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The presence of 1 mM glycine in vitrification solutions protects oocyte mitochondrial homeostasis and improves blastocyst development. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 30:107-16. [PMID: 23248076 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9898-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2012] [Accepted: 11/18/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Embryos generated from oocytes which have been vitrified have lower blastocyst development rates than embryos generated from fresh oocytes. This is indicative of a level of irreversible damage to the oocyte possibly due to exposure to high cryoprotectant levels and osmotic stress. This study aimed to assess the effects of vitrification on the mitochondria of mature mouse oocytes while also examining the ability of the osmolyte glycine, to maintain cell function after vitrification. METHODS Oocytes were cryopreserved via vitrification with or without 1 mM Glycine and compared to fresh oocyte controls. Oocytes were assessed for mitochondrial distribution and membrane potential as well as their ability to fertilise. Blastocyst development and gene expression was also examined. RESULTS Vitrification altered mitochondrial distribution and membrane potential, which did not recover after 2 h of culture. Addition of 1 mM glycine to the vitrification media prevented these perturbations. Furthermore, blastocyst development from oocytes that were vitrified with glycine was significantly higher compared to those vitrified without glycine (83.9 % vs. 76.5 % respectively; p<0.05) and blastocysts derived from oocytes that were vitrified without glycine had significantly decreased levels of IGF2 and Glut3 compared to control blastocysts however those derived from oocytes vitrified with glycine had comparable levels of these genes compared to fresh controls. CONCLUSION Addition of 1 mM glycine to the vitrification solutions improved the ability of the oocyte to maintain its mitochondrial physiology and subsequent development and therefore could be considered for routine inclusion in cryopreservation solutions.
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Moawad AR, Fisher P, Zhu J, Choi I, Polgar Z, Dinnyes A, Campbell KH. In vitro fertilization of ovine oocytes vitrified by solid surface vitrification at germinal vesicle stage. Cryobiology 2012; 65:139-44. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.04.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2012] [Revised: 04/23/2012] [Accepted: 04/23/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Kim Y, Uhm S, Gupta M, Yang J, Lim JG, Das Z, Heo Y, Chung HJ, Kong IK, Kim NH, Lee H, Ko D. Successful vitrification of bovine blastocysts on paper container. Theriogenology 2012; 78:1085-93. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2012.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2011] [Revised: 05/03/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Tavukcuoglu S, Al-Azawi T, Khaki AA, Al-Hasani S. Is vitrification standard method of cryopreservation. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2012. [DOI: 10.1016/j.mefs.2012.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
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Vitrification of oocytes, embryos and blastocysts. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2012; 26:789-803. [PMID: 22940094 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2012.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2012] [Revised: 05/08/2012] [Accepted: 07/30/2012] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
In assisted reproductive technology, cryopreservation of human oocytes and embryos has been significantly improved by refined slow-cooling and the new vitrification method. The slow-cooling method requires a programmed cryo-machine, and usually takes several hours. It is, however, difficult to eliminate injuries resulting from ice formation completely. Vitrification has become a reliable strategy because it is simple, can lead to high survival rates and viability, and has better clinical outcome. Vitrification transforms cells into an amorphous glassy state inside and outside the vitrified cell with ultra-rapid cooling and warming steps by plunging the oocytes and embryos into liquid nitrogen, instead of ice-crystal formation. Over the past decade, several advances in vitrification technologies have improved clinical efficiency and outcome. In this chapter, we focus on vitrification technologies for cryopreservation in human assisted reproductive technology.
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Edgar DH, Gook DA. A critical appraisal of cryopreservation (slow cooling versus vitrification) of human oocytes and embryos. Hum Reprod Update 2012; 18:536-54. [PMID: 22537859 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dms016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 215] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitrification is now a commonly applied technique for cryopreservation in assisted reproductive technology (ART) replacing, in many cases, conventional slow cooling methodology. This review examines evidence relevant to comparison of the two approaches applied to human oocytes and embryos at different developmental stages. METHODS Critical review of the published literature using PubMed with particular emphasis on studies which include data on survival and implantation rates, data from fresh control groups and evaluation of the two approaches in a single setting. RESULTS Slow cooling is associated with lower survival rates and compromised development relative to vitrification when applied to metaphase II (MII) oocytes, although the vitrification results have predominantly been obtained using direct contact with liquid nitrogen and there is some evidence that optimal protocols for slow cooling of MII oocytes are yet to be established. There are no prospective randomized controlled trials (RCTs) which support the use of either technique with pronuclear oocytes although vitrification has become the method of choice. Optimal slow cooling, using modifications of traditional methodology, and vitrification can result in high survival rates of early embryos, which implant at the same rate as equivalent fresh counterparts. Many studies report high survival and implantation rates following vitrification of blastocysts. Although slow cooling of blastocysts has been reported to be inferior in some studies, others comparing the two approaches in the same clinical setting have demonstrated comparable results. The variation in the extent of embryo selection applied in studies can lead to apparent differences in clinical efficiency, which may not be significant if expressed on a 'per oocyte used' basis. CONCLUSIONS Available evidence suggests that vitrification is the current method of choice when cryopreserving MII oocytes. Early cleavage stage embryos can be cryopreserved with equal success using slow cooling and vitrification. Successful blastocyst cryopreservation may be more consistently achieved with vitrification but optimal slow cooling can produce similar results. There are key limitations associated with the available evidence base, including a paucity of RCTs, limited reporting of live birth outcomes and limited reporting of detail which would allow assessment of the impact of differences in female age. While vitrification has a clear role in ART, we support continued research to establish optimal slow cooling methods which may assist in alleviating concerns over safety issues, such as storage, transport and the use of very high cryoprotectant concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David H Edgar
- Reproductive Services/Melbourne IVF, Royal Women's Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
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Liang Y, Rakwongrit D, Phermthai T, Somfai T, Nagai T, Parnpai R. Cryopreservation of immature buffalo oocytes: effects of cytochalasin B pretreatment on the efficiency of cryotop and solid surface vitrification methods. Anim Sci J 2012; 83:630-8. [PMID: 22943529 DOI: 10.1111/j.1740-0929.2012.01013.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to compare the efficiency of the solid surface (SSV), cryotop (CT) vitrification methods and cytochalasin B (CB) pretreatment for cryopreservation of immature buffalo oocytes. Cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were placed for 1 min in TCM199 containing 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), 10% ethylene glycol (EG), and 20% fetal bovine serum, and then transferred for 30 s to base medium containing 20% DMSO, 20% EG and 0.5 mol/L sucrose. CB pretreated ((+)CB) or non-pretreated ((-)CB) COCs were vitrified either by SSV or CT. Surviving vitrified COCs were selected for in vitro maturation (IVM) and in vitro fertilization (IVF). The rate of viable oocytes after vitrification in CT groups (82%) was significantly lower (P < 0.05) than that in a fresh control group (100%), but significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those in SSV groups (71-72%). Among vitrified groups, the highest maturation rate was obtained in the CT (-)CB group (32%). After IVF, the cleavage and blastocyst formation rates were similar among vitrified groups but significantly lower than those of the control group. In conclusion, a higher survival rate of oocytes after vitrification and IVM was obtained in the CT group compared with that in the SSV group, indicating the superiority of the CT method. Pretreatment with CB did not increase the viability, maturation or embryo development of vitrified oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuanyuan Liang
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center and School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand.
