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Malo C, Oliván S, Ochoa I, Shikanov A. In Vitro Growth of Human Follicles: Current and Future Perspectives. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:1510. [PMID: 38338788 PMCID: PMC10855051 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25031510] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 01/22/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation is gaining importance as a successful method to restore fertility to girls and young women at high risk of sterility. However, there are concerns regarding the safety of transplantation after ovarian tissue cryopreservation due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells and causing disease recurrence. In these cases, the development of culture systems that support oocyte development from the primordial follicle stage is required. Notable achievements have been reached in human follicle in vitro growth in the past decade. Currently, systems for the in vitro culture of ovarian tissue are based on two-dimensional substrates that do not support the survival of follicles or recapitulate the mechanical heterogenicity in the mammalian ovary. Recognition of the importance of special arrangements between cells has spurred research in three-dimensional culture systems, and the provision of a precise culture system that maximizes the diffusion of nutrients and gases through the follicles has raised interest in advanced biomimetic models. The current review critically examines various culture systems employed for the in vitro development of follicles, with a particular focus on solutions utilizing Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) technology. The emphasis on OOC technology underscores its role as a promising avenue in ensuring the successful cultivation and maintenance of follicular structures during the culture period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Clara Malo
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Sara Oliván
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ignacio Ochoa
- Tissue Microenvironment (TME) Lab, Aragón Institute of Engineering Research (I3A), University of Zaragoza, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain; (S.O.); (I.O.)
- Institute for Health Research Aragón (IIS Aragón), 50009 Zaragoza, Spain
- Centro de Investigación Biomédica en Red de Bioingeniería, Biomateriales y Nanomedicina (CIBER-BBN), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, 50018 Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA
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Bindels J, Squatrito M, Bernet L, Nisolle M, Henry L, Munaut C. The mTOR Inhibitor Rapamycin Counteracts Follicle Activation Induced by Ovarian Cryopreservation in Murine Transplantation Models. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:1474. [PMID: 37629764 PMCID: PMC10456585 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59081474] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2023] [Revised: 08/10/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Ovarian tissue cryopreservation followed by autotransplantation (OTCTP) is currently the only fertility preservation option for prepubertal patients. Once in remission, the autotransplantation of frozen/thawed tissue is performed when patients want to conceive. A major issue of the procedure is follicular loss directly after grafting mainly due to follicle activation. To improve follicular survival during the OTCTP procedure, we inhibited the mTOR pathway involved in follicle activation using rapamycin, an mTOR inhibitor. Next, we compared two different in vivo models of transplantation: the recently described non-invasive heterotopic transplantation model between the skin layers of the ears, and the more conventional and invasive transplantation under the kidney capsule. Materials and Methods: To study the effects of adding rapamycin during cryopreservation, 4-week-old C57BL/6 mouse ovaries, either fresh, slow-frozen, or slow-frozen with rapamycin, were autotransplanted under the kidney capsule of mice and recovered three weeks later for immunohistochemical (IHC) analysis. To compare the ear with the kidney capsule transplantation model, fresh 4-week-old C57BL/6 mouse ovaries were autotransplanted to either site, followed by an injection of either LY294002, a PI3K inhibitor, vehicle control, or neither, and these were recovered three weeks later for IHC analysis. Results: Rapamycin counteracts cryopreservation-induced follicle proliferation, as well as AKT and mTOR pathway activation, in ovaries autotransplanted for three weeks under the kidney capsule of mice. Analyses of follicle proliferation, mTOR activation, and the effects of LY294002 treatment were similar in transplanted ovaries using either the ear or kidney capsule transplantation model. Conclusions: By adding rapamycin during the OTCTP procedure, we were able to transiently maintain primordial follicles in a quiescent state. This is a promising method for improving the longevity of the ovarian graft. Furthermore, both the ear and kidney capsule transplantation models were suitable for investigating follicle activation and proliferation and pharmacological strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jules Bindels
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Marlyne Squatrito
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Laëtitia Bernet
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de la Citadelle, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.N.); (L.H.)
| | - Laurie Henry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de la Citadelle, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (M.N.); (L.H.)
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Biology of Tumor and Development, GIGA-Cancer, Université de Liège, 4000 Liège, Belgium; (J.B.); (M.S.); (L.B.)
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Hossay C, Tramacere F, Cacciottola L, Camboni A, Squifflet JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue: effect of freezing, culture, and grafting. Fertil Steril 2023; 119:135-145. [PMID: 36481098 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.09.360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2022] [Revised: 09/23/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the effect of freezing, in vitro culture (IVC) and grafting to chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) on follicle outcomes in human ovarian tissue. DESIGN An experimental study. SETTING University-based research laboratory. PATIENTS Fresh and cryopreserved ovarian tissue from 10 patients was donated to research with their consent and institutional review board approval. INTERVENTIONS Fresh and frozen-thawed ovarian cortical pieces were in vitro-cultured and compared (fresh-IVC vs FT-IVC). The FT-IVC fragments were then examined against fragments grafted to CAM (FT-CAM). After both IVC and CAM grafting, ovarian cortical pieces (4×2×1 mm3) were analyzed on days 0, 1, and 6. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Follicle analyses included histology (count and classification) and immunohistochemistry (Ki67 [proliferation], caspase-3 [apoptosis], 1A and 1B light chain 3B [autophagy], p-Akt, FOXO1, and p-rpS6 [PI3K activation]). Droplet digital polymerase chain reaction further explored expression of PI3K pathway- and oocyte-related genes in tissue sections. RESULTS No major differences were detected between fresh-IVC and FT-IVC tissues in any conducted analyses. Although a significant drop was observed in primordial follicle (PF) proportions in the fresh-IVC and FT-IVC groups (d0 vs. d6, P<.002), they held steady in the FT-CAM group (d0 vs. d6, P>.05). The PF rates were also significantly higher in the FT-CAM group than the FT-IVC group on d6 (P=.02). Importantly, avian erythrocytes were already present in 30% of implants from d1. Apoptotic and autophagic follicle rates increased during IVC (P<.008), but remained significantly lower in the FT-CAM group (P<.01), confirming superior follicle preservation in CAM-grafted tissue. Upregulation of the PI3K/FOXO pathway was established in the IVC groups, demonstrating PF activation, whereas significant pathway downregulation was detected in the FT-CAM group (P<.03). The droplet digital polymerase chain reaction tests confirmed oocyte growth during IVC and follicle autophagy in all groups; however, the PI3K pathway appeared to be differentially modulated in tissues and follicles. CONCLUSIONS In vitro culture induces PF depletion with no additional impact of freezing. Grafting to CAM preserves the PF pool by curbing follicle activation, apoptosis, and autophagy, probably thanks to rapid graft revascularization and/or the circulating embryonic antimüllerian hormone. These findings highlight the importance of enhancing neoangiogenesis in ovarian grafts and investigating the potential benefits of administering antimüllerian hormone to prevent PF burnout.
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Affiliation(s)
- Camille Hossay
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Francesca Tramacere
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Luciana Cacciottola
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Anatomopathology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jean-Luc Squifflet
- Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Jacques Donnez
- Society for Research into Infertility, Brussels, Belgium; Professor Emeritus, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Gynecology Research Unit, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium.
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Moghassemi S, Dadashzadeh A, Camboni A, Feron O, Azevedo RB, Amorim CA. Ex vivo purging of cancer cells from ovarian tissue using photodynamic therapy: a novel strategy to restore fertility in leukemia patients. Hum Reprod Open 2023; 2023:hoad005. [PMID: 36895885 PMCID: PMC9991580 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoad005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2022] [Revised: 02/09/2023] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it possible to purge leukemia cells from ovarian tissue (OT) fragments before transplantation? SUMMARY ANSWER Our photodynamic therapy (PDT) approach has been shown to efficiently destroy leukemia cells from tumor-infiltration mimicking models (TIMs), indicating the feasibility of this technique to purge OT samples. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Autotransplantation of cryopreserved OT is the most suitable option to preserve fertility for prepubertal girls and women who require immediate cancer treatment. Up until now, more than 200 live births have already been reported after OT cryopreservation and transplantation. Leukemia is the 12th most common cancer in Europe among prepubertal girls and women of reproductive age and in 2020, the estimated number of new leukemia cases was higher than 33 000 in girls between 0 and 19 years old. Unfortunately, once their health has been restored, autotransplantation of cryopreserved OT for leukemia patients is not advised due to the high risk of transferring malignant cells back to the patient leading to leukemia recurrence. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION To safely transplant the OT from leukemia patients and restore their fertility, our goal was to develop a PDT strategy to eliminate leukemia ex vivo. To this end, we designed OR141-loaded niosomes (ORN) to create the most effective formulation for ex vivo purging of acute myelogenous leukemia cells from OT fragments (n = 4). Moreover, to ensure that such treatments are not harmful to follicle survival and development so they can be deemed a potential fertility restoration alternative, the effect of the ORN-based PDT purging procedure on follicles was assessed after xenografting the photodynamic-treated OT in SCID mice (n = 5). The work was carried out between September 2020 and April 2022 at the Catholic University of Louvain. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS After establishing the best ORN formulation, our PDT approach was used to eradicate HL60 cells from ex vivo TIMs prepared by microinjection of a cancer cell suspension into OT fragments. The purging efficiency was analyzed by droplet digital polymerase chain reaction and immunohistochemical analyses. Additionally, we evaluated the effect of ORN-based PDT on follicle density, survival and development, and tissue quality in terms of fibrotic areas and vascularization after 7-day xenotransplantation to immunodeficient mice. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The ex vivo purging of TIMs demonstrated that our PDT strategy could selectively eradicate the malignant cells from tissue fragments without affecting OT normal cells, as evidenced by PCR and immunohistochemical analysis. Regarding the effect of our PDT approach on follicle population and OT quality, our results after xenotransplantation revealed no significant difference between the follicle density of control (non-treated, grafted OT) and PDT-treated groups (2.38 ± 0.63 and 3.21 ± 1.94 morphologically normal follicles/mm2, respectively). In addition, our findings showed that the control and PDT-treated OT could be equally vascularized (7.65 ± 1.45% and 9.89 ± 2.21%, respectively). Similarly, the proportions of fibrotic area did not differ between the control (15.96 ± 5.94%) and PDT-treated groups (13.32 ± 3.05%). LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION This study did not use OT fragments from leukemia patients, but TIMs created after injection of HL60 cells into OT from healthy patients. Therefore, while the results are promising, whether our PDT approach will be equally successful in eliminating malignant cells from leukemia patients remains to be assessed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results showed that the purging procedure causes no significant impairment effect on follicle development and tissue quality, suggesting that our novel PDT procedure could be a promising strategy to destroy leukemia cells in fragments of OT, allowing safe transplantation in cancer survivors. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by grants from the Fonds National de la Recherche Scientifique de Belgique (FNRS-PDR Convention grant number T.0004.20 awarded to C.A.A.); Fondation Louvain (awarded to C.A.A.; a Ph.D. scholarship awarded to S.M., as part of a legacy from Mr Frans Heyes, and a Ph.D. scholarship awarded to A.D. as part of a legacy from Mrs. Ilse Schirmer); and Foundation Against Cancer (grant number 2018-042 awarded to A.C.). The authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeid Moghassemi
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Arezoo Dadashzadeh
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.,Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Olivier Feron
- Pôle de Pharmacologie et Thérapeutique, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ricardo Bentes Azevedo
- Laboratory of Nanobiotechnology, Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília DF, Brazil
