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Guldager T, Gabrielsen A, Iversen LH, Kirkegaard K. Culture media affect sex after IVF treatment-a detailed analysis of explanatory variables. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1181-1191. [PMID: 38472564 PMCID: PMC11143141 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03081-1] [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: 09/27/2023] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to provide a detailed analysis of clinical and laboratory factors associated with skewed secondary sex ratio (SSR) after ART. METHOD Retrospective cohort study of embryos resulting in live births, from frozen and fresh single blastocyst transfers. Embryos were cultured in either G-TL (n = 686) or Sage media (n = 685). Data was analyzed using a multivariate logistic regression model and a mixed model analysis. RESULTS Significantly more male singletons were born after culture in Sage media compared to G-TL media (odds ratio (OR) 1.34, 95% CI (1.05, 1.70), P = 0.02). Inner cell mass grade B vs A (OR 1.36 95% CI (1.05, 1.76), P = 0.02) and one previous embryo transfer (OR 1.49, 95% CI (1.03, 2.16), P = 0.03) were associated with a significantly higher probability of male child at birth. Factors associated with a reduced probability of male child were expansion grade 3 vs 5 (OR 0.66, 95% CI (10.45, 0.96), P = 0.03) and trophectoderm grade B vs A (OR 0.57, 95% CI (0.44, 0.74), P = 0.00). Male embryos developed significantly faster in Sage media compared to G-TL media for the stages of blastocyst (- 1.12 h, 95% CI (- 2.12, - 0.12)), expanded blastocyst (- 1.35 h, 95% CI (- 2.34, - 0.35)), and hatched blastocyst (- 1.75 h, 95% CI (- 2.99, - 0.52)). CONCLUSION More male children were born after culture in Sage media compared to G-TL media. Male embryo development was affected by culture media. Our observations suggest that culture media impact male embryo quality selectively, thus potentially favoring the selection of male embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Guldager
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark.
| | - A Gabrielsen
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - L H Iversen
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
| | - K Kirkegaard
- Fertility Clinic, Horsens Regional Hospital, Sundvej 30, 8700, Horsens, Denmark
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2
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McPherson NO, Nottle M, McIlfatrick S, Saini A, Hamilton H, Bowman E, Tully CA, Pacella-Ince L, Zander-Fox D, Bakos HW. Clinical use of progesterone in human sperm preparation media for increasing IVF success. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103625. [PMID: 38402675 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103625] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/12/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can the addition of progesterone and neurotensin, molecular agents found in the female reproductive tract, after sperm washing increase the fertilization potential of human spermatozoa? DESIGN (i) Cohort study of 24 men. Spermatozoa selected by swim-up were incubated in either progesterone or neurotensin (0.1-100 µM) for 1-4 h, and hyperactive motility and binding to hyaluronan (0.1-100 µM) were assessed. The effect of progesterone 10 µM on sperm function was assessed in a blinded manner, including: hyperactive motility, binding to hyaluronan, tyrosine phosphorylation, acrosome reaction and oxidative DNA damage. (i) Embryo safety testing [one-cell mouse embryo assay (MEA), endotoxin and sterility counts (n = 3)] in preclinical embryo models of IVF (murine and porcine, n = 7 each model) and a small preliminary human study (n = 4) of couples undergoing standard IVF with oocytes inseminated with spermatozoa ± 10 µM progesterone. RESULTS Progesterone 10 µM increased sperm binding to hyaluronan, hyperactive motility and tyrosine phosphorylation (all P < 0.05). Neurotensin had no effect (P > 0.05). Progesterone 10 µM in human embryo culture media passed embryo safety testing (MEA, endotoxin concentration and sterility plate count). In preclinical models of IVF, the exposure of spermatozoa to progesterone 10 µM and oocytes to progesterone 1 µM was not detrimental, and increased the fertilization rate in mice and the blastocyst cell number in mice and pigs (all P ≤ 0.03). In humans, every transferred blastocyst that had been produced from spermatozoa exposed to progesterone resulted in a live birth. CONCLUSION The addition of progesterone to sperm preparation media shows promise as an adjunct to current methods for increasing fertilization potential. Randomized controlled trials are required to determine the clinical utility of progesterone for improving IVF outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole O McPherson
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia.
