Abstract: Embryonic death and abortion are among the major issues affecting reproductive efficiency and economic benefits in beef cattle production in China.The causes of embryonic death and abortion include genetic defects in embryos,maternal endocrine imbalances,pathogenic infections,and stress.Abnormal gene expression and chromosomal abnormalities in genetic factors can disrupt the normal development of embryos during critical developmental stages,leading to stasis or abnormalities.Maternal endocrine imbalances may interfere with embryo implantation and the maintenance of pregnancy,resulting in pregnancy loss.Pathogenic infections can cause embryonic death or abortion through mechanisms like inducing placental inflammation and disrupting the host’s innate immune response.Additionally,environmental stress can affect the metabolism and division of embryonic cells,triggering apoptosis and increasing the risk of early embryo death.Current research on embryonic death and abortion in domestic beef cattle mainly consists of case reports or epidemiological surveys,with relatively few studies on the mechanisms leading to these issues.This article systematically reviewed the causes of embryonic death and abortion in beef cattle,covering research advancements in genetic,maternal,pathogenic,environmental,and management factors,aiming to provide references for reducing the incidence of embryonic death and abortion in domestic beef cattle breeding.

Key words: beef cattle; embryonic death; abortion; endocrine; infectious diseases