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Ono Y, Shirasawa H, Takahashi K, Goto M, Ono T, Sakaguchi T, Okabe M, Hirakawa T, Iwasawa T, Fujishima A, Sugawara T, Makino K, Miura H, Fukunaga N, Asada Y, Kumazawa Y, Terada Y. Shape of the first mitotic spindles impacts multinucleation in human embryos. Nat Commun 2024; 15:5381. [PMID: 38918406 PMCID: PMC11199590 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-49815-8] [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: 01/18/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
During human embryonic development, early cleavage-stage embryos are more susceptible to errors. Studies have shown that many problems occur during the first mitosis, such as direct cleavage, chromosome segregation errors, and multinucleation. However, the mechanisms whereby these errors occur during the first mitosis in human embryos remain unknown. To clarify this aspect, in the present study, we image discarded living human two-pronuclear stage zygotes using fluorescent labeling and confocal microscopy without microinjection of DNA or mRNA and investigate the association between spindle shape and nuclear abnormality during the first mitosis. We observe that the first mitotic spindles vary, and low-aspect-ratio-shaped spindles tend to lead to the formation of multiple nuclei at the 2-cell stage. Moreover, we observe defocusing poles in many of the first mitotic spindles, which are strongly associated with multinucleation. Additionally, we show that differences in the positions of the centrosomes cause spindle abnormality in the first mitosis. Furthermore, many multinuclei are modified to form mononuclei after the second mitosis because the occurrence of pole defocusing is firmly reduced. Our study will contribute markedly to research on the occurrence of mitotic errors during the early cleavage of human embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuki Ono
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan.
| | - Hiromitsu Shirasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Kazumasa Takahashi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Mayumi Goto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Takahiro Ono
- Department of Neurosurgery, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Taichi Sakaguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Motonari Okabe
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Takeo Hirakawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Takuya Iwasawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Akiko Fujishima
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Tae Sugawara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Kenichi Makino
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Hiroshi Miura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Noritaka Fukunaga
- Asada Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Asada Ladies Clinic, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yoshimasa Asada
- Asada Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Asada Ladies Clinic, Nagoya, Aichi, Japan
| | - Yukiyo Kumazawa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Yukihiro Terada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
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Kankanam Gamage US, Hashimoto S, Miyamoto Y, Nakano T, Yamanaka M, Koike A, Satoh M, Morimoto Y. Mitochondria Transfer from Adipose Stem Cells Improves the Developmental Potential of Cryopreserved Oocytes. Biomolecules 2022; 12:biom12071008. [PMID: 35883564 PMCID: PMC9313289 DOI: 10.3390/biom12071008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Revised: 07/15/2022] [Accepted: 07/19/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although it is not a well-established technology, oocyte cryopreservation is becoming prevalent in assisted reproductive technologies in response to the growing demands of patients’ sociological and pathological conditions. Oocyte cryopreservation can adversely affect the developmental potential of oocytes by causing an increase in intracellular oxidative stresses and damage to the mitochondrial structure. In this study, we studied whether autologous adipose stem cell (ASC) mitochondria supplementation with vitrified and warmed oocytes could restore post-fertilization development that decreased due to mitochondrial damage following cryopreservation. ASC mitochondria showed similar morphology to oocytes’ mitochondria and had a higher ATP production capacity. The vitrified-warmed oocytes from juvenile mice were supplemented with ASC mitochondria at the same time as intracellular sperm injection (ICSI), after which we compared their developmental capacity and the mitochondria quality of 2-cell embryos. We found that, compared to their counterpart, mitochondria supplementation significantly improved development from 2-cell embryos to blastocysts (56.8% vs. 38.2%) and ATP production in 2-cell embryos (905.6 & 561.1 pmol), while reactive oxygen species levels were comparable. With these results, we propose that ASC mitochondria supplementation could restore the quality of cryopreserved oocytes and enhance the embryo developmental capacity, signifying another possible approach for mitochondrial transplantation therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Udayanga Sanath Kankanam Gamage
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
| | - Shu Hashimoto
- Reproductive Science Institute, Graduate School of Medicine, Osaka Metropolitan University, Osaka 545-8585, Japan
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
| | - Yuki Miyamoto
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Tatsuya Nakano
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Masaya Yamanaka
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Akiko Koike
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
| | - Manabu Satoh
- IVF Namba Clinic, Osaka 550-0015, Japan; (T.N.); (M.Y.); (M.S.)
| | - Yoshiharu Morimoto
- HORAC Grand Front Osaka Clinic, Osaka 530-0011, Japan; (Y.M.); (A.K.)
- Correspondence: (U.S.K.G.); (S.H.); (Y.M.); Tel.: +81-90-9823-8477 (U.S.K.G.); +81-6-6645-2121 (S.H.); +81-6-6377-8824 (Y.M.)
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3
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Ultrastructural Evaluation of the Human Oocyte at the Germinal Vesicle Stage during the Application of Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Cells 2022; 11:cells11101636. [PMID: 35626673 PMCID: PMC9139706 DOI: 10.3390/cells11101636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2022] [Revised: 05/06/2022] [Accepted: 05/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
After its discovery in 1825 by the physiologist J.E. Purkinje, the human germinal vesicle (GV) attracted the interest of scientists. Discarded after laparotomy or laparoscopic ovum pick up from the pool of retrieved mature oocytes, the leftover GV was mainly used for research purposes. After the discovery of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs) such as in vitro maturation (IVM), in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), its developing potential was explored, and recognized as an important source of germ cells, especially in the case of scarce availability of mature oocytes for pathological/clinical conditions or in the case of previous recurrent implantation failure. We here review the ultrastructural data available on GV-stage human oocytes and their application to ARTs.
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Gardela J, Ruiz-Conca M, García-Sanmartín J, Martínez A, Mogas T, López-Béjar M, Álvarez-Rodríguez M. Mild hypothermia and vitrification increase the mRNA expression of cold-inducible proteins in bovine oocytes and cumulus cells. Theriogenology 2022; 185:16-23. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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5
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Ultrastructural changes in immature ovine cumulus-oocyte complexes vitrified in conventional and open pulled straws. Small Rumin Res 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.smallrumres.2021.106367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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6
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Wuri L, Agca C, Agca Y. Morphometric, subcellular, in vitro fertilisation and embryonic developmental assessment of mouse oocytes produced by anti-inhibin serum or pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin superovulation. Reprod Fertil Dev 2021; 32:474-483. [PMID: 31972126 DOI: 10.1071/rd19131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared the morphometric, subcellular characteristics, in vitro fertilisation (IVF) and embryonic developmental potential of metaphase II (MII) mouse oocytes obtained from females superovulated with either anti-inhibin serum-human chorionic gonadotrophin (AIS-hCG) or pregnant mare serum gonadotrophin (PMSG)-hCG. The oocyte's quantity, quality, zona pellucida (ZP) thickness, perivitelline space (PVS), diameter, microtubules, F-actin, cortical granules (CGs) and mitochondrial distribution were determined. Superovulation using AIS-hCG resulted in a higher numbers of oocyte/donor compared with PMSG-hCG (P=0.002). There was no difference in morphologically normal and abnormal oocytes between AIS-hCG and PMSG-hCG (P=0.425 and P=0.194, respectively). The morphometric measurements showed no difference in oocyte diameter between AIS-hCG and PMSG-hCG (P=0.289). However, the thickness of the ZP of oocytes from AIS-hCG females was decreased compared with PMSG-hCG (P<0.001). The PVS of oocytes from the AIS-hCG was larger than with PMSG-hCG (P<0.001). The microtubules of oocytes from both AIS-hCG and PMSG-hCG were normal, although there was an increased fluorescence intensity in the AIS-hCG oocytes (P<0.001). The F-actin and CGs distribution in oocytes from both AIS-hCG and PMSG-hCG were similar (P=0.330 and P=0.13, respectively). Although the oocytes from PMSG-hCG females had homogenously distributed mitochondria, AIS-hCG oocytes showed more peripheral distribution with no differences in fluorescence intensity (P=0.137). The blastocyst development rates after IVF with fresh sperm showed no difference between AIS-hCG and PMSG-hCG (P=0.235). These data suggested that AIS-hCG superovulation produces high numbers of morphologically normal oocytes that also possess normal subcellular structures, good morphological characteristics and had high invitro embryonic developmental potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liga Wuri
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, 920 East Campus Drive, Columbia, MO 65201, USA
| | - Cansu Agca
- College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 1600 East Rollins Street, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Yuksel Agca
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, 920 East Campus Drive, Columbia, MO 65201, USA; and College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, 1600 East Rollins Street, Columbia, MO 65211, USA; and Corresponding author.
