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| Home ＞ Current research ＞ Topics of current research |
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| ■To gain a better understanding ofthe mechanisms of the follicular development so that we can improve our in vitro culture techniques |
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We are taking a multi-faceted approach exploring the preservation of oocytes, research on in vitro development and in vitro maturation using biochemistry and developmental engineering techniques.
Numerous oocytes are present in the mammal ovary at birth, with approximately 2 millions in humans, and one hundred thousand in pigs. Few oocytes that chosen can start growing and reach the ovulation, many others will be lost without development.
At present, as one of the experimental fundamental research approaches, we are studying intrafollicular oocytes from pigs as follows.
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Construction of a cultivation system for in vitro development (maturation) and growing follicular oocytes
Establishing the techniques for high rates in vitro maturation would help treat diseases like ovum hypoplasia. We had the first success in Japan with pregnancy and delivery using the technique of in vitro cultivation of immature ovum and embryo transfer.
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Establishment of cryopreservation of ovarian tissue (in growing follicular oocytes)
Before ovarian function is lost by some causes, collecting ovary tissue and cryopreservating would possibly help maintain fertility. One example of pregnancy and delivery using this technique was reported recently.
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If these techniques become applicable to medical practices worldwide, cryopreservation of the ovary or in vitro development of oocytes might be possible, then it also might be possible to avoid various side effects commonly seen with development of multiple follicles .
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