151
|
Caamaño JN, Gómez E, Trigal B, Muñoz M, Carrocera S, Martín D, Díez C. Survival of vitrified in vitro-produced bovine embryos after a one-step warming in-straw cryoprotectant dilution procedure. Theriogenology 2014; 83:881-90. [PMID: 25542458 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2014] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Vitrification is an alternative to slow-rate freezing for cryopreserving bovine embryos. However, this technology requires simplification if it is to be used under field conditions. The main objective of this work was to develop a new system for the direct transfer of vitrified embryos to be used under farm conditions. For this, three objectives were set: (1) to compare the effect of vitrification, using the cryologic vitrification method (CVM), and slow-rate freezing on bovine embryo development and quality; (2) to develop a one-step warming procedure for bovine in vitro-produced (IVP) vitrified (by CVM) embryos; and (3) to assess the effects on embryo survival of a new method for the direct transfer of vitrified IVP bovine blastocysts. In vitro-produced blastocysts were initially either vitrified by CVM or subjected to slow freezing to compare embryo survival and quality (experiment 1). No differences were detected between these cryopreservation techniques in terms of the survival and quality variables at 24 hours or in terms of the proteins expressed. However, at 48 hours the vitrified embryos showed higher hatching rates, greater total cell numbers, and lower apoptotic indices (P < 0.05). In experiment 2, CVM-vitrified IVP blastocysts were warmed by the conventional two-step or one-step warming procedure by incubating them at 41 °C in 0.25 M sucrose for 10 minutes, 0.15 M sucrose for 10 minutes, or 0.25 M sucrose for 5 minutes. In addition, embryo transfer (ET) was performed using vitrified embryos warmed by the one-step procedure in 0.25 M sucrose solution for 5 minutes. As a control group, IVP fresh embryos were transferred to recipient females. No differences were observed in embryo survival or total cell number between any of the warming procedures. Moreover, no significant differences for pregnancy at 60 days were found between the ET groups. In experiment 3, expanded IVP blastocysts were then either vitrified using a conventional or a modified fiber plug designed to allow direct ET after in-straw cryoprotectant (CP) dilution. They were warmed using the one-step process (0.25 M sucrose, 5 minutes) in a 0.25 mL French straw. Embryo recovery associated with the modified fibreplug system was less reliable than with the conventional system. However, no differences were seen between the systems in terms of in vitro embryo survival among those finally recovered. Finally, IVP blastocysts were vitrified using conventional fibreplugs to maintain a high embryo recovery rate, and then warmed using the one-step warming in-straw CP dilution procedure, but using an adapter with a wider opening coupled to the French straw and a heated metal chamber to protect and keep the straw at 41 °C (experiment 4). No differences were seen in embryo survival rates between the two groups. The CVM combined with this new one-step warming in-straw CP dilution procedure could be used for direct ET under field conditions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- J N Caamaño
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - E Gómez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - B Trigal
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - M Muñoz
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - S Carrocera
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - D Martín
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain
| | - C Díez
- Genética y Reproducción Animal, Centro de Biotecnología Animal, SERIDA, Gijón, Asturias, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
152
|
Lopes AS, Frederickx V, Van Kerkhoven G, Campo R, Puttemans P, Gordts S. Survival, re-expansion and cell survival of human blastocysts following vitrification and warming using two vitrification systems. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 32:83-90. [PMID: 25381622 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0373-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2014] [Accepted: 10/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study evaluated and compared survival, re-expansion, and percentage of live cells of individual Days 5 and 6 human blastocysts that were vitrified and warmed with the Vit Kit Freeze/Thaw (Irvine Scientific, CA), or with two protocols using the Global Fast Freeze/Thaw Kits (LifeGlobal, Canada). METHODS Frozen/thawed Day 2-3 or discarded embryos were cultured to blastocyst (culture day 5-6). Group 1 blastocysts were vitrified with the Vit Kit (n = 29) and High Security Vitrification (HSV) devices. Group 2 (n = 47) and Group 3 (n = 48) blastocysts were cryopreserved with the Global Fast Freeze Kit and 0.25 ml straws, using a direct plunge or a -100 °C holding step, respectively. Group 4 (Controls, n = 30) were not vitrified. Blastocysts were subsequently cultured for 24 h, assessed for survival and expansion, and then stained individually with propidium iodide and Hoechst. Live and total cell number was assessed with ImageJ (NIH), and the percentage of live cells calculated for each blastocyst. RESULTS The percentage of live cells was not different between vitrified and control (non-vitrified) blastocysts, thus vitrification did not affect cell survival. Survival (following thawing and after 24 h culture), re-expansion, and percentage of live cells were not different for blastocysts vitrified and warmed between the two vitrification/warming kits, or between the two protocols for the Global Fast Freeze/Thaw Kits. CONCLUSIONS Blastocyst vitrification can be achieved with equal success using simplified protocols and cheaper and easy to load freezing straws, providing simultaneously increased safety, and efficiency with lower cost, when compared with vitrification using specialized embryo vitrification devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana S Lopes
- LIFE-Leuven Institute for Fertility and Embryology, Tiensevest 168, 3000, Leuven, Belgium,
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
153
|
van de Vijver A, Polyzos N, Van Landuyt L, De Vos M, Camus M, Stoop D, Tournaye H, Blockeel C. Cryopreserved embryo transfer in an artificial cycle: is GnRH agonist down-regulation necessary? Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 29:588-94. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2014] [Revised: 08/11/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
154
|
Li Z, Wang YA, Ledger W, Edgar DH, Sullivan EA. Clinical outcomes following cryopreservation of blastocysts by vitrification or slow freezing: a population-based cohort study. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2794-801. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 118] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
|
155
|
Bouman W, Richards C, Addinall R, Arango de Montis I, Arcelus J, Duisin D, Esteva I, Fisher A, Harte F, Khoury B, Lu Z, Marais A, Mattila A, Nayarana Reddy D, Nieder T, Robles Garcia R, Rodrigues O, Roque Guerra A, Tereshkevich D, T’Sjoen G, Wilson D. Yes and yes again: are standards of care which require two referrals for genital reconstructive surgery ethical? SEXUAL AND RELATIONSHIP THERAPY 2014. [DOI: 10.1080/14681994.2014.954993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
|
156
|
Sifer C. [Contribution of embryo vitrification procedure to ART efficiency]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 42:721-4. [PMID: 25192924 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2014.07.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Accepted: 05/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
This work aims to show, from data available in the literature and our own experience, how embryos' vitrification change and/or improve the management of infertile couples. In all, 652 cycles of frozen-thawed embryo transfers (FET) following vitrification were prospectively included and compared with 1126 FETs from slow freezing (SF) method. Primary end points were the (i) survival rate (SR) (% of embryos with>50% post-thaw intact blastomeres) and (ii) intact survival rate (ISR) (% of embryos with 100% post-thaw intact blastomeres). Secondary end point was the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) defined as the presence of an intra uterine gestational sac with positive foetal heart beat. In all, 1097 and 2408 embryos have been thawed following vitrification and SF, respectively. We observed a highly significant increase of SR and ISR respectively when thawing concerned vitrified embryos rather than those from SF method (97.0% vs. 72.7%, P<10(-4); 91.5% vs. 49.8%, P<10(-4)). Furthermore, CPR were of 26.5% (73/652) and of 18.1% (204/1126) following FETs performed after vitrification or SF and thawing (P=0.0002), respectively. At the blastocyst stage, ISR was significantly improved following vitrification compared to SF (94.5% vs. 21.4%, P<10(-4)). In the study period, vitrification (i) reduced the mean number of fresh transferred embryos (1.5 vs. 1.6; P=0.08) and (ii) increased the rate of FETs at the blastocyst stage when compared with the control period (18.1% vs 2.5%., P<10(-4)). Embryo vitrification preserves all embryos from an ART cycle because of its excellent results regarding ISR at all stages of embryo development. This procedure allows a significant increase of pregnancy rates after thawing. In addition, there is a trend for increasing ART cycles performed using extended culture embryo and vitrification. The expected improvement of the cumulative birth rate at the blastocyst stage following vitrification remains to be demonstrated in a prospective randomized study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- C Sifer
- Service d'histologie-embryologie-cytogénétique-CECOS, centre hospitalier universitaire Jean-Verdier, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 93140 Bondy, France.