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Satirapod C, Treetampinich C, Weerakiet S, Wongkularb A, Rattanasiri S, Choktanasiri W. Comparison of cryopreserved human sperm from solid surface vitrification and standard vapor freezing method: on motility, morphology, vitality and DNA integrity. Andrologia 2011; 44 Suppl 1:786-90. [PMID: 22211943 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0272.2011.01267.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/21/2011] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Solid surface vitrificaition (SSV) is a cryoperservative method that has been used in the cryopreservation of oocytes, and embryos. Here, we report an application of the SSV in the cryopreservation of human spermatozoa. We compared the SSV with a standard freezing method in terms of sperm motility, morphology, vitality and DNA integrity. Sperm motility was determined by computer assisted semen analysis, morphology and vitality were determined by eosin-methylene blue staining, and DNA integrity was determined by a TUNEL assay. We found that while both cryopreservative methods produced spermatozoa with comparable vitality and motility, the SSV gave slightly, but significantly fewer sperm with DNA damage, and loose tail. We concluded that, a cryopreservation of human spermatozoa by SSV is feasible and provides a quick and practical way to preserve human spermatozoa with a comparable, if not better, quality of the preserved spermatozoa to the standard freezing method.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Satirapod
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand.
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Isachenko E, Rahimi G, Mallmann P, Sanchez R, Isachenko V. Novel Approaches to the Cryopreservation of Human Spermatozoa: History and Development of the Spermatozoa Vitrification Technology. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2011. [DOI: 10.1177/205891581100200207] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cryobiology is very intensively applied in reproductive and veterinary medicine for preservation of gametes, embryos and reproductive tissues. Sub-zero temperatures combined with appropriate cryoprotective agents preserve the physiological and reproductive functions of the cells making long-term storage possible without loss of viability. With the use of cryoprotective agents it has become possible to develop cryopreservation techniques, such as the slow conventional freezing and vitrification that are in use in the present times. In slow controlled-rate conventional freezing extracellular ice crystals are formed whereas in vitrification no ice crystals are formed. Glass formation is compatible with the survival of the cell and the preservation of its intracellular structures provided the type(s) and concentrations of cryoprotectant used are not chemo- or osmotoxic. However, irrespective of the type of cooling method employed the cryosurvival of cells and tissues is influenced by the size and maturity of cells, amounts of intracellular water, quality and quantity of intracellular lipids, type of cells, their function and morphology. The intracellular milieu of cryopreserved cells and tissues remain less understood. The application of nanotechnology may help reveal and help advance our knowledge of the cryobiological principles involved in cryosurvival. At this moment the methods of cryopreservation that merit further investigation are vitrification and lyophilization. Vitrification is cheap if reagents are prepared in-house and the procedure can be performed rapidly. It has been successfully applied for gametes and embryos (of different stages of development), and reproductive cells/tissues, somatic cells and stem cells. However, vitrification is more demanding technically and requires operation and storage at sub-zero temperatures. On the other hand lyophilization deserves further investigation because it is a cheaper form of cryopreservation that may enable cryostorage at less demanding temperatures of 4°C and may even allow transport at ambient temperature. These possibilities are explored in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evgenia Isachenko
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 50931 Cologne, Germany
| | - Raul Sanchez
- Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Department of Gynaecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University of Cologne, Kerpener Str. 50931 Cologne, Germany
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Moawad AR, Choi I, Zhu J, Campbell KH. Ovine Oocytes Vitrified at Germinal Vesicle Stage as Cytoplast Recipients for Somatic Cell Nuclear Transfer (SCNT). Cell Reprogram 2011; 13:289-96. [DOI: 10.1089/cell.2010.0089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Adel R. Moawad
- Animal Development and Biotechnology Group, Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Inchul Choi
- Animal Development and Biotechnology Group, Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Jie Zhu
- Animal Development and Biotechnology Group, Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Keith H.S. Campbell
- Animal Development and Biotechnology Group, Division of Animal Sciences, School of Biosciences, University of Nottingham, Loughborough, LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
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Leibo S, Pool TB. The principal variables of cryopreservation: solutions, temperatures, and rate changes. Fertil Steril 2011; 96:269-76. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2011.06.065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2011] [Accepted: 06/23/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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In vitro development of vitrified buffalo oocytes following parthenogenetic activation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Theriogenology 2011; 75:1652-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.12.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2010] [Revised: 12/29/2010] [Accepted: 12/31/2010] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Matsumura K, Bae JY, Kim HH, Hyon SH. Effective vitrification of human induced pluripotent stem cells using carboxylated ε-poly-l-lysine. Cryobiology 2011; 63:76-83. [PMID: 21621529 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2011.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2010] [Revised: 05/11/2011] [Accepted: 05/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Derivation of human induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells could enable their widespread application in future. Establishment of highly efficient and reliable methods for their preservation is a prerequisite for these applications. In this study, we developed a vitrification solution comprising ethylene glycol (EG) and sucrose as well as carboxylated ε-poly-l-lysine (PLL); this solution inhibited devitrification. Human iPS cells were vitrified in 200-μL vitrification solutions comprised 6.5M EG, 0.75 M sucrose and 0 or 10%w/v carboxylated PLL with 65 mol% of the amino groups converted to carboxyl groups [PLL (0.65)] in a cryovial by directly immersing in liquid nitrogen. After warming, attached colony and recovery rates of human iPS cells vitrified by adding PLL (0.65) were significantly higher than those for cells without PLL (0.65) and vitrification solution (DAP213: 2M dimethyl sulfoxide, 1M acetamide and 3M propylene glycol). Furthermore, even after warming at room temperature, attached colony and recovery rates of iPS cells vitrified with PLL (0.65) were reduced to a lesser extent than those vitrified with either DAP213 or EG and sucrose without PLL (0.65). This could be attributed to inhibition of devitrification by PLL (0.65), as differential scanning calorimetry indicated less damage after vitrification with PLL (0.65). In addition, human iPS cells vitrified in the solution with PLL (0.65) had normal karyotypes and maintained undifferentiated states and pluripotency as determined by immunohistochemistry and teratoma formation. Addition of PLL (0.65) successfully vitrified human iPS cells with high efficiency. We believe that this method could aid future applications and increase utility of human iPS cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuaki Matsumura
- Institute for Frontier Medical Sciences, Kyoto University, 53 Kawahara-cho, Shogoin, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8507, Japan