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Physiopathologie de la Reproduction, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Kitajima M, Murakami N, Kitajima Y, Kajimura I, Matsumura A, Matsumoto K, Harada A, Miura K. Accumulation of fibrosis and altered perifollicular stromal differentiation in vitrified‐thawed human ovarian tissue xenografted to nude mice. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12451. [PMID: 35386365 PMCID: PMC8967281 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Revised: 02/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and its auto‐transplantation is promising technique in fertility preservation. Longevity of grafted tissue is limited though mechanism of follicle reduction is not fully understood. We evaluated histological alteration of vitrified‐thawed ovarian tissue that grafted to nude mice. Materials and Methods Human ovarian tissue was cryopreserved by vitrification. After thawing, they were grafted to mesentery of nude mice. Twelve weeks after transplantation, the implants were removed and histologically examined. The presence of follicles, the degree of fibrosis, and TUNEL staining in surrounding cortex were evaluated. The stromal expressions of alpha‐smooth muscle actin (aSMA) were determined. Results Normal ovarian cortex was decreased, and fibrotic area were significantly increased after grafting. The distributions of developmental stage of follicles shifted toward activation of follicular growth. Stromal TUNEL staining was increased in frozen/thawed tissue. The expression of aSMA were found in perifollicular stroma of growing follicles, which were decreased in grafted tissue associated with reduction of cortical stroma. Conclusions Fibrosis, reduced cortical stroma, and activation of dormant follicles were concomitantly observed in grafted ovarian cortex, which may relate to limited longevity. Perifollicular aSMA expression can be regarded as a marker of the competence of cortical stroma that regulate follicular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michio Kitajima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Naoko Murakami
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Yuriko Kitajima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Itsuki Kajimura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Asako Matsumura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Kanako Matsumoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Ayumi Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
| | - Kiyonori Miura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences Nagasaki Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Nagasaki University Hospital Nagasaki Japan
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Antifreeze Proteins: Novel Applications and Navigation towards Their Clinical Application in Cryobanking. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052639. [PMID: 35269780 PMCID: PMC8910022 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) or thermal hysteresis (TH) proteins are biomolecular gifts of nature to sustain life in extremely cold environments. This family of peptides, glycopeptides and proteins produced by diverse organisms including bacteria, yeast, insects and fish act by non-colligatively depressing the freezing temperature of the water below its melting point in a process termed thermal hysteresis which is then responsible for ice crystal equilibrium and inhibition of ice recrystallisation; the major cause of cell dehydration, membrane rupture and subsequent cryodamage. Scientists on the other hand have been exploring various substances as cryoprotectants. Some of the cryoprotectants in use include trehalose, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethylene glycol (EG), sucrose, propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol but their extensive application is limited mostly by toxicity, thus fueling the quest for better cryoprotectants. Hence, extracting or synthesizing antifreeze protein and testing their cryoprotective activity has become a popular topic among researchers. Research concerning AFPs encompasses lots of effort ranging from understanding their sources and mechanism of action, extraction and purification/synthesis to structural elucidation with the aim of achieving better outcomes in cryopreservation. This review explores the potential clinical application of AFPs in the cryopreservation of different cells, tissues and organs. Here, we discuss novel approaches, identify research gaps and propose future research directions in the application of AFPs based on recent studies with the aim of achieving successful clinical and commercial use of AFPs in the future.
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Terren C, Bindels J, Nisolle M, Noël A, Munaut C. Evaluation of an alternative heterotopic transplantation model for ovarian tissue to test pharmaceuticals improvements for fertility restoration. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:35. [PMID: 35183206 PMCID: PMC8857804 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00910-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2021] [Accepted: 02/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and transplantation (OTCTP) is currently the main option available to preserve fertility in prepubertal patients undergoing aggressive cancer therapy treatments. However, a major limitation of OTCTP is follicle loss after transplantation. The mouse is a model of choice for studying ovarian function and follicle development after ovarian tissue grafting in vivo. In these mouse models, ovarian tissue or ovaries can be transplanted to different sites. Our aim was to evaluate a new alternative to heterotopic transplantation models that could be useful to test pharmaceutical improvement for ovarian grafts after OTCTP. METHODS Slow frozen murine whole ovaries were transplanted into the mouse ears (between the external ear skin layer and the cartilage). Ovarian transplants were recovered after 3, 14 or 21 days. Grafts were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and follicle density analyses were performed. RESULTS An increase of ovarian vascularization (CD31 and Dextran-FITC positive staining), as well as cellular proliferation (Ki67 staining) were observed 3 weeks after transplantation in comparison to 3 days. Fibrosis density, evaluated after Van Gieson staining, decreased 3 weeks after transplantation. Furthermore, transplantation of cryopreserved ovaries into ovariectomized mice favored follicle activation compared to transplantation into non-ovariectomized mice. CONCLUSION The present study indicates that surgical tissue insertion in the highly vascularized murine ear is an effective model for ovarian grafting. This model could be helpful in research to test pharmaceutical strategies to improve the function and survival of cryopreserved and transplanted ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Terren
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie , Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Jules Bindels
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie , Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie , Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de La Citadelle, University of Liège, B-4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Agnès Noël
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie , Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie , Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium.
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8
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Wang J, Zhang Y, Wu C, Li P, Zhang Z, Xu X, Zhou P, Cao Y. Effects of AavLEA1 Protein on Mouse Ovarian Tissue Cryopreservation by Vitrification. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 20:168-175. [PMID: 34788107 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Conventional ovarian tissue cryopreservation often destroys the structural, functional, and DNA integrity of the ovarian tissue. How to effectively retain the ultrastructure and subsequent function of ovarian tissue during cryopreservation has long been an issue of concern. Late embryogenesis abundant (LEA) proteins are a class of highly hydrophilic proteins and have been reported to protect various cells from water stress. However, whether LEA proteins exert protective effects on ovarian tissue cryopreservation remains unknown. To investigate the benefit of LEA proteins in ovarian tissue cryopreservation, we purified the recombinant AavLEA1 protein, a member of Group 3 LEA proteins, then cryopreserved the mouse ovaries with this protein by vitrification, and obtained the ovarian follicle structure, cellular proliferation, apoptosis, and GAPDH gene expression of postcryopreservation ovaries. We found that recombinant AavLEA1 protein protected the ovarian follicles from cryoinjury, improved the proliferative ability of follicles, decreased the apoptosis, and promoted the GAPDH gene expression. These results indicated that the LEA protein enhanced the antiapoptosis ability of ovarian cells and retained DNA/RNA integrity against cryoinjury during ovarian tissue vitrification. LEA proteins exert beneficial effects on ovarian tissue cryopreservation, and maybe provide a novel cryoprotective agent for ovarian tissue cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianye Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yameng Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Caiyun Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Peng Li
- Medical Affair Department, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Xiaofeng Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Province Key Laboratory of Reproductive Health and Genetics, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China.,Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Hefei, China
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Vatanparast M, Karimi Zarchi M, Nabi A, Ali Khalili M. Proliferating cell nuclear antigen presentation, as a marker of folliculogenesis, in the transplanted ovarian tissue. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:4340-4349. [PMID: 34676952 DOI: 10.1111/jog.15022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2020] [Revised: 08/11/2021] [Accepted: 08/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM One of the most important ways to understand the ovarian biology is studding the initiation of primordial follicle development and subsequent folliculogenesis control. In this study, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) presentation was used as a marker of follicular development in the thawed ovarian tissue (OT) following transplantation onto chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) using two methods of freezing of slow freezing and vitrification. METHODS Samples of OT from 10 patients were subjected to slow freezing and vitrification. After warming, CAM transplantation was done and PCNA proliferation index (PI; percent of PCNA-positive granulosa cells) was calculated for each follicle stage. Image J software was used to determine the mean staining intensity. RESULTS PCNA was positive for granulosa cells and oocytes nuclei, but negative for ooplasm. There were no remarkable PCNA staining in the granulosa cells of primordial follicles, but increased significantly as follicle progression (p < 0.05). Proliferation rate was also insignificantly higher in the vitrified than slow freezing group, before and after transplantation (p < 0.05). Lower PCNA presentation index was observed after CAM transplantation (p < 0.05). The earliest stage of follicular recruitment took place in the transitional follicles, before squamous cells transform to cuboidal cells. CONCLUSION PCNA showed that follicles had proliferation power after cryopreservation. Higher presentation after vitrification may indicate accelerated folliculogenesis in the thawed OT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahboubeh Vatanparast
- Molecular Medicine Research Center, Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences, Rafsanjan, Iran
| | - Mojgan Karimi Zarchi
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ali Nabi
- Andrology Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproductive Science Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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Terren C, Nisolle M, Munaut C. Pharmacological inhibition of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and mTOR signalling pathways limits follicle activation induced by ovarian cryopreservation and in vitro culture. J Ovarian Res 2021; 14:95. [PMID: 34275490 PMCID: PMC8287691 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-021-00846-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue (OTCTP) represent a promising fertility preservation technique for prepubertal patients or for patients requiring urgent oncological management. However, a major obstacle of this technique is follicle loss due to, among others, accelerated recruitment of primordial follicles during the transplantation process, leading to follicular reserve loss in the graft and thereby potentially reducing its lifespan. This study aimed to assess how cryopreservation itself impacts follicle activation. RESULTS Western blot analysis of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and mTOR signalling pathways showed that they were activated in mature or juvenile slow-frozen murine ovaries compared to control fresh ovaries. The use of pharmacological inhibitors of follicle signalling pathways during the cryopreservation process decreased cryopreservation-induced follicle recruitment. The second aim of this study was to use in vitro organotypic culture of cryopreserved ovaries and to test pharmacological inhibitors of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt and mTOR pathways. In vitro organotypic culture-induced activation of the PI3K/PTEN/Akt pathway is counteracted by cryopreservation with rapamycin and in vitro culture in the presence of LY294002. These results were confirmed by follicle density quantifications. Indeed, follicle development is affected by in vitro organotypic culture, and PI3K/PTEN/Akt and mTOR pharmacological inhibitors preserve primordial follicle reserve. CONCLUSIONS Our findings support the hypothesis that inhibitors of mTOR and PI3K might be an attractive tool to delay primordial follicle activation induced by cryopreservation and culture, thus preserving the ovarian reserve while retaining follicles in a functionally integrated state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Terren
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie (B23), Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium
| | - Michelle Nisolle
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie (B23), Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hôpital de La Citadelle, University of Liège, B-4000, Liège, Belgium
| | - Carine Munaut
- Laboratory of Tumor and Development Biology, GIGA-Cancer, University of Liège, Tour de Pathologie (B23), Site Sart-Tilman, Building 23/4, Avenue Hippocrate, 13, 4000, Liege, Belgium.
