Effects of Metabolic Pathways and Products on Early Mammalian Embryonic Development

Background: The study of early mammalian embryonic development is the basis for the cultivation of embryonic stem cells (ESCs), assisted reproductive technology (ART), and understanding and preventing early embryonic developmental defects. Metabolism is the most fundamental physiological activity of embryonic development. Studies have shown that specific metabolic pathways and metabolites play key roles in embryonic development. These roles involve the regulation of signal transduction in addition to the provision of energy to the organism. Aim of Review: This review examines the factors affecting the critical moments of embryonic development, such as oocyte maturation, zygotic gene activation, cell compaction, and two genealogical differentiations. It also presents the characteristics of embryonic metabolism at this time. This review aims to provide new insights and approaches for improving early mammalian embryonic development by clarifying the relationship between embryonic metabolism and its developmental processes. Furthermore, the review emphasizes embryonic metabolism as a potential indicator for assessing the level of embryonic development in vitro, providing a new basis for assessment in assisted reproductive technologies. Key Scientific Concepts of Review: This review is focused on three main key concepts. First, we demonstrate known regulatory mechanisms of embryonic development to enhance the potential of early embryonic development. Second, we elucidate the potential role of metabolic processes and their products in early embryonic development. Third, we provide new foundations and perspectives for the study of the early embryo from the perspective of cellular metabolism.