| |
Collapse
|
157
|
Roy TK, Brandi S, Tappe NM, Bradley CK, Vom E, Henderson C, Lewis C, Battista K, Hobbs B, Hobbs S, Syer J, Lanyon SR, Dopheide SM, Peura TT, McArthur SJ, Bowman MC, Stojanov T. Embryo vitrification using a novel semi-automated closed system yields in vitro outcomes equivalent to the manual Cryotop method. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2431-8. [PMID: 25164022 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can the equilibration steps prior to embryo vitrification be automated? SUMMARY ANSWER We have developed the 'Gavi' system which automatically performs equilibration steps before closed system vitrification on up to four embryos at a time and gives in vitro outcomes equivalent to the manual Cryotop method. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo cryopreservation is an essential component of a successful assisted reproduction clinic, with vitrification providing excellent embryo survival and pregnancy outcomes. However, vitrification is a manual, labour-intensive and highly skilled procedure, and results can vary between embryologists and clinics. A closed system whereby the embryo does not come in direct contact with liquid nitrogen is preferred by many clinics and is a regulatory requirement in some countries. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The Gavi system, an automation instrument with a novel closed system device, was used to equilibrate embryos prior to vitrification. Outcomes for embryos automatically processed with the Gavi system were compared with those processed with the manual Cryotop method and with fresh (non-vitrified) controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The efficacy of the Gavi system (Alpha model) was assessed for mouse (Quackenbush Swiss and F1 C57BL/6J x CBA) zygotes, cleavage stage embryos and blastocysts, and for donated human vitrified-warmed blastocysts. The main outcomes assessed included recovery, survival and in vitro embryo development after vitrification-warming. Cooling and warming rates were measured using a thermocouple probe. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Mouse embryos vitrified after processing with the automated Gavi system achieved equivalent in vitro outcomes to that of Cryotop controls. For example, for mouse blastocysts both the Gavi system (n = 176) and manual Cryotop method (n = 172) gave a 99% recovery rate, of which 54 and 50%, respectively, progressed to fully hatched blastocysts 48 h after warming. The outcomes for human blastocysts processed with the Gavi system (n = 23) were also equivalent to Cryotop controls (n = 13) including 100% recovery for both groups, of which 17 and 15%, respectively, progressed to fully hatched blastocysts 48 h after warming. The cooling and warming rates achieved with the Gavi system were 14 136°C/min and 11 239°C/min, respectively. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Testing of the Gavi system described here was limited to in vitro development of embryos from two mouse strains and a limited number of human embryos. Validation of Gavi system advanced production models is now required to confirm the success of semi-automated vitrification, including clinical evaluation of pregnancy outcomes from the transfer of Gavi vitrified-warmed human embryos. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The Gavi system has the potential to revolutionize and standardize vitrification of embryos and oocytes. The success of the Gavi system shows that it is possible to semi-automate complicated labour-intensive ART methods and processes, and opens up the possibility for further improvements in clinical outcomes and efficiencies in the ART clinic. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was funded by Genea Ltd. S.B., N.M.T., T.T.P., S.J.M., M.C.B. and T.S. are shareholders of Genea Ltd. E.V., C.H., C.L., S.R.L. and S.M.D. are shareholders of Planet Innovation Pty Ltd. The remaining authors are employees of either Genea Ltd. or Planet Innovation Pty Ltd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tammie K Roy
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Susanna Brandi
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Naomi M Tappe
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Cara K Bradley
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | - Eduardo Vom
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | | | - Craig Lewis
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | - Kristy Battista
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | - Ben Hobbs
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | - Simon Hobbs
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | - John Syer
- Planet Innovation, 81-89 Cotham Road, Kew, VIC 3101, Australia
| | - Sam R Lanyon
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | | | - Teija T Peura
- Genea Biomedx, 321 Kent Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
158
|
Moawad AR, Xu B, Tan SL, Taketo T. l-carnitine supplementation during vitrification of mouse germinal vesicle stage-oocytes and their subsequent in vitro maturation improves meiotic spindle configuration and mitochondrial distribution in metaphase II oocytes. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2256-68. [PMID: 25113843 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does l-carnitine (LC) supplementation during vitrification and in vitro maturation (IVM) of germinal vesicle stage (GV)-oocytes improve the developmental competence of the resultant metaphase II (MII) oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER LC supplementation during both vitrification of GV-oocytes and their subsequent IVM improved nuclear maturation as well as meiotic spindle assembly and mitochondrial distribution in MII oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Vitrification of GV-oocytes results in a lower success rate of blastocyst development compared with non-vitrified oocytes. LC supplementation during both vitrification and IVM of mouse GV-oocytes significantly improves embryonic development after IVF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION GV-oocytes were collected from (B6.DBA)F1 and B6 mouse strains and subjected to vitrification and warming with or without 3.72 mM LC supplementation. After IVM with or without LC supplementation, the rate of nuclear maturation and the quality of MII oocytes were evaluated. At least 20 oocytes/group were examined, and each experiment was repeated at least three times. All experiments were conducted during 2013-2014. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Extrusion of the first polar body in IVM oocytes was observed as an indication of nuclear maturation. Spindle assembly and chromosomal alignment were examined by immunostaining of α-tubulin and nuclear staining with 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Mitochondrial distribution and oxidative activity were measured by staining with Mitotracker Green Fluorescence Mitochondria (Mitotracker Green FM) and chloromethyltetramethylrosamine (Mitotracker Orange CMTMRos), respectively. ATP levels were determined by using the Bioluminescent Somatic Cell Assay Kit. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE LC supplementation during both vitrification and IVM of GV-oocytes significantly increased the proportions of oocytes with normal MII spindles to the levels comparable with those of non-vitrified oocytes in both mouse strains. While vitrification of GV-oocytes lowered the proportions of MII oocytes with peripherally concentrated mitochondrial distribution compared with non-vitrified oocytes, LC supplementation significantly increased the proportion of such oocytes in the (B6.DBA)F1 strain. LC supplementation decreased the proportion of oocytes with mitochondrial aggregates in both vitrified and non-vitrified oocytes in the B6 strain. The oxidative activity of mitochondria was mildly decreased by vitrification and drastically increased by LC supplementation irrespective of vitrification in both mouse strains. No change was found in ATP levels irrespective of vitrification or LC supplementation. Results were considered to be statistically significant at P < 0.05 by either χ(2)- or t-test. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It remains to be tested whether beneficial effect of LC supplementation during vitrification and IVM of GV-oocytes leads to fetal development and birth of healthy offspring after embryo transfer to surrogate females. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This protocol has the potential to improve the quality of vitrified human oocytes and embryos during assisted reproduction treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST Partially supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant and Mitacs Elevate Postdoctoral Fellowship, Canada.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Adel R Moawad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Baozeng Xu
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Teruko Taketo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
159
|
Tarín JJ, García-Pérez MA, Cano A. Assisted reproductive technology results: Why are live-birth percentages so low? Mol Reprod Dev 2014; 81:568-83. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2014] [Accepted: 05/03/2014] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Juan J. Tarín
- Department of Functional Biology and Physical Anthropology; Faculty of Biological Sciences; University of Valencia; Burjassot Valencia Spain
| | - Miguel A. García-Pérez
- Research Unit-INCLIVA; Hospital Clínico de Valencia; Burjassot Valencia Spain
- Department of Genetics; Faculty of Biological Sciences; University of Valencia; Burjassot Valencia Spain
| | - Antonio Cano
- Department of Pediatrics; Obstetrics and Gynecology; Faculty of Medicine; University of Valencia; Valencia Spain
- Service of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University Hospital Dr. Peset; Valencia Spain
| |
Collapse
|
160
|
Comparison of vitrification and conventional freezing for cryopreservation of caprine embryos. ZYGOTE 2014; 23:594-602. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199414000215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SummaryThe experiment aimed to compare conventional freezing and different vitrification protocols for cryopreservation of caprine embryos at morphological, ultrastructural, and functional levels. Caprine embryos produced in vivo were allocated randomly to three groups: (1) conventional freezing with ethylene glycol (EG); (2) dimethyl sulfoxide + EG (DMSO/EG) vitrification; and (3) dimethylformamide + EG (DMF/EG) vitrification. All groups were scored for cell viability (propidium iodide staining and ultrastructural levels) and re-expansion rate after thawing or warming. Embryos subjected to DMSO/EG vitrification showed higher cell viability (73.33%), compared with DMF/EG vitrification and conventional freezing group embryos (40.00 and 66.66%, respectively). The ultrastructural study revealed that vitrified embryos had greater preservation of cellular structure than embryos from conventional freezing with EG. DMSO/EG vitrification resulted in higher rates of re-expansion in vitro (47.36%) than DMF/EG vitrification (31.58%), and conventional freezing (25.00%). In conclusion, caprine embryos produced in vivo are better cryopreserved after vitrification than conventional freezing, therefore we conclude that DMSO/EG vitrification is the most effective protocol for cryopreservation.