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11
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Kim S, Kim SW, Han SJ, Lee S, Park HT, Song JY, Kim T. Molecular Mechanism and Prevention Strategy of Chemotherapy- and Radiotherapy-Induced Ovarian Damage. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22147484. [PMID: 34299104 PMCID: PMC8305189 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22147484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertility preservation is an emerging discipline, which is of substantial clinical value in the care of young patients with cancer. Chemotherapy and radiation may induce ovarian damage in prepubertal girls and young women. Although many studies have explored the mechanisms implicated in ovarian toxicity during cancer treatment, its molecular pathophysiology is not fully understood. Chemotherapy may accelerate follicular apoptosis and follicle reservoir utilization and damage the ovarian stroma via multiple molecular reactions. Oxidative stress and the radiosensitivity of oocytes are the main causes of gonadal damage after radiation treatment. Fertility preservation options can be differentiated by patient age, desire for conception, treatment regimen, socioeconomic status, and treatment duration. This review will help highlight the importance of multidisciplinary oncofertility strategies for providing high-quality care to young female cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seongmin Kim
- Gynecologic Cancer Center, CHA Ilsan Medical Center, CHA University College of Medicine, 1205 Jungang-ro, Ilsandong-gu, Goyang-si 10414, Korea;
| | - Sung-Woo Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea; (S.-W.K.); (S.-J.H.)
| | - Soo-Jin Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, 101 Daehak-ro, Jongno-gu, Seoul 03080, Korea; (S.-W.K.); (S.-J.H.)
| | - Sanghoon Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +82-2-920-6773
| | - Hyun-Tae Park
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Jae-Yun Song
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
| | - Tak Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Korea University College of Medicine, 73 Inchon-ro, Seongbuk-gu, Seoul 02841, Korea; (H.-T.P.); (J.-Y.S.); (T.K.)
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12
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Masciangelo R, Chiti MC, Philippart C, Amorim CA, Donnez J, Camboni A, Dolmans MM. Follicle populations and vascularization in ovarian tissue of pediatric patients before and after long-term grafting. Fertil Steril 2020; 114:1330-1338. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2020.06.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
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13
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Wall MA, Padmanabhan V, Shikanov A. Hormonal Stimulation of Human Ovarian Xenografts in Mice: Studying Folliculogenesis, Activation, and Oocyte Maturation. Endocrinology 2020; 161:5939202. [PMID: 33099627 PMCID: PMC7671278 DOI: 10.1210/endocr/bqaa194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Ovarian tissue cryopreservation and banking provides a fertility preservation option for patients who cannot undergo oocyte retrieval; it is quickly becoming a critical component of assisted reproductive technology programs across the world. While the transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue has resulted in over 130 live births, the field has ample room for technological improvements. Specifically, the functional timeline of grafted tissue and each patient's probability of achieving pregnancy is largely unpredictable due to patient-to-patient variability in ovarian reserve, lack of a reliable method for quantifying follicle numbers within tissue fragments, potential risk of reintroduction of cancer cells harbored in ovarian tissues, and an inability to control follicle activation rates. This review focuses on one of the most common physiological techniques used to study human ovarian tissue transplantation, xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue to mice and endeavors to inform future studies by discussing the elements of the xenotransplantation model, challenges unique to the use of human ovarian tissue, and novel tissue engineering techniques currently under investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monica Anne Wall
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Vasantha Padmanabhan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
| | - Ariella Shikanov
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Cellular and Molecular Biology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Macromolecular Science and Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA
- Correspondence: Ariella Shikanov, PhD, 2126 LBME, Ann and Robert H. Lurie Biomedical Engineering Building, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA. E-mail:
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Vilela JDMV, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA. Ovarian tissue transportation: a systematic review. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 42:351-365. [PMID: 33288476 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 11/06/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
In recent years, some countries and fertility preservation networks have started adopting 24 h transportation for ovarian tissue, a practice that has the potential to spread very quickly due to the high costs and bureaucracy involved in the establishment of ovarian tissue cryobanks. While pregnancies and live births have been reported after such long periods of transportation, this, however, remains an empirical procedure. This review aims to prompt reflection on ovarian tissue transport, highlighting the lack of knowledge in humans by providing a counterpoint looking into more than 40 studies published in different animal models. By discussing these studies in animals, the findings of various models can be deciphered, and light shed on the patterns identified. Like the development of different assisted reproductive technology procedures, this is an important step in creating guidelines for future studies on human ovarian tissue transportation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christiani Andrade Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium.
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Herraiz S, Monzó S, Gómez-Giménez B, Pellicer A, Díaz-García C. Optimizing ovarian tissue quality before cryopreservation: comparing outcomes of three decortication methods on stromal and follicular viability. Fertil Steril 2020; 113:609-617.e3. [PMID: 32192593 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.10.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 10/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate whether specific ovarian decortication techniques vary in promoting ovarian cortex cryopreservation and transplant outcomes. DESIGN Experimental design. SETTING University hospital. ANIMAL(S) Nonobese diabetic (NOD)/severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) female mice. INTERVENTION(S) Human ovarian biopsy samples allocated to one of the following decortication procedures: scratching with scalpel blade (B), cutting with microsurgical scissors (M), separation with slicer (S), or no-separation (control, C). Parallel, in vivo experiment: decortication techniques combined with slow freezing (SF) and vitrification (VT) before xenograft into immunodeficient mice. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Follicular counts, apoptosis, shear stress, Hippo pathway and inflammation. In vivo: recovered grafts analyzed for follicular counts, angiogenesis, proliferation, and fibrosis. RESULT(S) There were no differences in follicular density or number of damaged follicles between the decortication techniques in the in vitro study. Nevertheless, the M samples showed statistically significantly increased stromal damage compared with the controls and S samples, and up-regulation of Hsp60 shear stress gene expression. Decortication by both M and S inhibited the Hippo pathway, promoting gene expression changes. In the 21-day xenograft, total follicular density statistically significantly decreased compared with the nongrafted controls in all groups. Nevertheless, no differences were observed between the decortication techniques. Ovarian stroma vascularization was increased in the vitrified samples, but among the slow-freezing samples, the B samples had the lowest microvessel density. The M decorticated xenografts had increased fibrosis. CONCLUSION(S) Decortication with a slicer causes less damage to ovarian tissue than other commonly used methods although microsurgical scissors seem to preserve slightly increased follicular numbers. Nevertheless, blade decortication seems to be a reliable technique for maintaining acceptable follicular conditions without inducing serious stromal impairment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonia Herraiz
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain
| | - Susana Monzó
- Fertility Preservation Unit, Women's Health Area, La Fe University Hospital, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Antonio Pellicer
- IVI Foundation, Valencia, Spain; Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain; IVI-RMA Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - César Díaz-García
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, Valencia, Spain; IVI-London, London, United Kingdom.
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Molecular Basis Associated with the Control of Primordial Follicle Activation During Transplantation of Cryopreserved Ovarian Tissue. Reprod Sci 2020; 28:1257-1266. [DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00318-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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17
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Zheng X, Chen J, Yang Y, Pei X, Ma W, Ma H, Hei C, Cai Y, Zhao C, Wang Y, Chang Q. Exogenous luteinizing hormone promotes ovarian survival and function during cryopreservation and transplantation. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 526:424-430. [PMID: 32228888 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Accepted: 03/04/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation and transplantation of the ovarian tissue is an alternative method by which malignant tumor survivors can recover fertility. Previously, it was reported that follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) promoted the survival and functioning of the ovarian tissue after in vitro cultivation. In this study, the expression of the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) was observed on the granule cell membrane after luteinizing hormone (LH) (0.3 IU/mL) was supplied as an exogenous hormone into the cultivation medium during ovarian vitrification in the postnatal period (PND) (1, 7, 14, 21, 28, 42, and 56 days PND). The expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Connexins (Cx), and the recovery of ovarian functions were then assessed in mice models. The results showed that LH increased the production of normal follicles, and upregulated the expression of VEGF, Cx37, and Cx43 in vitrified ovaries. LH administration also shortened the recovery time of the estrus cycle in mice models. Additionally, no difference was observed in the rate of pregnancy and size of the first litter between the experimental and control groups. In conclusion, LH could promote the survival and functioning of the ovaries by upregulating the expression of VEGF, Cx43, and Cx37 during ovarian cryopreservation and transplantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomin Zheng
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China; Research Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Genetic Diseases, The Affiliated Wuxi Maternity and Child Health Care Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Wuxi, 214002, China.
| | - Jie Chen
- Department of Human Anatomy, Inner Mongolia Medical University, Hohhot, Inner Mongolia, China
| | - Yanzhou Yang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Xiuying Pei
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Wenzhi Ma
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Huiming Ma
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Changchun Hei
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Yufang Cai
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Chengjun Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China
| | - Yanrong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
| | - Qing Chang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation and Maintenance of Ministry of Education, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Department II of Surgical Oncology, Ningxia Medical University, Yinchuan, 750004, China.
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Hypothermic machine perfusion after static cold storage improves ovarian function in rat ovarian tissue transplantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1745-1753. [PMID: 32430732 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01797-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/24/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study was performed to investigate the effect of hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP) after cold storage (CS) on ovarian transplantation. METHODS Rats aged 8-10 weeks were used as the donors and recipients for allotransplantation. Eighteen donor rats were divided into three groups: the fresh control (n = 6), cold storage (CS; n = 6), and hypothermic machine perfusion (HMP; n = 6) groups. The preservation solution contained Dulbecco's modified Eagle's medium/Ham's F-12 (1:1, v/v), 10% fetal bovine serum, 10 μg/ml insulin, 10 μg/ml transferrin, and 50 mIU/ml follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The donor ovaries in the CS and HMP groups were excised and then respectively subjected to 4 h of CS and 2 h of CS combined with 2 h of HMP at 4 °C, and then transplanted beneath the recipient's left renal capsule. At 7 days after transplantation, the ovaries were removed and blood samples were obtained for histological analysis, immunohistochemistry for CD31 and Ki67, and serum anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH) level estimation. RESULTS The HMP group showed significant increases in serum AMH and CD31-positive areas when compared to these values in the CS group (P < 0.05). However, no differences were noted in the total number of follicles or the Ki67-positive areas among the three groups. CONCLUSION Hypothermic machine perfusion after static cold storage is more effective than static CS alone for the short-term preservation of whole ovaries during transport. Whole ovary transplantation with vascular pedicle is our future research direction. Graphical Abstract The black rectangle in the figure shows the place where ligation and disconnection are required, the black dotted line shows the place where vascular forceps are used to clamp, and the black circle shows the place where the cannula is inserted This diagram was made for reviewers to understand more intuitively how my hypothermia mechanical perfusion model was built. Organs obtained in this way can be used for subsequent perfusion and whole ovarian transplantation.
