What is in vitro embryo production?

In vitro embryo production (IVEP) is a laboratory technique that involves the fertilization of oocytes (eggs) with sperm outside the body, typically in a controlled environment like a petri dish. This process includes several steps: oocyte retrieval, sperm preparation, fertilization, and embryo culture. The resulting embryos can be monitored for development before being transferred to a surrogate or cryopreserved for future use. IVEP is widely used in animal breeding and human assisted reproductive technologies.