Evolution of Media Supporting the Development of Mammalian Preimplantation Embryos In Vitro.

Simple Summary: The media supporting selected mammalian preimplantation embryos in vitro have played an essential role in the advancement of assisted reproductive technology (ART). ART has in turn transformed biomedical research with genetically modified, disease-specific animal models, agriculture with genetically modified farm animals and human reproductive health with infertility treatment. However, the current culture systems still cannot replicate the in vivo environment, and embryos derived from in vitro systems are poor in quality compared to their in vivo counterparts. The objective of this review is to discuss the lineage of chemically defined media from simple salt solutions to modern media commonly used in embryo cultures for laboratory animals (mice and rats) and farm animals (pigs and cattle) and provide some insights for future improvements. This discussion provides readers with knowledge regarding the evolution of media used to support the development of preimplantation embryos in vitro and aims to inspire interest in the development of media to better support embryo development in vitro. Assisted reproductive technology has revolutionized our ability to genetically manipulate, maintain and rederive laboratory animals of biomedical importance; manipulate animal reproduction or genetics to boost production of farm animals; and improve human reproductive health. The media for in vitro manipulation and the culture of embryos play a critical role in the development of assisted reproductive technology. In this review, the evolution of culture media supporting embryo development in vitro from selected animal species, laboratory animals (mice and rats) and farm animals (pigs and cattle), will be discussed with a focus on the development of chemically defined media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]