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7
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Effects of vitrification and cryostorage duration on single-cell RNA-Seq profiling of vitrified-thawed human metaphase II oocytes. Front Med 2020; 15:144-154. [PMID: 32876878 DOI: 10.1007/s11684-020-0792-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation is widely used for clinical and social reasons. Previous studies have demonstrated that conventional slow-freezing cryopreservation procedures, but not storage time, can alter the gene expression profiles of frozen oocytes. Whether vitrification procedures and the related frozen storage durations have any effects on the transcriptomes of human metaphase II oocytes remain unknown. Four women (30-32 years old) who had undergone IVF treatment were recruited for this study. RNA-Seq profiles of 3 fresh oocytes and 13 surviving vitrified-thawed oocytes (3, 3, 4, and 3 oocytes were cryostored for 1,2, 3, and 12 months) were analyzed at a single-cell resolution. A total of 1987 genes were differentially expressed in the 13 vitrified-thawed oocytes. However, no differentially expressed genes were found between any two groups among the 1-, 2-, 3-, and 12-month storage groups. Further analysis revealed that the aberrant genes in the vitrified oocytes were closely related to oogenesis and development. Our findings indicated that the effects of vitrification on the transcriptomes of mature human oocytes are induced by the procedure itself, suggesting that long-term cryostorage of human oocytes is safe.
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Zona pellucida shear modulus, a possible novel non-invasive method to assist in embryo selection during in-vitro fertilization treatment. Sci Rep 2020; 10:14066. [PMID: 32826934 PMCID: PMC7443135 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-70739-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study investigated the association between oocyte zona pellucida shear modulus (ZPSM) and implantation rate (IR). Ninety-three oocytes collected from 38 in-vitro fertilization patients who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection were included in this case–control study. The ZP was modeled as an isotropic compressible hyperelastic material with parameter \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$C_{10}$$\end{document}C10, which represents the ZPSM. Computational methodology was used to calculate the mechanical parameters that govern ZP deformation. Fifty-one developed embryos were transferred and divided into two groups—implanted and not implanted. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the association between ZPSM and IR while controlling for confounders. Maternal age and number of embryos per transfer were significantly associated with implantation. The IR of embryos characterized by \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}
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\begin{document}$$C_{10}$$\end{document}C10 values in the range of 0.20–0.40 kPa was 66.75%, while outside this range it was 6.70%. This range was significantly associated with implantation (p < 0.001). Geometric properties were not associated with implantation. Multivariate logistic regression analysis that controlled for relevant confounders indicated that this range was independently associated with implantation (adjusted OR 38.03, 95% confidence interval 4.67–309.36, p = 0.001). The present study suggests that ZPSM may improve the classic embryo selection process with the aim of increasing IR.
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Type of protein supplement in cryopreservation solutions impacts on the degree of ultrastructural damage in frozen-thawed human oocytes. Cryobiology 2020; 95:143-150. [PMID: 32243889 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.03.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Protein sources used as supplements of IVF culture media are known to have several implications for the function and stability of embryo culture environment. In fact, they i) transport biologically active molecules ii) chelate heavy metals, iii) regulate media pH, iii) scavenge reactive oxygen species (ROS) and iv) attenuate osmotic stress to which cells are exposed in sub-optimal culture conditions. Instead, their specific relevance to the formulation of cryopreservation solutions used for gamete and embryo cryopreservation remains uncertain. In the present work, we tested the hypothesis that different protein supplements present in cryopreservation solutions, serum or plasma protein solution (PPS), or different concentrations of the same supplement (serum), are associated with different types and/or magnitude of cryopreservation-derived cell damage. To this end, using cryopreservation solutions containing serum or PPS, donated supernumerary human mature oocytes were frozen-thawed by slow freezing and compared with fresh controls. Ultrastructural markers of oocyte quality were adopted as objective measure to assess possible damage from cryopreservation. The study results indicate that the adoption of serum minimises cell damage induced by cryopreservation. Indeed, typical hallmarks of cryodamage in human oocytes, i.e. loss of cortical granules, zona pellucida hardening and above all vacuolization, were largely reduced in oocytes cryopreserved with solutions containing serum, especially if used a higher concentration. This suggest that oocyte cryopreservation still has significant margins of improvement that may derive also from composition of cryopreservation media.
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10
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Daddangadi A, Uppangala S, Kalthur G, Talevi R, Adiga SK. Germinal stage vitrification is superior to MII stage vitrification in prepubertal mouse oocytes. Cryobiology 2020; 93:49-55. [PMID: 32112808 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.02.012] [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: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 02/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated if in vitro maturation (IVM) before or after vitrification would be more successful for prepubertal oocytes. To mimic prepubertal conditions in an experimental setup, oocytes were collected from healthy 14, 21 and 28day old Swiss albino mice. The germinal vesicle (GV) stage oocytes and in vitro matured MII oocytes were subjected to vitrification-warming. Both structural (meiotic spindle morphology, mitochondrial integrity, cortical granules) and functional (sperm zona binding, fertilization) characteristics were assessed in oocytes after warming. This study demonstrated that IVM was more detrimental to prepubertal oocytes than to young adults. Further, vitrification of the IVM oocytes resulted in an increase in the number of abnormal meiotic spindles, a change in the cortical distribution pattern, a reduction in sperm zona binding and the fertilization rate. Importantly, oocyte integrity was better when prepubertal oocytes were vitrified before, rather than after, IVM. The above observations support GV stage vitrification for prepubertal oocytes requiring fertility preservation. Understanding the mechanisms behind the differing outcomes for oocytes from immature females will help in refining current protocol, thereby retaining the oocytes' maximum structural and functional integrity Further investigation is necessary to determine whether human prepubertal oocytes also behave in a similar way. It is to be noted here, with great emphasis, that a major limitation of this study is that the oocytes' abilities were tested only until fertilisation, as a consequence of which the study cannot reveal the developmental potentials of the embryos beyond fertilisation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akshatha Daddangadi
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576 104, India.
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Giolo E, Martinelli M, Luppi S, Romano F, Ricci G, Lazzarino M, Andolfi L. Study of the mechanical properties of fresh and cryopreserved individual human oocytes. EUROPEAN BIOPHYSICS JOURNAL: EBJ 2019; 48:585-592. [PMID: 31230258 DOI: 10.1007/s00249-019-01379-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2018] [Revised: 03/05/2019] [Accepted: 06/17/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
In assisted reproduction technologies, the cryopreservation of oocytes is a common procedure used to circumvent female infertility. However, some morphological and functional alterations of oocytes have been observed depending on the protocol applied. In this work, the mechanical response of individual human oocytes before and after a freeze-thawing procedure was characterised. Oocytes, immediately after retrieval, were morphologically evaluated by bright-field optical microscopy and their elasticity measured by indentation measurements using atomic force microscopy. Oocytes were then frozen according to the open-vitrification protocol and stored in liquid nitrogen. Afterwards, the same oocytes were thawed and the indentation measurements repeated. Using this approach, we can follow the elasticity of a set of single oocytes from retrieval up to the freeze-thawing procedure. The analysis of the resulting data shows that the retrieved healthy oocytes, which preserve their healthy morphological features after cryopreservation, maintain unchanged also in stiffness values. In contrast, oocytes having dysmorphic characteristics, before and/or after freeze-thawing, show significant variations in their mechanical response. In addition, the dysmorphic oocytes are generally observed to be softer than the healthy oocytes. Our results indicate that stiffness of healthy oocytes is not considerably affected by the open-vitrification-thawing procedure, and that distinct elasticity ranges can be identified for healthy and dysmorphic oocytes. These findings indicate that the mechanical characterization of oocytes represents an opportunity to detect cellular defects, and assess the quality and bio-viability of processes such as cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Giolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Monica Martinelli
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Stefania Luppi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy. .,Department of Medicine, Surgery and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy.
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Basovizza, 34149, Trieste, Italy
| | - Laura Andolfi
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Basovizza, 34149, Trieste, Italy.