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Sansinena M, Santos MV, Zaritzky N, Chirife J. Numerical simulation of cooling rates in vitrification systems used for oocyte cryopreservation. Cryobiology 2011; 63:32-7. [PMID: 21540134 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2011.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2010] [Revised: 03/26/2011] [Accepted: 04/12/2011] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation is of key importance in the preservation and propagation of germplasm. Interest in oocyte cryopreservation has increased in recent years due to the application of assisted reproductive technologies in farm animals such as in vitro fertilization, nuclear transfer and the need for the establishment of ova/gene banks worldwide. However, the cryopreservation of the female gamete has been met with limited success mainly due to its small surface-area:volume ratio. In the past decade, several vitrification devices such as open pulled straws (OPS), fine and ultra fine pipette tips, nylon loops and polyethylene films have been introduced in order to manipulate minimal volumes and achieve high cooling rates. However, experimental comparison of cooling rates presents difficulties mainly because of the reduced size of these systems. To circumvent this limitation, a numerical simulation of cooling rates of various vitrification systems immersed in liquid nitrogen was conducted solving the non-stationary heat transfer partial differential equation using finite element method. Results indicate the nylon loop (Cryoloop®) is the most efficient heat transfer system analyzed, with a predicted cooling rate of 180,000°C/min for an external heat transfer coefficient h= 1000 W/m(2)K when cooling from 20 to -130°C; in contrast, the open pulled straw method (OPS) showed the lowest performance with a cooling rate of 5521°C/min considering the same value of external heat transfer coefficient. Predicted cooling rates of Miniflex® and Cryotop® (polyethylene film system) were 6164 and 37,500°C/min, respectively, for the same heat transfer coefficient.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Sansinena
- Pontificia Universidad Católica Argentina, Cap. Gral. Ramón Freire, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
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65
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Lin T, Chen C, Sung L, Carter M, Chen Y, Du F, Ju J, Xu J. Open-pulled straw vitrification differentiates cryotolerance of in vitro cultured rabbit embryos at the eight-cell stage. Theriogenology 2011; 75:760-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2010.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Revised: 10/09/2010] [Accepted: 10/09/2010] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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66
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García JI, Noriega-Portella L, Noriega-Hoces L. Effect of vitrification procedure on chromosomal status of embryos achieved from vitrified and fresh oocytes. Health (London) 2011. [DOI: 10.4236/health.2011.37077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Sharma GT, Dubey PK, Chandra V. Morphological changes, DNA damage and developmental competence of in vitro matured, vitrified-thawed buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes: A comparative study of two cryoprotectants and two cryodevices. Cryobiology 2010; 60:315-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2010.02.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2009] [Revised: 02/17/2010] [Accepted: 02/18/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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69
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Xing W, Zhou C, Bian J, Montag M, Xu Y, Li Y, Li T. Solid-surface vitrification is an appropriate and convenient method for cryopreservation of isolated rat follicles. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:42. [PMID: 20459796 PMCID: PMC2887875 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-42] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2009] [Accepted: 05/11/2010] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation of isolated follicles may be a potential option to restore fertility in young women with cancer, because it can prevent the risks of cancer transmission. Several freezing protocols are available, including slow-rate freezing, open-pulled straws vitrification (OPS) and solid-surface vitrification (SSV, a new freezing technique). The purpose of our study was to investigate the effects of these freezing procedures on viability, ultrastructure and developmental capacity of isolated rat follicles. METHODS Isolated follicles from female Sprague-Dawley rats were randomly assigned to SSV, OPS and slow-rate freezing groups for cryopreservation. Follicle viability assessment and ultrastructural examination were performed after thawing. In order to study the developmental capacity of thawed follicles, we performed in vitro culture with a three-dimensional (3D) system by alginate hydrogels. RESULTS Our results showed that the totally viable rate of follicles vitrified by SSV (64.76%) was slightly higher than that of the OPS group (62.38%) and significantly higher than that of the slow-rate freezing group (52.65%; P < 0.05). The ultrastructural examination revealed that morphological alterations were relatively low in the SSV group compared to the OPS and slow-rate freezing groups. After in vitro culture within a 3D system using alginate hydrogels, we found the highest increase (28.90 +/- 2.21 microm) in follicle diameter in follicles from the SSV group. The estradiol level in the SSV group was significantly higher than those in the OPS and slow-rate freezing groups at the end of a 72-hr culture period (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Our results suggest that the SSV method is an appropriate and convenient method for cryopreservation of isolated rat follicles compared with the conventional slow-rate freezing method and the OPS method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Xing
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Jiang Bian
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Markus Montag
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Clinics Bonn, Sigmund-Freud-Str. 25, 53105 Bonn, Germany
| | - Yanwen Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yubin Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Tao Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangzhou, China
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Xu F, Moon S, Zhang X, Shao L, Song YS, Demirci U. Multi-scale heat and mass transfer modelling of cell and tissue cryopreservation. PHILOSOPHICAL TRANSACTIONS. SERIES A, MATHEMATICAL, PHYSICAL, AND ENGINEERING SCIENCES 2010; 368:561-83. [PMID: 20047939 PMCID: PMC3263795 DOI: 10.1098/rsta.2009.0248] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Cells and tissues undergo complex physical processes during cryopreservation. Understanding the underlying physical phenomena is critical to improve current cryopreservation methods and to develop new techniques. Here, we describe multi-scale approaches for modelling cell and tissue cryopreservation including heat transfer at macroscale level, crystallization, cell volume change and mass transport across cell membranes at microscale level. These multi-scale approaches allow us to study cell and tissue cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Xu
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Sangjun Moon
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Xiaohui Zhang
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lei Shao
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Young Seok Song
- Polymer System Division, Fiber System Engineering, Dankook University, Yongin-si, Gyeonggi-do, Korea
- Author for correspondence (; )
| | - Utkan Demirci
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Harvard-Massachusetts Institute of Technology Health Sciences and Technology, Cambridge, MA, USA
- Author for correspondence (; )
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Vitrification of canine cumulus-oocyte complexes in DAP213 with a cryotop holder. Reprod Med Biol 2010; 9:115-120. [PMID: 29662428 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-010-0045-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2009] [Accepted: 12/25/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The effects of the cryoprotectant and the container (holder) used for the vitrification of canine germinal vesicle stage oocytes were examined to improve the cryopreservation method for canine oocytes and embryos. Methods Canine cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) were collected from ovaries, and were vitrified with E30S (30% ethylene glycol and 0.5 M sucrose) or DAP213 (2 M dimethyl sulfoxide, 1 M acetamide, and 3 M propylene glycol) solution held by a cryotube or cryotop sheets. After warming, the oocytes were stained with propidium iodide for the assessment of their plasma membrane integrity. Results In all the vitrification groups, more than 65% of the vitrified oocytes displayed a normal morphology (E30S-top, 65.6%; DAP-tube, 67.3%; DAP-top, 80.0%). However, when assessed by propidium iodide staining, the viability of oocytes in the DAP-top group (43.6%) was higher than that in the E30S-top group (21.3%, P < 0.05). Furthermore, the viability of the oocytes in the DAP-top group (43.6%) was higher than that in the DAP-tube group (4.1%, P < 0.05). Conclusions These results suggest that a combination of DAP213 as the cryoprotectant and a cryotop sheet as the holder improved viability after the vitrification of canine oocytes at the germinal vesicle stage.