Collapse
|
161
|
Min SH, Kim JW, Lee YH, Park SY, Jeong PS, Yeon JY, Park H, Chang KT, Koo DB. Forced Collapse of the Blastocoel Cavity Improves Developmental Potential in Cryopreserved Bovine Blastocysts by Slow-Rate Freezing and Vitrification. Reprod Domest Anim 2014; 49:684-692. [DOI: 10.1111/rda.12354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2014] [Accepted: 05/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- S-H Min
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - J-W Kim
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - Y-H Lee
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - S-Y Park
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - P-S Jeong
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - J-Y Yeon
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - H Park
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| | - K-T Chang
- National Primate Research Center; Korea Research Institute of Bioscience and Biotechnology; Ochang Chungcheongbuk-do Korea
| | - D-B Koo
- Department of Biotechnology; College of Engineering; Daegu University; Gyeongsan Gyeongbuk Korea
| |
Collapse
|
162
|
Evans J, Hannan NJ, Edgell TA, Vollenhoven BJ, Lutjen PJ, Osianlis T, Salamonsen LA, Rombauts LJF. Fresh versus frozen embryo transfer: backing clinical decisions with scientific and clinical evidence. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:808-21. [PMID: 24916455 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmu027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 213] [Impact Index Per Article: 21.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Improvements in vitrification now make frozen embryo transfers (FETs) a viable alternative to fresh embryo transfer, with reports from observational studies and randomized controlled trials suggesting that: (i) the endometrium in stimulated cycles is not optimally prepared for implantation; (ii) pregnancy rates are increased following FET and (iii) perinatal outcomes are less affected after FET. METHODS This review integrates and discusses the available clinical and scientific evidence supporting embryo transfer in a natural cycle. RESULTS Laboratory-based studies demonstrate morphological and molecular changes to the endometrium and reduced responsiveness of the endometrium to hCG, resulting from controlled ovarian stimulation. The literature demonstrates reduced endometrial receptivity in controlled ovarian stimulation cycles and supports the clinical observations that FET reduces the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and improves outcomes for both the mother and baby. CONCLUSIONS This review provides the basis for an evidence-based approach towards changes in routine IVF, which may ultimately result in higher delivery rates of healthier term babies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jemma Evans
- Uterine Biology, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Physiology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Natalie J Hannan
- Uterine Biology, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC 3084, Australia
| | - Tracey A Edgell
- Uterine Biology, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Beverley J Vollenhoven
- Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Monash IVF, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | | | - Tiki Osianlis
- Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Monash IVF, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Lois A Salamonsen
- Uterine Biology, Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Luk J F Rombauts
- Monash Health, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Monash IVF, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
163
|
Wong KM, Mastenbroek S, Repping S. Cryopreservation of human embryos and its contribution to in vitro fertilization success rates. Fertil Steril 2014; 102:19-26. [PMID: 24890275 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.05.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2014] [Revised: 05/13/2014] [Accepted: 05/15/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of human embryos is now a routine procedure in assisted reproductive technologies laboratories. There is no consensus on the superiority of any protocol, and substantial differences exist among centers in day of embryo cryopreservation, freezing method, selection criteria for which embryos to freeze, method of embryo thawing, and endometrial preparation for transfer of frozen-thawed embryos. In the past decade, the number of frozen-thawed embryo transfer cycles per started in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycle increased steadily, and at the same time the percentage of frozen-thawed embryo transfers that resulted in live births increased. Currently, cryopreservation of human embryos is more important than ever for the cumulative pregnancy rate after IVF. Interestingly, success rates after frozen-thawed embryo transfer are now nearing the success rates of fresh embryo transfer. This supports the hypothesis of so called freeze-all strategies in IVF, in which all embryos are frozen and no fresh transfer is conducted, to optimize success rates. High-quality randomized controlled trials should be pursued to find out which cryopreservation protocol is best and whether the time has come to completely abandon fresh transfers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kai Mee Wong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
164
|
Comparison of different cryoprotectant regimes for vitrification of ovine embryos produced in vivo. Small Rumin Res 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2014.02.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
|
165
|
Shapiro DB, Pappadakis JA, Ellsworth NM, Hait HI, Nagy ZP. Progesterone replacement with vaginal gel versus i.m. injection: cycle and pregnancy outcomes in IVF patients receiving vitrified blastocysts. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:1706-11. [PMID: 24847018 PMCID: PMC4093993 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the type of luteal support affect pregnancy outcomes in recipients of vitrified blastocysts? SUMMARY ANSWER Luteal support with vaginal progesterone gel or i.m. progesterone (IMP) results in comparable implantation and pregnancy rates in IVF patients receiving vitrified blastocysts. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In fresh IVF cycles, both IMP and vaginal progesterone have become the standard of care for luteal phase support. Due to conflicting data in replacement cycles, IMP is often considered to be the standard of care. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Retrospective analysis of 920 frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles between 1 January 2010 and 1 September 2012. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients from a large, private practice undergoing autologous and donor FET using IMP or vaginal progesterone gel for luteal support were included in the analysis. IMP was used for luteal support in 682 FET cycles and vaginal progesterone gel was used in 238 FET cycles. Standard clinical outcomes of positive serum hCG levels, implantation, clinical pregnancy, spontaneous abortion and live birth were reported. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The IMP and vaginal progesterone gel groups had similar patient demographics for all characteristics assessed. Implantation rates (46.4 versus 45.6%, P = 0.81), clinical pregnancy rates (61.7 versus 60.5%, P = 0.80) and live birth rates (49.1 versus 48.9%, P > 0.99) were not significantly different between IMP and vaginal progesterone gel, respectively. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study is limited by its retrospective design and by its lack of randomization to the type of luteal support. In addition, because no a priori expected rates of success could be provided for this retrospective investigation, it was not possible to estimate statistical power associated with the various outcomes presented. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS With the recent trends toward single embryo transfer (SET) and use of vitrified blastocysts in FET cycles, our data with ∼40% of cycles being SET and use of exclusively vitrified blastocysts are more relevant to current practices than previous studies. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS Support for data collection and analysis was provided by Actavis, Inc. D.S. has received honoraria for lectures and participation in Scientific Advisory Boards for Actavis, Inc. J.P. is an employee of Actavis, Inc. N.E. has received payment from Actavis, Inc., for her time for data collection. H.H. has received payment from Actavis, Inc., for statistical analyses. Z.P.N. has nothing to disclose.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniel B Shapiro
- Reproductive Biology Associates, 1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA
| | | | - Nancy M Ellsworth
- Reproductive Biology Associates, 1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA
| | - Howard I Hait
- Edenridge Associates, LLC, 707 Mount Lebanon Road, Wilmington, DE 19803, USA
| | - Zsolt Peter Nagy
- Reproductive Biology Associates, 1100 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 200, Atlanta, GA 30342, USA
| |
Collapse
|
166
|
Roy TK, Bradley CK, Bowman MC, McArthur SJ. Single-embryo transfer of vitrified-warmed blastocysts yields equivalent live-birth rates and improved neonatal outcomes compared with fresh transfers. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1294-301. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.01.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2013] [Revised: 01/10/2014] [Accepted: 01/25/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
