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Zhang C, Yang D, Ding D, Fan Y, Yang H, Wang J, Zou H, Rao B, Wang Q, Ye T, Yu M, Zhang Z. Melatonin application during cryopreservation improves the development and clinical outcomes of human vitrified-warmed oocytes. Cryobiology 2024; 115:104902. [PMID: 38734365 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2024.104902] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
In this clinical study, we investigated the potential of melatonin (MT) supplementation in the freeze-thaw medium used for cryopreserved human oocytes. In total, 152 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization between January 2020 and December 2022 were included and categorized into different groups as follows: the donor group, comprising 108 patients who donated their oocytes, with 34 patients using a vitrification and warming medium supplemented with MT (D-MT subgroup) and 74 patients using conventional medium without MT (D-0 subgroup); and the autologous group, comprising 38 patients who used their own oocytes, with 19 patients using medium supplemented with MT (A-MT subgroup) and 19 patients using medium without MT (A-0 subgroup). After thawing, the surviving oocytes in the D-MT and A-MT subgroups and D-0 and A-0 subgroups were cultured in a fertilization media with and without 10-9 MMT for 2.5 h, respectively, followed by intracytoplasmic sperm injection insemination, embryo culture, and transfer. The survival, cleavage, high-quality embryo, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, and implantation rates were significantly higher in the D-MT subgroup than in the D-0 subgroup (all P < 0.05). Similarly, the survival, fertilization, high-quality embryo, and high-quality blastocyst rates were significantly higher in the A-MT subgroup than in the A-0 subgroup (all P < 0.05). These findings indicate that MT addition during cryopreservation can enhance the development of vitrified-warmed human oocytes and improve clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chao Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Dandan Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Ding Ding
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yongqi Fan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Han Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Huijuan Zou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Bihua Rao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Qiushuang Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Tingting Ye
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Min Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The 901, Hospital of Joint Logistics Support Force of PLA, No. 424 Changjiang West Road, Shushan District, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Zhiguo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; NHC Key Laboratory of Study on Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China; Department of Biomedical Engineering, Anhui Medical University, No. 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Kang SM, Idrees M, Perera CD, Lee SH, Zhang M, Yu X, Jin Y, Kong IK. GDF-8 improves in vitro implantation and cryo-tolerance by stimulating the ALK5-SMAD2/3 signaling in bovine IVF embryo development. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1345669. [PMID: 38577502 PMCID: PMC10991729 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1345669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-β) plays a critical role in regulating trophoblast invasion and proliferation. Growth differentiation factor-8 (GDF-8) is a member of the TGF-β superfamily and is categorized as a myostatin subtype. It is primarily a secreted protein synthesized in skeletal muscle cells. It is expressed in the placenta, reproductive tissues, and cells. In this study, we investigated the role of GDF-8 in the development and hatching rate of bovine embryos. We noted a notable elevation (p < 0.05) in the development and hatching rates compared to the control embryos. Furthermore, the GDF-8 group showed a significantly improved total cell number (p < 0.05) and an increase in trophectoderm ratio inner cell mass (trophectoderm: inner cell mass) cells (p < 0.001) compared to the control group. Additionally, blastocysts treated with GDF-8 exhibited significantly higher mRNA levels of caudal-type homeobox 2 (CDX2) (p < 0.05). The trophoblast invasion area was significantly larger in the GDF-8 group than in the control group (p < 0.01). Furthermore, qRT-PCR analysis revealed significantly higher mRNA levels (p < 0.05) of matrix metalloproteinases 9 (MMP9) and follistatin-like 3(FSTL3), both of which are associated with the ALK5-SMAD2/3 signaling pathway, in the GDF-8 group than those in the control group. The mRNA expression levels of genes related to tight junctions (TJ) and adherent junctions were higher in the GDF-8 group than those in the control group (p < 0.05). After 24 h of thawing, blastocysts were analyzed using 4-kDa FITC-dextran, which revealed a higher TJ integrity in the GDF-8 group (p < 0.01). Thus, GDF-8 plays a crucial role in bovine embryonic development, in vitro implantation, and cryotolerance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seon-Min Kang
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Muhammad Idrees
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
- Division of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Chalani Dilshani Perera
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Seo-Hyun Lee
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
| | - Mingjun Zhang
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Xianfeng Yu
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Yongxun Jin
- Jilin Provincial Key Laboratory of Animal Model, College of Animal Science, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Il-Keun Kong
- Division of Applied Life Science (BK21 Four), Graduate School of Applied Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
- Division of Animal Science, Institute of Agriculture and Life Science, Gyeongsang National University, Jinju, Republic of Korea
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Yan J, Wu T, Zhang J, Gao Y, Wu JM, Wang S. Revolutionizing the female reproductive system research using microfluidic chip platform. J Nanobiotechnology 2023; 21:490. [PMID: 38111049 PMCID: PMC10729361 DOI: 10.1186/s12951-023-02258-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Comprehensively understanding the female reproductive system is crucial for safeguarding fertility and preventing diseases concerning women's health. With the capacity to simulate the intricate physio- and patho-conditions, and provide diagnostic platforms, microfluidic chips have fundamentally transformed the knowledge and management of female reproductive health, which will ultimately promote the development of more effective assisted reproductive technologies, treatments, and drug screening approaches. This review elucidates diverse microfluidic systems in mimicking the ovary, fallopian tube, uterus, placenta and cervix, and we delve into the culture of follicles and oocytes, gametes' manipulation, cryopreservation, and permeability especially. We investigate the role of microfluidics in endometriosis and hysteromyoma, and explore their applications in ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. At last, the current status of assisted reproductive technology and integrated microfluidic devices are introduced briefly. Through delineating the multifarious advantages and challenges of the microfluidic technology, we chart a definitive course for future research in the woman health field. As the microfluidic technology continues to evolve and advance, it holds great promise for revolutionizing the diagnosis and treatment of female reproductive health issues, thus propelling us into a future where we can ultimately optimize the overall wellbeing and health of women everywhere.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinfeng Yan
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China
| | - Tong Wu
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jinjin Zhang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Yueyue Gao
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Jia-Min Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Materials Processing and Die & Mould Technology, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430074, China.
- Engineering Research Center of Ceramic Materials for Additive Manufacturing, Ministry of Education, Wuhan, 430074, China.
| | - Shixuan Wang
- National Clinical Research Center for Obstetrical and Gynecological Diseases, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Key Laboratory of Cancer Invasion and Metastasis, Ministry of Education, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, No. 1095, Jiefang Avenue, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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Nguyen HT, Nguyen NT, Nguyen LV, Bui XN, Nguyen VH, Nguyen VK, Vu HTT, Nguyen ST, Nguyen HT. The effects of pretreatment with Cyclosporin A and Docetaxel before vitrification of porcine immature oocytes on subsequent embryo development. Reprod Biol 2023; 23:100798. [PMID: 37717489 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2023.100798] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/19/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, we attempted to improve the developmental competence of vitrified immature porcine oocytes by the preservation of mitochondrial properties using Cyclosporin A (CsA, inhibitor of mitochondrial membrane permeability transition) and Docetaxel (stabilizer of microtubules, hence mitochondrial distribution). In Experiment 1, Mitotracker red staining revealed reduced mitochondrial activity (MA) in vitrified/warmed oocytes at 0 and 22 h of in vitro maturation (IVM) compared with fresh ones. However, by at 46 h of IVM, MA levels in vitrified oocytes were similar to those in fresh control. Treatment of oocytes with CsA or Docetaxel improved MA at 0 h and 22 h of IVM compared with non-treated vitrified oocytes. However, there were no significant differences among groups in percentages of survival, maturation and embryo development after subsequent IVM and parthenogenetic activation. Nevertheless, a pretreatment with a combination of 10 µg/mL CsA and 0.05 µM Docetaxel improved the blastocyst formation of vitrified oocytes compared with non-treatment counterparts (11.2 ± 1.6% vs 5.9 ± 1.6%, P < 0.05). In conclusion, vitrification reduced mitochondrial activity in GV-stage oocytes during 0-22 h of IVM; however, it was normalized by 46 h IVM. Docetaxel or CsA pretreatment alone did not improve development competence of vitrified oocytes. However, pretreatment with a combination of CsA and Docetaxel could improve blastocyst formation rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nhung Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Linh Viet Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Xuan Nguyen Bui
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Van Hanh Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Van Khanh Nguyen
- Key Lab of Animal Cell Biotechnology, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huong Thu Thi Vu
- Key Lab of Animal Cell Biotechnology, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Sam Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hiep Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam.
