Personnel working in assisted reproductive technology often lack the opportunities for dedicated training in the specialized techniques and technologies required for the procedures. As such, success in the form of live birth rates can range from over 50% to less than 10% per treatment cycle. This comprehensive introductory textbook is an essential resource for trainee embryologists, medical students and nurses. The recent revolutions in biotechnology and molecular biology involved in delivering assisted reproductive services are thoroughly discussed. Basic knowledge such as the development and physiology of both male and female reproductive systems is covered, with practical aspects of IVF including gamete and embryo manipulation, cryopreservation and genetic testing explained in detail. A full description of the optimal structure and management of the IVF laboratory is given, helping ensure procedures are safe and effective. Extensive and highly detailed colour illustrations bring the content to life and aids readers in their understanding.

Over the past few decades technological advances in transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, and glycomics along with the ability to selectively knockout genes of interest has greatly advanced our understanding of maternal-conceptus interactions that are essential for the establishment and maintenance of a successful pregnancy. This knowledge provides a foundation from which to build research endeavors to help resolve infertility, embryonic loss and recurrent abortion in humans, captive wild animals and important farm species. The present volume on “Regulation of Implantation and Establishment of Pregnancy in Mammals” brings together current reviews from leading experts to address the diversity of mechanisms by which species establish and maintain pregnancy. Implantation in rodents, dogs, pigs, cattle, sheep, horses, primates, humans and embryonic diapause in wild species are discussed. Reviews will provide current knowledge on the role of endometrial steroid receptors, adhesion factors, cytokines, interferons, steroids, prostaglandins, growth factors and immune cells involved with regulation of conceptus development.

This fully updated new edition of a successful and popular practical guide is an indispensable account of modern in-vitro fertilization practice. Initial chapters cover theoretical aspects of gametogenesis and embryo development at the cellular and molecular level, while the latter half of the book describes the requisites for a successful IVF laboratory and the basic technologies in ART. Advanced techniques, including pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, vitrification and stem-cell technology, are comprehensively covered, providing up-to-date analyses of these groundbreaking technologies. This edition includes: • New practical techniques, including preservation of fertility for cancer patients, stem-cell biology/technology, vitrification and in-vitro maturation • A 'refresher' study review of fundamental principles of cell and molecular biology • The latest information available from animal and human research in reproductive biology Packed with a wealth of practical and scientific detail, this is a must for all IVF practitioners.

This book brings together authoritative accounts by leaders in the field of reproductive biology, researchers who have closely investigated implantation. The subject is approached from several angles: biochemical, endocrinological, pharmacological, anatomic, and immunological.