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F. Sobrinho C, Knackfuss F, Souza P, Torres T, Ramos A, Dias L, Ferreira J, Pires I. Avaliação da técnica de vitrificação de ovários de camundongos da linhagem B6D2F1, pertencentes ao Instituto de Ciência e Tecnologia em Biomodelos - ICTB/Fiocruz-RJ. ARQ BRAS MED VET ZOO 2020. [DOI: 10.1590/1678-4162-10935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
RESUMO Objetivou-se testar a vitrificação de ovários de camundongos do ICTB/Fiocruz. Inicialmente, fez-se coleta e maturação in vitro dos oócitos de ovários a fresco e vitrificados, bem como avaliação de estruturas no cultivo embrionário, pós-fertilização in vitro. Fêmeas B6D2F1 foram eutanasiadas para remoção dos ovários (n=60) e divididas em três grupos: grupo 1 (n=30 animais) - oócito de ovários vitrificados, maturados e fertilizados in vitro (120 fragmentos); grupo 2 (n=15) (controle 1) - oócitos coletados a fresco, maturados e fertilizados in vitro; e grupo 3 (n=15) (controle 2) - oócitos maturados in vivo e fertilizados in vitro. A técnica foi verificada no desenvolvimento embrionário in vitro, que foi avaliado pelo teste de qui-quadrado (BioStat 5.0). Recuperaram-se 123, 224 e 328 oócitos nos G1, G2 e G3, respectivamente. Observaram-se diferenças significativas nas taxas de clivagem às 24 horas (embriões ≥ 2 células) entre G1 (8%) e G2 (32%) (P<0,1) e G1 e G3 (49%) (P<0,05), mas não entre G2 e G3 (P>0,05). Para blastocistos, às 96 horas, os grupos G1, G2 e G3 apresentaram, respectivamente, 6%, 11% e 46%, diferindo significativamente entre eles (P<0,05). A vitrificação de ovários, a maturação oocitária e a fertilização in vitro são alternativas para a produção de embriões de camundongos in vitro.
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Kolbe T, Walter I, Rülicke T. Influence of graft size, histocompatibility,and cryopreservation on reproductive outcome following ovary transplantation in mice. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:2583-2591. [PMID: 31741257 PMCID: PMC6910892 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01620-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Transplantation of ovarian tissue is a valuable method to rescue mouse strains with fertility problems and to revitalize archived strains. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of (i) different sizes of transplanted ovary pieces on reproductive outcome, (ii) use of immunodeficient recipients to overcome the limitation of histocompatibility, and (iii) to compare different protocols for cryopreservation of ovarian tissue. Methods Halves, quarters, and eights of mouse ovaries were transplanted. Half ovaries from B6 donors were transferred into immunodeficient mice. Halves of ovaries were frozen according to four different protocols, thawed and transferred. Results Pregnancy rate after transplantation of ovarian tissue was high (90–100%) independent of the transplant size. Although, the average litter size was significantly lower for recipients of quarters and eights (4.4 and 4.6 vs. 6.5), the total number of offspring produced per donor ovary was higher compared with recipients of halves. Pregnancy rate of immunodeficient recipients was 40% (mean 4.7 offspring per litter). All four cryopreservation protocols used were able to preserve functionality of the ovarian tissue. Conclusions Transplantation of ovarian tissue smaller than halves resulted in reduced litter sizes. The distribution of ovarian tissue of one donor female to 4 or 8 recipients will therefore yield in a higher total number of offspring in a certain time period. The use of immunodeficient recipients is an option for non-histocompatible donors. Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is generally feasible but the function of frozen-thawed ovary halves after transplantation differs depending on the freezing protocol used.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Kolbe
- Biomodels Austria, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria. .,Department IFA Tulln, University of Natural Resources and Life Sciences, Tulln, Austria.
| | - I Walter
- Vetcore (VetBioBank), University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - T Rülicke
- Institute of Laboratory Animal Science, University of Veterinary Medicine Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Kristensen SG, Liu Q, Mamsen LS, Greve T, Pors SE, Bjørn AB, Ernst E, Macklon KT, Andersen CY. A simple method to quantify follicle survival in cryopreserved human ovarian tissue. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:2276-2284. [PMID: 30358835 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 10/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can follicle survival in frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue be quantified in situ using the dye Neutral Red (NR) to stain viable follicles specifically? SUMMARY ANSWER A follicle survival rate within ovarian tissue can be calculated using NR followed by histological evaluation and evidence for a consistently high follicle survival in a series of ovarian tissue from 25 Danish girls and women undergoing ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) was obtained. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Securing follicle survival in cryopreserved ovarian tissue is crucial for proper quality control when centers wish to implement OTC. The only established technique for validation of follicle survival is xenografting of thawed ovarian tissue to immunodeficient mice. However, this functional test is expensive, time consuming, requires animal facilities and only provides a qualitative-not quantitative-measure for follicle survival. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION Quantification of follicle survival in human ovarian tissue donated from 30 girls and women having tissue cryopreserved for fertility preservation from 2000 to 2015 at the Laboratory of Reproductive Biology in Copenhagen, Denmark. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Cryopreserved ovarian cortex was donated from 25 girls and young women aged 10-36 years (mean age: 25 years) and the average storage time in liquid nitrogen was 9.1 ± 5.6 years, ranging from 1.6 to 17.9 years. In 12 of the cases, the ovarian tissue was collected from the local hospital and in the other 13 cases the ovarian tissue was transported on ice up to 6 h prior to freezing. Donated fresh ovarian surplus tissue was obtained from five women aged 23-34 years (mean age: 27 years). Ovarian tissues were chopped into small fragments and incubated in culture medium containing 50 mg/ml NR for 3-4 h. Fragments of ovarian tissue containing clearly NR-stained follicles were selected for counting, encapsulated in 4% agar and were processed for histology to calculate a follicular survival rate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The mean follicle survival rate in the 25 patients after freezing and thawing was 84% ± 11 (mean ±SD), ranging from 50% to 98%. The high follicle survival rate in this clinical series of patients reflects a constant high-quality service performed in our center and confirms the robustness of the slow freezing protocol. No significant association between follicle survival rates and storage time was found using linear regression analysis, suggesting that storage in liquid nitrogen does not affect viability of the tissue. No significant association in follicle survival rates was found between ovarian tissues collected at the local hospital compared to tissues transported on ice prior to freezing, supporting that prolonged cooling does not seem to greatly affect the follicle survival. For the fresh ovarian tissue, the average follicle survival rate was 91% ± 5 (mean ± SD) in five patients, ranging from 81% to 95%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Even though the NR staining requires active incorporation of the dye, the test is merely a short in situ test that cannot completely replace the functional value of xenografting studies in which the integrity and developmental potential of the ovarian follicles are assessed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS OTC is now being employed around the world but to date it has been difficult for centers to evaluate the effectiveness of their program and perform proper quality control. NR staining combined with histological evaluation is the first quantitative method to provide a survival rate for follicles in frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue and offer a valuable and easily applicable tool to validate the cryopreservation procedure when implementing OTC or as routine quality control for the overall freezing performance within tissue banking facilities. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The Research Pools of Rigshospitalet, the Danish Cancer Foundation, Dagmar Marshalls Foundation, and the Novo Nordic Foundation are thanked for having funded this study. The authors have no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- S G Kristensen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Q Liu
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Department of Gynecological Minimal Invasive Center, Beijing Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, China
| | - L S Mamsen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - T Greve
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - S E Pors
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A B Bjørn
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - E Ernst
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark.,The Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Horsens, Denmark
| | - K T Macklon
- The Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - C Y Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health Science, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Rivas Leonel EC, Lucci CM, Amorim CA. Cryopreservation of Human Ovarian Tissue: A Review. Transfus Med Hemother 2019; 46:173-181. [PMID: 31244585 PMCID: PMC6558345 DOI: 10.1159/000499054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue has been increasingly applied worldwide to safeguard fertility in cancer patients, notably in young girls and women who cannot delay the onset of their treatment. Moreover, it has been proposed to patients with benign pathologies with a risk of premature ovarian insufficiency. So far, more than 130 live births have been reported after transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue, and almost all patients recovered their ovarian function after tissue reimplantation. SUMMARY This review aims to summarize the recent results described in the literature regarding human ovarian tissue cryopreservation in terms of methods and main results obtained so far. To cryopreserve human ovarian tissue, most studies describe a slow freezing/rapid thawing protocol, which is usually an adaptation of a protocol developed for sheep ovarian tissue. Since freezing has been shown to have a deleterious effect on ovarian stroma and granulosa cells, various research groups have been vitrifying ovarian tissue. Despite promising results, only 2 babies have been born after transplantation of vitrified/warmed ovarian tissue. Optimization of both cryopreservation strategies as well as thawing/warming protocols is therefore necessary to improve the survival of follicles in cryopreserved ovarian tissue. KEY MESSAGES Human ovarian tissue cryopreservation has been successfully applied worldwide to preserve fertility in patients with malignant or nonmalignant pathologies that have a detrimental effect on fertility. Human ovarian tissue cryopreservation could also be applied as an alternative to postpone pregnancy or menopause in healthy women. Slow freezing and vitrification procedures have been applied to cryopreserve human ovarian tissue, but both alternatives require optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Institute of Biosciences, Department of Biology, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Carolina M. Lucci
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Christiani A. Amorim
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Ishak GM, Bashir ST, Dutra GA, Gastal GDA, Gastal MO, Cavinder CA, Feugang JM, Gastal EL. In vivo antral follicle wall biopsy: a new research technique to study ovarian function at the cellular and molecular levels. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:71. [PMID: 30055625 PMCID: PMC6064614 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0380-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In vivo studies involving molecular markers of the follicle wall associated with follicular fluid (FF) milieu are crucial for a better understanding of follicle dynamics. The inability to obtain in vivo samples of antral follicle wall (granulosa and theca cells) without jeopardizing ovarian function has restricted advancement in knowledge of folliculogenesis in several species. The purpose of this study in mares was to develop and validate a novel, minimally invasive in vivo technique for simultaneous collection of follicle wall biopsy (FWB) and FF samples, and repeated collection from the same individual, during different stages of antral follicle development. We hypothesized that the in vivo FWB technique provides samples that maintain the normal histological tissue structure of the follicle wall layers, offers sufficient material for various cellular and molecular techniques, and allows simultaneous retrieval of FF. METHODS In Experiment 1 (ex vivo), each follicle was sampled using two techniques: biopsy forceps and scalpel blade (control). In Experiment 2 (in vivo), FWB and FF samples from 10-, 20-, and 30-mm follicles were repeatedly and simultaneously obtained through transvaginal ultrasound-guided technique. RESULTS In Experiment 1, the thickness of granulosa, theca interna, and theca externa layers was not influenced (P > 0.05) by the harvesting techniques. In Experiment 2, the overall recovery rates of FWB and FF samples were 97 and 100%, respectively. However, the success rate of obtaining samples with all layers of the follicle wall and clear FF varied according to follicle size. The expression of luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) was mostly confined in the theca interna layer, with the estradiol-related receptor alpha (ERRα) in the granulosa and theca interna layers. The 30-mm follicle group had greater (P < 0.05) LHR expression in the theca interna and ERRα in the granulosa layer compared to the other groups. The overall expression of LHR and ERRα, and the intrafollicular estradiol were higher (P < 0.05 - P < 0.0001) in the 30-mm follicle group. CONCLUSION The in vivo technique developed in this study can be repeatedly and simultaneously used to provide sufficient FWB and FF samples for various cellular and molecular studies without jeopardizing the ovarian function, and has the potential to be translated to other species, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Ishak
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
- Department of Surgery and Obstetrics, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq
| | - S T Bashir
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
| | - G A Dutra
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
| | - G D A Gastal
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
| | - M O Gastal
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA
| | - C A Cavinder
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - J M Feugang
- Department of Animal and Dairy Sciences, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, USA
| | - E L Gastal
- Department of Animal Science, Food and Nutrition, Southern Illinois University, 1205 Lincoln Drive, MC 4417, Carbondale, IL, 62901, USA.