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Colombo M, Alkali IM, Luvoni GC. Microenvironment factors promoting the quality of vitrified cat oocytes. Theriogenology 2023; 196:275-283. [PMID: 36442286 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.11.027] [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: 06/24/2022] [Revised: 11/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
In oocyte cryopreservation programs, vitrification has overthrown conventional slow freezing both in veterinary and human medicine. In animals, its feasibility in field conditions makes it the preferred technique for the safeguard of genetic resources from zoo or wild animals, including threatened felids, for which the domestic cat is an excellent model. However, many cellular injuries, such as cytoskeleton, mitochondria and meiotic spindle alterations, DNA damage, zona pellucida hardening and cumulus cell loss, might occur following vitrification. After warming, although the exact mechanisms are still unclear, degeneration is a frequent outcome for cat vitrified oocytes. For immature (germinal vesicle) gametes, in vitro maturation after warming is a challenge, and cleavage after fertilization barely reaches 15-30%, while for mature (metaphase II) cryopreserved gametes it can get to 30-50%. Anyway, the progression to late embryos stages is often impaired, and improvements are needed. Standard cryopreservation protocol and the use of conventional in vitro culture systems after warming may not be enough for vitrified oocytes to recover and demonstrate their full developmental potential. Physical or chemical factors applied to oocytes undergoing vitrification, as an enrichment to the vitrification step, or to the culture microenvironment, could create more favorable conditions and promote vitrified oocyte survival and development. From the use of three-dimensional culture systems to the regulation of metabolic activities and cellular pathways, this review aims to explore all the possibilities employed so far, including the studies performed by our own lab, and the future perspectives, to present the most effective strategies for cat oocyte vitrification and the best time for their application (i.e., before, during, or after vitrification-warming).
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - Isa Mohammed Alkali
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Scienze Animali (DIVAS), Università degli Studi di Milano, 26900, Lodi, Italy.
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Omelchenko AN, Igonina TN, Brusentsev EY, Okotrub KA, Amstislavsky SY, Surovtsev NV. Cryopreservation increases accumulation of exogenous stearic acid in mouse embryos. Cryobiology 2022; 109:44-52. [PMID: 36179820 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2022.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/23/2022] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of preimplantation embryos is a widely used technique, but this procedure might impact the subsequent embryo development. The effect of slow freezing and vitrification on the lipid metabolism in preimplantation mammalian embryos is not well studied. In this work, we applied Raman spectroscopy of isotopically labeled molecules to address the effects of cryopreservation on fatty acid accumulation in mouse embryos. Embryos after slow freezing or vitrification were cultured for 20 h in a medium supplemented with bovine serum albumin saturated with deuterated stearic acid (dSA). After this period the concentration of dSA estimated from Raman spectra of frozen-thawed and vitrified-warmed embryos at the morula stage was almost twice higher compared to non-cryopreserved morulas. At the same time, frozen-thawed and vitrified-warmed 4-cell embryos did not demonstrate any difference in the level of stearic acid uptake from non-cryopreserved embryos of the same stage. After an additional 24 h culture, cryopreserved and non-cryopreserved embryos demonstrated similar dSA uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- A N Omelchenko
- Novosibirsk State University, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia; Institute of Automation and Electrometry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - T N Igonina
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - E Y Brusentsev
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia; Institute of Automation and Electrometry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - K A Okotrub
- Institute of Automation and Electrometry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia.
| | - S Y Amstislavsky
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia; Institute of Automation and Electrometry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
| | - N V Surovtsev
- Institute of Automation and Electrometry, Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, 630090, Russia
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Vitrification and in-straw warming do not affect pregnancy rates of biopsied bovine embryos. Theriogenology 2022; 191:221-230. [PMID: 35998405 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.07.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Revised: 07/27/2022] [Accepted: 07/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In the cattle industry, in vivo or in vitro embryo production combined with genotyping and cryopreservation technologies allows the selection and conservation of embryos carrying genes for desirable traits. This study aimed to assess the efficiency of a vitrification method suitable for in-straw warming of biopsied in vivo derived (IVD) bovine embryos. Three experiments were carried out using two methodologies: the Cryotop®, the gold standard vitrification and 3-step warming methodology, or the VitTrans, a vitrification/in-straw 1-step warming method that enables direct embryo transfer to the uterus. In experiment 1, intact and biopsied in vitro produced (IVP) day 7 expanded blastocysts were vitrified using the Cryotop® and warmed in 1- or 3-steps. No differences in survival rates were recorded at 24 h after warming for intact or biopsied IVP blastocysts irrespective of the warming procedure. In experiment 2, the effect of the time from trophectoderm (TE) biopsy to vitrification/in-straw warming on post-warming survival rate was assessed. No significant differences in survival were observed when blastocysts were vitrified/in-straw warmed immediately after biopsy or after 3 h in culture when compared to intact blastocysts. In experiment 3, IVD embryos were vitrified 3 h after biopsy using the Cryotop® or the VitTrans method and pregnancy rates were assessed at day 60 after transfer. Fresh, biopsied embryos served as control. Similar pregnancy rates were observed when IVD biopsied embryos were transferred fresh or vitrified/warmed by the Cryotop® or VitTrans method. No significant effect of the embryo quality or developmental stage was detected on the percentage of pregnant recipients when IVD biopsied embryos were transferred fresh or after vitrification. While fresh female IVD embryos produced significantly higher pregnancy rates than male embryos, there were no differences in pregnancy rates when male or female vitrified/warmed embryos were transferred. About 81% from the biopsies analyzed successfully determined the embryo sex, confirming that DNA was there, and it was efficiently amplified. To conclude, our findings indicate that both vitrification methodologies produced similar post-warming outcomes for both intact and biopsied IVP embryos. Besides, vitrification/in-straw warming of biopsied IVD bovine embryos did not affect the viability to originate pregnancy, being a useful option for their direct transfer in field conditions.