| | - Mark Nottle
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Stephan McIlfatrick
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Anmol Saini
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | | | | | - Cathryn A Tully
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Leanne Pacella-Ince
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Discipline of Reproduction and Development, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia; Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; Monash University, Clayton, Australia
| | - Hassan W Bakos
- Monash IVF Group, Clayton, Australia; University of Newcastle, Newcastle, Australia; Memphasys Ltd, Homebush, Australia
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Choi JW, Kim SW, Kim HS, Kang MJ, Kim SA, Han JY, Kim H, Ku SY. Effects of Melatonin, GM-CSF, IGF-1, and LIF in Culture Media on Embryonic Development: Potential Benefits of Individualization. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:751. [PMID: 38255823 PMCID: PMC10815572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The implantation of good-quality embryos to the receptive endometrium is essential for successful live birth through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The higher the quality of embryos, the higher the live birth rate per cycle, and so efforts have been made to obtain as many high-quality embryos as possible after fertilization. In addition to an effective controlled ovarian stimulation process to obtain high-quality embryos, the composition of the embryo culture medium in direct contact with embryos in vitro is also important. During embryonic development, under the control of female sex hormones, the fallopian tubes and endometrium create a microenvironment that supplies the nutrients and substances necessary for embryos at each stage. During this process, the development of the embryo is finely regulated by signaling molecules, such as growth factors and cytokines secreted from the epithelial cells of the fallopian tube and uterine endometrium. The development of embryo culture media has continued since the first successful human birth through IVF in 1978. However, there are still limitations to mimicking a microenvironment similar to the reproductive organs of women suitable for embryo development in vitro. Efforts have been made to overcome the harsh in vitro culture environment and obtain high-quality embryos by adding various supplements, such as antioxidants and growth factors, to the embryo culture medium. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of studies on the effect of supplementation in different clinical situations such as old age, recurrent implantation failure (RIF), and unexplained infertility; in addition, anticipation of the potential benefits from individuation is rising. This article reviews the effects of representative supplements in culture media on embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Won Choi
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Sung-Woo Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Sun Kim
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Moon-Joo Kang
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Sung-Ah Kim
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Ji-Yeon Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Zander-Fox DL, Pacella-Ince L, Morgan DK, Green MP. Mammalian embryo culture media: now and into the future. Reprod Fertil Dev 2023; 36:66-80. [PMID: 38064187 DOI: 10.1071/rd23168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
For over 70years, since the culture of the first mammalian embryo in vitro , scientists have undertaken studies to devise and optimise media to support the manipulation and culture of gametes and embryos. This area of research became especially active in the late 1970s onwards following the successful birth of the first human in vitro fertilised embryo. This review summarises some of the key advances in mammalian embryo culture media over time based on a greater understanding of the biochemical milieu of the reproductive tract. It highlights how learnings from studies in mice and agricultural species have informed human culture media compositions, in particular the inclusion of albumin, growth factors, cytokines, and antioxidants into contemporary culture media formulations, and how these advances may then in turn help to inform and guide development of in vitro culture systems used in other arenas, in particular agriculture. Additionally, it will highlight how the introduction of new technologies, such as timelapse, can influence current trends in media composition and usage that may see a return to a single step medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre L Zander-Fox
- Monash IVF Group, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | - Leanne Pacella-Ince
- School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA, Australia; and Repromed, Adelaide, SA, Australia
| | | | - Mark P Green
- Monash IVF Group, Melbourne, Vic., Australia; and School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Vic., Australia
