Expression Profiling of IGF-1 and IGF-2 Transcripts in Oocytes of Buffalo Cows

The present study was designed to delineate the expression profiling of IGF-1 and IGF-2 mRNAs in immature and immature oocytes of buffalo cows. Ovaries were collected from non-pregnant slaughtered buffalo cows from a local slaughterhouse. Ovaries having visible follicles with a diameter of 3 to 6 mm were aspirated. Oocytes having more than 5 layers of unexpanded cumulus cells and granular homogenous ooplasm were selected and finally 8-10 oocytes were cultured in a 50 µL droplet of maturation media covered with mineral oil and then incubated at 38.5°C, 5% CO2 and 95% humidity for 24 hr. Expression of IGF-1 mRNA was significantly (P<0.05) higher in mature oocytes as compared to immature oocytes. Similarly, IGF-2 mRNA expression was significantly (P<0.05) higher in mature oocytes in comparison to immature oocytes. It can be concluded that higher expression of IGF-1 and IGF-2 mRNAs in mature oocytes may be involved in in vitro maturation of oocytes of buffalo cows.