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Sugiyama R, Nakagawa K, Shirai A, Sugiyama R, Nishi Y, Kuribayashi Y, Inoue M. Clinical outcomes resulting from the transfer of vitrified human embryos using a new device for cryopreservation (plastic blade). J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:161-7. [PMID: 20127161 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9390-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2009] [Accepted: 01/14/2010] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We attempted clinical application of a plastic blade, which is a novel cryopreservation device, for vitrification of human embryos and blastocysts. METHODS Between February 2003 and December 2007, a total of 4,430 Day 3 embryos from 898 patients (Day 3 group) and 55 blastocysts from 29 patients (blastocyst group) were vitrified and cryopreserved with a plastic device, and subsequently thawed for embryo transfer. Clinical outcomes after thawing and transfer of vitrified embryos and blastocysts were evaluated. RESULTS In the Day 3 group, all embryos resulting from 1,441 oocyte retrieval cycles were recovered, and the thawed embryo survival rate was 98.4%. In the blastocyst group, the survival rate after thawing was 100%. A total of 3,026 day 3 embryos and 46 blastocysts were transferred. The pregnancy and implantation rates in the Day 3 group were 25.0% and 15.5%, respectively, and in the blastocyst group the rates were 24.2% and 26.1%, respectively. The miscarriage rates in the Day 3 and blastocyst groups were 18.3% and 50.0%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS A plastic blade is a useful novel device in cryopreservation of vitrified human embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rikikazu Sugiyama
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Sugiyama Clinic, 1-53-1, Ohara, Setagaya, Tokyo, 156-0041, Japan
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73
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Li T, Mai Q, Gao J, Zhou C. Cryopreservation of human embryonic stem cells with a new bulk vitrification method. Biol Reprod 2010; 82:848-53. [PMID: 20075393 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.109.080713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
To increase the manipulation efficiency and storage capability of vitrified human embryonic stem cells, a new bulk vitrification method was established using transformed cryovials. This method vitrified a large number of cell clumps, as opposed to those cryopreserved by a slow-freezing method with conventional cryovials at one time (round). After warming, vitrified human embryonic stem cells exhibited a much higher survival rate than the slow-freezing cells. The vitrified stem cells continued to express markers of pluripotency and formed teratomas in mice with severe combined immunodeficiency, confirming the pluripotency of vitrified-warmed human embryonic stem cell clumps. The new bulk vitrification method is superior to and more practical than the open pulled straw vitrification method and the slow-freezing method for the cryopreservation of human embryonic stem cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University, Guangdong, China
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74
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Bagis H, Akkoc T, Taskin C, Arat S. Comparison of Different Cryopreservation Techniques: Higher Survival and Implantation Rate of Frozen-Thawed Mouse Pronuclear Embryos in the Presence of Beta-Mercaptoethanol in Post-Thaw Culture. Reprod Domest Anim 2010; 45:e332-7. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2009.01570.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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75
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SRIPUNYA N, SOMFAI T, INABA Y, NAGAI T, IMAI K, PARNPAI R. A Comparison of Cryotop and Solid Surface Vitrification Methods for the Cryopreservation of In Vitro Matured Bovine Oocytes. J Reprod Dev 2010; 56:176-81. [DOI: 10.1262/jrd.09-108h] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Nucharin SRIPUNYA
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, Suranaree University of Technology
- National Livestock Breeding Center
| | - Tamás SOMFAI
- National Livestock Breeding Center
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science
| | - Yasushi INABA
- National Livestock Breeding Center
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science
| | - Takashi NAGAI
- National Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science
| | - Kei IMAI
- National Livestock Breeding Center
| | - Rangsun PARNPAI
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, Suranaree University of Technology
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Lee HJ, Elmoazzen H, Wright D, Biggers J, Rueda BR, Heo YS, Toner M, Toth TL. Ultra-rapid vitrification of mouse oocytes in low cryoprotectant concentrations. Reprod Biomed Online 2009; 20:201-8. [PMID: 20113958 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.11.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2009] [Revised: 06/04/2009] [Accepted: 11/02/2009] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
The ideal cryopreservation protocol would combine the benefits of slow freezing with the benefits of vitrification. This report describes a method for the ultra-rapid vitrification of oocytes using slush nitrogen in quartz capillaries. The approach minimizes the thermal mass of the vitrification vessel by using open microcapillaries made of highly conductive quartz and achieves cooling rates of 250,000 degrees C/min. The process of vitrification can be optimized by maximizing the rate at which the sample is cooled, which allows for the use of lower cryoprotectant concentrations. Mouse oocytes can be successfully vitrified using 1.5 mol/l 1,2-propanediol and 0.5 mol/l trehalose and achieve survival rates of 90.0%(36/40). Fertilization and blastocyst formation rates of vitrified-warmed and fresh oocytes were not significantly different. A total of 120 blastocysts from each of the vitrified-warmed and fresh oocytes were transferred to surrogate mothers and 23 and 27 offspring were born respectively. All offspring in both groups were healthy, grew and bred normally and gave rise to a second generation of pups. Thus, an ultra-rapid vitrification technique has been developed for mouse oocytes that uses low concentrations of cryoprotectants and slush nitrogen in quartz capillaries, which combines the benefits of slow freezing and vitrification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ho-Joon Lee
- Vincent Obstetrics and Gynecology Service, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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77
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Keskintepe L, Agca Y, Sher G, Keskintepe M, Maassarani G. High survival rate of metaphase II human oocytes after first polar body biopsy and vitrification: determining the effect of previtrification conditions. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:1706-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2008] [Revised: 08/16/2008] [Accepted: 08/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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78
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Wang X, Catt S, Pangestu M, Temple-Smith P. Live offspring from vitrified blastocysts derived from fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue grafts of adult mice. Reproduction 2009; 138:527-35. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-09-0148] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation can be used to preserve fertility for cancer patients. In this study, we assessed the viability and function of ovarian tissue from adult mice that was cryopreserved by solid surface vitrification or traditional slow-cooling using variousin vitroandin vivotechniques, including allotransplantation,in vitrooocyte maturation, embryo culturein vitro, blastocyst cryopreservation, embryo transfer, and development. The importance of cumulus cells for oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development was investigated. Graft recovery, follicle survival, and oocyte retrieval was similar in control, vitrified, and slow-cooled groups. High rates of oocyte maturation, cleavage, and blastocyst formation were achieved, with no significant differences between the control, vitrified or slow-cooled ovarian tissue grafts. The presence of cumulus cells was important for oocyte maturation, fertilization, and subsequent development. Cumulus–oocyte complexes with no surrounding cumulus cells (N-COCs) or with an incomplete layer (P-COCs) had significantly lower rates of oocyte maturation and blastocyst formation than cumulus–oocyte complexes with at least one complete layer of cumulus cells (F-COCs; maturation rate: 63, 78 vs 94%; blastocyst rate: 29, 49 vs 80%). Live births were achieved using vitrified blastocysts derived from oocytes taken from vitrified and slow-cooled ovarian tissue heterotypic allografts. Successful production of healthy offspring from these vitrified blastocysts suggests that this technique should be considered as a useful stage to pause in the assisted reproduction pathway. This provides an alternative protocol for restoring fertility and offering cancer patients a better indication of their chances of pregnancy and live birth.