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12
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Ice age: Cryopreservation in assisted reproduction – An update. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:119-126. [DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/04/2019] [Accepted: 04/27/2019] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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13
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Wuri L, Agca C, Agca Y. Euthanasia via CO 2 inhalation causes premature cortical granule exocytosis in mouse oocytes and influences in vitro fertilization and embryo development. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:825-834. [PMID: 31087431 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23167] [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: 02/20/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Generation of high quality mouse metaphase II oocytes is an integral part for efficient in vitro fertilization (IVF), and subsequent embryo production for reproductive studies and genome banking. The main objectives of this study were to investigate the impact of various euthanasia methods on IVF, embryo development, and subcellular structures of MII mouse oocytes. Following superovulation regimen, female mice were euthanized by high flow CO2 (H CO2 ), low flow CO2 (L CO2 ), or cervical dislocation (CD). The MII oocytes obtained from these mice were evaluated for subcellular integrity by assessing their cortical granules and F-actin. Furthermore, fertilization and subsequent embryonic development competence up to blastocyst stage were also evaluated in vitro. The oocytes collected from females euthanized by CD resulted in significantly higher two-cell development rates (p = 0.028) and subsequently lead to in higher embryo development rates (p = 0.027) compared with oocytes from females euthanized by L CO2 . The cortical granule integrity analysis revealed significantly higher rate of premature cortical granules exocytosis (PCGE) for L CO2 group compared with CD and H CO2 groups (p < 0.001). These data collectively suggest that CO2 associated PCGE during euthanasia procedure is the main cause of decreased IVF rates and CD is the optimal euthanasia method for the purpose of obtaining good quality MII oocytes for mouse IVF and other reproductive studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liga Wuri
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Cansu Agca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
| | - Yuksel Agca
- Department of Veterinary Pathobiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, Columbia, Missouri
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Pereira BA, Zangeronimo MG, Castillo-Martín M, Gadani B, Chaves BR, Rodríguez-Gil JE, Bonet S, Yeste M. Supplementing Maturation Medium With Insulin Growth Factor I and Vitrification-Warming Solutions With Reduced Glutathione Enhances Survival Rates and Development Ability of in vitro Matured Vitrified-Warmed Pig Oocytes. Front Physiol 2019; 9:1894. [PMID: 30692931 PMCID: PMC6340283 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2018.01894] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The present study sought to determine whether in vitro maturation (IVM) of pig oocytes in a medium supplemented with insulin growth factor-I (IGF-I) and subsequent vitrification with or without reduced glutathione (GSH) affect their quality and developmental competence, and the expression of genes involved in antioxidant, apoptotic and stress responses. In Experiment 1, cumulus-oocyte complexes were matured in the absence or presence of IGF-I (100 ng·mL−1) and then vitrified-warmed with or without 2 mM of GSH. Maturation rate was evaluated before vitrification, and oocyte viability, DNA fragmentation and relative transcript abundances of BCL-2-associated X protein (BAX), BCL2-like1 (BCL2L1), heat shock protein 70 (HSPA1A), glutathione peroxidase 1 (GPX1) and superoxide dismutase 1 (SOD1) genes were assessed in fresh and vitrified-warmed oocytes. In Experiment 2, fresh and vitrified-warmed oocytes were in vitro fertilized and their developmental competence determined. Whereas the addition of IGF-I to maturation medium had no effect on oocyte maturation, it caused an increase in the survival rate of vitrified-warmed oocytes. This effect was accompanied by a concomitant augment in the relative transcript abundance of HSPA1A and a decrease of BAX. Furthermore, the addition of GSH to vitrification-warming media increased survival rates at post-warming. Likewise, the action of GSH was concomitant with an increase in the relative abundance of GPX1 and a decrease of BAX transcript. Blastocyst rates of vitrified-warmed oocytes did not differ from their fresh counterparts when IGF-I and GSH were combined. In conclusion, supplementing maturation medium with 100 ng·mL−1 IGF-I and vitrification-warming solutions with 2 mM GSH improves the quality and cryotolerance of IVM pig oocytes, through a mechanism that involves BAX, GPX1 and HSPA1A expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Barbara Azevedo Pereira
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Marcio Gilberto Zangeronimo
- Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Miriam Castillo-Martín
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Beatrice Gadani
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | - Bruna Resende Chaves
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain.,Laboratory of Animal Physiology and Pharmacology, Department of Veterinary Medicine, Federal University of Lavras, Lavras, Brazil
| | - Joan Enric Rodríguez-Gil
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Sergi Bonet
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Unit of Cell Biology, Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
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15
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Abstract
SummaryMouse and lamb oocytes were vitrified with, or exposed to, different cryoprotectants and evaluated for their effects on their survival and developmental competence after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and activation treatments. Control oocytes remained untreated, whilst the remainder were exposed to three different combinations of vitrification solutions [dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) + ethylene glycol (EG), EG only, or propanediol (PROH) + EG] and either vitrified or left unfrozen (exposed groups). Oocytes in the control and vitrified groups underwent IVF and developmental competence was assessed to the blastocyst stage. In lambs, survival rate in vitrified oocytes was significantly lower than for oocytes in the exposed groups (P <0.05). Blastocyst development was low in vitrified oocytes compared with controls (<6% vs 38.9%, P <0.01). Parthenogenetic activation was more prevalent in vitrified lamb oocytes compared with controls (P <0.05). No evidence of zona pellucida hardening or cortical granule exocytosis could account for reduced fertilization rates in vitrified lamb oocytes. Mouse oocytes demonstrated a completely different response to lamb oocytes, with survival and parthenogenetic activation rates unaffected by the vitrification process. Treatment of mouse oocytes with DMSO + EG yielded significantly higher survival and cleavage rates than treatment with PROH + EG (87.8% and 51.7% vs 32.7% and 16.7% respectively, P <0.01), however cleavage rate for vitrified oocytes remained lower than for the controls (51.7% vs 91.7%, P <0.01) as did mean blastocyst cell number (33 ± 3.1 vs 42 ± 1.5, P <0.05). From this study, it is clear that lamb and mouse show different tolerances to cryoprotectants commonly used in vitrification procedures, and careful selection and testing of species-compatible cryoprotectants is required when vitrifying oocytes to optimize survival and embryo development.
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Faizah Z, Darsini N, Hinting A. FERTILIZATION OF BOVINE OOCYTES VITRIFIED PRE- AND POST IN VITRO MATURATION. FOLIA MEDICA INDONESIANA 2017. [DOI: 10.20473/fmi.v52i2.5222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The success rate of fertilization post save frozen oocytes is still very low, because the oocyte has distinctive features, namely the volume ratio and a lower surface to the limited penetration of water and cryoprotectants penetrate cells. Beside mature oocytes have a thread spindles are particularly vulnerable to the drop in temperature. Keep frozen oocytes is needed, especially in women who needed rescue fertility so their oosit can be fertilized. Maturation is done in TC 100 mL medium covered with mineral oil in a petri dish with a diameter of 36 mm. Oocyte vitrification begins with washing in PBS supplemented medium serum 20% for 1-2 minutes, followed by serum in the medium PBS + 20% + 10% ethylene glycol for 10-14 minutes. Then oocyte vitrification medium is transported in PBS + serum 20% + sucrose 0.5M ethylene glycol + 15% + 15% PROH for 25-30 seconds. Thawing oocytes is done by successive immersed in the media: 1). PBS + 20% serum + 0.5M sucrose, 2). PBS + 20% serum + 0.25M sucrose, and 3). PBS + 20% serum + 0.1 M sucrose. Insemination is done in rosset, and the number of fertilization was observed after 48 hours. Fertilization in the control group amounted to 42.97%, while the K1 and K2 there are no fertilization at all. The analysis showed that fertilization in the control and treatment groups significantly different at p <0.05 in both treatment groups K1 or K2 there are no fertilization at all. The conclusions of this study is there is no difference between the amount of fertilization of bovine oocytes were vitrified pre and post-maturation in vitro.
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State of the art on oocyte cryopreservation in female cancer patients: A critical review of the literature. Cancer Treat Rev 2017; 57:50-57. [PMID: 28550713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2017.04.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
During the last decades, important advances in therapeutic options have led to increased survival rates in cancer patients; however, cancer treatments are associated with several potential adverse effects including infertility in those diagnosed during their reproductive years. A proper discussion about fertility preservation options before the use of therapies with potential gonadotoxicity (i.e. oncofertility counseling) is standard of care and should be offered to all patients of childbearing age. Temporary ovarian suppression with LH-RH analogs, oocyte and embryo cryopreservation are standard strategies for fertility preservation in female cancer patients. Oocyte cryopreservation should be preferred to embryo cryopreservation when this latter is prohibited by law, avoided for ethical or religious issues and in single women refusing sperm donation. Despite the increasing use of this strategy, data are still lacking about the efficacy and safety of the procedure in female cancer patients, with most of the evidence on this regard deriving from infertile non-oncologic women. This article aims at critically review the available evidence about the success of oocyte cryopreservation in female cancer patients with the final goal to further improve the oncofertility counseling of these women.