167
|
Cao S, Zhao C, Zhang J, Wu X, Guo X, Ling X. Retrospective clinical analysis of two artificial shrinkage methods applied prior to blastocyst vitrification on the outcome of frozen embryo transfer. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:577-81. [PMID: 24610097 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0203-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Vitrification significantly improves the rates of blastocyst survival and clinical pregnancy following frozen embryo transfer (FET). However, ice crystal formation during the freezing process reduces the blastocyst survival rate. Artificial shrinkage (AS) prior to blastocyst vitrification decreases the formation of ice crystals, increasing the blastocyst survival rate. The aim of this study was to identify an efficient AS method to improve blastocyst survival rates following vitrification. METHOD Use of the 29-gauge needle AS and Laser pulse AS methods prior to vitrification was compared in terms of the impacts on the rates of blastocyst survival in FET cycles, blastocyst hatching, clinical pregnancy after transfer, embryo implantation, abortion, gestational duration and birth weight. RESULT In total, 438 blastocysts in 219 cycles were thawed, resulting in survival of 407 (92.9 %). Of these, 213 cycles were transferred, resulting in 129 clinical pregnancies (60.6 %) and 140 successful births. There were no differences between the two methods in the rates of blastocyst survival, clinical pregnancy, embryo implantation and abortion. However, the 29-gauge needle AS group was associated with a significantly lower blastocyst hatching rate (83.6 % vs. 91.2 %), shorter average gestational duration (37.36 ± 2.34 vs. 38.06 ± 1.76), and higher premature birth rate (40.00 % vs. 21.15 %) compared with Laser pulse AS group. CONCLUSION No significant differences in the effectiveness of the two methods applied prior to blastocyst vitrification were observed before birth, while after birth, a significantly improved clinical outcome was obtained with laser pulse AS indicating that this is a more effective pre-processing method for blastocyst vitrification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shanren Cao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Reproduction, Nanjing Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital Affiliated to Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, 210004, Jiangsu Province, China
| | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
168
|
Larman MG, Hashimoto S, Morimoto Y, Gardner DK. Cryopreservation in ART and concerns with contamination during cryobanking. Reprod Med Biol 2014; 13:107-117. [PMID: 29662371 DOI: 10.1007/s12522-014-0176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2013] [Accepted: 01/20/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation of gametes and embryos is vital to numerous fields of reproductive biology, including assisted human reproduction. With improved culture conditions, there are an increasing number of embryos to cryopreserve for potential use in subsequent cycles. Many of the gametes and embryos in human IVF are cryopreserved in open systems. Because liquid nitrogen is not sterile, concerns have been raised with regard to contamination from the liquid nitrogen and also cross-contamination between patients' germplasm. Human gamete and embryo cryopreservation are discussed, with recommendations on how to minimize and eliminate contamination, emphasizing the benefits of closed vitrification devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - David K Gardner
- Department of Zoology University of Melbourne 3010 Melbourne VIC Australia
| |
Collapse
|
169
|
Vajta G, Reichart A, Ubaldi F, Rienzi L. From a backup technology to a strategy-outlining approach: the success story of cryopreservation. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.12.80] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
|
170
|
Vitrification of human blastocysts previously cryopreserved by slow controlled-rate freezing at the cleavage stage. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:447-51. [PMID: 24390627 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0164-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2013] [Accepted: 12/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of vitrified blastocysts derived from frozen-thawed cleavage stage embryos in terms of morphological survival and re-expansion status of the blastocoelic cavity. RESULTS After warming 162 blastocysts derived from fresh embryos (= control group) and 90 blastocysts from frozen-thawed cleavage stage embryos (= study group) and after 2-3 h of in vitro culture the percentage of blastocysts with morphological survival was not different between the two groups. After 24 h of in vitro culture, the percentage of fully expanded, hatching or hatched blastocysts was not different between both groups. CONCLUSION(S) The results show that blastocysts derived from frozen-thawed cleavage stage embryos can be cryopreserved successfully a second time by vitrification method. Re-cryopreservation by vitrification still needs to be approached with some caution because little data on long term safety of multiple freezing is available.
Collapse
|
171
|
Kentenich H, Sibold C, Tandler-Schneider A. [In vitro fertilization and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: current medical aspects]. Bundesgesundheitsblatt Gesundheitsforschung Gesundheitsschutz 2013; 56:1653-61. [PMID: 24337127 DOI: 10.1007/s00103-013-1853-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Since the delivery of the first baby conceived via in vitro fertilization (IVF) in 1978, IVF has become a standard procedure in sterility treatment. In Germany, 78,000 IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles are performed annually with a delivery rate per embryo transfer of about 20 %. The cumulative delivery rate after three trials is more than 50 %. The main medical problems are the high rates of multiple pregnancies of more than 20 %, which carry an increased risk for mothers (preeclampsia) and children (preterm delivery, lung immaturity, brain problems). Also singleton babies after IVF are more often too small (small for gestational age, SGA) and delivered preterm. As a result, proper counselling is necessary. New laboratory methods have increased the success rate. Cryopreservation techniques such as vitrification are standard for freezing oocytes, pronuclear-stage oocytes and embryos if they are not needed during the current treatment cycle. Continuous observation of embryos by time-lapse imaging helps to identify the best embryos for transfer. The current legislation in the German embryo protection act (Embryonenschutzgesetz) is the main problem. It is unclear how many fertilized oocytes can be cultured to achieve a transfer of one to three embryos. The prohibition of oocyte donation and surrogacy are not comprehensible from a medical, psychological, and ethical point of view. Reimbursement of publicly insured patients is restricted in comparison with other European countries. Married couples receive half of the payment for three IVF/ICSI cycles; non-married couples receive no payment at all.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- H Kentenich
- Fertility Center Berlin, Spandauer Damm 130, 14050, Berlin, Deutschland,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
172
|
A randomized controlled trial comparing two vitrification methods versus slow-freezing for cryopreservation of human cleavage stage embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 31:241-7. [PMID: 24317854 PMCID: PMC3933602 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0145-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2013] [Accepted: 11/29/2013] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To compare two different vitrification methods to slow freezing method for cryopreservation of human cleavage stage embryos. Design: Prospective randomised trial. Setting: University assisted reproduction centre. Patient(s): 568 patients (mean age 33.4 ± 5.2) from April 2009 to April 2011. Methods 1798 supernumerary good-quality cleavage stage embryos in 645 IVF cycles intended to be cryopreserved were randomly allocated to three groups: slow freezing, vitrification with the Irvine® method, vitrification with the Vitrolife® method. Main Outcome Measure(s): Embryo survival and cleavage rates, implantation rate. Results A total of 1055 embryos were warmed, 836 (79.2 %) survived and 676 were finally transferred (64.1 %). Post-warming embryos survival rate was significantly higher after vitrification (Irvine: 89.4 %; Vitrolife: 87.6 %) than after slow freezing (63.8 %) (p < 0.001). No differences in survival rates were observed between the two vitrification methods, but a significant higher cleavage rate was observed using Irvine compared to Vitrolife method (p < 0.05). Implantation rate (IR) per embryo replaced and per embryo warmed were respectively 15.8 % (41/259) and 12.4 % (41/330) for Irvine, 17.0 % (40/235) and 12.1 % (40/330) for Vitrolife, 21.4 % (39/182) and 9.9 % (39/395) for slow-freezing (NS). Conclusions Both vitrification methods (Irvine and Vitrolife) are more efficient than slow freezing for cryopreservation of human cleavage stage embryos in terms of post-warming survival rate. No significant difference in the implantation rate was observed between the three cryopreservation methods.