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79
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Vutyavanich T, Sreshthaputra O, Piromlertamorn W, Nunta S. Closed-system solid surface vitrification versus slow programmable freezing of mouse 2-cell embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2009; 26:285-90. [PMID: 19603263 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-009-9324-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2008] [Accepted: 06/21/2009] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To compare closed-system solid surface vitrification with slow freezing. METHODS Mouse 2-cell embryos (n = 348) were divided into vitrification, slow freezing and non-frozen groups. For vitrification, embryos were exposed to 10% ethylene glycol (EG), 10% dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) and 10% fetal bovine serum (FBS) in phosphate-buffered saline (PBS) for 10 min, then transferred into 17.5% EG, 17.5% DMSO, 0.25 M trehalose and 10% FBS in PBS. They were placed on hemi-straws and inserted into 0.5 ml straws inside a previously cooled aluminum cylinder. Slow freezing was done in straws by the conventional method. RESULTS Vitrified embryos had significantly higher survival, further cleavage and blastocyst formation rates than those in the slow freezing group (p < 0.001) and were comparable to controls. Blastocysts in the vitrification and control groups had significantly more cells than those in the slow freezing group (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Closed-system vitrification was more effective than conventional slow freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teraporn Vutyavanich
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand.
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80
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Song YS, Moon S, Hulli L, Hasan SK, Kayaalp E, Demirci U. Microfluidics for cryopreservation. LAB ON A CHIP 2009; 9:1874-81. [PMID: 19532962 PMCID: PMC2719835 DOI: 10.1039/b823062e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Minimizing cell damage throughout the cryopreservation process is critical to enhance the overall outcome. Osmotic shock sustained during the loading and unloading of cryoprotectants (CPAs) is a major source of cell damage during the cryopreservation process. We introduce a microfluidic approach to minimize osmotic shock to cells during cryopreservation. This approach allows us to control the loading and unloading of CPAs in microfluidic channels using diffusion and laminar flow. We provide a theoretical explanation of how the microfluidic approach minimizes osmotic shock in comparison to conventional cryopreservation protocols via cell membrane transport modeling. Finally, we show that biological experiments are consistent with the proposed mathematical model. The results indicate that our novel microfluidic-based approach improves post-thaw cell survivability by up to 25% on average over conventional cryopreservation protocols. The method developed in this study provides a platform to cryopreserve cells with higher viability, functionality, and minimal inter-technician variability. This method introduces microfluidic technologies to the field of biopreservation, opening the door to future advancements at the interface of these fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young S Song
- Bio-Acoustic-MEMS in Medicine (BAMM) Laboratory, Center for Bioengineering, Department of Medicine, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
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81
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82
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Effect of droplet vitrification on development competence, actin cytoskeletal integrity and gene expression in in vitro cultured mouse embryos. Theriogenology 2009; 71:1408-16. [PMID: 19268346 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2009.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2008] [Revised: 01/14/2009] [Accepted: 01/14/2009] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
The effect of modified droplet vitrification was assessed on cellular actin filament organization, apoptosis related gene expression and development competence in mouse embryos cultured in vitro. Mouse zygotes, 2-cell embryos and morulae were vitrified in ethylene glycol (VS-1) and ethylene glycol plus DMSO (VS-2) and thawed by directly placing the vitrified drop into 0.3M sucrose solution at 37 degrees C. High recovery (93-99%) of morphologically normal embryos was evident following vitrification and thawing. No detectable actin filament disruption was observed in the embryos at any development stage following vitrification and thawing and/or in vitro culture. The expression pattern of Bax, Bcl2 and p53 genes was altered (P<0.05) in vitrified zygotes and 2-cell embryos, but not in morulae. Although a large proportion of the vitrified zygotes (59.5+/-4.4% in VS-1 and 57.9+/-4.5% in VS-2; mean+/-S.E.M.) and 2-cell embryos (63.1+/-4.4% in VS-1 and 59.2+/-4.3% in VS-2) developed into blastocysts, development of control embryos (70.2+/-5.0% of zygotes and 75.5+/-4.4% of 2-cell embryos) into blastocysts was higher (P<0.05). In contrast, development of the control and vitrified morulae into blastocysts (more than 85%) was similar. We concluded that the modified droplet vitrification procedure supported better survival of morula stage compared to zygotes and 2-cell mouse embryos.
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83
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AbdelHafez F, Bedaiwy M, El-Nashar SA, Sabanegh E, Desai N. Techniques for cryopreservation of individual or small numbers of human spermatozoa: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2008; 15:153-64. [PMID: 19109313 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmn061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite interest in cryopreservation of individual or small number of human spermatozoa, to date, little data is available as regards its effectiveness. We systematically reviewed the outcome after cryopreservation of individual or small numbers of human spermatozoa in patients with severe male factor of infertility. METHODS We searched the MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Systematic Reviews, CENTRAL, Web of Science, Scopus databases for relevant studies up to June of 2008. The search used terms referring to cryopreservation of small amount of sperm. Included studies were limited to human studies with no language restrictions. RESULTS We identified 30 reports including 9 carriers used for cryopreservation of small quantities/numbers of human spermatozoa (7 non-biological and 2 biological carriers). A wide variety of cryopreservation vehicles were reported. The recovery rate of spermatozoa cryopreserved in a known small number varied widely from 59 to 100%. Fertilization rates were in the range of 18-67%. Frozen-thawed spermatozoa, using this method, were subsequently used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection in only five studies, with few pregnancies reported so far. To date, there remains no consensus as to the ideal carrier for cryopreservation of small number of spermatozoa for clinical purposes. CONCLUSIONS Cryopreservation of individual or small numbers of human spermatozoa may replace the need for repeated surgical sperm retrieval. A controlled multicenter trial with sufficient follow-up would provide valid evidence of the potential benefit of this approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faten AbdelHafez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Centre, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, OH 44122, USA
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84
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Follicle survival and growth to antral stages in short-term murine ovarian cortical transplants after Cryologic solid surface vitrification or slow-rate freezing. Cryobiology 2008; 57:163-9. [PMID: 18725217 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2008.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2008] [Revised: 07/17/2008] [Accepted: 07/29/2008] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to asses murine preantral follicle survival and growth, after cryopreservation of ovarian tissue by two different methodologies, solid-surface vitrification by the Cryologic vitrification method (CVM) and slow-rate freezing (SRF). Cryotreated tissue was stored in liquid nitrogen for 24h, and upon warming follicle viability was assessed by live/dead fluorescent probes, and by 7-day autotransplantation of both cryotreated tissue types to the left and right kidney capsule of the donor animals (n=16). The live/dead assay immediately upon tissue warming did not allow a distinction to be made in terms of follicle viability between the CVM and SRF cryoprocedure. In grafted tissue, follicular survival and growth was assessed by conventional histological examination and proliferating cell nuclear antigen immunohistochemistry. In each experimental group (control, CVM and SRF), follicles were classified according to developmental stage, and a comparison of the proportions of follicle stages between the three groups was executed by statistical analysis of variance. The fraction of primordial follicles in CVM and SRF grafts significantly decreased as compared to control tissue, whereas intermediary and primary follicles significantly increased. The proportion of secondary and antral follicles after SRF was significantly larger than after CVM, but did not differ significantly between CVM and control tissue. The observed massive follicle activation is a typical transplantation effect, but testifies to the survival of cryopreserved follicles. In both types of cryotreated tissue, growing follicles, including antral stage, were present in grafts from all recipient animals. The significantly more abundant further developed stages in SRF treated tissue, however, suggest that CVM treated tissue may have suffered a growth disadvantage. To our knowledge, this is the first time that the CVM technique has been utilized to vitrify preantral follicles.