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18
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Glycine increases preimplantation development of mouse oocytes following vitrification at the germinal vesicle stage. Sci Rep 2016; 6:37262. [PMID: 27845423 PMCID: PMC5109034 DOI: 10.1038/srep37262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Ice-free cryopreservation, referred to as vitrification, is receiving increased attention in the human and animal assisted reproduction. However, it introduces the detrimental osmotic stress by adding and removing high contents of cryoprotectants. In this study, we evaluated the effects of normalizing cell volume regulation by adding glycine, an organic osmolyte, during vitrification of mouse germinal vesicle stage oocyte and/or subsequent maturation on its development. The data showed that glycine supplementation in either vitrification/thawing or maturation medium significantly improved the cytoplasmic maturation of MII oocytes manifested by spindle assembly, chromosomal alignment, mitochondrial distribution, euploidy rate, and blastocyst development following fertilization in vitro, compared to the control without glycine treatment. Furthermore, glycine addition during both vitrification/thawing and maturation further enhanced the oocyte quality demonstrated by various markers, including ATP contents and embryo development. Lastly, the effect of anti-apoptosis was also observed when glycine was added during vitrification. Our result suggests that reducing osmotic stress induced by vitrification could improve the development of vitrified mouse oocyte.
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19
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Freeze-all, oocyte vitrification, or fresh embryo transfer? Lessons from an egg-sharing donation program. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:615-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Revised: 04/08/2016] [Accepted: 05/09/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Freeze/thaw stress induces organelle remodeling and membrane recycling in cryopreserved human mature oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1559-1570. [PMID: 27586998 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0798-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Our aim was to evaluate the ultrastructure of human metaphase II oocytes subjected to slow freezing and fixed after thawing at different intervals during post-thaw rehydration. METHODS Samples were studied by light and transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS We found that vacuolization was present in all cryopreserved oocytes, reaching a maximum in the intermediate stage of rehydration. Mitochondria-smooth endoplasmic reticulum (M-SER) aggregates decreased following thawing, particularly in the first and intermediate stages of rehydration, whereas mitochondria-vesicle (MV) complexes augmented in the same stages. At the end of rehydration, vacuoles and MV complexes both diminished and M-SER aggregates increased again. Cortical granules (CGs) were scarce in all cryopreserved oocytes, gradually diminishing as rehydration progressed. CONCLUSIONS This study also shows that such a membrane remodeling is mainly represented by a dynamic process of transition between M-SER aggregates and MV complexes, both able of transforming into each other. Vacuoles and CG membranes may take part in the membrane recycling mechanism.
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21
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Human oocyte developmental potential is predicted by mechanical properties within hours after fertilization. Nat Commun 2016; 7:10809. [PMID: 26904963 PMCID: PMC4770082 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms10809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 112] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2015] [Accepted: 01/22/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The causes of embryonic arrest during pre-implantation development are poorly understood. Attempts to correlate patterns of oocyte gene expression with successful embryo development have been hampered by the lack of reliable and nondestructive predictors of viability at such an early stage. Here we report that zygote viscoelastic properties can predict blastocyst formation in humans and mice within hours after fertilization, with >90% precision, 95% specificity and 75% sensitivity. We demonstrate that there are significant differences between the transcriptomes of viable and non-viable zygotes, especially in expression of genes important for oocyte maturation. In addition, we show that low-quality oocytes may undergo insufficient cortical granule release and zona-hardening, causing altered mechanics after fertilization. Our results suggest that embryo potential is largely determined by the quality and maturation of the oocyte before fertilization, and can be predicted through a minimally invasive mechanical measurement at the zygote stage. Reliable assessments of oocyte developmental potential are lacking, making it difficult to select the best quality embryos for transfer after in vitro fertilization. Here, the authors show that a non-invasive measurement of viscoelastic properties predicts developmental potential in both humans and mice.
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22
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Stigliani S, Moretti S, Anserini P, Casciano I, Venturini PL, Scaruffi P. Storage time does not modify the gene expression profile of cryopreserved human metaphase II oocytes. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:2519-26. [PMID: 26385790 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/24/2015] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does storage time have any impact on the transcriptome of slowly frozen cryopreserved human metaphase II (MII) oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER The length of cryostorage has no effect on the gene expression profile of human MII oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Oocyte cryopreservation is a widely used technique in IVF for storage of surplus oocytes, as well as for fertility preservation (i.e. women undergoing gonadotoxic therapies) and oocyte donation programs. Although cryopreservation has negative impacts on oocyte physiology and it is associated with decrease of transcripts, no experimental data about the effect of storage time on the oocyte molecular profile are available to date. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study included 27 women, ≤38 years aged, without any ovarian pathology, undergoing IVF treatment. Surplus MII oocytes were donated after written informed consent. A total of 31 non-cryopreserved oocytes and 68 surviving slow-frozen/rapid-thawed oocytes (32 oocytes cryostored for 3 years and 36 cryostored for 6 years) were analyzed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Pools of ≈10 oocytes for each group were prepared. Total RNA was extracted from each pool, amplified, labeled and hybridized on oligonucleotide microarrays. Analyses were performed by R software using the limma package. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Comparison of gene expression profiles between surviving thawed oocytes after 3 and 6 years of storage in liquid nitrogen found no differently expressed genes. The expression profiles of cryopreserved MII oocytes significantly differed from those of non-cryopreserved oocytes in 107 probe sets corresponding to 73 down-regulated and 29 up-regulated unique transcripts. Gene Ontology analysis by DAVID bioinformatics resource disclosed that cryopreservation deregulates genes involved in oocyte function and early embryo development, such as chromosome organization, RNA splicing and processing, cell cycle, cellular response to DNA damage and to stress, DNA repair, calcium ion binding, malate dehydrogenase activity and mitochondrial activity. Among the probes significantly up-regulated in cryopreserved oocytes, two corresponded to ovary-specific expressed large intergenic noncoding (linc)RNAs. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Data validation in a larger cohort of samples would be beneficial, although we applied stringent criteria for gene selection (fold-change >3 or <1/3 and FDR < 0.1). Further research should be undertaken to verify experimentally that the length of cryostorage has no effect on gene expression profile of vitrified/warmed MII oocytes, as well as to include in analyses 'older' frozen oocytes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Confirmation that the length of storage does not alter the gene expression profile of frozen oocytes is noteworthy for the safety issue of long-term oocyte banking, i.e. fertility preservation, gamete donation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST This study was supported by a grant of the Italian Ministry of Health (CCM 2012) and by Ferring Pharmaceutical company. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Stigliani
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS A.O.U. San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | | | - Paola Anserini
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS A.O.U. San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Ida Casciano
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS A.O.U. San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
| | - Pier Luigi Venturini
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS A.O.U. San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Paola Scaruffi
- U.O.S. Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS A.O.U. San Martino-IST, Genoa, Italy
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Overexpression of signal transducers and activators of transcription in embryos derived from vitrified oocytes negatively affect E-cadherin expression and embryo development. Cryobiology 2015; 70:239-45. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2015.03.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2014] [Revised: 12/24/2014] [Accepted: 03/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
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24
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Tong XH, Wu LM, Jin RT, Luan HB, Liu YS. Human oocyte vitrification with corona radiata, in autologous follicular fluid supplemented with ethylene glycol, preserves conventional IVF potential: birth of four healthy babies. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 26:1001-6. [PMID: 23910960 DOI: 10.1071/rd13161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2013] [Accepted: 06/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effects of vitrification with autologous follicular fluid (AFF) supplemented with ethylene glycol (EG) and sucrose on human oocytes with corona radiata. A total of 182 human oocytes with corona radiata from fifteen infertile patients were vitrified using either equilibration solutions (ES) and vitrification solution (VS) consisting of AFF, EG and sucrose (AFF group, n=67) or commercial ES and VS (control group, n=115). All oocytes were thawed in the next cycle, with surviving oocytes being inseminated by conventional IVF. The clinical outcome of vitrified-warmed oocytes by both vitrification methods was analysed retrospectively. In the AFF group, six patients received embryo transfer, with three couples taking four healthy babies home. In the control group, nine patients received embryo transfer, with four couples taking five healthy babies home. There was no significant difference in the survival rate (91.0 vs 92.2%), two pronuclei (2PN) fertilisation rate (73.8 vs 73.6%), cleavage rate (100 vs 100%), top-quality embryo rate (62.2 vs 59.2%), clinical pregnancy rate (50.0 vs 44.4%), implantation rate (33.3 vs 25%) or take-home baby rate (50.0 vs 44.4%) between the AFF group and the control group, respectively. These results show that AFF supplemented with EG and sucrose is an efficient, cost-effective cryoprotectant for human oocyte cryopreservation. A corona radiata on vitrified-warmed oocytes retains the oocytes' fertilisation capability in conventional IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xian-Hong Tong