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Schmidt VM, Isachenko V, Rappl G, Rahimi G, Hanstein B, Morgenstern B, Mallmann P, Isachenko E. Comparison of the enzymatic efficiency of Liberase TM and tumor dissociation enzyme: effect on the viability of cells digested from fresh and cryopreserved human ovarian cortex. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2018; 16:57. [PMID: 29859539 PMCID: PMC5985056 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-018-0374-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2017] [Accepted: 05/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The aim of this study was to examine the effectiveness of Tumor Dissociation Enzyme (TDE) on the viability of follicles after digestion of fresh and cryopreserved ovarian cortex fragments (OCFs). METHODS Fresh and thawed OCF from 14 patients (29 ± 6 years), sized 20 to 210 mm3 were randomly distributed into four treatment groups and digested with 16% TDE or 0.05 mg/ml Liberase TM: Group 1, frozen OCF digested with TDE; Group 2, frozen OCF digested with LiberaseTM; Group 3, fresh OCF digested with TDE; and Group 4, fresh OCF digested with Liberase TM. Evaluation of follicle viability was performed under light microscope after staining with Neutral red. For visualization of viable and dead cells under a confocal laser scanning microscope, the follicles were stained with Calcein AM and ethidium homodimer-1. RESULTS The results showed that the number of retrieved follicles was significantly higher (990 vs 487; P < 0.01) in the TDE-treatment group compared to the Liberase TM-group. The presence of intense neutral red stained follicles was significantly higher in Group 1 and Group 3 compared to Group 2 and Group 4 (70.3% ± +/- 6.22 vs 53,1% ± 2.03 and 94.2% ± 6.6 vs 79.1% ± 2.1; P < 0.01). The percentage of Calcein AM stained follicles of class V1 was significantly higher in Group 1 and Group 3 compared to Group 2 and Group 4 (95.97% ± 7.8 vs 87.87% ± 2.4; 97.1% ± 6.8 vs 91.3% ± 2.3; P < 0.01). CONCLUSION The enzymatic digestion of ovarian cortex with TDE provides recovery of a higher number of healthy preantral follicles in contrast to earlier described Liberase TM procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Viola Maria Schmidt
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gunter Rappl
- Cell Sort Service Department, Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne University (CMMC), Robert Koch Str. 21, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bettina Hanstein
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Bernd Morgenstern
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine and IVF-Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Maternal Hospital, Cologne University, Kerpener Str. 34, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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Man L, Park L, Bodine R, Ginsberg M, Zaninovic N, Schattman G, Schwartz RE, Rosenwaks Z, James D. Co-transplantation of Human Ovarian Tissue with Engineered Endothelial Cells: A Cell-based Strategy Combining Accelerated Perfusion with Direct Paracrine Delivery. J Vis Exp 2018:57472. [PMID: 29863664 PMCID: PMC6101226 DOI: 10.3791/57472] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility is a frequent side effect of chemotherapy and/or radiotherapy and for some patients, cryopreservation of oocytes or embryos is not an option. As an alternative, an increasing number of these patients are choosing to cryopreserve ovarian tissue for autograft following recovery and remission. Despite improvements in outcomes among patients undergoing auto-transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue, efficient revascularization of grafted tissue remains a major obstacle. To mitigate ischemia and thus improve outcomes in patients undergoing auto-transplantation, we developed a vascular cell-based strategy for accelerating perfusion of ovarian tissue. We describe a method for co-transplantation of exogenous endothelial cells (ExECs) with cryopreserved ovarian tissue in a mouse xenograft model. We extend this approach to employ ExECs that have been engineered to constitutively express Anti-Mullerian hormone (AMH), thus enabling sustained paracrine signaling input to ovarian grafts. Co-transplantation with ExECs increased follicular volume and improved antral follicle development, and AMH-expressing ExECs promoted retention of quiescent primordial follicles. This combined strategy may be a useful tool for mitigating ischemia and modulating follicular activation in the context of fertility preservation and/or infertility at large.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limor Man
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Laura Park
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Richard Bodine
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | | | - Nikica Zaninovic
- Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Glenn Schattman
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Robert E Schwartz
- Joan and Sanford I. Weill Department of Medicine, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College; Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medical College
| | - Daylon James
- Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility, Weill Cornell Medical College; Tri-Institutional Stem Cell Derivation Laboratory, Weill Cornell Medical College;
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Abedpour N, Salehnia M, Ghorbanmehr N. The Effects of Lysophosphatidic Acid on The Incidence of Cell Death in Cultured Vitrified and Non-Vitrified Mouse Ovarian Tissue: Separation of Necrosis and Apoptosis Border. CELL JOURNAL 2018; 20:403-411. [PMID: 29845795 PMCID: PMC6005000 DOI: 10.22074/cellj.2018.5180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Objective The aim of the present study was to examine whether lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) could decrease cell death and improve in vitro culture (IVC) conditions in cultured vitrified mouse ovarian tissue. Materials and Methods In this experimental study, we collected and randomly divided 7-day-old mouse ovarian tissues into vitrified and non-vitrified groups. The ovaries were cultured in the presence and absence of LPA for one week. Morphology and follicular development were evaluated by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and Masson's trichrome (MTC) staining. The incidence of cell death was assessed by flow cytometry using annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) and a caspase-3/7 assay in all studied groups. Results The vitrified groups had a significantly decreased follicle developmental rate compared to the non-vitrified groups (P<0.05). Overall, qualitative and quantitative results showed prominent follicular degeneration in the vitrified groups compared with the respective non-vitrified groups. Both LPA treated groups had a significantly higher proportion of preantral follicles compared to the non-LPA treated groups (P<0.05). Flow cytometry analysis results showed significantly greater early and late apoptotic cells in all groups (17.83 ± 8.80%) compared to necrotic cells (7.97 ± 0.92%, P<0.05). The percentage of these cells significantly increased in the vitrified groups compared with non-vitrified groups. LPA treated groups had a lower percentage of these cells compared to non-LPA treated groups (P<0.05). The lower enzyme activity was observed in non-vitrified (especially in the LPA+ groups) cultured ovaries compared to the vitrified group (P<0.05). Conclusion Both vitrification and IVC adversely affected cell survival and caused cell death. We postulated that LPA supplementation of culture medium could improve the developmental rate of follicles and act as an anti-cell death factor in non-vitrified and vitrified ovarian tissues. It could be used for in vitro maturation of ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neda Abedpour
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mojdeh Salehnia
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medical Sciences, Tarbiat Modares University, Tehran, Iran. Electronic Address:
| | - Nassim Ghorbanmehr
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Alzahra University, Tehran, Iran
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Barzegar MH, Khazali H, Khazali H, Kalantar SM. Effect of Citrullus colocynthis hydro-alcoholic extract on hormonal and folliculogenesis process in estradiol valerate-induced PCOs rats model: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.10.9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/31/2022] Open
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28
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Barzegar MH, Khazali H, Kalantar SM, Khoradmehr A. Effect of Citrullus colocynthis hydro-alcoholic extract on hormonal and folliculogenesis process in estradiol valerate-induced PCOs rats model: An experimental study. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017; 15:661-668. [PMID: 29387832 PMCID: PMC5767647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Citrullus colocynthis (CCT) is used as the anti-diabetic and antioxidant agent. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a reproductive disorder which level of gonadotropins and sexual hormones are imbalanced. OBJECTIVE We evaluated the effect of CCT hydro-alcoholic extract on hormonal and folliculogenesis process in estradiol valerate-induced PCOs rats' model. MATERIALS AND METHODS 40 female adult Wistar rats divided into five groups (n=8each: Group I (control) only injected by sesame oil as estradiol valerate solvent, group II (Sham) was orally received normal saline after estradiol valerate- induced polycystic ovarian syndrome (4 mg/rat estradiol valerate, intramuscularly), and three experimental groups, that after induction of PCOS within 60 days, received orally 50 mg/kg CCT extract (group III), 50mg/kg metformin (group IV), and CCT extract+ metformin (group V) for 20 days. The serum concentration level of luteinizing, testosterone and follicle stimulating hormones were measured using ELISA method and the serum concentration level of glucose were measured using the oxidative method (glucose meter). Histological study of ovary tissue carried out by hematoxylin-eosin staining. RESULTS There was a significant reduction in luteinizing hormone and testosterone in III-V groups compared to Sham group, whereas follicle stimulating hormone in III-V groups was not significantly changed in comparison with Sham group. Histological investigations showed a significant increase in number of preantral and antral follicles and corpus luteum in the experimental groups compared to group II. CONCLUSION Marked improvement in hormonal and histological symptoms of PCOS may be due to CCT effects hence, CCT can potentially be considered as an effective drug for treatment of PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Homayoun Khazali
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Biological Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran.
| | - Seyyed Mehdi Kalantar
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproduction Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Arezoo Khoradmehr
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Yazd Reproduction Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
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Engineered endothelium provides angiogenic and paracrine stimulus to grafted human ovarian tissue. Sci Rep 2017; 7:8203. [PMID: 28811567 PMCID: PMC5557862 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-08491-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite major advances in tissue cryopreservation and auto-transplantation, reperfusion ischemia and hypoxia have been reported as major obstacles to successful recovery of the follicular pool within grafted ovarian tissue. We demonstrate a benefit to follicular survival and function in human ovarian tissue that is co-transplanted with exogenous endothelial cells (ExEC). ExECs were capable of forming functionally perfused vessels at the host/graft interface and increased both viability and follicular volume in ExEC-assisted grafts with resumption of antral follicle development in long-term grafts. ExECs that were engineered to constitutively express anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) induced a greater proportion of quiescent primordial follicles than control ExECs, indicating suppression of premature mobilization that has been noted in the context of ovarian tissue transplantation. These findings present a cell-based strategy that combines accelerated perfusion with direct paracrine delivery of a bioactive payload to transplanted ovarian tissue.
