Stress Preconditioning of Bovine Embryos

Abstract

Cryopreservation of bovine embryos is a biotechnological tool crucial in preserving and conserving genetically superior embryos. Nevertheless, the process is not without consequences, particularly impacting the viability of embryos. This review aims to investigate the preconditioning methods to improve survivability during cryopreservation. Preconditioning embryos employ sublethal stress to upregulate genes promoting RNA processing, transcription and regulating protein synthesis while downregulating genes responsible for cell death and apoptosis. Embryos are subject to osmotic pressure changes and oxidative stress under standard cryopreservation methods. By manipulating the osmotic or oxidative concentrations in culture conditions, embryos initiate a stress-induced response that augments their robustness and post-cryopreservation survivability.