The mammalian oviduct: biochemistry and physiology

Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol. 1997 May;73(1):99-104. doi: 10.1016/s0301-2115(97)02729-2.

Abstract

Oviduct fluid and oviduct epithelium seem able to modulate in-time maturation and transport of gametes and embryos. They probably allow selection of spermatozoa through too early activation. Subtle changes in the composition of tubal secretion permit fertilization and embryo development in the best conditions. The mechanisms of these changes of oviduct fluid composition (induced by endocrine stimuli and/or by embryo) are under investigation. Numerous compounds isolated in oviduct fluid are now added to the synthetic media for in vitro maturation/in vitro fertilization/embryo culture (IVM/IVF/EC). The rationale is now to mimic more and more, the biochemical composition of tubal and uterine fluids even if interactions with embryo metabolism is still far from being understood.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Survival / physiology
  • Corpus Luteum / physiology
  • Embryonic and Fetal Development / physiology
  • Fallopian Tubes / anatomy & histology
  • Fallopian Tubes / chemistry
  • Fallopian Tubes / physiology*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lipids / analysis
  • Male
  • Sperm Capacitation
  • Sperm Motility / physiology

Substances

  • Lipids