Culture conditions for in vitro maturation of oocytes – A review

Abstract

The maturation of oocytes external to the body is referred to IVM and is utilised by many different species. IVM bypasses traditional superovulation methods, where several hormonal injections are administered. Unfortunately, the pregnancy rates using IVM oocytes is less than those matured in vivo. This has impeded the uptake of the technology in ART laboratories. This review aims to explore the effects of multiple elements during IVM, discussing not only those which improve and impact on oocyte viability but those that can have deleterious effects on the oocyte.

Keywords

• In vitro maturation (IVM)
• Amino acids
• Culture conditions