Mammalian oocytes occupy a critical nexus in reproduction as they not only contribute half the
genetic makeup of the embryo but also provide virtually all of the cytoplasmic building blocks
required for sustaining embryogenesis. The journey that transforms a primordial germ cell into
a mature oocyte (or egg) capable of fertilisation and embryonic development is of unrivalled
complexity. The end-product of this remarkable developmental process is the ¿mature¿ egg now
replete with macromolecules and organelles and poised to support embryonic development if
fertilisation should occur. Given the importance of the oocyte for embryonic development it is
of no surprise that the oocyte holds centre stage in fertility clinics and greatly influences
the outcome of assisted reproductive treatments (ARTs). Mammalian Oocyte Regulation: Methods
and Protocols provides a highly diverse compendium of detailed methodologies - primarily
focusing on the murine model but also including chapters on human oocytes - for enabling
researchers to interrogate every aspect of mammalian oocyte development including recombination
meiotic maturation oocyte substrate uptake chromosomal segregation and fertilisation. Written
in the highly successful Methods in Molecular Biology¿ series format chapters contain
introductions to their respective topics lists of the necessary materials and reagents
step-by-step readily reproducible laboratory protocols and notes on troubleshooting and
avoiding known pitfalls. Authoritative and easily accessible Mammalian Oocyte Regulation:
Methods and Protocols serves as an ideal guide to novice oocyte researchers experts who wish
to add another dimension to their established portfolio as well as the wider research
community.