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Miao S, Guo C, Jiang Z, Wei HX, Jiang X, Gu J, Hai Z, Wang T, Liu YH. Development of an Open Microfluidic Platform for Oocyte One-Stop Vitrification with Cryotop Method. BIOSENSORS 2022; 12:766. [PMID: 36140151 PMCID: PMC9496857 DOI: 10.3390/bios12090766] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/20/2022] [Revised: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte vitrification technology is widely used for assisted reproduction and fertility preservation, which requires precise washing sequences and timings of cryoprotectant agents (CPAs) treatment to relieve the osmotic shock to cells. The gold standard Cryotop method is extensively used in oocyte vitrification and is currently the most commonly used method in reproductive centers. However, the Cryotop method requires precise and complex manual manipulation by an embryologist, whose proficiency directly determines the effect of vitrification. Therefore, in this study, an automatic microfluidic system consisting of a novel open microfluidic chip and a set of automatic devices was established as a standardized operating protocol to facilitate the conventional manual Cryotop method and minimize the osmotic shock applied to the oocyte. The proposed open microfluidic system could smoothly change the CPA concentration around the oocyte during vitrification pretreatment, and transferred the treated oocyte to the Cryotop with a tiny droplet. The system better conformed to the operating habits of embryologists, whereas the integration of commercialized Cryotop facilitates the subsequent freezing and thawing processes. With standardized operating procedures, our system provides consistent treatment effects for each operation, leading to comparable survival rate, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) level of oocytes to the manual Cryotop operations. The vitrification platform is the first reported microfluidic system integrating the function of cells transfer from the processing chip, which avoids the risk of cell loss or damage in a manual operation and ensures the sufficient cooling rate during liquid nitrogen (LN2) freezing. Our study demonstrates significant potential of the automatic microfluidic approach to serve as a facile and universal solution for the vitrification of various precious cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shu Miao
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Chenxi Guo
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518005, China
| | - Ze Jiang
- The T Stone Robotics Institute, Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Hao-Xiang Wei
- The T Stone Robotics Institute, Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
| | - Xin Jiang
- School of Mechanical Engineering and Automation, Harbin Institute of Technology, Shenzhen 518055, China
| | - Jingkai Gu
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518005, China
| | - Zhuo Hai
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518005, China
| | - Tianren Wang
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Fertility Regulation, Reproductive Medicine Center, The University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital, Shenzhen 518005, China
| | - Yun-Hui Liu
- The T Stone Robotics Institute, Department of Mechanical and Automation Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China
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Miki T, Ezoe K, Kouraba S, Ohata K, Kato K. Time from trophectoderm biopsy to vitrification affects the developmental competence of biopsied blastocysts. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12439. [PMID: 35386383 PMCID: PMC8967302 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
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Nguyen HT, Somfai T, Hirao Y, Dang-Nguyen TQ, Linh NV, Nguyen BX, Nguyen NT, Nguyen HT, Nguyen VH, Kaneko H, Takagi M, Kikuchi K. Dibutyryl-cAMP and roscovitine differently affect premature meiotic resumption and embryo development of vitrified immature porcine oocytes. Anim Sci J 2022; 93:e13795. [PMID: 36562274 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Vitrification and warming can trigger premature meiosis in immature porcine oocytes. Our aim was to compare the efficacies of two meiotic inhibitors, dibutyryl-cAMP and roscovitine for the meiosis synchronization during in vitro maturation (IVM) of porcine oocytes vitrified at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage. We first compared the efficacy of 1 mM dibutyryl-cAMP and 25 μM roscovitine on meiotic arrest during the first 22 h of IVM. Dibutyryl-cAMP could maintain the GV stage in 83.5% of oocytes; however, roscovitine was even more effective (96.6%), whereas only 17.4% of the oocytes remained at the GV stage without these additives. Temporal meiotic arrest for 22 h by roscovitine did not reduce the percentage of oocytes reaching the Metaphase II stage during subsequent IVM. However, after parthenogenetic stimulation or in vitro fertilization, subsequent embryo development to the blastocyst stage was compromised after roscovitine treatment, whereas dibutyryl-cAMP improved the percentage of blastocyst development. In conclusion, dibutyryl-cAMP could derogate but not completely prevent premature meiosis in vitrified oocytes, whereas roscovitine could more efficiently prevent it. However, for embryo production, the use of roscovitine was disadvantageous, whereas the use of dibutyryl-cAMP was beneficial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hiep Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.,Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam.,The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Tamás Somfai
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Yuji Hirao
- Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, NARO, Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Thanh Quang Dang-Nguyen
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Nguyen Viet Linh
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Bui Xuan Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Nhung Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hong Thi Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Van Hanh Nguyen
- Institute of Biotechnology (IBT), Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Hiroyuki Kaneko
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Mitsuhiro Takagi
- The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Kikuchi
- Institute of Agrobiological Sciences, National Agriculture and Food Research Organization (NARO), Tsukuba, Ibaraki, Japan.,The United Graduate School of Veterinary Science, Yamaguchi University, Yamaguchi, Yamaguchi, Japan
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11
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Kuzmina ТI, Chistyakova IV. Evaluation of developmental competence of Sus scrofa domesticus (L.) oocyte-cumulus complexes after intra- and extraovarian vitrif ication. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2021; 25:613-619. [PMID: 34782880 PMCID: PMC8558915 DOI: 10.18699/vj21.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/27/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2021] [Accepted: 06/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to identify the inf luence of extra- (EOV) and intraovarian vitrif ication (IOV) on mitochondrial activity (MA) and chromatin state in porcine oocytes during maturation in vitro. During EOV porcine oocytes were exposed in cryoprotective solutions (CPS): CPS-1 - 0.7 M dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) + 0.9 M ethylene glycol (EG); CPS-2 - 1.4 M DMSO + 1.8 M EG; CPS-3 - 2.8 M DMSO + 3.6 M EG + 0.65 M trehalose. At IOV the ovarian fragments were exposed in CPS-1 - 7.5 % EG + 7.5 % DMSO, then in CPS-2 - 15 % EG, 15 % DMSO and 0.5 M sucrose. Straws with oocytes and ovarian fragments were plunged into LN2 and stored. For devitrif ication, the EOV oocytes were washed in solutions of 0.25, 0.19 and 0.125 M of trehalose, the IOV - in 0.5 and 0.25 М trehalose. Oocytes were cultured in NCSU-23 medium with 10 % f luid of follicles, follicular walls, hormones. 0.001 % of highly dispersed silica nanoparticles (ICP named after A.A. Chuyko of the NAS of Ukraine) were added to all media. The methods of fertilization and embryo culture are presented in the guidelines developed by us. MA and chromatin state were measured by MitoTracker Orange CMTMRos and the cytogenetic method. Signif icant differences in the level of oocytes with high-expanded cumulus between control and experimental vitrif ied groups (81 % versus 59 % and 52 %, respectively, p ≤ 0.001) were observed. The percentage of pyknotic cells in native oocytes was 19 %, EOV or IOV oocytes were 39 % and 49 %, respectively. After culture, the level of matured native oocytes was 86 %, 48 % EOV and 33 % IOV cells f inished the maturation ( p ≤ 0.001). Differences were also observed in the level of MA between groups treated by EOV and IOV (89.4 ± 7.5 μA and 149.2 ± 11.3 μA, respectively, p ≤ 0.05). For the f irst time, pre-implantation embryos were obtained from oocytes treated by IOV.
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Affiliation(s)
- Т I Kuzmina
- All-Russian Research Institute of Genetics and Breeding of Farm Animals - Branch of L.K. Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - I V Chistyakova
- All-Russian Research Institute of Genetics and Breeding of Farm Animals - Branch of L.K. Ernst Federal Research Center for Animal Husbandry, Pushkin, St. Petersburg, Russia
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12
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Iwata H. Resveratrol enhanced mitochondrial recovery from cryopreservation-induced damages in oocytes and embryos. Reprod Med Biol 2021; 20:419-426. [PMID: 34646069 PMCID: PMC8499604 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2021] [Revised: 06/04/2021] [Accepted: 06/14/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Mitochondria play a crucial role in nuclear maturation, fertilization, and subsequent embryo development. Cryopreservation is an important assisted reproductive technology that is used worldwide for humans and domestic animals. Although mitochondrial quantity and quality are decisive factors for successful development of oocytes and embryos, cryopreservation induces mitochondrial dysfunction. Upon thawing, the damaged mitochondria are removed, and de novo synthesis occurs to restore the function of mitochondria. Resveratrol, 3,5,4'-trihydroxystilbene, is a polyphenolic antioxidant that has versatile target proteins, among which sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) is a key regulator of in mitochondrial biogenesis and degradation. METHODS The present study is a literature review focusing on experiments involving the hypothesis that the activation of mitochondrial biogenesis and degradation following cryopreservation and warming by resveratrol may help mitochondrial recovery and improve oocyte and embryo development. MAIN FINDINGS AND CONCLUSION Resveratrol improves oocyte maturation and development and upregulates mitochondrial biogenesis and degradation. When vitrified-warmed embryos are treated with resveratrol, it helps in mitochondrial regulation and recovery of embryos from cryopreservation-induced damage. CONCLUSION Resveratrol treatment is a possible countermeasure against cryopreservation-induced mitochondrial damage.
