Distribution of PCV-2 DNA in the reproductive tract., oocytes and embryos of PCV-2 antibody-positive pigs

In summary, the results obtained in the present study indicate that PCV-2 may be associated with different tissues of the reproductive tract of PCV-2 antibody-positive pigs but is unlikely to be associated with uterine-stage embryos. Furthermore, the possible introduction of PCV-2 contamination bu COC or oviductal cells into IVF systems could result in contaminated embryos. Maintenance of an intact ZP, the use of culture systems free of oviductal cells during in vitro embryo production and embryo washing are suggested as preventive measures against PCV-2 transmission by embryo transfer. Further studies directed to the development of methodologies for rendering oocytes free of PCV-2 may be warranted.