Collapse
|
173
|
Chen Y, Zheng X, Yan J, Qiao J, Liu P. Neonatal outcomes after the transfer of vitrified blastocysts: closed versus open vitrification system. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:107. [PMID: 24256633 PMCID: PMC4225498 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2013] [Accepted: 11/19/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Increasing evidence indicates that closed vitrification has been successfully used in the cryopreservation of human oocytes and embryos. Little information is available regarding the neonatal outcome of closed blastocysts vitrification. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of blastocyst vitrification using a high-security closed vitrification system compared with an open vitrification system. METHODS A total of 332 vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer cycles between April 2010 and May 2012 were analyzed retrospectively. The post-thaw survival rate, implantation rate, clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, and neonatal outcome were recorded. RESULTS There were no significant differences between the open vitrification group and the close vitrification group regarding the post-thaw survival rate (98% versus 95.8%), clinical pregnancy rate (47.6% versus 42.2%), implantation rate (42.9% versus 35.6%), and live birth rate (39.8% versus 32.1%). In total, 332 warming cycles produced 131 healthy babies. There were no significant differences in the mean gestational age, the birth weight, and the birth length between the two groups. No adverse neonatal outcomes were observed in the children born after the transfer of closed vitrified blastocysts compared with the transfer of open vitrified blastocysts. CONCLUSIONS These data suggest that blastocyst vitrification using a closed vitrification device seems safe and effective with results comparable to those obtained through open vitrification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaoying Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ping Liu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center of Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, People’s Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
174
|
Pashaiasl M, Khodadadi K, Richings NM, Holland MK, Verma PJ. Cryopreservation and long-term maintenance of bovine embryo-derived cell lines. Reprod Fertil Dev 2013; 25:707-18. [PMID: 22951106 DOI: 10.1071/rd12018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2012] [Accepted: 05/29/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to develop methods for cryopreservation and long-term maintenance of putative bovine embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Putative bovine ESC (bESC) lines (n=3) isolated in conventional medium were used to compare slow-freezing and vitrification. After warming, vitrified cells (96.9%) demonstrated significantly (P<0.05) better survival than frozen-thawed cells (81.5%) and formed significantly more colonies with good morphology (vitrification: 93/93, 100.0%; slow-freezing: 74/106, 69.81%; P<0.05). The effect of inhibitors of differentiation (PD184352, SU5402, CHIR99021) on ESC maintenance was assessed on putative bESC lines established in N2B27-3i medium (n=8) or conventional medium (n=1) after culture over 30 passages (>240 days). All cell lines expressed ALP, SSEA1, SSEA4, OCT4, REX1 and SSEA1. OCT4 expression was confirmed by relative real-time PCR and was upregulated in early passages of putative bESCs cultured in N2B27-3i (2.9±0.89-fold higher at Passage (P) 2-4), whereas the converse was observed later (P22-26; 2.2±0.1-fold increase in conventional medium). Putative bESC lines isolated in N2B27-3i medium (n=3) or conventional medium (n=1) were vitrified at P18 and, after warming, were cultured for a further 12 passages. These cells survived vitrification and expressed OCT4, REX1, SSEA1, ALP, SSEA1 and SSEA4. These results demonstrate that putative bESC lines that express pluripotent markers can be cultured long term and retain expression of pluripotent markers after vitrification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Pashaiasl
- Centre for Reproduction and Development, Monash Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, Vic. 3168, Australia
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
175
|
Ahn SJ, Jang JH, Seo JS, Cho KM, Jung SH, Lee HW, Kim EC, Park SH. Influence of 2 cryopreservation methods to induce CCL-13 from dental pulp cells. J Endod 2013; 39:1562-6. [PMID: 24238447 DOI: 10.1016/j.joen.2013.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Revised: 07/25/2013] [Accepted: 07/25/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cryopreservation preserves periodontal ligament cells but has a lower success rate with dental pulp cells (DPCs) because it causes inflammation. There are 2 well-known cryopreservation methods that reduce inflammation, slow freezing and rapid freezing, but the effects of the 2 methods on inflammation are not well-established. The purpose of this study was to compare the effects of the 2 different cryopreservation methods on CCL-13 induction from DPCs by using microarrays, real-time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blotting, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM). METHODS In this study, the concentration of cryoprotectant was fixed, and the methods compared differed with respect to freezing speed. Initially we screened the DPCs of cryopreserved teeth with expression microarrays, and CCL-13 was identified as a differentially expressed gene involved in generalized inflammation. We then compared the expression of CCL-13 after exposing teeth to the 2 cryopreservation methods by using real-time PCR, Western blot, enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and CLSM. RESULTS Expression of CCL-13 was up-regulated significantly only in the rapid freezing group, except in measurements made by real-time PCR. CLSM analysis also confirmed this up-regulation visually. CONCLUSIONS Rapid freezing increased the expression of CCL-13 in DPCs compared with slow freezing. Understanding the inflammatory effect of cryopreservation should help to establish an optimal cryoprofile to minimize inflammation of DPCs and reduce the need for endodontic treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Su-Jin Ahn
- Department of Prosthodontics, School of Dentistry, Kyung Hee University, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
176
|
Van Landuyt L, Van de Velde H, De Vos A, Haentjens P, Blockeel C, Tournaye H, Verheyen G. Influence of cell loss after vitrification or slow-freezing on further in vitro development and implantation of human Day 3 embryos. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2943-9. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
|
177
|
Vitrification of day 3 cleavage-stage embryos yields better clinical outcome in comparison with vitrification of day 2 cleavage-stage embryos. ZYGOTE 2013; 23:169-76. [PMID: 23965660 PMCID: PMC4413873 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199413000373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this retrospective study was to determine an optimal time point for vitrification of cleavage-stage human embryos. This study included patients who were undergoing day 2 or day 3 vitrified–warmed cleavage-stage embryo transfer at the In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Programme of the Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, China, affiliated to the Tongji University School of Medicine, from April 2010 to March 2012. Intervention was made for the entire cohort of vitrified embryos for poor responder patients so as to avoid severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome. Embryo survival rate (SR) after vitrification–warming, implantation rate (IR), and clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) were the main outcome measurements. In total, 380 vitrified–warmed cleavage-stage embryo transfer (VWT) cycles were included. We found that the SR after vitrification and warming for day 2 embryos and day 3 embryos were 92.7% and 92.8%, respectively. For poor ovarian responders, the IR of day 2 and day 3 vitrified–warmed embryos was 6.4% and 13.2%, respectively (P = 0.186). The CPR for day 3 vitrified–warmed embryos was significantly higher than that of day 2 vitrified–warmed embryos (17.6 vs. 4.0 % per transfer cycle, P = 0.036). For patients who had their entire cohort of embryos vitrified to prevent severe ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS), the IR and CPR were not significantly different for day 2 and day 3 vitrified–warmed embryo transfer. In conclusion, for vitrified–warmed embryo transfer, cryopreservation of the entire cohort of embryos on day 3 resulted in better clinical outcomes compared with cryopreservation on day 2. Therefore, it is highly recommended that cleavage-stage embryos should be vitrified on day 3, but not on day 2, particularly for poor ovarian responder patients.
Collapse
|
178
|
Hesters L, Achour-Frydman N, Mandelbaum J, Levy R. [Embryo vitrification: French clinical practice analysis for BLEFCO]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013; 41:554-7. [PMID: 23962680 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2013.07.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Frozen thawed embryo transfer is currently an important part of present-day assisted reproductive technology (ART) aiming at increasing the clinical pregnancy rate per oocyte retrieval. Although slow freezing method has been the reference during 2 decades, the recent years witnessed an expansion of ultrarapid cryopreservation method named vitrification. Recently in France, vitrification has been authorized for cryopreserving human embryos. Therefore BLEFCO consortium decides to perform a descriptive study through questionnaires to evaluate the state of vitrification in the French clinical practice. Questionnaires were addressed to the 105 French centres of reproductive biology and 60 were fully completed. Data analysis revealed that embryo survival rate as well as, clinical pregnancy rate were increased after vitrification technology when compared to slow freezing procedure. Overall, these preliminary data suggest that vitrification may improve ART outcomes through an increasing of the cumulative pregnancy rate per oocyte retrieval.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Hesters
- Unité de biologie de la reproduction, service d'histologie embryologie cytogénétique, AP-HP, CHU Antoine-Béclère, 157, rue Porte-de-Trivaux, 92140 Clamart, France.