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Melatonin Promotes In Vitro Maturation of Vitrified-Warmed Mouse Germinal Vesicle Oocytes, Potentially by Reducing Oxidative Stress through the Nrf2 Pathway. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082324. [PMID: 34438783 PMCID: PMC8388487 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary Cryopreservation of oocytes can cause high oxidative stress, reduce the quality of vitrified-warmed oocytes, and seriously hinder the application of oocyte cryopreservation technology in production and medicine. In this work, we found for the first time that melatonin can exert antioxidant effects through receptors and regulate the Nrf2 antioxidant pathway to respond to oxidative stress of vitrified-warmed oocytes, thereby improving both oocyte quality and the potential for subsequent development. The results illustrated the molecular mechanism of melatonin’s antioxidant effect in vitrified-warmed oocytes and provided a theoretical basis for the application of melatonin in the cryopreservation of oocytes. These findings are of great significance for the further application of oocyte cryopreservation technology to production and assisted reproduction in the future. Abstract Previously it was reported that melatonin could mitigate oxidative stress caused by oocyte cryopreservation; however, the underlying molecular mechanisms which cause this remain unclear. The objective was to explore whether melatonin could reduce oxidative stress during in vitro maturation of vitrified-warmed mouse germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes through the Nrf2 signaling pathway or its receptors. During in vitro maturation of vitrified-warmed mouse GV oocytes, there were decreases (p < 0.05) in the development rates of metaphase I (MI) oocytes and metaphase II (MII) and spindle morphology grades; increases (p < 0.05) in the reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels; and decreases (p < 0.05) in expressions of Nrf2 signaling pathway-related genes (Nrf2, SOD1) and proteins (Nrf2, HO-1). However, adding 10−7 mol/L melatonin to both the warming solution and maturation solutions improved (p < 0.05) these indicators. When the Nrf2 protein was specifically inhibited by Brusatol, melatonin did not increase development rates, spindle morphology grades, genes, or protein expressions, nor did it reduce vitrification-induced intracellular oxidative stress in GV oocytes during in vitro maturation. In addition, when melatonin receptors were inhibited by luzindole, the ability of melatonin to scavenge intracellular ROS was decreased, and the expressions of genes (Nrf2, SOD1) and proteins (Nrf2, HO-1) were not restored to control levels. Therefore, we concluded that 10−7 mol/L melatonin acted on the Nrf2 signaling pathway through its receptors to regulate the expression of genes (Nrf2, SOD1) and proteins (Nrf2, HO-1), and mitigate intracellular oxidative stress, thereby enhancing in vitro development of vitrified-warmed mouse GV oocytes.
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Ohata K, Ezoe K, Miki T, Kouraba S, Fujiwara N, Yabuuchi A, Kobayashi T, Kato K. Effects of fatty acid supplementation during vitrification and warming on the developmental competence of mouse, bovine and human oocytes and embryos. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:14-25. [PMID: 34049810 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2020] [Revised: 03/25/2021] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does fatty acid supplementation in vitrification and warming media influence developmental competence in oocytes after vitrification and warming? DESIGN Mouse oocytes and four-cell embryos were vitrified and warmed with solutions supplemented with fatty acid and cultured to the blastocyst stage. To study lipid metabolism after vitrification, quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was used to analyse the expression of genes related to beta oxidation in mouse embryos vitrified and warmed with or without fatty acids. The effects of fatty acid supplementation in the warming solutions on the developmental competence of bovine and human embryos were analysed. Blastocyst outgrowth assay was used to evaluate the potential of human blastocysts for adhesion to fibronectin. RESULTS The neutral lipid content of mouse oocytes in the fatty acid 1% supplementation group was significantly higher than in the fatty acid 0% group (P = 0.0032). The developmental rate to the blastocyst stage was significantly higher in the fatty acid 1% group than in the fatty acid 0% group in mice (P = 0.0345). Fatty acid supplementation in warming solution upregulated Acaa2 and Hadha in mouse embryos. Fatty acids significantly improved the developmental ability of bovine embryos to the blastocyst stage (P = 0.0048). Warming with 1% fatty acid supplementation significantly increased the proportion of human blastocysts with morphological grade A inner cell mass (P = 0.0074) and trophectoderm (P = 0.0323). CONCLUSIONS Fatty acid supplementation in the warming solutions improved the developmental competence of vitrified-warmed mouse oocytes by activating the beta-oxidation pathway. Fatty acid supplementation enhanced the developmental rate of bovine embryos to the blastocyst stage and improved morphological characteristics of human embryos vitrified at the cleavage stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kazuki Ohata
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan
| | - Kenji Ezoe
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan.
| | - Tetsuya Miki
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan
| | - Shizu Kouraba
- Towako Medical Research Center, 2-5-2 Asahidai, Ishikawa Nomi-shi 923-1211, Japan
| | - Nanoha Fujiwara
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan
| | - Akiko Yabuuchi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan
| | - Tamotsu Kobayashi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kato
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3 Nishishinjuku, Tokyo Shinjuku-ku 160-0023, Japan.
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Xingzhu D, Qingrui Z, Keren C, Yuxi L, Yunpeng H, Shien Z, Xiangwei F. Cryopreservation of Porcine Embryos: Recent Updates and Progress. Biopreserv Biobank 2021; 19:210-218. [PMID: 33625892 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2020.0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of embryos is important for long-distance embryo transfer and conservation of genetic resources. Porcine research is important for animal husbandry and biomedical research. However, porcine embryos are difficult to cryopreserve because of their high cytoplasmic lipid content and sensitivity to chilling stress. Vitrification is more efficient than slow freezing, and vitrification is mostly used in embryo cryopreservation. So far, the vitrification process of porcine embryos has been continuously improved, resulting in improved survival rates of warmed embryos and farrowing rates after the transplant procedure. It is worth noting that automatic vitrification has made great progress, which is expected to promote the standardization and application of vitrification. In this article, the vitrification process of porcine embryos at the blastula stage and early development stages is reviewed in detail. In addition, the efficiency of different vitrification systems was compared. In addition, we summarize technology that can improve the survival rate of cryopreserved porcine embryos, such as delipidation methods (including physical delipidation and chemical delipidation) and medium improvements (including chemically defined media and adding antioxidants). Meanwhile, gene expression changes during cryopreservation are also elaborated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Du Xingzhu
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhuan Qingrui
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Cheng Keren
- Department of Biology, University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, Texas, USA
| | - Luo Yuxi
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Hou Yunpeng
- State Key Laboratory of Agrobiotechnology, College of Biological Sciences, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Zhu Shien
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
| | - Fu Xiangwei
- National Engineering Laboratory for Animal Breeding, Beijing Key Laboratory for Animal Genetic Improvement, College of Animal Science and Technology, China Agricultural University, Beijing, China
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Fresh oocyte cycles yield improved embryo quality compared with frozen oocyte cycles in an egg-sharing donation programme. ZYGOTE 2021; 29:234-238. [PMID: 33455591 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199420000842] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate any effect of cryopreservation of donated eggs on laboratorial and clinical outcomes of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. This retrospective cohort study included 320 oocyte recipients undergoing 307 vitrified and 119 fresh oocyte recipient ICSI cycles, participating in an egg-sharing donation programme, from 2015 to 2018, in a private university-affiliated in vitro fertilization (IVF) centre. A review of donor and recipient ICSI cycles was charted. A general mixed models fit by restricted maximum likelihood, followed by Bonferroni post hoc test was used to compare the means between fresh and warm oocyte donation groups and investigate the effect of cryopreservation on recipient ICSI outcome. The main outcome measure was blastocyst development rates. Fertilization rate, high-quality embryo rates on days 2 and 3, normal cleavage speed rates on days 2 and 3, and blastocyst development rate were significantly higher for the fresh oocyte donation cycles compared with warmed oocyte donation cycles. In the egg-sharing donation programme, fertilization and embryo developmental competence were reduced when vitrified oocytes from infertile couples were used for ICSI compared with fresh oocytes.
