Assisted reproductive technology in nondomestic ungulates: A model approach to preserving and managing genetic diversity

Abstract

The application of assisted reproductive technology (ART) to conservation biology has tremendous potential in the management and preservation of germ plasm from nondomestic ungulate species. Traditional approaches of superovulation and nonsurgical embryo recovery have been hampered in these species by inconsistent responses to commercially available gonadotropin preparations and by substantial interspecific variations in the details of reproductive regulatory processes. Although our general knowledge of reproductive physiology is improving, it appears that the production of embryos by IVF will more efficiently advance wildlife conservation efforts. This technology is already proving to be a powerful tool for rescuing gametes (sperm and oocytes) directly from the gonads of wildlife after death or gonadectomy. Other advanced procedures, like sperm microinjection and assisted hatching, may prove necessary for optimizing in vitro embryo production and in vivo developmental competence. Finally, there is a need to direct research attention to pathogen interactions with the zona pellucida (i.e. zona adherence and washing practices) to enhance the approved importation of valuable genetic material from free-ranging animals.