Developmental consequences of supplementing with matrix metallopeptidase-9 during in vitro maturation of heat-stressed bovine oocytes

Because latent form of matrix metallopeptidase-9 (proMMP9) levels are positively related to blastocyst development, it was hypothesized that addition during maturation may improve development of heat-stressed oocytes. To test hypothesis, 0, 30 or 300 ng/ml human proMMP9 (hMMP9) was added at 18 h of in vitro maturation (hIVM) to cumulus-oocyte complexes matured at 38.5 or 41.0ºC (first 12 h only). Heat stress decreased 24 hIVM proMMP9 levels only in 0 and 30 ng/ml groups and increased progesterone in 0 and 300 ng/ml hMMP9 groups. Heat stress decreased cleavage and blastocyst development. Independent of maturation temperature, hMMP9 at 18 hIVM decreased blastocyst development. In a second study, cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured for 24 h at 38.5 or 41.0ºC (HS first 12 h only) with 0 or 300 ng/ml hMMP9 added at 12 hIVM. Without hMMP9, heat stress decreased 24 hIVM proMMP9 levels and increased progesterone production. Addition of 300 ng/ml of hMMP9 produced equivalent levels of proMMP9 at 24 hIVM (271 vs. 279 ± 77 for 38.5ºC and 41.0ºC treated oocytes, respectively). Heat stress did not affect ability of oocytes to cleave but reduced blastocyst development. Independent of temperature, hMMP9 decreased cleavage and blastocyst development. In summary, hMMP9 supplementation during IVM did not improve development of heat-stressed oocytes even when it was added for the entire maturation period. At doses tested, hMMP9 appeared detrimental to development when supplemented during the last 12 or 6 h of oocyte maturation.