Intracellular receptors and agents that induce activation in bovine oocytes

At fertilization, a dramatic change in the intracellular physiology of the oocyte occurs. Intracellular calcium transients have been observed in various species of oocytes including the bovine. These calcium transients have been associated with the early events of oocyte activation. Several reports have evaluated the effects of inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate (IP3) on oocyte activation and its potential role in the events of fertilization. Recent results indicate the existance of both IP3 and ryanodine receptors in bovine oocytes. The events associated with activation and the existance of specific receptors within bovine oocytes will be discussed.