments regarding embryo production, developmental speed, and gene expression. CONCLUSION:In conclusion, the presence of FGF10 during IVM had no effect on embryo production, developmental speed, and gene expression.

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