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Abstract
Constant progress in the diagnosis and treatment of cancer disease has increased the number and prognosis of cancer survivors. However, the toxic effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy on ovarian function have resulted in premature ovarian failure. Patients are, therefore, still expecting methods to be developed to preserve their fertility successfully. Several potential options are available to preserve fertility in patients who face premature ovarian failure, including immature or mature oocyte and embryo cryopreservation. However, for children or prepubertal women needing immediate chemotherapy, cryopreservation of ovarian tissue is the only alternative. The ultimate aim of this strategy is to implant ovarian tissue into the pelvic cavity (orthotopic site) or in a heterotopic site once oncological treatment is completed and the patient is disease free. Transplantation of ovarian tissue with sufficiently large numbers of follicles could potentially restore endocrine function and allow multiple cycles for conception. However, the success of ovarian tissue transplantation still has multiple challenges, such as the low number of follicles in the graft that may affect their longevity as well as the survival of the tissue during ex vivo processing and subsequent transplantation. Therefore, this review aims to summarize the achievements of ovary grafting and the potential techniques that have been developed to improve ovarian graft survival.
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31
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Kristensen SG, Giorgione V, Humaidan P, Alsbjerg B, Bjørn AMB, Ernst E, Andersen CY. Fertility preservation and refreezing of transplanted ovarian tissue—a potential new way of managing patients with low risk of malignant cell recurrence. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:1206-1213. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.03.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2017] [Revised: 03/01/2017] [Accepted: 03/10/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Ayuandari S, Winkler-Crepaz K, Paulitsch M, Wagner C, Zavadil C, Manzl C, Ziehr SC, Wildt L, Hofer-Tollinger S. Follicular growth after xenotransplantation of cryopreserved/thawed human ovarian tissue in SCID mice: dynamics and molecular aspects. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1585-1593. [PMID: 27465301 PMCID: PMC5171895 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0769-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2016] [Accepted: 07/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose To study the influence of xenotransplantation on follicular recruitment and growth in cryopreserved/thawed human ovarian tissue. Method Two 3-mm pieces of cryopreserved/thawed human ovarian tissue obtained from female cancer patients (n = 11) were xenotransplanted into a subcutaneous neck pouch of 6-week-old ovarectomized SCID mice (n = 33) for 4 (n = 18) and 12 (n = 15) weeks. Result Thirty-two out of 33 mice survived the entire observation periods. Graft recovery rate was 95.58 % (65 of 68 grafts). The percentages of primordial follicles after 4 weeks (P < 0.001) and 12 weeks (P = 0.009) of grafting were significantly lower in comparison to pregraft controls. The percentage of secondary follicle was significantly higher after 4 weeks of grafting (P = 0.018) and after 12 weeks (P = 0.001) of grafting in comparison to pregraft controls. Ki67 immunohistochemistry showed that proliferative follicles were significantly higher after 4 and 12 weeks of grafting compared to pregraft controls (P < 0.001). All follicles analyzed by TUNEL staining appeared healthy after xenotransplantation. The expression level of PTEN was reduced by 2.47-fold after 4 weeks of xenotransplantation, and this result was significant when 2−ΔCt were analyzed (P = 0.042). Conclusion The higher proportion of growing follicles compared to resting follicles observed after xenotransplantation is most likely due to downregulation of PTEN gene expression followed by acceleration of follicular recruitment. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s10815-016-0769-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarrah Ayuandari
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Gadjah Mada University, Jl. Farmako, 55281, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Katharina Winkler-Crepaz
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Monika Paulitsch
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.,Institute of Zoology, University of Innsbruck, Technikerstr. 25, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Cora Wagner
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Zavadil
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstr. 44, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Claudia Manzl
- Department of Pathology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Müllerstr. 44, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stephanie C Ziehr
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria.,A.R.T. Bogenhausen, Prinzregentenstr. 69, 81675, Munich, Germany
| | - Ludwig Wildt
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Susanne Hofer-Tollinger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstr. 35, 6020, Innsbruck, Austria
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Lee J, Kong HS, Kim EJ, Youm HW, Lee JR, Suh CS, Kim SH. Ovarian injury during cryopreservation and transplantation in mice: a comparative study between cryoinjury and ischemic injury. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:1827-37. [PMID: 27312534 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2015] [Accepted: 05/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the main cause of ovarian injury during cryopreservation and transplantation in mice: cryoinjury or ischemic injury? SUMMARY ANSWER Post-transplantation ischemia is the main cause of ovarian injury during cryopreservation and transplantation for restoring ovarian function. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY During cryopreservation and the transplantation of ovaries, cryoinjury and ischemic injury inevitably occur, which has a detrimental effect on ovarian quality and reserve. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 80 B6D2F1 female mice were randomly allocated to 2 control and 6 experimental groups according to the presence or the absence of transplantation (n = 10/group). The control groups consisted of fresh or vitrified-warmed controls that had the whole ovary fixed without transplantation (fresh and vitri-con, respectively). The experimental groups were further divided according to the presence of vitrification (fresh or vitrified-warmed) and the transplantation period (2 [D2], 7 [D7] or 21 [D21] days). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In the control groups, fresh and vitrified-warmed ovaries were immediately fixed after the collection (fresh) and the vitrification-warming process (vitrification control, vitri-con), respectively. Of those experimental groups, three were auto-transplanted with fresh whole ovary (FrOT; FrOT-D2, FrOT-D7 and FrOT-D21). For the other three groups, the ovaries were harvested and stored in liquid nitrogen for 1 week after vitrification and then warmed to auto-transplant the vitrified whole ovaries (vitrified ovary [VtOT]; VtOT-D2, VtOT-D7 and VtOT-D21). After 2, 7 or 21 days of grafting, the grafts and blood sera were collected for analysis by hematoxylin-eosin staining, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling assay, CD31 immunohistochemistry and follicle-stimulating hormone enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The vitrification-warming procedure decreased the proportion of intact follicles (Grade 1, G1) (vitri-con 50.3% versus fresh 64.2%) but there was a larger decrease due to ischemic injury after transplantation (FrOT-D2: 42.5%). The percentage of apoptotic follicles was significantly increased in the vitrified-warmed ovary group compared with the fresh control, but it increased more after transplantation without vitrification (fresh: 0.9%, vitri-con: 6.0% and FrOT-D2: 26.8%). The mean number of follicles per section and percentage of CD31-positive area significantly decreased after vitrification but decreased to a larger extent after transplantation (number of follicles, fresh: 30.3 ± 3.6, vitri-con: 20.6 ± 2.9, FrOT-D2: 17.9 ± 2.1; CD31-positive area, fresh: 10.6 ± 1.3%, vitri-con: 5.7 ± 0.9% and FrOT-D2: 4.2 ± 0.4%). Regarding the G1 follicle ratio and CD31-positive area per graft, only the FrOT groups significantly recovered with time after transplantation (G1 follicle ratio, FrOT-D2: 42.5%, FrOT-D7: 56.1% and FrOT-D21: 70.7%; CD31-positive area, FrOT-D2: 4.2 ± 0.4%, FrOT-D7: 5.4 ± 0.6% and FrOT-D21: 7.5 ± 0.8%). Although there was no significant difference between the two transplantation groups at each evaluation, the serum follicle-stimulating hormone level of both groups significantly decreased over time. LIMITATIONS AND REASONS FOR CAUTION It is unclear how far these results can be extrapolated from mice to the human ovary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Minimizing ischemic injury should be the first priority rather than preventing cryoinjury alone, and decreasing the combination of cryoinjury and ischemic injury is necessary to improve ovarian quality after cryopreservation and transplantation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST This study was supported by a grant of the Korea Healthcare Technology R&D Project, Ministry of Health & Welfare, Republic of Korea (HI12C0055). The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaewang Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Hyun Sun Kong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Eun Jung Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Hye Won Youm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea
| | - Jung Ryeol Lee
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Chang Suk Suh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Bundang Hospital, 300 Gumi-dong, Bundang-gu, Seongnam 463-707, Korea Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
| | - Seok Hyun Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 110-744, Korea
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Zeng YC, Tang HR, Zeng LP, Chen Y, Wang GP, Wu RF. Assessment of the effect of different vitrification solutions on human ovarian tissue after short-term xenotransplantation onto the chick embryo chorioallantoic membrane. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:359-69. [PMID: 26924442 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2015] [Accepted: 02/20/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Cui Zeng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Hui-Ru Tang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
- Section of Gynecological Endocrinology Medicine; Shenzhen China
| | - Li-Ping Zeng
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
- Section of Gynecological Endocrinology Medicine; Shenzhen China
| | - Yun Chen
- Department of Ultrasound; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
| | - Guo-Ping Wang
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
- Section of Gynecological Endocrinology Medicine; Shenzhen China
| | - Rui-Fang Wu
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics; Peking University Shenzhen Hospital; Shenzhen China
- Key Laboratory of Gynecological Diagnostic Technology Research; Shenzhen China
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Morphometric characteristics of preantral and antral follicles and expression of factors involved in folliculogenesis in ovaries of adult baboons (Papio anubis). J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:617-626. [PMID: 26945754 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0681-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2015] [Accepted: 02/22/2016] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Baboons are commonly utilized as an animal model for studies of human reproduction. However, folliculogenesis in this species has not been fully documented. The aim of this study was to assess follicle morphometry and expression of essential proteins involved in folliculogenesis in baboons. METHODS Ovaries were recovered from four adult baboons and processed for histological evaluation and immunohistochemical analyses. Follicle proportion, follicle and oocyte diameter, theca layer thickness, number of granulosa cells, and follicle density were calculated. Immunohistochemical staining was also carried out for connexin 43 (Cx43), aromatase, and zona pellucida 3 (ZP3). RESULTS A total of 2221 follicles were counted and measured. Proportions of primordial, primary, secondary, small antral, and large antral follicles were 49, 26, 23, 1, and 1 %, respectively. The increase in follicle diameter was due not only to the increase in oocyte diameter but also to granulosa cell proliferation. Almost all antral follicles were positive for Cx43 (89.8 %), aromatase (84.8 %), and ZP3 (100 %). Most secondary follicles were positive for Cx43 (65 %) and ZP3 (64.5 %), and some primary follicles were positive only for Cx43. No primordial follicles stained positive in any of these immunohistochemical analyses. Only antral follicles showed aromatase activity. CONCLUSIONS On the basis of these results, we can conclude that folliculogenesis in baboons appears to be similar to that in humans, and this animal therefore constitutes a valuable model.