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Colombo M, Zahmel J, Binder C, Herbel J, Luvoni GC, Jewgenow K. Ovary cold storage and shipment affect oocyte yield and cleavage rate of cat immature vitrified oocytes. Cryobiology 2020; 98:181-186. [PMID: 33171197 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.11.003] [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: 09/17/2020] [Revised: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 11/04/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
In feline species, cooled transport of ovaries can be employed without detrimental effects to retrieve immature oocytes intended for in vitro embryo production purposes. Indeed, this is the most common way to collect gametes from gonads of wild, valuable animals after they die or are castrated far from specialized laboratories. However, fresh retrieved gametes are generally used, and their cryosensitivity is not known. This study employed ovariectomy-derived domestic cat gonads as a model for wild felids, and aimed to compare the yield and developmental competence of Cryotop-vitrified oocytes (VOs) collected and cryopreserved right after ovary excision (In loco-VOs) or after 24 h cooled transport of ovaries (Shipped-VOs). The number of collected oocytes was higher in In loco-VOs than in Shipped-VOs (mean ± SD: 8 ± 3.36 vs 5.6 ± 3.1, p = 0.05). In vitro embryo production resulted in similar maturation (35% for both vitrified groups, p = 1) and fertilization rates (In loco-VOs: 29.1%; Shipped-VOs: 22.2%; p = 0.295), but showed a difference in cleavage (In loco-VOs: 25.6%; Shipped-VOs: 14.5%; p = 0.0495). No differences were found in further embryo development. Taken together, results suggested that delayed oocyte vitrification after cooled transport of organs was feasible and allowed embryo development. However, the number of collected oocytes and the cleavage rate of matured oocytes were higher when oocyte vitrification was performed without delay after ovary excision, and this should be considered in gamete conservation programs for endangered felids.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Jennifer Zahmel
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany.
| | - Claudia Binder
- Obstetrics and Reproduction, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Johannes Herbel
- Obstetrics and Reproduction, Department for Small Animals and Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine, Veterinärplatz 1, 1210, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133 Milan, Italy.
| | - Katarina Jewgenow
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Alfred-Kowalke-Str. 17, D-10315, Berlin, Germany.
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Colombo M, Zahmel J, Jänsch S, Jewgenow K, Luvoni GC. Inhibition of Apoptotic Pathways Improves DNA Integrity but Not Developmental Competence of Domestic Cat Immature Vitrified Oocytes. Front Vet Sci 2020; 7:588334. [PMID: 33178729 PMCID: PMC7596218 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2020.588334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 09/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Being a model for endangered wild felids, cryopreservation protocols for domestic cat oocytes are under continuous development. Immature vitrified oocytes (VOs) are a valuable resource for fertility preservation programs, but they often degenerate after warming and their in vitro development is poor. Since the exact mechanisms are not clear, this study assessed whether vitrification might trigger two apoptotic markers (DNA fragmentation and caspase activity, Experiment I) and the effects of a chemical inhibitor (i.e., the pan-caspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK) on the same markers (Experiment II) and on VOs in vitro development (Experiment III). The overarching aim was to check whether apoptosis inhibition might be a strategy to improve cat oocytes cryotolerance. In Experiment I, vitrification induced DNA fragmentation and increased caspase activity in VOs incubated for 24 h after warming (DNA fragmentation: 59.38%; caspase activity: 414.6 ± 326.8) compared to a fresh control (9.68%; 199.6 ± 178.3; p = 0.02). In Experiment II, the addition of Z-VAD-FMK to vitrification-warming and incubation media decreased DNA fragmentation and caspase activity (8.82%; 243.7 ± 106.9) compared to control (untreated) VOs (69.44%; 434.5 ± 248.3; p < 0.001). In Experiment III, Z-VAD-FMK brought maturation rates of treated VOs close to those of fresh oocytes (53.13 and 65.38%, respectively, p = 0.057), but there were no differences in VOs embryo development (cleavage rates; Z-VAD-FMK-treated VOs: 34.38%; control VOs: 31.78%; p = 0.69). In summary, vitrification increased apoptotic markers in cat VOs, and while Z-VAD-FMK was able to hinder DNA damage and caspase activity, its addition was not determinant for embryo development. To make the best use of VOs, other oocyte in vitro maturation and embryo culture strategies, such as the addition of other inhibitors or their prolonged use, should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Jennifer Zahmel
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stefanie Jänsch
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Katarina Jewgenow
- Department of Reproduction Biology, Leibniz-Institute for Zoo and Wildlife Research, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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19
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Kornienko EV, Romanova AB, Ikonopistseva MV, Malenko GP. Optimization of triacetate cellulose hollow fiber vitrification (HFV) method for cryopreservation of in vitro matured bovine oocytes. Cryobiology 2020; 97:66-70. [PMID: 33038413 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The aim of the current work was to evaluate applicability of triacetate cellulose hollow fiber vitrification (HFV) method for cryopreservation of groups of in vitro matured bovine oocytes (12-17 oocytes per device). We also attempted to optimize HFV protocol by altering concentration of non-permeating cryoprotectant (sucrose) in vitrification solution and concentration of extracellular Ca2+ by using a calcium-free base medium for preparation of vitrification/rewarming solutions with ethylene glycol (EG) as a single permeating cryoprotectant. Neither of modifications of HFV protocol significantly affected survival or fertilization rates of the vitrified bovine oocytes. Embryo development rates in the vitrification groups were lower than those in the control (31.2% of blastocysts at Day 8 post IVF). Use of vitrification/rewarming solutions with lower Ca2+ concentration and EG did not significantly improve embryo development rates. An increase of sucrose concentration in vitrification solution from 0.5 to 1.0 M significantly improved blastocyst yield on Day 8 post IVF (21.1-23.4% vs 3.1-3.5%; p < 0.05). Obtained results indicated that sufficient dehydration of the oocytes and/or the solution surrounding them in hollow fiber before immersion into liquid nitrogen is an important factor for successful vitrification. Use of HFV method allowed simplification and standardization of vitrification/rewarming procedures. Triacetate cellulose hollow fibers can be used successfully for cryopeservation of groups of in vitro matured bovine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina V Kornienko
- Centre of Experimental Embryology and Reproductive Biotechnology, Ul. Kostyakova, 12, Building 4, 127422, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Anastasia B Romanova
- Centre of Experimental Embryology and Reproductive Biotechnology, Ul. Kostyakova, 12, Building 4, 127422, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Maria V Ikonopistseva
- Centre of Experimental Embryology and Reproductive Biotechnology, Ul. Kostyakova, 12, Building 4, 127422, Moscow, Russia.
| | - Galina P Malenko
- Centre of Experimental Embryology and Reproductive Biotechnology, Ul. Kostyakova, 12, Building 4, 127422, Moscow, Russia.