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
179
|
Stillman RJ, Richter KS, Jones HW. Refuting a misguided campaign against the goal of single-embryo transfer and singleton birth in assisted reproduction. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:2599-607. [PMID: 23904468 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Much recent progress has been made by assisted reproductive technology (ART) professionals toward minimizing the incidence of multiple pregnancy following ART treatment. While a healthy singleton birth is widely considered to be the ideal outcome of such treatment, a vocal minority continues a campaign to advocate the benefits of multiple embryo transfer as treatment and twin pregnancy as outcome for most ART patients. Proponents of twinning argue four points: that patients prefer twins, that multiple embryo transfer maximizes success rates, that the costs per infant are lower with twins and that one twin pregnancy and birth is associated with no higher risk than two consecutive singleton pregnancies and births. We find fault with the reasoning and data behind each of these tenets. First, we respect the principle of patient autonomy to choose the number of embryos for transfer but counter that it has been shown that better patient education reduces their desire for twins. In addition, reasonable and evidentially supported limits may be placed on autonomy in exchange for public or private insurance coverage for ART treatment, and counterbalancing ethical principles to autonomy exist, especially beneficence (doing good) and non-maleficence (doing no harm). Second, comparisons between success rates following single-embryo transfer (SET) and double-embryo transfers favor double-embryo transfers only when embryo utilization is not comparable; cumulative pregnancy and birth rates that take into account utilization of cryopreserved embryos (and the additional cryopreserved embryo available with single fresh embryo transfer) consistently demonstrate no advantage to double-embryo transfer. Third, while comparisons of costs are system dependent and not easy to assess, several independent studies all suggest that short-term costs per child (through the neonatal period alone) are lower with transfers of one rather than two embryos. And, finally, abundant evidence conclusively demonstrates that the risks to both mother and especially to children are substantially greater with one twin birth compared with two singleton births. Thus, the arguments used by some to promote multiple embryo transfer and twinning are not supported by the facts. They should not detract from efforts to further promote SET and thus reduce ART-associated multiple pregnancy and its inherent risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Stillman
- Shady Grove Fertility Reproductive Science Center, 15001 Shady Grove Road, Rockville, MD 20850, USA
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
180
|
Zander-Fox D, Lane M, Hamilton H. Slow freezing and vitrification of mouse morula and early blastocysts. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1091-8. [PMID: 23888311 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0056-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the relative success of morula and early blastocyst slow freezing and vitrification in regards to survival and implantation rates utilising protocols which could be clinically implemented as a viable alternative to expanded blastocyst stage freezing. METHODS Mouse morula and early blastocysts were either slow frozen/thawed or vitrified/warmed. Their subsequent survival, blastocyst development and blastocyst cell number and allocation to either the inner cell mass, trophectoderm or epiblast was assessed. In addition blastocysts were also transferred to pseudopregnant recipients and implantation and fetal development was determined. RESULTS Vitrification of both morula and early blastocysts resulted in significantly higher rates of survival and blastocyst development compared to slow freezing. In addition slow frozen early blastocysts had significantly reduced blastocyst cell number compared to control however vitrified morula and early blasocyts and slow frozen morula had equivocal blastocyst cell numbers. Transfer of blastocysts from both methods of cryopreservation resulted in similar implantation rates however the placentas created from slow frozen early blastocysts were significantly lighter than control (95.5 g ± 5.4 vs. 122.0 g ± 4.2 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Vitrification resulted in significantly higher rates of morula and early blastocyst survival and blastocyst development compared to slow freezing. In addition this study has validated the use of a closed DMSO free vitrification protocol which could then be investigated for use in the clinical setting as an alternative to expanded blastocyst freezing.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Repromed Department of R&D, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
181
|
Vitrification of blastocysts derived from fair to poor quality cleavage stage embryos can produce high pregnancy rates after warming. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1035-42. [PMID: 23838796 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0037-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2013] [Accepted: 06/20/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study investigates whether certain embryos considered unsuitable for cryopreservation on day 3 might nevertheless have the potential to develop into worthwhile blastocysts that could be vitrified in the same cycle. METHODS Retrospective study: between 2010 and 2011, embryo transfers and cryopreservation took place mainly on day 3 in our centre. Supernumerary embryos of intermediate to poor quality were reassessed on days 5/6 and any good quality blastocysts were vitrified. RESULTS Out of 914 cleavage stage (day 3) embryos left in culture, 16 % were vitrified on days 5/6. Fifty blastocyst warming cycles resulted in a 76 % survival rate, 44 % clinical pregnancy rate and 39 % implantation rate. During the same time period, 213 warming cycles of good quality cleavage stage embryos rendered survival rates, clinical pregnancy and implantation rates of 97 %, 23 % and 16 % respectively. CONCLUSIONS Supernumerary average quality day 3 embryos should be given a second chance to be selected for cryopreservation. If blastocysts are obtained and survive vitrification, there is a good chance of implantation thus reducing embryo waste.
Collapse
|
182
|
Desai NN, Goldberg JM, Austin C, Falcone T. The new Rapid-i carrier is an effective system for human embryo vitrification at both the blastocyst and cleavage stage. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:41. [PMID: 23672340 PMCID: PMC3660183 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/02/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Rapid-i is a new FDA cleared closed carrier for embryo vitrification. The cooling rate of - 1220°C/min is far lower than that reported with open vitrification systems such as the cryoloop (-15,000°C/min). Little published data is currently available on this device. This study presents our initial clinical data, as well as live birth outcomes, with the Rapid-i. The efficacy of this device for the cryopreservation of cleavage, as well as blastocyst stage human embryos is also analyzed. We further compare outcomes to those achieved with the cryoloop, an "open" vitrification system routinely used in our laboratory. METHODS Human embryos were vitrified at either the 8-10 cell stage or else the blastocyst stage. The vitrification protocol was: 7.5% DMSO/7.5% ethylene glycol (EG) (2-3 min) followed by incubation in 15% DMSO /15% EG (45 sec) before loading on the vitrification carrier. Cryoprotectant was removed during warming by sequential washes in 0.25 M and 0.125 M sucrose in culture medium. Clinical outcome data for frozen cycles between January 2011 and August 2012 were stratified according to carrier and cell stage. The student t-test and chi square test were used to compare results. P value of < 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS A total of 486 vitrified-warmed embryos were assessed and 92% of them were transferred. The clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and implantation rate (IR) with Rapid-i vitrified blastocysts were 59% and 49%, versus 47% and 37%, respectively for cleavage stage embryos. This was not statistically different from results with the cryoloop vitrified blastocysts (CPR 46%, IR 38%) nor the cleavage stage vitrified embryos (CPR 49%, IR 35%). To date, there have been 31 deliveries of 34 healthy infants from Rapid-i vitrified embryos, with another 12 pregnancies still on-going. CONCLUSIONS The Rapid-i offers an excellent alternative to existing open vitrification devices for embryo cryopreservation at the 8-10 cell stage as well as the blastocyst stage. Use of this type of "closed" sealed system that prevents direct contact between the embryos and liquid nitrogen reduces the potential risk of sample cross-contamination or infection. These preliminary data and live birth outcomes have paved the way toward transitioning to a closed vitrification system in our own IVF program.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nina N Desai
- Department of OB/GYN/Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Jeffrey M Goldberg
- Department of OB/GYN/Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Cynthia Austin
- Department of OB/GYN/Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| | - Tommaso Falcone
- Department of OB/GYN/Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Beachwood, OH, USA
| |
Collapse
|
183
|