- Institute of Immunology, Medical College of Shandong University, Jinan 250012, China
| | - Li-Min Wu
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Ren-Tao Jin
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Hong-Bing Luan
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
| | - Yu-Sheng Liu
- Reproductive Medical Centre of Anhui Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Anhui Medical University, Hefei 230001, China
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25
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Goldman KN, Kramer Y, Hodes-Wertz B, Noyes N, McCaffrey C, Grifo JA. Long-term cryopreservation of human oocytes does not increase embryonic aneuploidy. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:662-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.11.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2014] [Revised: 11/05/2014] [Accepted: 11/18/2014] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
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27
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Palmerini MG, Antinori M, Maione M, Cerusico F, Versaci C, Nottola SA, Macchiarelli G, Khalili MA, Antinori S. Ultrastructure of immature and mature human oocytes after cryotop vitrification. J Reprod Dev 2014; 60:411-20. [PMID: 25168087 PMCID: PMC4284314 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2014-027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation of vitrified immature germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes is a promising fertility preservation option. We analyzed the ultrastructure of human GV oocytes after Cryotop vitrification (GVv) and compared it with fresh GV (GVc), fresh mature metaphase II (MIIc) and Cryotop-vitrified mature (MIIv) oocytes. By phase contrast microscopy and light microscopy, the oolemmal and cytoplasmic organization of fresh and vitrified oocytes did not show significant changes. GVv oocytes showed significant ultrastructural alterations of the microvilli in 40% of the samples; small vacuoles and occasional large/isolated vacuoles were abnormally present in the ooplasm periphery of 50% of samples. The ultrastructure of nuclei and mitochondria-vesicle (MV) complexes, as well as the distribution and characteristics of cortical granules (CGs), were comparable with those of GVc oocytes. MIIv oocytes showed an abnormal ultrastructure of microvilli in 30% of the
samples and isolated large vacuoles in 70% of the samples. MV complexes were normal, but mitochondria-smooth endoplasmic reticulum aggregates appeared to be of reduced size. CGs were normally located under the oolemma but presented abnormalities in distribution and matrix electron density. In conclusion, Cryotop vitrification preserved main oocyte characteristics in the GV and MII stages, even if peculiar ultrastructural alterations appeared in both stages. This study also showed that the GV stage appears more suitable for vitrification than the MII stage, as indicated by the good ultrastructural preservation of important structures that are present only in immature oocytes, like the nucleus and migrating CGs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Grazia Palmerini
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
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28
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Moawad AR, Xu B, Tan SL, Taketo T. l-carnitine supplementation during vitrification of mouse germinal vesicle stage-oocytes and their subsequent in vitro maturation improves meiotic spindle configuration and mitochondrial distribution in metaphase II oocytes. Hum Reprod 2014; 29:2256-68. [PMID: 25113843 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deu201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How does l-carnitine (LC) supplementation during vitrification and in vitro maturation (IVM) of germinal vesicle stage (GV)-oocytes improve the developmental competence of the resultant metaphase II (MII) oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER LC supplementation during both vitrification of GV-oocytes and their subsequent IVM improved nuclear maturation as well as meiotic spindle assembly and mitochondrial distribution in MII oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Vitrification of GV-oocytes results in a lower success rate of blastocyst development compared with non-vitrified oocytes. LC supplementation during both vitrification and IVM of mouse GV-oocytes significantly improves embryonic development after IVF. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION GV-oocytes were collected from (B6.DBA)F1 and B6 mouse strains and subjected to vitrification and warming with or without 3.72 mM LC supplementation. After IVM with or without LC supplementation, the rate of nuclear maturation and the quality of MII oocytes were evaluated. At least 20 oocytes/group were examined, and each experiment was repeated at least three times. All experiments were conducted during 2013-2014. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Extrusion of the first polar body in IVM oocytes was observed as an indication of nuclear maturation. Spindle assembly and chromosomal alignment were examined by immunostaining of α-tubulin and nuclear staining with 4,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Mitochondrial distribution and oxidative activity were measured by staining with Mitotracker Green Fluorescence Mitochondria (Mitotracker Green FM) and chloromethyltetramethylrosamine (Mitotracker Orange CMTMRos), respectively. ATP levels were determined by using the Bioluminescent Somatic Cell Assay Kit. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE LC supplementation during both vitrification and IVM of GV-oocytes significantly increased the proportions of oocytes with normal MII spindles to the levels comparable with those of non-vitrified oocytes in both mouse strains. While vitrification of GV-oocytes lowered the proportions of MII oocytes with peripherally concentrated mitochondrial distribution compared with non-vitrified oocytes, LC supplementation significantly increased the proportion of such oocytes in the (B6.DBA)F1 strain. LC supplementation decreased the proportion of oocytes with mitochondrial aggregates in both vitrified and non-vitrified oocytes in the B6 strain. The oxidative activity of mitochondria was mildly decreased by vitrification and drastically increased by LC supplementation irrespective of vitrification in both mouse strains. No change was found in ATP levels irrespective of vitrification or LC supplementation. Results were considered to be statistically significant at P < 0.05 by either χ(2)- or t-test. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION It remains to be tested whether beneficial effect of LC supplementation during vitrification and IVM of GV-oocytes leads to fetal development and birth of healthy offspring after embryo transfer to surrogate females. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This protocol has the potential to improve the quality of vitrified human oocytes and embryos during assisted reproduction treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST Partially supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grant and Mitacs Elevate Postdoctoral Fellowship, Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adel R Moawad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Cairo University, Giza, Egypt
| | - Baozeng Xu
- Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Teruko Taketo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Surgery, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada OriginElle Fertility Clinic and Women's Health Centre, Montreal, Quebec, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Cloning of cDNAs for H1F0, TOP1, CLTA and CDK1 and the effects of cryopreservation on the expression of their mRNA transcripts in yak (Bos grunniens) oocytes. Cryobiology 2014; 69:55-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2014.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2013] [Revised: 04/06/2014] [Accepted: 05/08/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Karlsson JOM, Szurek EA, Higgins AZ, Lee SR, Eroglu A. Optimization of cryoprotectant loading into murine and human oocytes. Cryobiology 2013; 68:18-28. [PMID: 24246951 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2013.11.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2013] [Revised: 11/07/2013] [Accepted: 11/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Loading of cryoprotectants into oocytes is an important step of the cryopreservation process, in which the cells are exposed to potentially damaging osmotic stresses and chemical toxicity. Thus, we investigated the use of physics-based mathematical optimization to guide design of cryoprotectant loading methods for mouse and human oocytes. We first examined loading of 1.5 M dimethyl sulfoxide (Me(2)SO) into mouse oocytes at 23°C. Conventional one-step loading resulted in rates of fertilization (34%) and embryonic development (60%) that were significantly lower than those of untreated controls (95% and 94%, respectively). In contrast, the mathematically optimized two-step method yielded much higher rates of fertilization (85%) and development (87%). To examine the causes for oocyte damage, we performed experiments to separate the effects of cell shrinkage and Me(2)SO exposure time, revealing that neither shrinkage nor Me(2)SO exposure single-handedly impairs the fertilization and development rates. Thus, damage during one-step Me(2)SO addition appears to result from interactions between the effects of Me(2)SO toxicity and osmotic stress. We also investigated Me(2)SO loading into mouse oocytes at 30°C. At this temperature, fertilization rates were again lower after one-step loading (8%) in comparison to mathematically optimized two-step loading (86%) and untreated controls (96%). Furthermore, our computer algorithm generated an effective strategy for reducing Me(2)SO exposure time, using hypotonic diluents for cryoprotectant solutions. With this technique, 1.5 M Me(2)SO was successfully loaded in only 2.5 min, with 92% fertilizability. Based on these promising results, we propose new methods to load cryoprotectants into human oocytes, designed using our mathematical optimization approach.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jens O M Karlsson
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Villanova University, Villanova, PA 19085, USA
| | - Edyta A Szurek
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Adam Z Higgins
- School of Chemical, Biological and Environmental Engineering, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA
| | - Sang R Lee
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA
| | - Ali Eroglu
- Institute of Molecular Medicine and Genetics, Department of Medicine, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, and Cancer Center, Medical College of Georgia, Georgia Regents University, Augusta, GA 30912, USA.
