Integrating Assisted Reproductive Technologies, Biobanking, and Genomic Rescue for Endangered Wildlife: A Vertebrate-Focused Review

Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) provide opportunities for conservation of endangered wildlife, but their use is still limited by species-specific reproductive physiology, variable gamete competence, cryoinjury, and lack of validation of new approaches. This narrative review covers ART, biobanking, somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), in vitro gametogenesis (IVG) and conservation genomics in vertebrates. Key molecular barriers include oxidative and mitochondrial damage, aberrant embryonic genome activation, incomplete epigenetic reprogramming, nuclear-mitochondrial incompatibility and defective germ-cell differentiation. Technological readiness is used to evaluate the evidence and separate demonstrated reproductive outcomes from experimental proof of concept, and indirect findings from domestic or laboratory models. Semen cryopreservation and artificial insemination are established in selected species, while embryo-based interventions remain species-dependent and stem-cell-derived reproductive approaches require functional validation. We propose an integrated decision framework linking reproductive diagnosis, biobanking, genomic donor selection, technological readiness, animal welfare, and resource allocation with reproductive and population-level outcomes. Importantly, laboratory milestones alone cannot demonstrate conservation success without sustained genetic contribution across multiple subsequent generations. Successful translation depends on species-specific protocols, standardized endpoints, and evidence of genetically valuable offspring survival, reproduction, and contribution to long-term population viability.