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20
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Uchikura A, Matsunari H, Maehara M, Yonamine S, Wakayama S, Wakayama T, Nagashima H. Hollow fiber vitrification allows cryopreservation of embryos with compromised cryotolerance. Reprod Med Biol 2020; 19:142-150. [PMID: 32273819 PMCID: PMC7138943 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2019] [Revised: 11/22/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE This study aims to demonstrate vitrification methods that provide reliable cryopreservation for embryos with compromised cryotolerance. METHODS Two-cell stage mouse embryos and in vitro produced porcine embryos were vitrified using the hollow fiber vitrification (HFV) and Cryotop (CT) methods. The performance of these two methods was compared by the viability of the vitrified-rewarmed embryos. RESULTS Regardless of the method used, 100% of the mouse 2-cell embryos developed successfully after vitrification-rewarming into the blastocyst stage, whereas vitrification tests using porcine morulae with the HFV method produced significantly better results. The developmental rates of vitrified porcine morula into the blastocyst stage, as well as blastocyst cell number, were 90.3% and 112.3 ± 6.9 in the HFV group compared with 63.4% and 89.5 ± 8.1 in the CT group (P < .05). Vitrification tests using 4- to 8-cell porcine embryos resulted in development into the blastocyst stage (45.5%) in the HFV group alone, demonstrating its better efficacy. The HFV method did not impair embryo viability, even after spontaneous rewarming at room temperature for vitrified embryos, which is generally considered a contraindication. CONCLUSION Vitrification test using embryos with compromised cryotolerance allows for more precise determining of effective cryopreservation methods and devices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayuko Uchikura
- Laboratory of Developmental EngineeringDepartment of Life SciencesSchool of AgricultureMeiji UniversityKawasakiJapan
| | - Hitomi Matsunari
- Laboratory of Developmental EngineeringDepartment of Life SciencesSchool of AgricultureMeiji UniversityKawasakiJapan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio‐Resource Research (MUIIBR)KawasakiJapan
| | - Miki Maehara
- Department of Orthopaedic SurgerySurgical ScienceTokai University School of MedicineIseharaJapan
| | - Shiori Yonamine
- Laboratory of Developmental EngineeringDepartment of Life SciencesSchool of AgricultureMeiji UniversityKawasakiJapan
| | - Sayaka Wakayama
- Department of BiotechnologyFaculty of Life and Environmental SciencesUniversity of YamanashiKohuJapan
| | - Teruhiko Wakayama
- Department of BiotechnologyFaculty of Life and Environmental SciencesUniversity of YamanashiKohuJapan
| | - Hiroshi Nagashima
- Laboratory of Developmental EngineeringDepartment of Life SciencesSchool of AgricultureMeiji UniversityKawasakiJapan
- Meiji University International Institute for Bio‐Resource Research (MUIIBR)KawasakiJapan
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21
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Luvoni GC, Colombo M. Cold case: Small animal gametes cryobanking. Theriogenology 2020; 150:445-451. [PMID: 32164990 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.02.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Germplasm preservation of animals, whether they are valuable domestic breeds or rare species, is the main goal of gamete cryobanking. Dogs and cats act as models for this purpose thanks to the wide availability of biological material which can be employed to experiment protocols that can then be applied to wild animals. This review is focused on spermatozoa, oocytes and gonadal tissues cryobanking in small domestic animals, which is still an unsolved case. Like in a courtroom, evidences of cryoinjuries affecting cellular structures will be presented, penalties as loss of functionality due to cellular alterations will be described, and appeal as strategies to protect gametes from damages or rescue their functionality will be discussed. Differences and similarities between single cell or tissue cryopreservation will be highlighted, together with the rationale for the choice of one type of preservation or another and the fundamental principles which they are based on. The deep analysis of different aspects that still hamper the success of cryopreservation in small animals can help clarify where research is most needed. Therefore, as in a cold case, investigation should remain open in order to hopefully find the solution and make these procedures more and more efficient in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria 10, 20133, Milan, Italy.
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22
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Colombo M, Morselli MG, Apparicio M, Luvoni GC. Granulosa cells in three-dimensional culture: A follicle-like structure for domestic cat vitrified oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2020; 55 Suppl 2:74-80. [PMID: 31913547 DOI: 10.1111/rda.13597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/29/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Follicle-like structures are three-dimensional matrices joint with living cells that allow the in vitro development of female gametes in more physiological conditions. They have been shown to be beneficial to fresh oocytes in different species, and in this study, domestic cat (Felis silvestris catus) granulosa cells were used to create a functional follicle-like structure aimed at supporting the in vitro maturation of conspecific vitrified oocytes, key players of fertility preservation programmes that usually struggle to acquire their full developmental competence after warming. Cat granulosa cells were cultured for up to 6 days in three-dimensional barium alginate microcapsules (i.e. follicle-like structures) or in two-dimensional monolayers, and their steroidogenic ability (estradiol and progesterone secretion) was assessed to confirm their functionality. The same systems were used (on day 2 or 6 of granulosa cells culture) for the in vitro maturation (IVM) of Cryotop® vitrified immature cat oocytes and compared with microdrops of IVM medium without cells (control). Granulosa cells were able to maintain their functionality in vitro in both the conditions, even if with a different extent of hormonal secretion along culture (p = .02). Vitrified oocytes resumed meiosis at higher rates when cultured with 2 days old granulosa cells (p = .03), but full maturation rates slightly raised when granulosa cells were cultured longer, albeit without differences with the control group. This study paved the road for the creation of enriched culture systems in the domestic cat, but innovations are strongly needed for vitrified oocytes that deserve better chances to develop in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maria Giorgia Morselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
| | - Maricy Apparicio
- Programa de Mestrado em Ciência Animal, Universidade de Franca (UNIFRAN), Franca, Brasil.,Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Universidade Estadual Paulista Julio de Mesquita Filho (UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brasil
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy
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Serra E, Gadau SD, Berlinguer F, Naitana S, Succu S. Morphological features and microtubular changes in vitrified ovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2019; 148:216-224. [PMID: 31735434 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.11.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2019] [Revised: 10/31/2019] [Accepted: 11/09/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Cryobanking of oocytes collected from prepubertal donors may supply a virtually unlimited number of female gametes for both basic research and commercial applications. Prepubertal oocytes show some structural and functional limitations compared to the adult ones that may impair their ability to recover damages from cryopreservation. In oocytes, the meiotic spindle is acutely sensitive to temperature deviation, but capable of regeneration following cryopreservation. In the present work, we studied the effects of vitrification and post-warming incubation on the microtubular cytoskeleton and the tubulin post-translational modifications (tyrosination and acetylation) in prepubertal and adult oocytes. Obtained results showed that prepubertal oocytes are more affected by vitrification-induced injuries than adult ones. In fact, prepubertal oocytes showed more severe alterations of the meiotic spindle conformation and a higher percentage of parthenogenetic activation compared to adult ones. Moreover, in the adult oocytes the equilibrium between tyrosinated and acetylated α-tubulin was restored after 4 h of post-warming incubation. Diversely, in prepubertal oocytes the imbalance between tyrosinated and acetylated α-tubulin was increased during post-warming incubation. Our study shows that prepubertal oocytes react differently to the insults provoked by vitrification compared to adult oocytes, showing an impaired ability to recover from vitrification-induced injuries. In the evaluation of oocyte ability to recover from vitrification-induced injuries, tubulin post-translational modifications represent an important indicator for assessing oocyte quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisa Serra
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Sara Succu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Italy
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24
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Mukunoki A, Takeo T, Nakagata N. N-acetyl cysteine restores the fertility of vitrified-warmed mouse oocytes derived through ultrasuperovulation. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0224087. [PMID: 31639156 PMCID: PMC6804996 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0224087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 10/05/2019] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation is useful for preserving fertility and storing genetic resources. However, the small number of oocytes acquired using conventional treatment to induce superovulation and the reduction of fertility due to cryopreservation represent significant problems. Herein, we vitrified the oocytes derived through high-yield superovulation using inhibin antiserum and equine chorionic gonadotropin (IAS + eCG: IASe) and examined the yield of cryopreserved oocytes and survival rates relative to those of vitrified–warmed mouse oocytes derived through conventional superovulation using equine chorionic gonadotropin (eCG). Furthermore, we investigated the effects of N-acetyl cysteine on the fertility and developmental potential of vitrified–warmed oocytes derived using IASe. Compared with eCG, IASe increased the yield of cryopreserved oocytes and achieved equivalent survival rates. N-acetyl cysteine (0.5 mM) increased the fertilization rate of vitrified–warmed oocytes derived using IASe. Vitrification decreased thiol levels in the zona pellucida (ZP), while warming followed by N-acetyl cysteine treatment increased free thiol levels in ZP. Moreover, N-acetyl cysteine treatment recovered zona hardening by cleaving disulfide bonds and promoting the expansion of ZP. Two-cell embryos derived via in vitro fertilization using N-acetyl cysteine developed into normal pups through embryo transfer. Therefore, we developed an efficient technique for the production of cryopreserved oocytes using IASe through superovulation and found that N-acetyl cysteine improves the fertility of vitrified–warmed oocytes by cleaving the disulfide bonds and promoting the expansion of ZP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayumi Mukunoki