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85
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Wang Y, Xiao Z, Li L, Fan W, Li SW. Novel needle immersed vitrification: a practical and convenient method with potential advantages in mouse and human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Hum Reprod 2008; 23:2256-65. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/den255] [Citation(s) in RCA: 105] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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86
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Tao T, Del Valle A. Human oocyte and ovarian tissue cryopreservation and its application. J Assist Reprod Genet 2008; 25:287-96. [PMID: 18670872 PMCID: PMC2596676 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-008-9236-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2008] [Accepted: 06/25/2008] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To review the recent progress in human oocyte and ovarian tissue cryopreservation, and in the application of these two technologies for preserving female fertility of patients who are undergoing cancer treatment. DESIGN The literature on human oocyte and ovarian tissue freezing was searched with PubMed. The scientific background, current developments and potential future applications of these two methods were reviewed. RESULTS Chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy can induce premature ovarian failure in most of female cancer patients. Consequently, there has been a greater need for options to preserve the reproductive potential of these individuals. However, options are somewhat limited currently, particularly following aggressive chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy treatment protocols. In recent years, there have been considerable advances in the cryopreservation of human oocytes and ovarian tissue. For women facing upcoming cancer therapies, cryopreservation of ovarian tissue and oocytes is a technology that holds promise for banking reproductive potential for the future. Recent laboratory modifications have resulted in improved oocyte survival, oocyte fertilization, and pregnancy rates from frozen-thawed oocytes in IVF. This suggests potential for clinical application. CONCLUSIONS In the case of patients who are facing infertility due to cancer therapy, oocyte cryopreservation may be one of the few options available. Ovarian tissue cryopreservation can only be recommended as an experimental protocol in carefully selected patients. In ovarian tissue transplantation, more research is needed in order to enhance the revascularization process with the goal of reducing the follicular loss that takes place after tissue grafting. These technologies are still investigational, although tremendous progress has been made. The availability of such treatment will potentially lead to its demand not only from patients with cancer but also from healthy women who chose to postpone childbearing until later in life and therefore wish to retain their fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tao Tao
- The Toronto Institute For Reproductive Medicine, Toronto, ON, Canada.
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87
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Merlo B, Iacono E, Regazzini M, Zambelli D. Cat blastocysts produced in vitro from oocytes vitrified using the cryoloop technique and cryopreserved electroejaculated semen. Theriogenology 2008; 70:126-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2008.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2007] [Revised: 03/03/2008] [Accepted: 03/09/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Kawakami M, Kato Y, Tsunoda Y. The effects of time of first cleavage, developmental stage, and delipidation of nuclear-transferred porcine blastocysts on survival following vitrification. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 106:402-11. [PMID: 17628361 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2007.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2006] [Revised: 05/21/2007] [Accepted: 06/01/2007] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The effect of removing cytoplasmic lipid droplets (delipidation) at the 2-cell and developmental stages on the survival of porcine somatic cell nuclear-transferred blastocysts developed from the enucleated oocytes receiving somatic cells from kidney of an adult female after cryopreservation was examined. Vitrification was performed using the Cryoloop method with a small volume of medium (0.5 microl). To select 2-cell embryos with a high potential to develop into blastocysts, the relationship between the timing of the first cleavage and the developmental potential was examined. The potential of nuclear-transferred oocytes to develop into blastocysts in the intermediate-cleavage group (20-24h after activation, 25%) was slightly or significantly (P<0.05) higher than that in fast-cleavage (<20 h after activation, 13%) and slow-cleavage groups (>24h after activation, 5%). Most non-delipidated blastocysts did not survive after thawing (0% for early-stage and 9% for advanced-stage blastocysts), but the survival rate of delipidated blastocysts 48 h after culture (54% and 72%, respectively) was not significantly different from that of non-vitrified blastocysts (80% and 92%, respectively). The survival rate of advanced-stage blastocysts after vitrification was slightly higher than that of early-stage blastocysts. The present study demonstrates that somatic cell nuclear-transferred porcine blastocysts developed from embryos selected at the 2-cell stage can be preserved by vitrification with a small volume of medium if the lipid droplets of the embryos are first removed.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Kawakami
- Laboratory of Animal Reproduction, College of Agriculture, Kinki University, Nara 631-8505, Japan
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89
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Azadbakht M, Valojerdi MR. Development of vitrified-warmed mouse embryos co-cultured with polarized or non-polarized uterine epithelial cells using sequential culture media. J Assist Reprod Genet 2008; 25:251-61. [PMID: 18563550 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-008-9231-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2008] [Accepted: 05/22/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To our knowledge, little is known about the effect of polarized and non-polarized uterine epithelial cells on cryopreserved embryo growth. This study was, therefore, set up to investigate the effect of these monolayers together with sequential culture media on vitrified-warmed mouse embryos in terms of blastocyst development, blastocyst quality, incidence of apoptosis and related genes expression. METHODS Two cell vitrified-warmed mouse embryos were cultured in G-1ver3 medium to the eight-cell stage when they were randomly assigned to three treatment groups of no co-culture (control), non-polarized and polarized mouse uterine epithelial monolayer co-culture. The culture medium was G-2ver3 during the treatment phase. After 96 h on treatment, the significance of differences were evaluated by the one way analysis of variance for continuous data. RESULTS In the polarized monolayer group, the hatched blastocyst formation and blastocyst quality improved significantly than other two groups (P < 0.05). Whereas the incidence of apoptosis and related gene expression such as Bax were higher in the blastocysts of control group (P < 0.05). The relative abundance of Bcl-2 mRNA to the beta-tubulin was similar for all treatments. CONCLUSION Co-culture system involving polarized uterine epithelial cells and sequential culture media is a promising method for the improvement of vitrified-warmed mouse embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehri Azadbakht
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
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90
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Pereira RM, Marques CC. Animal oocyte and embryo cryopreservation. Cell Tissue Bank 2008; 9:267-77. [DOI: 10.1007/s10561-008-9075-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2008] [Accepted: 05/05/2008] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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91