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Nikiforaki D, Vanden Meerschaut F, Qian C, De Croo I, Lu Y, Deroo T, Van den Abbeel E, Heindryckx B, De Sutter P. Oocyte cryopreservation and in vitro culture affect calcium signalling during human fertilization. Hum Reprod 2013; 29:29-40. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
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Clark NA, Swain JE. Oocyte cryopreservation: searching for novel improvement strategies. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:865-75. [PMID: 23779099 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0028-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2013] [Accepted: 05/31/2013] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To highlight emerging techniques aimed at improving oocyte cryopreservation. METHODS Review of available and relevant literature through Pubmed and Medline searches. RESULTS Oocyte cryopreservation is an increasingly common procedure utilized for assisted reproduction and may benefit several patient populations. Therefore, improving efficiency is paramount in realizing the tremendous promise of this approach. However, in addition to numerous studies looking to improve oocyte cryopreservation efficacy via examination of variables involved with protocol methodology, such as type/concentration of cryoprotectant (CPA), type of storage device, or cooling/warming rates, there are more novel approaches for improvement. These alternate approaches include utilizing different the stages of oocytes, examining alteration of basal media and buffer composition, optimizing CPA exchange protocols and device loading through use of automated technology, as well as examination/manipulation of oocyte cellular composition to improve cryotolerance. Finally, elucidating more accurate or insightful indicators of "success" is crucial for continued improvement of oocyte cryopreservation. CONCLUSION Oocyte cryopreservation has improved dramatically in recent years and is receiving widespread clinical use. Novel approaches to further improve success, as well as improved methods to assess this success will aid in continued improvement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalie A Clark
- Department of OB/GYN, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
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The effect of vitrification on ultrastructure of human in vitro matured germinal vesicle oocytes. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2013; 167:69-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2012.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2012] [Revised: 09/15/2012] [Accepted: 11/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Abstract
SummaryOne of the greatest challenges for reproductive cryobiologists today is to develop an efficient cryopreservation method for human and domestic animal oocytes. The objective of the present study was to optimize a low toxicity solution called VM3 to vitrify porcine oocytes using an open pulled straw (OPS) device and to evaluate the effects on viability, chromosomal organization and cortical granules distribution. Two experiments were conducted in this study. Firstly, we determined the minimum concentration of cryoprotectant present in the VM3 solution required (7.6 M) for vitrification using an OPS device. The appearance of opacity was observed when using a cooling solution at –196°C; no observable opacity was noted as vitrification. In addition, the ultrastructure of oocytes in VM3 or VM3 optimized solution was examined using cryo-scanning electron microscopy. The minimum total cryoprotectant concentration present in VM3 solution necessary for apparent vitrification was 5.6 M when combined with use of an OPS device. Use of both vitrification solutions showed a characteristic plasticized surface. In the second experiment, the relative cytotoxicity of vitrification solutions (VM3 and VM3 optimized) was studied. Oocyte viability, chromosomal organization and the cortical granules distribution were assessed by fluorescent stain. After warming, oocyte survival rate was similar to that of fresh oocytes. The vitrification process significantly reduced correct chromosomal organization and cortical granules distribution rates compared with the fresh oocytes group. However, correct chromosomal organization and cortical granules distribution rates did not differ among oocytes placed in different vitrification solutions. In conclusion, our data demonstrated that the VM3 solution can be optimized and that reduction in concentration to 5.6 M enabled vitrification of oocytes with an OPS device, however use of the VM3 optimised solution had no beneficial effect on vitrification of porcine oocytes.
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Developmental competence of ovine oocyte following vitrification: effect of oocyte developmental stage, cumulus cells, cytoskeleton stabiliser, FBS concentration, and equilibration time. ZYGOTE 2012; 22:165-73. [DOI: 10.1017/s096719941200038x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SummaryThe aim of the present study was to examine the effects of fetal bovine serum (FBS) concentration, equilibration time, and oocyte pre-treatment with cytochalasin B (CCB) on subsequent development of vitrified-warmed ovine immature (GVCOCs) and matured (MII) oocytes with (MIICOCs) or without cumulus cells (MIIDOs). In Experiment 1, the effects of FBS concentrations (10 and 20%) during the vitrification-warming procedure were examined. Survival rates after warming were not different between GVCOCs, MIICOCs and MIIDOs oocytes. After in vitro fertilization, rate of cleaved embryos in MIICOCs group at the presence of 20%FBS was higher than MIIDOs and GVCOCs groups. In Experiment 2, the effects of equilibration times (5, 7, and 10 min) were examined. There was no difference in survival rate of vitrified-warmed oocytes equilibrated at different times. Although, the rate of cleavage in MIICOCs and MIIDOs oocytes equilibrated for 10 and 7 min, respectively, was higher than 5 min equilibrated MIIDOs and 7 and 10 min equilibrated GVCOCs oocytes. In Experiment 3, the effects of oocyte pre-treatment with CCB were examined. Despite the insignificant difference in survival rate of vitrified-warmed ovine immature and matured oocytes, the rates of cleavage in CCB pretreated groups were significantly lower than untreated groups. Moreover, the blastocysts were only derived from those cumulus enclosed vitrified-warmed germinal vesicle (GV) and MII oocytes that had been exposed to 10% FBS in the absence of CCB. In conclusion, the presence of cumulus cells, 10% FBS, and the omission of CCB were beneficial for post-warming development of vitrified ovine oocytes.
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Khalili MA, Maione M, Palmerini MG, Bianchi S, Macchiarelli G, Nottola SA. Ultrastructure of human mature oocytes after vitrification. Eur J Histochem 2012; 56:e38. [PMID: 23027354 PMCID: PMC3493984 DOI: 10.4081/ejh.2012.e38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2012] [Accepted: 07/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the introduction of human assisted reproduction, oocyte cryopreservation has been regarded as an attractive option to capitalize the reproductive potential of surplus oocytes and preserve female fertility. However, for two decades the endeavor to store oocytes has been limited by the not yet optimized methodologies, with the consequence of poor clinical outcome or of uncertain reproducibility. Vitrification has been developed as the promising technology of cryopreservation even if slow freezing remains a suitable choice. Nevertheless, the insufficiency of clinical and correlated multidisciplinary data is still stirring controversy on the impact of this technique on oocyte integrity. Morphological studies may actually provide a great insight in this debate. Phase contrast microscopy and other light microscopy techniques, including cytochemistry, provided substantial morpho-functional data on cryopreserved oocyte, but are unable to unraveling fine structural changes. The ultrastructural damage is one of the most adverse events associated with cryopreservation, as an effect of cryo-protectant toxicity, ice crystal formation and osmotic stress. Surprisingly, transmission electron microsco py has attracted only limited attention in the field of cryopreservation. In this review, the subcellular structure of human mature oocytes following vitrification is discussed at the light of most relevant ultrastructural studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M A Khalili
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics, La Sapienza University, Rome, Italy.