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Talevi R, Barbato V, Fiorentino I, Braun S, De Stefano C, Ferraro R, Sudhakaran S, Gualtieri R. Successful slush nitrogen vitrification of human ovarian tissue. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:1523-1531.e1. [PMID: 26902858 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether slush nitrogen vitrification improves the preservation of human ovarian tissue. DESIGN Control vs. treatment study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Ovarian biopsies collected from nine women (aged 14-35 years) during laparoscopic surgery for benign gynecologic conditions. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ovarian cortical strips of 2 × 5 × 1 mm were vitrified with liquid or slush nitrogen. Fresh and vitrified cortical strips were analyzed for cryodamage and viability under light, confocal, and transmission electron microscopy. RESULT(S) Compared with liquid nitrogen, vitrification with slush nitrogen preserves [1] follicle quality (grade 1 follicles: fresh control, 50%; liquid nitrogen, 27%; slush nitrogen, 48%); [2] granulosa cell ultrastructure (intact cells: fresh control, 92%; liquid nitrogen, 45%; slush nitrogen, 73%), stromal cell ultrastructure (intact cells: fresh control, 59.8%; liquid nitrogen, 24%; slush nitrogen, 48.7%), and DNA integrity (TUNEL-positive cells: fresh control, 0.5%; liquid nitrogen, 2.3%; slush nitrogen, 0.4%); and [3] oocyte, granulosa, and stromal cell viability (oocyte: fresh control, 90%; liquid nitrogen, 63%; slush nitrogen, 87%; granulosa cells: fresh control, 93%; liquid nitrogen, 53%; slush nitrogen, 81%; stromal cells: fresh control, 63%; liquid nitrogen, 30%; slush nitrogen, 52%). CONCLUSION(S) The histology, ultrastructure, and viability of follicles and stromal cells are better preserved after vitrification with slush nitrogen compared with liquid nitrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Talevi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenza Barbato
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fiorentino
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabrina Braun
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Cristofaro De Stefano
- Unità di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione e Sterilità di Coppia, Azienda Ospedaliera San Giuseppe Moscati, Avellino, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferraro
- Iatropolis, Genesis Day Surgery Sterilità della Coppia, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sam Sudhakaran
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberto Gualtieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
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Impact of the cryopreservation technique and vascular bed on ovarian tissue transplantation in cynomolgus monkeys. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1251-62. [PMID: 26238388 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0542-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine the best combination in terms of cryopreservation techniques and vascular bed preparation before grafting in order to obtain functional ovarian tissue after transplantation. METHODS Five cynomolgus monkeys were used. Strips from 10 ovaries were cryopreserved, 5 by vitrification (V), and 5 by slow-freezing (SF). Pieces of fresh ovarian tissue were used for controls. After 1 month, the strips were autografted to two different vascular beds, healed (HB) or freshly decorticated (FDB), constituting four study groups: SF-HB, SF-FDB, V-HB, and V-FDB. These were compared to fresh tissue. After 6 months, the ovaries were removed and several parameters analyzed: follicle quality, stage, density, proliferation, apoptosis, functionality, vascularization, and fibrosis. Mixed effect linear regression models were built to assess the impact of cryopreservation and vascular bed preparation on ovarian tissue viability and functionality. p values were adjusted for multiple testing using the Benjamini-Hochberg method, and q values < 0.20 were considered significant in order to achieve a 20% false discovery rate. RESULTS Compared to fresh tissue, no difference was observed in the percentage of morphologically normal follicles, while a significant increase was noted in the follicle proliferation rate (41%, q = 0.19), percentage of antral follicles (12%, q = 0.14), and number of vessels per area (3.3 times, q = 0.07) in the V-FDB group. CONCLUSIONS Vitrification associated with FDB vascular bed preparation is the best combination to obtain functional autografted ovarian tissue. Further studies are nevertheless required, with confirmed pregnancies and live births before introducing the procedure into clinical practice.
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Mouttham L, Fortune JE, Comizzoli P. Damage to fetal bovine ovarian tissue caused by cryoprotectant exposure and vitrification is mitigated during tissue culture. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1239-50. [PMID: 26249553 PMCID: PMC4554372 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0543-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The objective of this study is to characterize the impact of exposure to cryoprotectants followed by vitrification on primordial follicle survival and activation using a fetal bovine model. METHODS In the first study, fetal bovine cortical pieces were exposed to cryoprotectants with or without sucrose and cultured up to 7 days in the presence or absence of insulin. In the second study, cortical pieces were exposed to cryoprotectants with or without sucrose, vitrified, and cultured up to 7 days after warming in the presence or absence of insulin. Viability and morphology of follicles, as well as proliferation and/or DNA repair in ovarian tissue were analyzed. RESULTS When compared to non-exposed controls, normal follicular morphology was affected in groups exposed to cryoprotectants only immediately post-exposure and after 1 day of culture, but improved by day 3 and did not significantly differ by day 7. Similarly, normal follicular morphology was compromised in vitrified groups after warming and on day 1 compared to controls, but improved by days 3 and 7. Proliferation and/or DNA repair in ovarian tissue was not affected by vitrification in this model. Cryoprotectant exposure and vitrification of ovarian tissue did not impair the activation of primordial follicles in response to insulin, although activation was delayed relative to non-exposed controls. Interestingly, sucrose had no noticeable protective effect. CONCLUSION Vitrified fetal bovine ovarian tissue has the intrinsic capacity to mitigate the immediate damage to primordial follicles' morphology and retains the capacity to activate. These findings provide a basis for a successful cryopreservation protocol for ovarian cortical tissue in other species including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lara Mouttham
- />Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008 USA
- />Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Joanne E. Fortune
- />Department of Biomedical Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY USA
| | - Pierre Comizzoli
- />Smithsonian Conservation Biology Institute, National Zoological Park, Washington, DC 20008 USA
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Scalercio SR, Amorim CA, Brito DC, Percário S, Oskam IC, Domingues SFS, Santos RR. Trolox enhances follicular survival after ovarian tissue autograft in squirrel monkey (Saimiri collinsi). Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 28:RD14454. [PMID: 25993990 DOI: 10.1071/rd14454] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to evaluate ovarian tissue pre-treatment with 50 µM Trolox followed by heterotopic transplantation in squirrel monkeys (Saimiri collinsi) and to assess tissue functionality via immunohistochemical analysis of the stroma and ovarian follicles. Five healthy and sexually mature squirrel monkey (Saimiri collinsi) females were used. Heterotopic autografting of fresh ovarian tissue with or without previous exposure to the antioxidant Trolox was performed and grafts were recovered for analysis 7 days later. Tissue vascularisation was confirmed by both macroscopic inspection and cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31) staining. Trolox prevented massive follicular activation and kept the percentages of morphologically normal follicles higher than in untreated grafts. Expression of anti-Müllerian hormone in developing follicles was observed only in controls and Trolox-treated grafts. Also, immunostaining for growth differentiation factor-9 was positive only in primordial follicles from controls and from Trolox-treated grafts. Although Trolox improved follicular quality and avoided apoptosis in stromal cells, ovarian tissue fibrosis was increased in Trolox-treated grafts, mainly due to an increase in collagen Type I synthesis.
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Dittrich R, Lotz L, Fehm T, Krüssel J, von Wolff M, Toth B, van der Ven H, Schüring AN, Würfel W, Hoffmann I, Beckmann MW. Xenotransplantation of cryopreserved human ovarian tissue--a systematic review of MII oocyte maturation and discussion of it as a realistic option for restoring fertility after cancer treatment. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:1557-65. [PMID: 25881879 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2014] [Revised: 02/28/2015] [Accepted: 03/02/2015] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To systematically review the reporting of MII (MII) oocyte development after xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue. DESIGN Systematic review in accordance with the guidelines of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses (PRISMA). SETTING Not applicable. PATIENT(S) Not applicable. INTERVENTION(S) Formation of MII oocytes after xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Any outcome reported in Pubmed. RESULT(S) Six publications were identified that report on formation of MII oocytes after xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue. CONCLUSION(S) Xenografting of human ovarian tissue has proved to be a useful model for examining ovarian function and follicle development in vivo. With human follicles that have matured through xenografting, the possibility of cancer transmission and relapse can also be eliminated, because cancer cells are not able to penetrate the zona pellucida. The reported studies have demonstrated that xenografted ovarian tissue from a range of species, including humans, can produce antral follicles that contain mature (MII) oocytes, and it has been shown that mice oocytes have the potential to give rise to live young. Although some ethical questions remain unresolved, xenotransplantation may be a promising method for restoring fertility. This review furthermore describes the value of xenotransplantation as a tool in reproductive biology and discusses the ethical and potential safety issues regarding ovarian tissue xenotransplantation as a means of recovering fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralf Dittrich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany.