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Yang BC, Im GS, Kim DH, Yang BS, Oh HJ, Park HS, Seong HH, Kim SW, Ka HH, Lee CK. Development of vitrified–thawed bovine oocytes after in vitro fertilization and somatic cell nuclear transfer. Anim Reprod Sci 2008; 103:25-37. [PMID: 17212979 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2006] [Revised: 11/28/2006] [Accepted: 12/04/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation could be a useful technique for providing a steady source of oocytes for nuclear transfer and in vitro embryo production. The purpose of this study was to develop a method for cryopreservation of bovine oocytes while maintaining the developmental potential following subsequent in vitro fertilization (IVF) or somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). Following vitrification-thawing, the surviving oocytes were (a) used for parthenogenetic activation, (b) examined for pronuclear formation after IVF, (c) examined for embryo development after IVF, and (d) used for SCNT employing fetal fibroblasts transfected with green fluorescent protein (GFP) gene. While most of the oocytes survived vitrification when the microdrop method was used (92.50%), the cleavage and blastocyst formation rates after parthenogenetic activation were lower (46.5% and 11.1%) than that in the non-vitrified control (86.6% and 13.5%). After IVF, the pronuclear formation (2PN) of fertilized embryos was lower in the vitrified group than in the control (21.7% and 59.9%). After SCNT, fusion rates were similar in control (58.33%) and vitrified-thawed oocytes (53.19%). However, the cleavage (73.1% and 46.3%) and blastocyst formation rates (22.2%, 7.4%; p<0.05) differed between control and vitrified-thawed oocytes. In vitrified-thawed or control oocytes, all embryos reconstructed using fetal fibroblasts transfected with GFP gene showed GFP expression. To evaluate the complete developmental potential, embryos derived from vitrified-thawed and fresh control oocytes were non-surgically transferred to 27 recipients (16 for control and 11 for vitrified-thawed). In the vitrified-thawed group, two pregnancies were detected at day 60, and one of them lasted until day 222. While in the fresh group, one pregnancy maintained to term. In conclusion, vitrified-thawed bovine oocytes could support development into the subsequent stages after IVF and SCNT. In addition, this study showed the possibility of the vitrified-thawed bovine oocytes in the production of transgenic cloned animals. In addition, further studies are required to increase the efficiency of oocyte vitrification for the practical uses and production of live offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Byoung-Chul Yang
- National Livestock Research Institute, RDA, Suwon 441-706, Republic of Korea
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Horvath G, Seidel GE. Use of Fetuin Before and During Vitrification of Bovine Oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 43:333-338. [DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2007.00905.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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94
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Risco R, Elmoazzen H, Doughty M, He X, Toner M. Thermal performance of quartz capillaries for vitrification. Cryobiology 2007; 55:222-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2007.08.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2007] [Revised: 07/25/2007] [Accepted: 08/06/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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95
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Abstract
The clinical role of oocyte cryopreservation in assisted reproduction, as an adjunct to sperm and embryo cryopreservation, has been comparatively slow to evolve as a consequence of theoretical concerns related to efficacy and safety. Basic biological studies in the 1990's alleviated many of these concerns leading to more widespread adoption of the technology. While a number of babies were born from the approach validated in the 1990's, its perceived clinical inefficiency led to the search for improved methods. Introduction of elevated dehydrating sucrose concentrations during cryopreservation increased survival and fertilization rates, but there is no well-controlled evidence of improved clinical outcome. Similarly, the use of sodium-depleted cryopreservation media has not been demonstrated to increase clinical efficiency. More recently, and in the absence of basic biological studies addressing safety issues, the application of vitrification techniques to human oocytes has resulted in reports of a number of live births. The small number of babies born from clinical oocyte cryopreservation and the paucity of well-controlled studies currently preclude valid comparisons between approaches. Legal restrictions on the ability to select embryos from cryopreserved oocytes in Italy, where many of the available reports originate, also obscure attempts to assess oocyte cryopreservation objectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Gook
- Reproductive Services/Melbourne IVF, Royal Women's Hospital, 132 Grattan Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053, and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Australia.
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96
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Boonkusol D, Faisaikarm T, Dinnyes A, Kitiyanant Y. Effects of vitrification procedures on subsequent development and ultrastructure of in vitro-matured swamp buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2007; 19:383-91. [PMID: 17257525 DOI: 10.1071/rd06097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2006] [Accepted: 11/08/2006] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effects of two vitrification procedures on developmental capacity and ultrastructural changes of matured swamp buffalo oocytes. In vitro-matured oocytes were vitrified by using 35 and 40% ethylene glycol as vitrification solution for solid surface vitrification (SSV) and in-straw vitrification (ISV), respectively. Survival rate of vitrified-warmed oocytes, evaluated on the basis of ooplasm homogeneity, oolemma integrity and zona pellucida intactness, as well as parthenogenetic blastocyst rates of vitrified-warmed oocytes were significantly higher with SSV (89.3 and 13.6%, respectively) than ISV (81.8 and 5.5%, respectively). However, they were still significantly lower than that of control oocytes (100 and 34.2%, respectively). For examining the ultrastructural changes, fresh, VS-exposed (ISV and SSV), and vitrified-warmed (ISV and SSV) oocytes were processed for transmission electron microscopy. In VS-exposed oocytes, reduction of microvilli abundance and damage of mitochondrial membrane were found only in the ISV group. In vitrified-warmed oocytes, however, it was clear that both methods of vitrification induced profound ultrastructural modifications to microvilli, mitochondria, oolemma and cortical granules as well as to the size and position of vesicles. Damaged mitochondria were, however, more abundant in ISV vitrified oocytes than in SSV vitrified oocytes, which correlated with the developmental data, showing the superiority of the SSV method. The present study demonstrated the feasibility of vitrification of in vitro-matured swamp buffalo oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Duangjai Boonkusol
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
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97
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Gasparrini B, Attanasio L, De Rosa A, Monaco E, Di Palo R, Campanile G. Cryopreservation of in vitro matured buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) oocytes by minimum volumes vitrification methods. Anim Reprod Sci 2007; 98:335-42. [PMID: 16698202 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2006.04.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2005] [Revised: 04/01/2006] [Accepted: 04/18/2006] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of the solid surface vitrification (SSV) and the cryoloop vitrification (CLV) methods to cryopreserve in vitro matured buffalo oocytes. Another objective of the work was to investigate whether the presence of cumulus cells affects the efficiency of oocyte vitrification in this species. In the SSV method, oocytes were vitrified in a solution of 35% ethylene glycol, 5% polyvinyl-pyrrolidone and 0.4% trehalose and they were warmed in a 0.3M trehalose solution. In the CLV method, oocytes were vitrified in 16.5% ethylene glycol and 16.5% dimethyl sulfoxide and warmed in decreasing concentrations of sucrose. The oocytes that survived vitrification were fertilized and cultured in vitro up to the blastocyst stage. Although high survival rates were recorded in all groups, when the oocytes were vitrified by the CLV method in the absence of cumulus cells, the survival rate was significantly (P<0.05) lower. However, the CLV gave a significantly higher cleavage rate compared to the SSV with the denuded oocytes (45% versus 26%, respectively; P<0.05), whereas no differences were found between methods with the cumulus-enclosed oocytes (14% versus 15%, respectively). Blastocysts were produced for the first time from in vitro matured oocytes that were vitrified-warmed in buffalo. Nevertheless, vitrification significantly decreased blastocyst yield, regardless of both the method employed and the presence or absence of cumulus cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Gasparrini
- DISCIZIA, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Federico II University, Via Delpino 1, 80137 Naples, Italy.