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Spinaci M, Vallorani C, Bucci D, Tamanini C, Porcu E, Galeati G. Vitrification of pig oocytes induces changes in histone H4 acetylation and histone H3 lysine 9 methylation (H3K9). Vet Res Commun 2012; 36:165-71. [DOI: 10.1007/s11259-012-9527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/04/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wang H, Racowsky C, Combelles CMH. Is it best to cryopreserve human cumulus-free immature oocytes before or after in vitro maturation? Cryobiology 2012; 65:79-87. [PMID: 22691237 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2012.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2011] [Revised: 02/15/2012] [Accepted: 06/03/2012] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Freezing unfertilized oocytes is an option for females without a partner, either to preserve their fertility prior to sterilizing cancer treatment or for social reasons. Our study considered whether it is best to freeze immature human oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage, prior to in vitro maturation (IVM) or at metaphase-II (M-II), after IVM. Sibling GV-stage oocytes from stimulated ICSI cycles were allocated to freezing either prior to (n=109) or after (n=107) IVM. Cumulus-free oocytes were cryopreserved using a choline-substituted slow-freezing protocol and matured in a defined medium, with analysis of chromatin, microtubules, and microfilaments by three-dimensional imaging. Cryopreserved oocytes were compared with oocytes matured in vitro but never frozen (n=114). Survival was similar between oocytes frozen before or after IVM (69.7% vs. 70.5%). Polar body extrusion after IVM was lower in oocytes frozen at the GV stage versus those matured and then frozen (51.3% vs. 75.7%) or not frozen (75.4%). Stratification by patient age (<36 and ⩾36year) showed no difference in oocyte survival or maturation. Oocytes frozen as GVs showed elevated proportions of spontaneous activation (with or without polar body), an effect augmented by patient age. Spindle and chromosome configurations were disrupted to similar extents in both groups of frozen oocytes, with no further detrimental effect of patient age. The length, width, and volume of bipolar M-II spindles were comparable in all three groups. When frozen as GVs, oocytes exhibited decreased maturation and increased spontaneous activation, suggesting that it is best to freeze oocytes at M-II.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiyan Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA.
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Oocyte vitrification does not increase the risk of embryonic aneuploidy or diminish the implantation potential of blastocysts created after intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a novel, paired randomized controlled trial using DNA fingerprinting. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:644-9. [PMID: 22608316 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2012] [Revised: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of oocyte vitrification on aneuploidy and reproductive potential by comparing vitrified and control oocytes from a single patient within a single cycle and a single fresh transfer. DESIGN Paired randomized controlled trial in which each patient's cohort of mature oocytes was divided into two even groups with half undergoing Cryotop vitrification and rapid warming and half serving as controls. SETTING Academic center for reproductive medicine. PATIENT(S) Forty-four patients with a mean age of 29.9 ± 2.3 years and normal ovarian reserve. INTERVENTION(S) Cryotop vitrification of half of mature oocytes. Trophectoderm biopsy with single nucleotide polymorphism microarray analysis for ploidy and DNA fingerprinting. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Rate of aneuploidy (primary outcome), fertilization, cleavage, blastulation, and implantation in embryos derived from vitrified and control oocytes. RESULT(S) A total of 588 mature oocytes were randomized, with 240/294 (81.6%) surviving vitrification. Among surviving vitrified oocytes, there was a lower fertilization rate with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (77.9% vs. 90.5%; relative risk [RR], 0.86; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.80-0.93), a lower cleavage rate (90.9% vs. 99.2%; RR, 0.92; 95% CI, 0.87-0.96), and a lower usable blastocyst formation rate per two pronuclei (34.8% vs. 50.8%; RR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.54-0.86). There was no difference in the rate of embryonic aneuploidy (vitrified, 29.1% vs. control, 26.4%). In paired blastocyst transfers, the ongoing pregnancy rate per embryo transferred was similar (vitrified, 53.9% vs. control, 57.7%). CONCLUSION(S) Although the IVF process is less efficient after oocyte vitrification, implantation rates are equivalent and there is no increased risk of aneuploidy. Given the lack of other viable options, this study provides great reassurance to patients and clinicians applying oocyte vitrification for fertility preservation.
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Minasi MG, Fabozzi G, Casciani V, Ferrero S, Litwicka K, Greco E. Efficiency of slush nitrogen vitrification of human oocytes vitrified with or without cumulus cells in relation to survival rate and meiotic spindle competence. Fertil Steril 2012; 97:1220-5. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2011] [Revised: 02/02/2012] [Accepted: 02/14/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Jiménez-Trigos E, Naturil-Alfonso C, Vicente JS, Marco-Jiménez F. Effects of cryopreservation on the meiotic spindle, cortical granule distribution and development of rabbit oocytes. Reprod Domest Anim 2011; 47:472-8. [PMID: 22497624 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2011.01906.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Although much progress has been made in oocyte cryopreservation since 1971, live offspring have only been obtained in a few species and in rabbits. The aim of our study was to evaluate the effect of vitrification and slow freezing on the meiotic spindle, cortical granule (CG) distribution and their developmental competence. Oocytes were vitrified in 16.84% ethylene glycol, 12.86% formamide, 22.3% dimethyl sulphoxide, 7% PVP and 1% of synthetic ice blockers using Cryotop as device or slow freezing in 1.5 m PROH and 0.2 m sucrose in 0.25 ml sterile French mini straws. Meiotic spindle and CG distribution were assessed using a confocal laser-scanning microscope. To determine oocyte competence, in vitro development of oocytes from each cryopreservation procedure was assessed using parthenogenesis activation. Our data showed that oocytes were significantly affected by both cryopreservation procedures. In particular, meiotic spindle organization was dramatically altered after cryopreservation. Oocytes with peripheral CG distribution have a better chance of survival in cryopreservation after slow-freezing procedures compared to vitrification. In addition, slow freezing of oocytes led to higher cleavage and blastocyst rates compared to vitrification. Our data showed that, in rabbits, structural alterations are more evident in vitrified oocytes than in slow-frozen oocytes, probably as a consequence of sensitivity to high levels of cryoprotectants. Slow-freezing method is currently the recommended option for rabbit oocyte cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Jiménez-Trigos
- Institute of Science and Animal Technology, Laboratorio de Biotecnología de la Reproducción, Universidad Politécnica de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Gualtieri R, Mollo V, Barbato V, Fiorentino I, Iaccarino M, Talevi R. Ultrastructure and intracellular calcium response during activation in vitrified and slow-frozen human oocytes. Hum Reprod 2011; 26:2452-60. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der210] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Ultrastructural changes of sheep cumulus–oocyte complexes following different methods of vitrification. ZYGOTE 2011; 20:103-15. [DOI: 10.1017/s0967199410000638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
SummaryTo determine the ultrastructural changes of sheep cumulus–oocyte complexes (COCs) following different methods of vitrification, good quality isolated COCs (GV stage) were randomly divided into the non-vitrified control, conventional straw, cryotop and solid surface vitrification groups. In both conventional and cryotop methods, vitrified COCs were respectively loaded by conventional straws and cryotops, and then plunged directly into liquid nitrogen (LN2); whereas in the solid surface group, vitrified COCs were first loaded by cryotops and then cooled before plunging into LN2. Post-warming survivability and ultrastructural changes of healthy COCs in the cryotop group especially in comparison with the conventional group revealed better viability rate and good preservation of the ooplasm organization. However in all vitrification groups except the cryotop group, mitochondria were clumped. Solely in the conventional straw group, the mitochondria showed different densities and were extremely distended. Moreover in the latter group, plenty of large irregular connected vesicles in the ooplasm were observed and in some parts their membrane ruptured. Also, in the conventional and solid surface vitrification groups, cumulus cells projections became retracted from the zona pellucida in some parts. In conclusion, the cryotop vitrification method as compared with other methods seems to have a good post-warming survivability and shows less deleterious effects on the ultrastructure of healthy vitrified–warmed sheep COCs.
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Chamayou S, Bonaventura G, Alecci C, Tibullo D, Di Raimondo F, Guglielmino A, Barcellona ML. Consequences of metaphase II oocyte cryopreservation on mRNA content. Cryobiology 2011; 62:130-4. [PMID: 21272569 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2011.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2010] [Revised: 12/17/2010] [Accepted: 01/19/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION We studied the consequences of freezing/thawing processes on mRNA contents in MII oocytes after slow-freezing/rapid thawing (SF/RT) and vitrification/warming (V/W) protocols, and compared the results to fresh MII oocytes. We quantified the nuclear transcript mRNA responsible for the translation of proteins belonging either to trans-regulatory protein family or to functional structural proteins such as proteins involved in DNA structural organization (NAP1L1, TOP1, H1F0H1), chromosomal structure maintenance (SMC, SCC3, RAD21, SMC1A, SMC1B, STAG3, REC8), mitochondrial energetic pathways (ATP5GJ, SDHC), cell cycle regulation and processes (CLTA, MAPK6, CKS2) and staminal cell potency-development competence stage (DPPA3, OCT4, FOXJ2). MATERIAL AND METHODS Surplus MII oocytes were donated from patients in IVF cycles and divided in three groups of 15 oocytes. Group 1 was comprised of non-cryopreserved oocytes and Groups 2 and 3 underwent SF/RT and V/W procedures, respectively. RESULTS There was an overall decrease of mRNA extracted from cryopreserved oocytes compared to control group. Only 39.4% of mRNA content were preserved after SF/RT while 63.3% of mRNA content were maintained after V/W. CONCLUSIONS Oocyte cryopreservation is associated with molecular injury associated with the decrease of stored mRNA. However the V/W protocol is more conservative than SF/RT resulting in a level of mRNA sufficient to maintain biologic functions in the subsequent fertilized oocyte.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Chamayou
- Unità di Medicina della Riproduzione--Fondazione Hera, Via Barriera del Bosco n. 51/53, Sant'Agata Li Battiali (CT), Italy.
