Influence of estrus synchronization of prepubertal gilts on embryo quality

Synchronization and superovulation are commonly used to obtain large numbers of embryos for experimental and practical purposes. This study compared the number, quality, and in vitro development of embryos recovered from gilts following single or double estrus synchronization and superovulation. Prepubertal gilts from the single synchronization group were injected with 1500 I.U. PMSG and 1000 I.U. hCG 72 h later. The double synchronized group of gilts was treated with 750 I.U. PMSG and 500 I.U. hCG 72 h later. After 17 days, 1500 I.U. PMSG followed by 1000 I.U. hCG was administered. Five days after insemination embryos were recovered and cultured for 6 days. Both single and double hormonal stimulation schedules resulted in recovery of elevated numbers of embryos (28.4 and 23.4 vs. 11.3; p<0.01 and p