Chromatin Modifying Agents in theIn VitroProduction of Bovine Embryos

Abstract

The low efficiency observed in cloning by nuclear transfer is related to an aberrant gene expression following errors in epigenetic reprogramming. Recent studies have focused on further understanding of the modifications that take place in the chromatin of embryos during the preimplantation period, through the use of chromatin modifying agents. The goal of these studies is to identify the factors involved in nuclear reprogramming and to adjustin vitromanipulations in order to better mimicin vivoconditions. Therefore, proper knowledge of epigenetic reprogramming is necessary to prevent possible epigenetic errors and to improve efficiency and the use ofin vitrofertilization and cloning technologies in cattle and other species.