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98
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Muenthaisong S, Laowtammathron C, Ketudat-Cairns M, Parnpai R, Hochi S. Quality analysis of buffalo blastocysts derived from oocytes vitrified before or after enucleation and reconstructed with somatic cell nuclei. Theriogenology 2007; 67:893-900. [PMID: 17161454 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2006] [Accepted: 11/09/2006] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the potential of vitrified-warmed buffalo oocytes to develop to blastocysts after parthenogenetic activation (PA) and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT). In vitro-matured oocytes before and after enucleation (M-II oocytes and enucleated oocytes, respectively) were put in 7.5% DMSO and 7.5% ethylene glycol (EG) for 4, 7 and 10 min, and then vitrified (Cryotop device) after 1-min equilibration in 15% DMSO, 15% EG and 0.5M sucrose. Following 4-, 7- and 10-min exposure, proportions of the post-warm oocytes with a normal vitelline membrane were similar (66-71% in M-II oocytes and 69-71% in enucleated oocytes). However, 18-20% of the normal M-II oocytes had no detectable first polar body in their perivitelline space (no potential for subsequent enucleation). When the post-warm M-II oocytes were treated for PA by 7% ethanol, 10 microg/mL cycloheximide and 1.25 microg/mL cytochalasin-D, parthenogenetic development into Day-7 blastocysts occurred in 10-13% of cultured oocytes, lower (P<0.05) than fresh (control) oocytes (24%). In the absence of the cooling and warming, blastocyst rates in the 4-min exposure group (22%), but not in the 7-min and 10-min exposure groups (14-15%), were similar to that in the fresh group (23%). The total cell number (group average 117-132 cells) and the ICM ratio (22-24%) of the PA blastocysts derived from vitrified M-II oocytes were comparable with fresh oocytes (127 cells and 25%). After SCNT (with fibroblast cells and vitrified-warmed oocytes), blastocyst rates were similar for the three exposure periods for M-II oocytes (8-10%) and enucleated oocytes (7-9%), but were lower (P<0.05) than in the fresh group (15%). The total cell number of the SCNT blastocysts derived from vitrified M-II and enucleated oocytes (80-90 and 82-101 cells) was smaller (P<0.05) than from fresh oocytes (135 cells); the ICM ratio of blastocysts derived from the M-II and enucleated oocytes after vitrification in 7- or 10-min exposure groups (20-22%) was not different (P>0.05) from fresh control oocytes (24%) or those in 4-min exposure group (M-II 23%, enucleated 24%). Thus, SCNT of swamp buffalo oocytes following vitrification before or after enucleation resulted in blastocysts with a slightly decreased cell number.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Muenthaisong
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
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99
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Checura CM, Seidel GE. Effect of macromolecules in solutions for vitrification of mature bovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2007; 67:919-30. [PMID: 17175017 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2006.09.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2005] [Accepted: 09/24/2006] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study was designed to evaluate vitrification procedures for in vitro matured bovine oocytes for efficient blastocyst production after warming, IVF and culture. A second goal was to replace serum as the macromolecular component of the vitrification solution, without compromising efficacy. The first experiment compared two containers, open pulled straws (OPS) versus cryoloops, and two vitrification protocols: short equilibration (H-TCM-199+10% EG+10% DMSO+20% FCS for 30s, followed by H-TCM-199+20% EG+20% DMSO+20% FCS+0.48M galactose for 20s) versus long equilibration (H-TCM-199+3% EG+20% FCS for 10min, followed by H-TCM-199+31% EG+20% FCS+1M galactose for 20s). Subsequent experiments used only cryoloops and the short equilibration protocol to evaluate the effect of replacing FCS with defined macromolecules (BSA, Ficoll, PVP, and PVA) in vitrification solutions. Cryoloops were superior to OPS for vitrification of oocytes as determined by blastocyst production (P<0.05). The short and long vitrification protocols gave similar results. The presence of macromolecules in vitrification solutions for bovine oocytes was necessary for acceptable post-warming developmental capacity; 20% FCS, 1% and 2% BSA, 6% and 18% Ficoll, 6% and 20% PVP, 1% PVA, and the combinations of 18% Ficoll+1% BSA, and 6% PVP+1% BSA provided similar protection during vitrification of oocytes; development ranged from 14.8% to 23.0% blastocysts/oocyte, which was not different (P>0.05) from non-vitrified controls (26.9-34.0% blastocysts/oocyte). Too much (6%) and too little (0.3%) BSA, and 0.3% PVA for vitrification resulted in lower blastocyst production (P<0.05) relative to unvitrified oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- C M Checura
- Animal Reproduction and Biotechnology Laboratory (ARBL) Building, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523-1683, USA
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100
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Boonkusol D, Gal AB, Bodo S, Gorhony B, Kitiyanant Y, Dinnyes A. Gene expression profiles and in vitro development following vitrification of pronuclear and 8-cell stage mouse embryos. Mol Reprod Dev 2007; 73:700-8. [PMID: 16541460 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
The analysis of differences in gene expression, responding to cryopreservation may explain some of the observed differences in further development of the preimplantation stage embryos. The aim of this study was to create a link, for the first time, between morphological/developmental observations and gene activity changes following cryopreservation of embryos. Efficiency of two vitrification methods, solid surface and in-straw vitrifications for pronuclear-stage mouse zygotes and 8-cell stage mouse embryos was compared based on morphological survival, blastocyst formation, and changes in embryonic gene expression. Both stages of embryos were vitrified by SSV using 35% ethylene glycol (EG) for vitrification solution (VS) and in-straw vitrification using 40% EG for VS. No significant differences were found between immediate survival rates of embryos vitrified by SSV and in-straw vitrification in both stages. Blastocyst rates were significantly higher with SSV and not significantly different from that of control. These results showed that SSV was more efficient than in-straw vitrification. Treatment with cytochalasin-b did not improve cryosurvival during SSV. The quantification of selected gene transcripts from single embryo (6 embryos/treatment group) were carried out by quantitative real-time RT-PCR. It was performed by adding 1/8 of each embryo cDNA to the PCR mix containing the specific primers to amplify housekeeping gene (beta-actin), heat shock protein gene (Hsp70), genes related to oxidative stress (MnSOD and CuSOD), cold stress (CirpB, Rbm3), and cell-cycle arrest (Trp53). We found upregulation of all six stress-related genes at 3 hr post-warming in pronuclear stage embryos. Expression of these genes showed much higher level (2-33-fold) in in-straw vitrification than in in vitro control embryos. In SSV-treated embryos we could detect only slight changes (0.3-2-fold). At 10 hr post-warming, all genes were downregulated in embryos vitrified by in-straw method. In SSV-treated group expression of Hsp70 showed slight increase and Trp53 showed decrease. In contrast to pronuclear stage, there was no clear pattern of gene expression changes after vitrification in 8-cell stage embryos. Several genes were upregulated both at 3 and 10 hr post-warming. Moreover, we found upregulation of beta-actin gene which we expected to use as a reference gene in in-straw treated embryos in both 3 and 10 hr post-warming, while in pronuclear stage embryos and in SSV treatment there was no effect on beta-actin expression level. There was no difference in gene expression between blastocysts developed from fresh or vitrified embryos. In conclusion, the real-time RT-PCR method from single embryo opened new opportunities for the understranding of molecular events following cryopreservation. The upregulation of stress-related genes at 3 hr post-warming in pronuclear stage embryos might have been an early indicator of reduced viability following in-straw vitrification in good correlation with the developmental data to blastocyst stage.
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