Anti-Müllerian hormone and antral follicle count as predictors for optimal selection of Hanwoo donor cows in superstimulated oocyte collection

Abstract

This study explored the correlation between anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels and reproductive efficiency in native Korean cattle (Hanwoo) as potential oocyte donors in ovum pick-up (OPU) programs. In an effort to enhance the efficiency of oocyte collection, this research explored the correlation between AMH levels and various factors, including the quantity of follicles, retrieved oocytes, and the proportion of transferable embryos. A total of 42 Hanwoo cows were included in this study with AMH levels ranging from 276.5 to 2,212.5 pg/mL. These cows were categorized into three groups based on AMH concentration: high (H), medium (M), and low (L), along with the control group. To monitor the quantity of antral follicles in each group during OPU, Ultrasound scanner was used, and the retrieved oocytes were duly recorded. The implantable embryos produced from the retrieved oocytes were quantified. The results show a significant positive correlation between AMH levels and the numbers of antral follicles (R2 = 0.5785, p < 0.0001), retrieved oocytes (R2 = 0.6857, p < 0.0001) and transferable embryos (R2 = 0.4049, p < 0.0001), indicating that higher AMH levels correspond to increased numbers of antral follicles and retrieved oocytes. However, the correlation between AMH levels and the proportion of transferable embryos was not statistically significant (R2 = 0.1476, p = 0.5225). In conclusion, AMH levels were significantly correlated with the number of antral follicles and retrieved oocytes, demonstrating their potential as indicators for selecting oocyte donors for Hanwoo cattle. Although the relationship with the proportion of transferable embryos was not statistically significant, this study offers valuable insights for the improvement of the efficiency of oocyte donation plans in Hanwoo cattle by considering the AMH levels.