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development, Kumamoto University, Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Toru Takeo
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development, Kumamoto University, Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Naomi Nakagata
- Division of Reproductive Engineering, Center for Animal Resources and Development, Kumamoto University, Honjo, Chuo-ku, Kumamoto, Japan
- * E-mail:
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25
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Han S, Han W, Zhang X, Liu J, Huang G. Vitrification of Human In-Vitro Matured Oocytes: Effects on Mitochondrial Ultrastructure and Oxygen Consumption. FERTILITY & REPRODUCTION 2019. [DOI: 10.1142/s2661318219500130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: This study was conducted to evaluate the impact of vitrification on mitochondrial of human IVM oocytes. Methods: A total of 401 immature oocytes were obtained from ovarian stimulated cycles, which were randomly divided into fresh and vitrification groups after IVM. According to the cultured time after thawing, the vitrification groups were divided into 0 hours (0 h), 2 hours (2 h), or 4 hours (4 h) subgroups. Mitochondrial morphology and oxygen consumption were compared among the four groups. After fertilization by ICSI, normal fertilization, cleaved embryos, and blastocyst formation rate were also calculated. Results: The mean gray value of mitochondria structure was significantly decreased in 0 h and 2 h groups when compared to control group (0.48 ± 0.09, 0.50 ± 0.36 vs. 0.61 ± 0.12, respectively; P [Formula: see text] 0.05), and recovered (0.61 ± 0.24 vs. 0.61 ± 0.12, P [Formula: see text] 0.05) in 4 h group. In addition, oxygen consumption was also significantly decreased in 0 h and 2 h groups compared to fresh (2.91 ± 0.77 fmol/s, 3.26 ± 1.34 fmol/s vs. 3.96 ± 1.44 fmol/s, respectively; P [Formula: see text] 0.05), and recovered after 4 h culture (3.96 ± 1.44 fmol/s vs. 4.41 ± 1.38 fmol/s, respectively; P [Formula: see text] 0.05). The percentage of normal fertilization and cleaved embryos were no differences among the four groups, however, blastocyst development rate was significantly lower in 0 h group. Conclusion: These results indicate that during the vitrification process, the oxygen consumption and mitochondrial structure of oocytes may undergo temporary dynamic changes, but appear to recover by 4 hours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shubiao Han
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Wei Han
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Xiaodong Zhang
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Junxia Liu
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400010, China
| | - Guoning Huang
- Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing 400010, China
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26
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Mani S, Ghosh J, Coutifaris C, Sapienza C, Mainigi M. Epigenetic changes and assisted reproductive technologies. Epigenetics 2019; 15:12-25. [PMID: 31328632 DOI: 10.1080/15592294.2019.1646572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Children conceived by Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) are at moderately increased risk for a number of undesirable outcomes, including low birth weight. Whether the additional risk is associated with specific procedures used in ART or biological factors that are intrinsic to infertility has been the subject of much debate, as has the mechanism by which ART or infertility might influence this risk. The potential effect of ART clinical and laboratory procedures on the gamete and embryo epigenomes heads the list of mechanistic candidates that might explain the association between ART and undesirable clinical outcomes. The reason for this focus is that the developmental time points at which ART clinical and laboratory procedures are implemented are precisely the time points at which large-scale reorganization of the epigenome takes place during normal development. In this manuscript, we review the many human studies comparing the epigenomes of ART children with children conceived in vivo, as well as assess the potential of individual ART clinical and laboratory procedures to alter the epigenome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sneha Mani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Jayashri Ghosh
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Carmen Sapienza
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Monica Mainigi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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27
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Colombo M, Morselli MG, Tavares MR, Apparicio M, Luvoni GC. Developmental Competence of Domestic Cat Vitrified Oocytes in 3D Enriched Culture Conditions. Animals (Basel) 2019; 9:E329. [PMID: 31181674 PMCID: PMC6616943 DOI: 10.3390/ani9060329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 05/29/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Cryoinjuries severely affect the competence of vitrified oocytes (VOs) to develop into embryos after warming. The use of culture conditions that provide physical and chemical support and resemble the in vivo microenvironment in which oocytes develop, such as 3D scaffolds and coculture systems, might be useful to improve VOs outcomes. In this study, an enriched culture system of 3D barium alginate microcapsules was employed for the in vitro embryo production of domestic cat VOs. Cryotop vitrified-warmed oocytes were in vitro matured for 24 h in the 3D system with or without fresh cumulus-oocyte complexes (COCs) in coculture, whereas a control group of VOs was cultured in traditional 2D microdrops of medium. After in vitro fertilization, presumptive embryos were cultured in 3D or 2D systems according to the maturation conditions. Vitrified oocytes were able to mature and develop into embryos in 3D microcapsules (17.42 ± 11.83%) as well as in 2D microdrops (14.96 ± 8.80%), but the coculture with companion COCs in 3D resulted in similar proportions of VOs embryo development (18.39 ± 16.67%; p = 1.00), although COCs presence allowed for blastocyst formation (0.95 ± 2.52%). In conclusion, embryos until late developmental stages were obtained from cat VOs, and 3D microcapsules were comparable to 2D microdrops, but improvements in post-warming conditions are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Colombo
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria, 10, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Maria Giorgia Morselli
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria, 10, 20133 Milano, Italy.
| | - Mariana Riboli Tavares
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil.
| | - Maricy Apparicio
- Departamento de Medicina Veterinária Preventiva e Reprodução Animal, Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP), Via de Acesso Prof. Paulo Donato Castellane s/n, Jaboticabal 14884-900, Brazil.
| | - Gaia Cecilia Luvoni
- Dipartimento di Scienze Veterinarie per la Salute, la Produzione Animale e la Sicurezza Alimentare "Carlo Cantoni", Università degli Studi di Milano, Via Celoria, 10, 20133 Milano, Italy.
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28
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Hayashi T, Kansaku K, Abe T, Ueda S, Iwata H. Effects of resveratrol treatment on mitochondria and subsequent embryonic development of bovine blastocysts cryopreserved by slow freezing. Anim Sci J 2019; 90:849-856. [PMID: 31067600 DOI: 10.1111/asj.13219] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2018] [Revised: 03/25/2019] [Accepted: 03/26/2019] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the effects of cryopreservation by slow freezing on the mitochondrial function, DNA integrity, and developmental ability of bovine embryos and examined whether resveratrol treatment of the frozen-thawed blastocysts improved embryonic viability. In vitro produced bovine embryos were subjected to slow freezing. After thawing, the ATP content and mitochondrial DNA integrity (mtDNA), determined by real-time PCR targeting short and long mitochondrial sequences, was found to be lower in frozen-thawed embryos than in fresh embryos, and mtDNA copy number was significantly reduced during the 24-hr incubation post warming. Furthermore, immunostaining against double-strand DNA revealed DNA damage in frozen-thawed embryos. When frozen-thawed embryos were incubated in the medium containing 0.5 µM resveratrol, SIRT1 expression, and survival rate of the embryos significantly improved compared with the vehicle-treated embryos. In addition, cell-free mtDNA content in medium was higher in case of resveratrol-treated embryos than of vehicle-treated embryos. In conclusion, slow freezing affects mitochondrial integrity and function in the blastocysts. In the frozen-thawed embryos, mitochondria were removed during post-thawing incubation and resveratrol enhanced the process, resulting in improved survivability of the embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hayashi
- Department of Animal production, Fukuoka Agriculture and Forestry Research Center, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Kazuki Kansaku
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Japan
| | - Takahito Abe
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Japan
| | - Shuji Ueda
- Department of Animal production, Fukuoka Agriculture and Forestry Research Center, Chikushino, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Hisataka Iwata
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Atsugi, Japan
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29
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Lv C, Wu G, Hong Q, Quan G. Spermatozoa Cryopreservation: State of Art and Future in Small Ruminants. Biopreserv Biobank 2019; 17:171-182. [DOI: 10.1089/bio.2018.0113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Chunrong Lv
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation and Germplasm Enhancement, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Meat Caprine Engineering Research Center, Kunming, China
| | - Guoquan Wu
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation and Germplasm Enhancement, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Meat Caprine Engineering Research Center, Kunming, China
| | - Qionghua Hong
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation and Germplasm Enhancement, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Meat Caprine Engineering Research Center, Kunming, China
| | - Guobo Quan
- Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Engineering Laboratory of Animal Genetic Resource Conservation and Germplasm Enhancement, Kunming, China
- Yunnan Provincial Meat Caprine Engineering Research Center, Kunming, China
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30