Jimenez PT, Schon SB, Odem RR, Ratts VS, Jungheim ES. A retrospective cross-sectional study: fresh cycle endometrial thickness is a sensitive predictor of inadequate endometrial thickness in frozen embryo transfer cycles. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2013; 11:35. [PMID: 23663223 PMCID: PMC3656781 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-11-35] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2013] [Accepted: 05/06/2013] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study is to assess predictors of inadequate endometrial cavity thickness (ECT), defined as < 8 mm, in frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles. METHODS This is a retrospective cross-sectional study at an academic fertility center including 274 women who underwent their first endometrial preparation with estradiol for autologous FET in our center from 2001-2009. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of inadequate endometrial development in FET cycles. RESULTS Neither age nor duration of estrogen supplementation were associated with FET endometrial thickness. Lower body mass index, nulliparity, previous operative hysteroscopy and thinner fresh cycle endometrial lining were associated with inadequate endometrial thickness in FET cycles. A maximum thickness of 11.5 mm in a fresh cycle was 80% sensitive and 70% specific for inadequate frozen cycle thickness. CONCLUSIONS Previous fresh cycle endometrial cavity thickness is associated with subsequent FET cycle endometrial cavity thickness. Women with a fresh cycle thickness of 11.5 mm or less may require additional intervention to achieve adequate endometrial thickness in preparation for a frozen cycle.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Patricia T Jimenez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, TX, USA
| | - Samantha B Schon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Randall R Odem
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Valerie S Ratts
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Emily S Jungheim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Washington University School of Medicine, Washington, DC, USA
| |
Collapse
|
184
|
Shi W, Zhang S, Zhao W, Xia X, Wang M, Wang H, Bai H, Shi J. Factors related to clinical pregnancy after vitrified-warmed embryo transfer: a retrospective and multivariate logistic regression analysis of 2313 transfer cycles. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:1768-75. [PMID: 23599130 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What factors does multivariate logistic regression show to be significantly associated with the likelihood of clinical pregnancy in vitrified-warmed embryo transfer (VET) cycles? SUMMARY ANSWER Assisted hatching (AH) and if the reason to freeze embryos was to avoid the risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS) were significantly positively associated with a greater likelihood of clinical pregnancy. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Single factor analysis has shown AH, number of embryos transferred and the reason of freezing for OHSS to be positively and damaged blastomere to be negatively significantly associated with the chance of clinical pregnancy after VET. It remains unclear what factors would be significant after multivariate analysis. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The study was a retrospective analysis of 2313 VET cycles from 1481 patients performed between January 2008 and April 2012. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors to affect clinical pregnancy outcome of VET. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS There were 22 candidate variables selected based on clinical experiences and the literature. With the thresholds of α entry = α removal= 0.05 for both variable entry and variable removal, eight variables were chosen to contribute the multivariable model by the bootstrap stepwise variable selection algorithm (n = 1000). Eight variables were age at controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH), reason for freezing, AH, endometrial thickness, damaged blastomere, number of embryos transferred, number of good-quality embryos, and blood presence on transfer catheter. A descriptive comparison of the relative importance was accomplished by the proportion of explained variation (PEV). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among the reasons for freezing, the OHSS group showed a higher OR than the surplus embryo group when compared with other reasons for VET groups (OHSS versus Other, OR: 2.145; CI: 1.4-3.286; Surplus embryos versus Other, OR: 1.152; CI: 0.761-1.743) and high PEV (marginal 2.77%, P = 0.2911; partial 1.68%; CI of area under receptor operator characteristic curve (ROC): 0.5576-0.6000). AH also showed a high OR (OR: 2.105, CI: 1.554-2.85) and high PEV (marginal 1.97%; partial 1.02%; CI of area under ROC: 0.5344-0.5647). The number of good-quality embryos showed the highest marginal PEV and partial PEV (marginal 3.91%, partial 2.28%; CI of area under ROC: 0.5886-0.6343). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a retrospective multivariate analysis of the data obtained in 5 years from a single IVF center. Repeated cycles in the same woman were treated as independent observations, which could introduce bias. Results are based on clinical pregnancy and not live births. Prospective analysis of a larger data set from a multicenter study based on live births is necessary to confirm the findings. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Paying attention to the quality of embryos, the number of good embryos, AH and the reasons for freezing that are associated with clinical pregnancy after VET will assist the improvement of success rates.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenhao Shi
- Assisted Reproduction Center, Maternal & Child Health Care Hospital of Shaanxi Province, Hou Zai Men 73# Xin Cheng District, Xi'an, China
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
185
|
Waimey KE, Duncan FE, Su HI, Smith K, Wallach H, Jona K, Coutifaris C, Gracia CR, Shea LD, Brannigan RE, Chang RJ, Zelinski MB, Stouffer RL, Taylor RL, Woodruff TK. Future Directions in Oncofertility and Fertility Preservation: A Report from the 2011 Oncofertility Consortium Conference. J Adolesc Young Adult Oncol 2013; 2:25-30. [PMID: 23610740 PMCID: PMC3604786 DOI: 10.1089/jayao.2012.0035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility impairment and loss due to cancer or its treatment is a significant survivorship consideration for many pediatric, adolescent, and young adult cancer survivors. Chemotherapeutics, radiation, and surgery can impact the future fertility of men, women, and children with cancer. The field of oncofertility, founded to ensure the reproductive future of cancer survivors, gained momentum with 5 years of funding through a 2007 National Institutes of Health Roadmap Grant for Biomedical Research. This report from working group meetings at the fifth annual Oncofertility Consortium Conference speaks to the present state of oncofertility research and clinical care, existing gaps, and future directions for the field. This summary from conference participants and leaders in the field addresses the science, clinical specialties, and academic scholarship that can guide the field as the Roadmap Grant funding comes to a close.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kate E. Waimey
- Oncofertility Consortium, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Francesca E. Duncan
- Oncofertility Consortium, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - H. Irene Su
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Cancer Prevention and Control Program, Moores UCSD Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Kristin Smith
- Oncofertility Consortium, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Harlan Wallach
- Northwestern University Information Technologies, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Kemi Jona
- Office of STEM Education Partnerships, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Clarisa R. Gracia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lonnie D. Shea
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Robert E. Brannigan
- Department of Urology, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - R. Jeffrey Chang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, University of California at San Diego, San Diego, California
| | - Mary B. Zelinski
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon
| | - Richard L. Stouffer
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, Oregon
| | - Robert L. Taylor
- Northwestern University Information Technologies, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Teresa K. Woodruff
- Oncofertility Consortium, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| |
Collapse
|
186
|
Hashimoto S, Amo A, Hama S, Ohsumi K, Nakaoka Y, Morimoto Y. A closed system supports the developmental competence of human embryos after vitrification : Closed vitrification of human embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:371-6. [PMID: 23315263 PMCID: PMC3607685 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9928-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2012] [Accepted: 12/27/2012] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Closed-system vitrification may enable the risk of contamination to be minimised. We performed three studies to compare the developmental competence of human embryos vitrified using either a closed vitrification system (CVS; Rapid-i®) or an open vitrification system (OVS; Cryo-top®). METHODS The first study was performed in vitro using 66 zygotes previously vitrified at pronuclear stage. These were warmed and randomised 1:1 to revitrification using either the OVS or the CVS. After re-warming, embryo development and blastocyst cell number were assessed. For the second study, also performed in vitro, 60 vitrified-warmed blastocysts were randomised 1:1:1 into three groups (OVS or CVS revitrification, or no revitrification). The proportion of dead cells was assessed by staining. The third study was performed in vivo, using 263 high-grade blastocysts randomly assigned to vitrification using either the CVS (n = 100) or the OVS (n = 163). After warming, single blastocyst transfer was performed. RESULTS There were no differences between the CVS and the OVS in survival rate (100 % vs. 97 %), blastulation rate (96 h: 50 % vs. 50 %; 120 h: 68 % vs. 56 %), proportion of good blastocysts (96 h: 32 % vs. 22 %, 120 h: 47 % vs. 41 %), or mean number of cells (137 vs. 138). The proportion of dead cells in blastocysts re-vitrified by CVS (31 %) was similar to that for OVS (38 %) and non-revitrification (32 %). In vivo, the implantation rate for blastocysts vitrified using the CVS (54 %) was similar to that with the OVS (53 %). CONCLUSION Our studies consistently indicate that human embryos may be vitrified using a CVS without impairment of developmental competence.
