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. 2022 Feb 18;68(1):1-11.
doi: 10.1262/jrd.2021-111. Epub 2021 Nov 29.

Assisted reproductive techniques for canines: preservation of genetic material in domestic dogs

Hiroshi Suzuki  1 , Hiroyuki Watanabe  1 , Yasuyuki Abe  2
Affiliations

Assisted reproductive techniques for canines: preservation of genetic material in domestic dogs

Hiroshi Suzuki et al. J Reprod Dev. .

Abstract

Assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs), such as artificial insemination, in vitro fertilization, and cryopreservation of gametes/zygotes, have been developed to improve breeding and reproduction of livestock, and for the treatment of human infertility. Their widespread use has contributed to improvements in human health and welfare. However, in dogs, only artificial insemination using frozen semen is readily available as an ART to improve breeding and control genetic diversity. A recent priority in sperm cryopreservation is the development of alternatives to egg yolk, which is widely used as a component of the sperm extender. Egg yolk can vary in composition among batches and is prone to contamination by animal pathogens. The latter can be a problem for international exchange of cryopreserved semen. Low-density lipoprotein and skim milk are promising candidates for use as extenders, to ensure fertility after artificial insemination. Although not tested for its effects on fertility following artificial insemination, polyvinyl alcohol may also be a useful alternative to egg yolk as an extender. The development of cryopreservation techniques for canine embryos lags behind that for other mammals, including humans. However, given the success of non-surgical embryo transfer in 2011, studies have sought to refine this approach for practical use. Research on sperm cryopreservation has yielded satisfactory results. However, investigation of other approaches, such as cryopreservation of oocytes and gonadal tissues, remains insufficient. Techniques for the efficient induction of estrus may aid in the development of successful canine ARTs.

Keywords: Assisted reproductive technique; Cryopreservation; Dog; Embryo; Sexing; Spermatozoa.

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Figures

Fig. 1.
Fig. 1.
Pre-implantation development and localization of embryos in Labrador retrievers. Embryos at the 16-cell to morula stage migrate from the oviduct into the uterus on day 10 after LH surge and likely complete the migration within 24 h. By day 12 after the LH surge, all of the developing embryos have localized in the uteri. Embryos develop to the morula by days 11–12 and to the blastocyst by day 12–13 after LH surge.
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