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Effect of cryopreservation on acetylation patterns of lysine 12 of histone H4 (acH4K12) in mouse oocytes and zygotes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:735-41. [PMID: 20838874 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9469-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2010] [Accepted: 08/12/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE to determine the effect of cryopreservation on acH4K12 in oocytes and their respective zygotes. METHODS AcH4K12 in fresh or vitrified-warmed oocytes and their respective zygotes at 70 min-12 h post-fertilization were assessed using fluorescent staining. RESULTS 1. AcH4K12 levels increased significantly in vitrified oocytes compared to controls. 2. Respective zygotes derived from vitrified oocytes had abnormal chromatin distribution or acH4K12 patterns before and after pronuclear formation. CONCLUSION Cryopreservation alters AcH4K12 patterns in oocytes, which subsequently affect the chromatin distribution and acH4K12 in fertilized oocytes.
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Fasano G, Vannin AS, Biramane J, Delbaere A, Englert Y. Cryopreservation of human failed maturation oocytes shows that vitrification gives superior outcomes to slow cooling. Cryobiology 2010; 61:243-7. [PMID: 20727873 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2010.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2010] [Revised: 07/30/2010] [Accepted: 08/10/2010] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated whether failed maturation oocytes could be used to evaluate different cryopreservation procedures. A total of 289 failed maturation oocytes (GV and MI stages), obtained from 169 patients undergoing IVF treatment (mean age 33.84±5.0) were divided into two different slow-cooling groups (1.5 mol/l 1,2-propanediol+0.2 mol/l sucrose in either NaCl (group A) or choline chloride (ChCl) (group B) based cryopreservation solutions) and one vitrification group (15% ethylene glycol+15% dimethyl sulphoxide). Survival rate, in vitro maturation (IVM) rate, fertilization and developmental rate of cryopreserved oocytes were assessed. Regardless of the stage at which cryopreservation was performed (GV+MI), the slow cooling with ChCl based medium always gave significantly lower survival rate than the slow cooling in NaCl based medium (p=0.01) and vitrification (p<0.001). An extended study also showed statistically reduced survival rate between slow-cooling NaCl based medium and vitrification (p<0.05). Global results of in vitro maturation and fertilization showed worse results between both slow-cooling NaCl and ChCl based media versus vitrification. In conclusion, for oocytes that had failed to mature, vitrification gave better survival, maturation, fertilization and also cleavage rates than the slow-cooling protocols. Four cells embryos were obtained only from vitrified in vitro matured MI oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Fasano
- Laboratory for Human Reproduction Research, Faculty of Medicine, Campus Erasme, Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), Belgium.
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47
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Turathum B, Saikhun K, Sangsuwan P, Kitiyanant Y. Effects of vitrification on nuclear maturation, ultrastructural changes and gene expression of canine oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2010; 8:70. [PMID: 20565987 PMCID: PMC2916914 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-8-70] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2010] [Accepted: 06/22/2010] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation of oocytes, which is an interesting procedure to conserve female gametes, is an essential part of reproductive biotechnology. The objective of the present study was to investigate the effects of vitrification on nuclear maturation, ultrastructural changes and gene expression of canine oocytes. METHODS Immature oocytes (germinal vesicles) isolated from ovaries of normal bitches (> 6 months of age) were either vitrified in open pulled straw (OPS) using 20% ethylene glycol (EG) and 20% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as vitrification solution or exposed to vitrification solution without subjected to liquid nitrogen. After warming, oocytes were investigated for nuclear maturation following in vitro maturation (IVM), ultrastructural changes using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and gene expression using RT-PCR. Fresh immature oocytes were used as the control group. RESULTS The rate of resumption of meiosis in vitrified-warmed oocytes (53.4%) was significantly (P < 0.05) lower than those of control (93.8%) and exposure (91.4%) groups. However, there were no statistically significant differences among groups in the rates of GV oocytes reaching the maturation stage (metaphase II, MII). The ultrastructural alterations revealed by TEM showed that cortical granules, mitochondria, lipid droplets and smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) were affected by vitrification procedures. RT-PCR analysis for gene expression revealed no differences in HSP70, Dnmt1, SOD1 and BAX genes among groups, whereas Bcl2 was strongly expressed in vitrified-warmed group when compared to the control. CONCLUSION Immature canine oocytes were successfully cryopreserved, resumed meiosis and developed to the MII stage. The information obtained in this study is crucial for the development of an effective method to cryopreserve canine oocytes for establishment of genetic banks of endangered canid species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bongkoch Turathum
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
| | - Kulnasan Saikhun
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Parisatcha Sangsuwan
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
| | - Yindee Kitiyanant
- Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Science, Mahidol University, Rama 6 Road, Bangkok 10400, Thailand
- Institute of Molecular Biosciences, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom 73170, Thailand
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Coticchio G, Borini A, Distratis V, Maione M, Scaravelli G, Bianchi V, Macchiarelli G, Nottola SA. Qualitative and morphometric analysis of the ultrastructure of human oocytes cryopreserved by two alternative slow cooling protocols. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:131-40. [PMID: 20177770 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9394-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2009] [Accepted: 01/26/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To ascertain possible cell damage from cryopreservation, the ultrastructure of human oocytes cryopreserved by slow cooling was assessed. MATERIALS AND METHODS Cryopreservation was performed through two protocols with one-step or two-step propanediol. Fresh control oocytes were examined for comparison. Samples were processed for transmission electron microscopy analysis. RESULTS By light microscopy, both fresh and frozen-thawed oocytes appeared regularly rounded, with intact zona pellucida, and homogeneous cytoplasm. By electron microscopy observation, organelles were abundant and uniformly dispersed. Mitochondria-smooth endoplasmic reticulum associations appeared regular. However, both the amount and density of cortical granules appeared abnormally reduced in frozen-thawed samples. Slight to moderate vacuolization was also found in the ooplasm of oocytes of both frozen groups. CONCLUSIONS Slow cooling ensures a good overall preservation of human oocytes. However, cytoplasmic vacuolization and cortical granule loss appears associated with cryopreservation, irrespective of the protocol used.
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Abstract
The success of reproductive technologies is facilitated by the cryopreservation of embryos and gametes. In Italy, where legislation prohibits zygote and embryo cryopreservation, clinics have extensively introduced oocyte cryopreservation. Two different strategies of oocyte cryopreservation are available: slow freezing or ultrarapid cooling (vitrification). Although the results are very encouraging with both methods, there is still controversy regarding both the procedure itself and the most suitable method to use. This study reports the routine application of the two different oocyte cryopreservation methods in programmes running in two consecutive periods. The study centre carried out 286 thawing cycles for a total of 1348 thawed oocytes cryopreserved by the slow-freezing method and 59 warming cycles for a total of 285 warmed oocytes cryopreserved by vitrification. Comparison of the outcomes obtained with the slow-freezing method versus vitrification in women who underwent IVF for infertility showed survival, fertilization, pregnancy and implantation rates of 57.9% versus 78.9% (P < 0.0001), 64.6% versus 72.8% (P = 0.027), 7.6% versus 18.2% (P = 0.021) and 4.3% versus 9.3% (P = 0.043) respectively. These results suggest that oocyte vitrification is associated with a better outcome than the slow-freezing method.
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Keskintepe L, Agca Y, Sher G, Keskintepe M, Maassarani G. High survival rate of metaphase II human oocytes after first polar body biopsy and vitrification: determining the effect of previtrification conditions. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:1706-15. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.08.114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2008] [Revised: 08/16/2008] [Accepted: 08/21/2008] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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