In recent years, molecular techniques have brought about new solutions that focus on the developmental capacity of female oocytes and reproductive performance in the mammalian species. The developmental potency is the ability of oocytes to reach the MII stage following the long stages of folliculo- and oogenesis. The main proteins involved in this process belong to the connexin (Cx) family, which are responsible for the formation of gap junction (GJC) connections between the female gamete and surrounding somatic cells. The Cx are involved in bi-directional transport of small molecules and are therefore responsible for correct oocyte-somatic cell nutrition, proliferation, and differentiation. However, the application of certain molecular techniques often leads to destabilization or destruction of the materials of interest, such as cells or whole tissues. Therefore, the applications of microfluidic methods, which are non-invasive and quantitative, give new opportunities to further this area of biomedical research. Microfluidic research is based on real-time experiments that allow for control and/ or observation of the results during each step. The purpose of this review is to present both positive and negative aspects of molecular-microfluidic methods while describing the role of connexins in oocyte developmental capacity.

Center of Assisted Reproduction Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology University Hospital Brno Czech Republic

Department of Anatomy Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland

Department of Anatomy Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland; Department of Histology and Embryology Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland

Department of Histology and Embryology Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland

Department of Histology and Embryology Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland; Department of Histology and Embryology Wroclaw Medical University Wroclaw Poland

Department of Histology and Embryology Poznan University of Medical Science Poznan Poland; Institute of Veterinary Poznan University of Life Science Poznan Poland

Department of Toxicology Poznan University of Medical Sciences Poznan Poland

Institute of Veterinary Poznan University of Life Science Poznan Poland