Collapse
|
187
|
Matsuo K, Takahashi T, Igarashi H, Hara S, Amita M, Kurachi H. Effects of Different Trehalose Concentrations in a Warming Medium on Embryo Survival and Clinical Outcomes in Vitrified Human Embryos. Gynecol Obstet Invest 2013; 76:214-20. [DOI: 10.1159/000355318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2013] [Accepted: 08/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
|
188
|
Valle M, Guimarães F, Cavagnoli M, Sampaio M, Geber S. Birth of normal infants after transfer of embryos that were twice vitrified/warmed at cleavage stages: Report of two cases. Cryobiology 2012; 65:332-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2012] [Revised: 04/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
189
|
Roque M, Lattes K, Serra S, Solà I, Geber S, Carreras R, Checa MA. Fresh embryo transfer versus frozen embryo transfer in in vitro fertilization cycles: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Fertil Steril 2012; 99:156-162. [PMID: 23040524 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 350] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2012] [Revised: 08/31/2012] [Accepted: 09/05/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To examine the available evidence to assess if cryopreservation of all embryos and subsequent frozen embryo transfer (FET) results in better outcomes compared with fresh transfer. DESIGN Systematic review and meta-analysis. SETTING Centers for reproductive care. PATIENT(S) Infertility patient(s). INTERVENTION(S) An exhaustive electronic literature search in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library was performed through December 2011. We included randomized clinical trials comparing outcomes of IVF cycles between fresh and frozen embryo transfers. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The outcomes of interest were ongoing pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, and miscarriage. RESULT(S) We included three trials accounting for 633 cycles in women aged 27-33 years. Data analysis showed that FET resulted in significantly higher ongoing pregnancy rates and clinical pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION(S) Our results suggest that there is evidence that IVF outcomes may be improved by performing FET compared with fresh embryo transfer. This could be explained by a better embryo-endometrium synchrony achieved with endometrium preparation cycles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Matheus Roque
- Máster Internacional Medicina Reproductiva, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Origen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Karinna Lattes
- Máster Internacional Medicina Reproductiva, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Infertilidad y Reproducción Humana, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sandra Serra
- Máster Internacional Medicina Reproductiva, Hospital del Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Infertilidad y Reproducción Humana, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ivan Solà
- Iberoamerican Cochrane Center, Barcelona, Spain; Institute of Biomedical Research (IIB Sant Pau), Barcelona, Spain; CIBER Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Selmo Geber
- Origen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Belo Horizonte, Brazil; Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Ramón Carreras
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Miguel Angel Checa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Parc de Salut Mar, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Centro de Infertilidad y Reproducción Humana, Barcelona, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
190
|
Molecular strategies for pre-implantation genetic diagnosis of single gene and chromosomal disorders. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2012; 26:551-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2012.06.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
191
|
Han AR, Park CW, Lee HS, Yang KM, Song IO, Koong MK. Blastocyst transfer in frozen-thawed cycles. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2012; 39:114-7. [PMID: 23106042 PMCID: PMC3479234 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2012.39.3.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2012] [Revised: 06/07/2012] [Accepted: 06/26/2012] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE It is well known that fresh blastocyst transfer results in better pregnancy outcomes with a smaller number of transferred embryos compared with cleavage stage embryo transfer. However, in terms of frozen-thawed blastocyst transfer, only a few studies are available. We aimed to evaluate clinical outcomes of frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) with blastocysts. METHODS Retrospective analysis of FET cycles with blastocysts (B-FET) between Jan 2007 and June 2009 was performed. Age-matched FET cycles with cleavage stage embryos (C-FET) during the same period were collected as controls. A total of 58 B-FET cycles were compared with 172 C-FET cycles and also compared with those of post-thaw extended culture blastocysts from frozen pronuclear stage embryos (22 cycles). RESULTS There was no difference in the patient characteristics of each group. The embryos' survival rates after thawing were comparable (>90%) and there was no difference in the implantation rate or clinical and ongoing pregnancy rate among the three groups. CONCLUSION In FET, blastocyst transfers may not present better pregnancy outcomes than cleavage stage embryo transfers. A further large-scale prospective study is needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ae Ra Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kyungpook National University Hospital, Daegu, Korea
| | - Chan Woo Park
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Hyoung-Song Lee
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology and Infertility, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Kwang Moon Yang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - In Ok Song
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| | - Mi Kyoung Koong
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cheil General Hospital and Women's Healthcare Center, Kwandong University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
192
|
Wang XL, Zhang X, Qin YQ, Hao DY, Shi HR. Outcomes of day 3 embryo transfer with vitrification using Cryoleaf: a 3-year follow-up study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:883-9. [PMID: 22684538 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9814-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2012] [Accepted: 05/28/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare success rates of vitrified-warmed with fresh and frozen-thawed ETs DESIGN Retrospective. SETTING Public fertility center. PATIENT(S) Cryopreserved- thawed/warmed ETs were included in this study. Fresh cycles, in which supernumerary embryos were cryopreserved, were set as the fresh control group. INTERVENTION(S) Supernumerary day 3 embryos were cryopreserved by slow-freezing or vitrification and transferred after thawing or warming. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Comparison of two cryopreservation techniques with respect to post-thaw survival of embryos, implantation and pregnancy rates, neonatal outcome, and congenital birth defects. RESULTS A total of 962 fresh, 151 freezing-thawed and 300 vitrified-warmed cycles were included in this study. The survival and intact cell rates in the vitrification group were significantly higher compared with those in the slow freezing group (88.5 % vs 74.5 % and 86.6 % vs 64.0 %). The implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates of the vitrification group were similar to the fresh and significant higher than slow freezing group. There were no significant differences in mean gestational age, birth weight, stillbirth, birth defects and the prevalence of neonatal diseases among three groups. CONCLUSION Vitrified-warmed ETs yield comparable outcomes with fresh ETs and is superior to frozen-thawed ETs regarding the survival rate and clinical outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xing-ling Wang
- Department of gynecology, the first affiliated hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zheng Zhou, China
| | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
193
|
Shi W, Xue X, Zhang S, Zhao W, Liu S, Zhou H, Wang M, Shi J. Perinatal and neonatal outcomes of 494 babies delivered from 972 vitrified embryo transfers. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:1338-42. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.02.051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2012] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 02/29/2012] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
|
194
|
Almansoori K, Prasad V, Forbes J, Law G, McGann L, Elliott J, Jomha N. Cryoprotective agent toxicity interactions in human articular chondrocytes. Cryobiology 2012; 64:185-91. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2011] [Revised: 01/08/2012] [Accepted: 01/10/2012] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
|
195
|
Evaluation of a low cost cryopreservation system on the biology of human amniotic fluid-derived mesenchymal stromal cells. Cryobiology 2012; 64:160-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.01.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2011] [Revised: 01/09/2012] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
196
|
Monzo C, Haouzi D, Roman K, Assou S, Dechaud H, Hamamah S. Slow freezing and vitrification differentially modify the gene expression profile of human metaphase II oocytes. Hum Reprod 2012; 27:2160-8. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/des153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
|
197
|
Creating a continuum of care: integrating obstetricians and gynecologists in the care of young cancer patients. Clin Obstet Gynecol 2012; 54:619-32. [PMID: 22031251 DOI: 10.1097/grf.0b013e318236ea2c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Cancer therapy can be lifesaving but significantly diminish female reproductive potential. This review provides an overview of the deleterious effects of cancer treatments on reproductive function, the fertility preservation options currently available for young women, and the outcomes of pregnancy after cancer treatment. In addition, special considerations for women who are diagnosed with cancer during pregnancy are discussed. To optimize the continuum of care for the patient, new corridors of communication between obstetricians, gynecologists, and oncology specialists must be developed to ensure the best outcomes for the patient, both in terms of cancer treatment and fertility preservation.
Collapse
|
198
|
Neonatal outcome and birth defects in 6623 singletons born following minimal ovarian stimulation and vitrified versus fresh single embryo transfer. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2012; 161:46-50. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2011.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 84] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2011] [Revised: 11/02/2011] [Accepted: 12/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
199
|
Clinical validation of a closed vitrification system in an oocyte-donation programme. Reprod Biomed Online 2012; 24:180-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2011.10.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2011] [Revised: 09/07/2011] [Accepted: 10/20/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
|
200
|
Chua W, Boothroyd C, Walls M, Hart RJ. Slow freeze versus vitrification for embryo cryopreservation. THE COCHRANE DATABASE OF SYSTEMATIC REVIEWS 2012. [DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd009589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Wei Chua
- The University of Western Australia; School of Women's and Infants Health; 374 Bagot Road Perth Australia
| | - Clare Boothroyd
- Greenslopes Specialist Centre; Reproductive, Endocrinology, Gynaecology and Infertility; Suite 25 121 Newdegate St Greenslopes Queensland Australia 4120
| | - Melanie Walls
- Fertility Specialists of Western Australia; Perth Australia
| | - Roger J Hart
- The University of Western Australia, King Edward Memorial Hospital and Fertility Specialists of Western Australia; School of Women's and Infants Health; 374 Bagot Road Subiaco Western Australia Australia 6008
| |
Collapse
|