Background: To better understand the differences between in vivo (IVO) and in vitro (IVM) matured oocytes, we studied the chronological changes in cortical granule (CG) distribution and nuclear progression during maturation, and the competence of CG release and embryo development of mouse oocytes matured under different conditions.
Methods: Oocytes matured in vivo or in different culture media were used and CG distribution and release were assessed by fluorescein isothiocyanate-labelled Lens culinaris agglutinin and laser confocal microscopy.
Results: Tempos of nuclear maturation and CG redistribution were slower, and competence for CG exocytosis, cleavage and blastulation were lower in the IVM oocytes than in the IVO oocytes.