THE developmental competence of buffalo oocytes often declines during in vitro conditions,primarily due to oxidative stress. The current study was designed to evaluate the effects of L-Carnitine supplementation during in vitro maturation (IVM) of buffalo oocytes. Oocytes collectedfrom ovaries of slaughtered buffaloes were matured in IVM media supplemented with L-Carnitine at0 (control), 0.3, 0.6, or 1 mg.mL-1, nuclear maturation, penetration, fertilization (IVF), embryoproduction and development were assessed. Additionally, antioxidant parameters includingglutathione (GSH) level, superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, catalase (CAT) activity, and lipidperoxidation (MDA) level in oocytes after IVM were measured. The outcomes indicated thatsignificant improvements in oocyte maturation to metaphase II were observed in the 0.3 and 0.6mg.mL-1 L-carnitine groups. Fertilization rates were enhanced within 0.3 and 0.6 mg.mL-1 L-carnitinegroups in contrast to the control. The 0.6 mg.mL-1 L-carnitine group demonstrated significantenhancements in cleavage (2-8 cells) and morula formation. Level of GSH exhibited an elevation, andMDA level declined in L-carnitine groups, although not significantly. SOD and CAT activities weresignificantly elevated in the 0.6 mg.mL-1 l-carnitine treatment against the control. In conclusion, L-carnitine incorporation within IVM improves oocyte nuclear maturation, fertilization, embryo growth,and antioxidant activity in Egyptian buffalo oocytes. 0.6 mg.mL-1 emerging as the optimalconcentration for overall improvements in oocyte quality and in vitro embryonic developmentalcompetence
(PDF) L-Carnitine-Mediated Antioxidant Defence in Buffalo Oocytes: A Novel Approach for Improving In Vitro Maturation and Embryo Developmental Competence. Available from: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/393201291_L-Carnitine-Mediated_Antioxidant_Defence_in_Buffalo_Oocytes_A_Novel_Approach_for_Improving_In_Vitro_Maturation_and_Embryo_Developmental_Competence [accessed Oct 23 2025].