| | - Laura Lotz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Tanja Fehm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Düsseldorf University Hospital, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Jan Krüssel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Düsseldorf University Hospital, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Michael von Wolff
- Division of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Women's Hospital, Berne, Switzerland
| | - Bettina Toth
- Department of Gynecologic Endocrinology and Fertility Disorders, Ruprecht-Karls University Hospital, Heidelberg, Germany
| | - Hans van der Ven
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bonn University Hospital, Bonn, Germany
| | - Andreas N Schüring
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UKM Kinderwunschzentrum, Münster University Hospital, Münster, Germany
| | | | - Inge Hoffmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Matthias W Beckmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erlangen University Hospital, Friedrich-Alexander University of Erlangen-Nuremberg, Erlangen, Germany
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Gamzatova Z, Komlichenko E, Kostareva A, Galagudza M, Ulrikh E, Zubareva T, Sheveleva T, Nezhentseva E, Kalinina E. Autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue--effective method of fertility preservation in cancer patients. Gynecol Endocrinol 2014; 30 Suppl 1:43-7. [PMID: 25200829 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2014.945789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the literature and to present the latest advances in the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature review was conducted for all relevant articles assessing the fertility preservation, ovarian tissue transplantation, standard freezing and vitrification of ovarian tissue. RESULTS One of the promising and effective methods for fertility preservation may be the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. At present, 30 babies have been born after orthotopic autotransplantation of frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue. Restoration of ovarian activity occurs between 3.5 months and 6.5 months. The longevity of autotransplanted ovarian tissue is about 5-7 years. The follicles are similarly preserved after all freezing methods; however, the ovarian stroma is significantly better preserved after vitrification than after slow freezing. An important topic for further research is preparation of the "vascular bed", optimization of vitrification technique and the development of alternative procedures to avoid the transmission of cancer cells via ovarian tissue autotransplantation - "artificial ovary". CONCLUSIONS Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue has unique advantages over other strategies. This method: (1) does not delay cancer treatment; (2) is safer for hormone dependent malignancy; (3) can be done independent of menstrual cycles; (4) is the only option for prepubertal girls; (5) can restore not only fertility but endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Gamzatova
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre , Saint Petersburg , Russia
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Does stimulation with human gonadotropins and gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonist enhance and accelerate the developmental capacity of oocytes in human ovarian tissue xenografted into severe combined immunodeficient mice? Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1477-84. [PMID: 24602750 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.01.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2013] [Revised: 01/04/2014] [Accepted: 01/23/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the capacity of human frozen-thawed ovarian follicles matured in xenografts to form metaphase II (MII) oocytes after xenotransplantation and exogenous stimulation. DESIGN Prospective controlled animal study. SETTING University hospital gynecology research unit. PATIENT(S) Ovarian fragments were obtained from 17 women with malignant diseases who wished to cryopreserve ovarian tissue for later pregnancy before chemotherapy. ANIMAL(S) Eighty-eight female severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice. INTERVENTION(S) Cryopreserved human ovarian tissue was grafted into oophorectomized SCID mice. The mice were divided into three groups: Group A received hMG alone every 2 days for a maximum of 24 weeks; group B additionally received nRH agonist (GnRHa) every 4 weeks; and group C was an untreated control group. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Follicular density, morphology, proliferation, oocyte maturation, malignant cell contamination. RESULT(S) Follicle survival and development were similar in all three groups. No significant interactions between the stimulation protocols and grafting duration were noted. Three MII oocytes were observed in grafted follicles. Two MII oocytes were harvested without stimulation. None of the mice showed signs of reintroduced malignancy, nor did microscopic evaluation of the grafts raise any suspicion of residual malignant disease. CONCLUSION(S) After xenotransplantation, human primordial follicles can be matured to MII oocytes even without stimulation. Administering human gonadotropin and GnRHa does not enhance the developmental capacity of xenografted oocytes. The optimal stimulation schedule for grafted tissue remains unknown.
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Herraiz S, Novella-Maestre E, Rodríguez B, Díaz C, Sánchez-Serrano M, Mirabet V, Pellicer A. Improving ovarian tissue cryopreservation for oncologic patients: slow freezing versus vitrification, effect of different procedures and devices. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:775-84. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2013] [Revised: 10/22/2013] [Accepted: 11/12/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Van Langendonckt A, Romeu L, Ambroise J, Amorim C, Bearzatto B, Gala JL, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Gene expression in human ovarian tissue after xenografting. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:514-25. [PMID: 24586055 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryobanking and transplantation of ovarian tissue is a promising approach to restore fertility in cancer patients. However, ischemic stress following avascular ovarian cortex grafting is known to induce stromal tissue fibrosis and alterations in follicular development. The aim of the study was to analyze the impact of freeze-thawing and grafting procedures on gene expression in human ovarian tissue. Frozen-thawed ovarian tissue from 14 patients was xenografted for 7 days to nude mice and one ungrafted fragment was used as a control. Immediately after recovery, grafts were processed for RNA extraction and histological analysis. Their expression profile was screened by whole-genome oligonucleotide array (n = 4) and validated by reverse-transcriptase polymerase chain analysis (n = 10). After data filtering, the Limma package was used to build a linear regression model for each gene and to compute its fold change between tissues on Days 0 and 7. After adjusting the P-value by the Sidak method, 84 of the transcripts were significantly altered after 7 days of grafting, including matrix metalloproteinase-9 and -14 and angiogenic factors such as placental growth factor and C-X-C chemokine receptor type 4 (CXCR4). Major biological processes were related to tissue remodeling, including secretory processes, cellular adhesion and response to chemical and hormonal stimuli. Angiopoietin signaling, the interleukin-8 pathway and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor activation were shown to be differentially regulated. On Day 7, overexpression was confirmed by PCR for interleukin-8, transforming growth factor-beta 1, matrix metalloproteinase-14 and CXCR4, compared with ungrafted controls. In conclusion, new as well as known genes involved in tissue restructuring and angiogenesis were identified and found to play a key role during the first days after human ovarian tissue transplantation. This will facilitate the development of strategies to optimize grafting techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Van Langendonckt
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Romeu
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Ambroise
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - C Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - B Bearzatto
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J L Gala
- Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Donnez
- Société de Recherche pour l'Infertilité (SRI), B-1150 Brussels, Belgium
| | - M M Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, B-1200 Brussels, Belgium
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Chen CH, Tzeng CR. Ovarian Tissue Transplantation: Current State and Research Advancement. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-013-0056-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Luyckx V, Scalercio S, Jadoul P, Amorim CA, Soares M, Donnez J, Dolmans MM. Evaluation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue from prepubertal patients after long-term xenografting and exogenous stimulation. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:1350-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.07.202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2013] [Revised: 06/26/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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Khosravi F, Reid RL, Moini A, Abolhassani F, Valojerdi MR, Kan FWK. In vitro development of human primordial follicles to preantral stage after vitrification. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1397-406. [PMID: 24254400 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0105-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Accepted: 09/22/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim was to culture primordial follicles in vitro to reach preantral stage in vitrified human ovarian tissue. METHODS Ovarian tissue samples were obtained from six women. Tissue strips were vitrified by infiltration with a cryoprotectant followed by mounting on a stainless steel carrier. After culturing for 7 days the morphology and developmental stages of follicles enclosed in fresh and vitrified groups were analyzed. RESULTS High proportion of viable follicles in vitrified ovarian strips was obtained. After culturing for 7 days the percentage of secondary and preantral follicles increased significantly (P < 0.05) whereas primordial and transitory follicles showed a significant decrease (P < 0.05) compared to their respective counterparts at day 0 of culture. CONCLUSIONS Vitrification of ovarian strips with an improved carrier device and culturing of follicles in ovarian strips after warming yielded developed follicles with high viability and morphological integrity that may be suitable for use in fertility preservation among cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fariba Khosravi
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada, K7L 3N6
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Resetkova N, Hayashi M, Kolp LA, Christianson MS. Fertility Preservation for Prepubertal Girls: Update and Current Challenges. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2013; 2:218-225. [PMID: 25110617 DOI: 10.1007/s13669-013-0060-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
With increasing rates of diagnosis of childhood cancers and the evolution of more effective treatment options resulting in prolonged life spans, fertility preservation counseling is an integral component of the discussion at the time of diagnosis of childhood cancers. The primary fertility preservation option that exists for prepubertal girls is ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Although ovarian tissue cryopreservation is still considered to be experimental in nature, live births have resulted from orthotopic tissue transplantation. Fertility preservation should be offered to all prepubertal girls at high-risk for premature ovarian failure as a result of gonadotoxic treatment. Ethical and legal questions surrounding these issues must be considered as more and more pediatric patients pursue fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Resetkova
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 600 N. Wolfe St., Phipps 279, Baltimore, MD 21287, USA
| | - Masanori Hayashi
- The Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 1650 Orleans St., CRB1, Room 254, Baltimore, MD 21231, USA
| | - Lisa A Kolp
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 10751 Falls Road, Suite #280, Lutherville, MD 20193, USA
| | - Mindy S Christianson
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 10751 Falls Road, Suite #280, Lutherville, MD 20193, USA
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Wang L, Ying YF, Ouyang YL, Wang JF, Xu J. VEGF and bFGF increase survival of xenografted human ovarian tissue in an experimental rabbit model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1301-11. [PMID: 24062194 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0043-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/24/2013] [Accepted: 06/27/2013] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to determine whether vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) could increase the survival of xenografted human ovarian tissue in an experimental rabbit model. METHODS Fresh human ovarian tissue was xenotransplanted into the back muscle of 25 castrated female New Zealand rabbits for 6 weeks with the immunosuppression of FTY720 (2 mg/kg/d). Rabbits were randomly divided into five experimental groups: (A) graft and host treatment with VEGF (50 ng/ml); (B) graft and host treatment with bFGF (100 ng/ml); (C) graft and host treatment with VEGF(50 ng/ml) + bFGF (100 ng/ml); (D) graft and host treatment with normal saline; (E) control group, no treatment. 4 weeks after transplantation, human menopausal gonadotropin (HMG) 10 IU was administered every second day in group A, group B, group C and group D for 2 weeks. Graft survival was assessed by graft recovery rate, histological analysis, immunohistochemical staining for CD31 and Ki-67expression, TUNEL assay. RESULTS After 6 weeks of grafting, the number of CD31-positive stained cells increased significantly in group A, group B and group C compared to the control group. All groups showed strong Ki-67 immunostaining in ovarian stroma. Only one rabbit in group C retained the grafts' follicles. Grafting resulted in relative lower fibrosis in group A and group C compared to the control group. Apoptosis was significantly lower in group C compared to the control group. CONCLUSIONS Fresh human ovarian cortex grafted into the back muscle of rabbit can sustain part of ovarian tissue function with the immunosuppression of FTY720, although follicle number diminishes significantly after grafting. The administration of VEGF and bFGF, especially the combination of them, may trigger angiogenesis, reduce apoptosis and fibrosis, increase survival in transplanted human ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lin Wang
- Women's Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, 310006, China
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Donnez J, Dolmans MM, Pellicer A, Diaz-Garcia C, Sanchez Serrano M, Schmidt KT, Ernst E, Luyckx V, Andersen CY. Restoration of ovarian activity and pregnancy after transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue: a review of 60 cases of reimplantation. Fertil Steril 2013; 99:1503-13. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 331] [Impact Index Per Article: 30.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2013] [Revised: 03/15/2013] [Accepted: 03/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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