DIRECT TRANSFER OF VITRIFIED RABBIT EMBRYOS

In this study we looked at the feasibility of transfering vitrified ra bbit embryos directly into recipient does. Compacted morulae were vitr ified in a solution of 20% ethylene glycol and 20% dimethyl sulfoxide. After thawing, and without step-wise diluted solution, the vitrified embryos were transferred into the recipient's uterine hems. Survival r ate at birth differed from fresh rabbit embryos (40% vs 55%, P<0.05). However, the percentage of does that delivered (94%) and the survival rate suggested this method is suitable for both storage and simple tra nsfer of rabbit morulae.