The association between foot-and-mouth disease virus and bovine oocytes and embryos during in vitro embryo production

Abstract

No other references could be found in the literature where IVP embryos, exposed to FMDV were rendered free of the virus. To the best of my knowledge this is the first report that describes the association of FMDV with IVP embryos during IVM and IVF. Also, this is the first description of a treatment protocol where IVP embryos can be cleared of infective FMDV. Washing embryos in accordance with IETS regulations was ineffective in clearing FMDV from IVP embryos when IVM and IVF were done in the presence of FMDV; however, treatment with acid as described during these experiments was effective for achieving FMDV - free IVP embryos. This work might enable the production of IVP embryos in countries where FMDV is endemic, permitting the subsequent movement of the embryos to other countries. Also, it might serve as a way of preserving genetic material from animals during an outbreak of the disease, in countries where FMD is not endemic, through the production of disease-free embryos. This work might also be of use to the wildlife industry in South Africa. If a protocol was developed for the in vitro production of game animal embryos, notably buffalo, treatment with MES could enable the production of embryos free of FMDV. This would facilitate movement of embryos from areas in South Africa where FMDV is endemic.