Cytokines That Serve as Embryokines in Cattle

TR Number

Date

2021-08-05

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

MDPI

Abstract

The term “embryokine” has been used to denote molecules produced by the endometrium, oviduct, or by embryo itself that will influence embryo development. Several cytokines have been identified as embryokines in cattle and other mammals. This review will describe how these cytokines function as embryokines, with special emphasis being placed on their actions on in vitro produced (IVP) bovine embryos. Embryokines are being explored for their ability to overcome the poor development rates of IVP embryos and to limit post-transfer pregnancy retention efficiencies that exist in IVP embryos. This review will focus on describing two of the best-characterized cytokines, colony-stimulating factor 2 and interleukin 6, for their ability to modify bovine embryo quality and confirmation, promote normal fetal development, and generate healthy calves. Additional cytokines will also be discussed for their potential to serve as embryokines.

Description

Keywords

bovine embryo, blastocyst, pregnancy, embryokine, cytokine

Citation

Ealy, A.D.; Speckhart, S.L.; Wooldridge, L.K. Cytokines That Serve as Embryokines in Cattle. Animals 2021, 11, 2313.