Translational research for developing assisted reproduction technologies for endangered mammals (EUROVA – European Oocyte Biology Research Innovation Training Net)

The EUROVA consortium aims at developing new techniques and methods for in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro culture (IVC) of embryos. These may be used to advance new conservation tools for highly endangered mammals, such as the endangered rhinoceros family.

In light of the Earth’s sixth great extinction event driven by man, traditional conservation strategies such as habitat protection and ex situ breeding combined with reintroduction programmes will be not sufficient to stop or even to slow down this process. Currently, 22% of the mammals are at risk of extinction (http://www.iucnredlist.org). The family Rhinocerotidae is particularly affected, with three of the five extant species listed as critically endangered (Sumatran, Javan, and black rhinoceros), one listed as vulnerable (greater one-horned rhinoceros), and one, the southern white rhinoceros listed as near threatened. The complementary cutting-edge expertise of the EUROVA consortium provides a unique opportunity for the development of new techniques for in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and in vitro culture (IVC) of embryos. The strategic translation of the interdisciplinary and intersectoral research into practical conservation tools would offer a blue print for saving critically endangered mammalian species from extinction. 

In our research approach the basis for the development of new techniques and methods for the conservation of species is the regular collection of rhinoceros egg cells in European zoos. The collection is performed with our recently patented collection device (DE 102017002614, US2018/0250032). We aim to carry out comparative studies on genetic, structural and functional parameters of these oocytes. Due to the value of each oocyte, non-destructive, high quality time lapse technologies (Geri+, Merck KGaA) equipped with software for computer-based event detection will provide the majority of the missing information on non-invasive biomarkers of oocyte fitness and adequate embryo development. Additionally, selective invasive investigations (e.g. transcriptome analysis) will be performed. The resulting physiological landmarks will be used to translate optimized in vitro production protocols in murine, cattle and human models into adopted protocols for endangered mammalian species.

Expected results

This project will help elucidating species-specific and general requirements for in vitro Duplication Of Maternal Environment (ivDOME) for an optimal gamete maturation and pre-implantation embryo development with the final goal for achieving reproductively healthy adult offspring.

Innovation, impact, applicative outcome(s)

The scientific results will provide a future role model for global conservation strategies rescuing critically endangered mammal species from extinction. Due to national and international conservation laws innovations regarding endangered species cannot be commercialised. However, the innovative character of the project and the substantial funding used offer high potential that equipment and/or techniques could be patented and commercially applied in areas outside conservation. The consortium scientists will secure innovations in form of patents.