Unraveling the equine follicular fluid proteome: a comprehensive review

This article addresses the scientific interest in equine follicles, tracing back a history of studies initiated almost 100 years ago but gaining detailed exploration in recent decades. Under the leadership of OJ Ginther and the advent of technologies such as transrectal ultrasound and ultrasound-guided transvaginal puncture, researchers gained unprecedented access to the equine ovary. Over 20 years of experimental research resulted in extraordinary advances in understanding equine ovarian physiology. The article focuses on the intricacies of follicular dynamics, with a special emphasis on the follicular fluid (FF) proteome. It explores the significance of FF in oocyte maturation and follicular ovulation, synthesizing insights from studies on the protein composition of FF across different reproductive seasons and stages of follicular development. The central objective is to present a comprehensive review of the equine FF proteome, aiming to enhance understanding of reproductive physiology and provide a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners in reproductive biology and assisted reproduction technologies.