Role of zinc in the maturation and development of mouse oocytes
Open Access
Author:
Caplan, Sara Meredith
Area of Honors:
Biology
Degree:
Bachelor of Science
Document Type:
Thesis
Thesis Supervisors:
Francisco Javier Lopez Frias, Thesis Supervisor Sarah Mary Assmann, Thesis Honors Advisor
Keywords:
zinc development mouse oocytes
Abstract:
Proper development and maturation of oocytes is very important in reproductive success. Many transition metals have recently been shown to have major roles in the development of oocytes. This study explores the role of intracellular zinc after fertilization, during meiosis II, and during meiosis I. Zinc appears to have a role during the metaphase- anaphase transition in both meiosis I and meiosis II. This study also explores the effects of zinc deficiency on maturation of oocytes and whether problems caused by zinc deficiency can be reversed. The difference in the presence of intracellular zinc in aged oocytes and young oocytes is also explored.