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Moussa M, Yang CY, Zheng HY, Li MQ, Yu NQ, Yan SF, Huang JX, Shang JH. Vitrification alters cell adhesion related genes in pre-implantation buffalo embryos: Protective role of β-mercaptoethanol. Theriogenology 2019; 125:317-323. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2018.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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31
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Mogas T. Update on the vitrification of bovine oocytes and invitro-produced embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:105-117. [PMID: 32188546 DOI: 10.1071/rd18345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
The combined use of reproductive technologies, such as transvaginal ovum-pick up and invitro embryo production followed by direct transfer of cryopreserved embryos, has great potential for enhancing genetic selection and optimising cross-breeding schemes in beef and dairy cattle production systems. This, along with an effective cryopreservation procedure for cow oocytes, will enable the long-term conservation of female genetic traits and the advance of embryo biotechnology in this species. However, the low fertilisation rates and developmental competence of cryopreserved oocytes still need to be improved. Over the past two decades, many research efforts tried to overcome individual features of the bovine oocyte that make it notoriously difficult to cryopreserve. In addition, pregnancy rates associated with invitro-produced (IVP) embryos remain lower than those obtained using invivo counterparts. This, together with a lack of a standard methodology for IVP embryo cryopreservation that provides easier and more practical logistics for the transfer of IVP embryos on farms, has hindered international genetic trade and the management of embryo banks. This review updates developments in oocyte and IVP embryo vitrification strategies targeting high production efficiency and better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Teresa Mogas
- Departament de Medicina i Cirurgia Animals, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, 08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain. Email
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32
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Quan G, Wu G, Hong Q. Oocyte Cryopreservation Based in Sheep: The Current Status and Future Perspective. Biopreserv Biobank 2017; 15:535-547. [DOI: 10.1089/bio.2017.0074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Guobo Quan
- Department of Herbivore Science, Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Guoquan Wu
- Department of Herbivore Science, Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
| | - Qionghua Hong
- Department of Herbivore Science, Yunnan Animal Science and Veterinary Institute, Kunming, Yunnan Province, China
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33
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Effect of liquid helium vitrification on cytoskeleton of immature cattle oocytes. Anim Reprod Sci 2017; 187:91-99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2017.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2017] [Revised: 09/28/2017] [Accepted: 10/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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34
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Raman-microscopy investigation of vitrification-induced structural damages in mature bovine oocytes. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0177677. [PMID: 28531193 PMCID: PMC5439703 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0177677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2016] [Accepted: 04/30/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Although oocyte cryopreservation has great potentials in the field of reproductive technologies, it still is an open challenge in the majority of domestic animals and little is known on the biochemical transformation induced by this process in the different cellular compartments. Raman micro-spectroscopy allows the non-invasive evaluation of the molecular composition of cells, based on the inelastic scattering of laser photons by vibrating molecules. The aim of this work was to assess the biochemical modifications of both the zona pellucida and cytoplasm of vitrified/warmed in vitro matured bovine oocytes at different post-warming times. By taking advantage of Principal Component Analysis, we were able to shed light on the biochemical transformation induced by the cryogenic treatment, also pointing out the specific role of cryoprotective agents (CPs). Our results suggest that vitrification induces a transformation of the protein secondary structure from the α-helices to the β-sheet form, while lipids tend to assume a more packed configuration in the zona pellucida. Both modifications result in a mechanical hardening of this cellular compartment, which could account for the reduced fertility rates of vitrified oocytes. Furthermore, biochemical modifications were observed at the cytoplasmic level in the protein secondary structure, with α-helices loss, suggesting cold protein denaturation. In addition, a decrease of lipid unsaturation was found in vitrified oocytes, suggesting oxidative damages. Interestingly, most modifications were not observed in oocytes exposed to CPs, suggesting that they do not severely affect the biochemical architecture of the oocyte. Nevertheless, in oocytes exposed to CPs decreased developmental competence and increased reactive oxygen species production were observed compared to the control. A more severe reduction of cleavage and blastocyst rates after in vitro fertilization was obtained from vitrified oocytes. Our experimental outcomes also suggest a certain degree of reversibility of the induced transformations, which renders vitrified oocytes more similar to untreated cells after 2 h warming.
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35
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Shahedi A, Hosseini A, Ali Khalili M, Yeganeh F. Vitrification Affects Nuclear Maturation and Gene Expression of Immature Human Oocytes. RESEARCH IN MOLECULAR MEDICINE 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/rmm.5.1.27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
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36
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Liang S, Yuan B, Kwon JW, Ahn M, Cui XS, Bang JK, Kim NH. Effect of antifreeze glycoprotein 8 supplementation during vitrification on the developmental competence of bovine oocytes. Theriogenology 2016; 86:485-494.e1. [PMID: 26948296 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.01.032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/30/2016] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of antifreeze glycoprotein 8 (AFGP8) supplementation during vitrification on the survival, fertilization, and embryonic development of bovine oocytes and the underlying molecular mechanism(s). Survival, fertilization, early embryonic development, apoptosis, DNA double-strand breaks, reactive oxygen species levels, meiotic cytoskeleton assembly, chromosome alignment, and energy status of mitochondria were measured in the present experiments. Compared with that in the nonsupplemented group; survival, monospermy, blastocyst formation rates, and blastomere counts were significantly higher in the AFGP8-supplemented animals. Oocytes of the latter group also presented fewer double-strand breaks and lower cathepsin B and caspase activities. Rates of normal spindle organization and chromosome alignment, actin filament impairment, and mitochondrial distribution were significantly higher in the AFGP8-supplemented group. In addition, intracellular reactive oxygen species levels significantly decreased in the AFGP8-supplemented groups, maintaining a higher ΔΨm than that in the nonsupplemented group. Taken together, these results indicated that supplementation with AFGP8 during vitrification has a protective effect on bovine oocytes against chilling injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Liang
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Bao Yuan
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; Department of Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | - Jeong-Woo Kwon
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Mija Ahn
- Division of Magnetic Resonance, Korea Basic Science Institute, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Xiang-Shun Cui
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Jeong Kyu Bang
- Division of Magnetic Resonance, Korea Basic Science Institute, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea
| | - Nam-Hyung Kim
- Department of Animal Science, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju, Chungbuk, Republic of Korea; Department of Laboratory Animal Center, College of Animal Sciences, Jilin University, Changchun, China.
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Bogliolo L, Murrone O, Piccinini M, Ariu F, Ledda S, Tilocca S, Albertini DF. Evaluation of the impact of vitrification on the actin cytoskeleton of in vitro matured ovine oocytes by means of Raman microspectroscopy. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 32:185-93. [PMID: 25399064 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0389-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2014] [Accepted: 11/05/2014] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Investigation of the changes induced by vitrification on the cortical F-actin of in vitro matured ovine oocytes by Raman microspectroscopy (RMS). METHODS Cumulus-oocyte complexes, recovered from the ovaries of slaughtered sheep, were matured in vitro and vitrified following the Minimum Essential Volume method using cryotops. The cortical region of metaphase II (MII) oocytes (1) exposed to vitrification solutions but not cryopreserved (CPA-exp), (2) vitrified/warmed (VITRI), and (3) untreated (CTR) was analyzed by RMS. A chemical map of one quadrant of single CPA-exp, VITRI and CTR oocytes was, also, performed. In order to identify the region of Raman spectra representative of the cortical F-actin modification, a group of in vitro matured oocytes were incubated with latrunculin-A (LATA), a specific F-actin destabilizing drug, and processed for RMS analysis. Thereafter, all the oocytes were stained with rhodamine phalloidin and evaluated by fluorescence confocal microscopy. Raman spectra of the oocytes were, statistically, analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). RESULTS The PCA score plots showed a marked discrimination between CTR oocytes and CPA-exp/ VITRI groups. The main differences, highlighted by PCA loadings, were referable to proteins (1657, 1440 and 1300 cm(-1)) and, as indicated by LATA experiments, also included the changes of the F-actin. Analysis by confocal microscopy revealed a clear alteration of the cortical F-actin of CPA-exp and VITRI oocytes confirming RMS results. CONCLUSIONS Raman microspectroscopy may represent an alternative analytical tool for investigating the biochemical modification of the oocyte cortex, including the F-actin cytoskeleton, during vitrification of in vitro matured ovine oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luisa Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, of Sassari, Via Vienna 2, 07100, Sassari, Sardegna, Italy,
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