Effect of Season of the year and Ovarian Structures on Oocytes Recovery Rate, Quality and Meiotic Competence in Egyptian Buffaloes

Abstract

2 Abstract: The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of season of the year and ovarian structure (corpus luteum) on the recovery rate, quality and maturation of Egyptian buffalo oocytes. For this purpose, ovaries were collected from slaughtered buffaloes and oocytes were scored after recovery by aspiration. Oocytes were matured in vitro for 24 h and evaluated for nuclear maturation after staining by 1% orcein stain. Results showed a significantly (P<0.05) higher recovery rate, quality and maturation rate of buffalo oocytes from ovaries collected during Spring season (high ovarian activity) than those in Summer season (Low ovarian activity). Presence of luteal structure had no significant effect on oocyte yield and quality, though a significantly (P<0.05) higher maturation rate was recorded in the absence of corpus luteum on the ovary. In conclusion, it was determined that season and luteal tissue at the time of collection influences the recovery, quality and meiotic maturation of Egyptian buffalo oocytes and their liability for use in IVF programs.