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Yoon H, Lee J, Kang I, Choi KW, Lee J, Jun JH. Enhancement of preimplantation mouse embryo development with optimized in vitro culture dish via stabilization of medium osmolarity. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2023; 50:244-252. [PMID: 37995752 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2023.06436] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 11/06/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We evaluated the efficacy of the newly developed optimized in vitro culture (OIVC) dish for cultivating preimplantation mouse embryos. This dish minimizes the need for mineral oil and incorporates microwells, providing a stable culture environment and enabling independent monitoring of individual embryos. METHODS Mouse pronuclear (PN) zygotes and two-cell-stage embryos were collected at 18 and 46 hours after human chorionic gonadotropin injection, respectively. These were cultured for 120 hours using potassium simplex optimized medium (KSOM) to reach the blastocyst stage. The embryos were randomly allocated into three groups, each cultured in one of three dishes: a 60-mm culture dish, a microdrop dish, and an OIVC dish that we developed. RESULTS The OIVC dish effectively maintained the osmolarity of the KSOM culture medium over a 5-day period using only 2 mL of mineral oil. This contrasts with the significant osmolarity increase observed in the 60-mm culture dish. Additionally, the OIVC dish exhibited higher blastulation rates from two-cell embryos (100%) relative to the other dish types. Moreover, blastocysts derived from both PN zygotes and two-cell embryos in the OIVC dish group demonstrated significantly elevated mean cell numbers. CONCLUSION Use of the OIVC dish markedly increased the number of cells in blastocysts derived from the in vitro culture of preimplantation mouse embryos. The capacity of this dish to maintain medium osmolarity with minimal mineral oil usage represents a breakthrough that may advance embryo culture techniques for various mammals, including human in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyejin Yoon
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jongwoo Lee
- CNC Biotech Incorporated, Suwon, Republic of Korea
| | - Inyoung Kang
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | | | - Jaewang Lee
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
| | - Jin Hyun Jun
- Department of Senior Healthcare, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, Graduate School of Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
- Department of Biomedical Laboratory Science, College of Health Science, Eulji University, Seongnam, Republic of Korea
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Abdala A, Elkhatib I, Bayram A, El-Damen A, Melado L, Lawrenz B, Fatemi HM, Nogueira D. Embryo Culture Medium Has No Impact on Mosaicism Rates: a Sibling Oocyte Study. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:3296-3304. [PMID: 37253937 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-023-01276-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/24/2023] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Human embryos cultured in vitro can contain two or more cytogenetically distinct cell lineages known as "chromosomal mosaicism". Since mosaicism is produced by mitotic errors after fertilization occurs, culture conditions might contribute to mosaicism origins. Many studies demonstrated that euploidy rates are not affected by culture media; however, whether oocytes cultured under continuous culture media (CCM) or sequential culture media (SCM) has a higher risk of mosaicism occurring remains unsolved. Therefore, this study aims to determine whether mosaicism rates differ when sibling oocytes are cultured in CCM or SCM. A single center observational study was performed including 6072 sibling oocytes. Mature oocytes (MII) were inseminated and cultured in CCM (n = 3,194) or SCM (n = 2,359) until blastocyst stage for trophectoderm (TE) biopsy on day (D) 5, D6, or D7 for preimplantation genetic testing analysis with a semi-automated next-generation sequencing. Mosaicism was classified as low (30-50%) or high (50-80%) based on the percentage of abnormal cells constitution detected in TE samples. As a result, 426 women with a mean age of 34.7 ± 6.4 years were included in the study. Fertilization rates were comparable between CCM and SCM (74.0% vs 72.0%, p = 0.091). Although total blastulation rate and usable blastocyst rate (biopsied blastocysts) were significantly higher in CCM than SCM (75.3 % vs. 70.3%, p < 0.001 and 58.0% vs. 54.5%, p = 0.026), euploidy rates did not differ significantly (45.2% vs. 45.7%, p = 0.810, respectively). Mosaicism rate was not significantly different for blastocysts cultured in CCM or SCM (4.7% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.650), neither the proportion of low or high mosaic rates (3.7% vs. 4.4%, p = 0.353 and 1.0% vs. 0.7%, p = 0.355, respectively). Hence, it was concluded that CCM or SCM does not have an impact on mosaicism rate of embryos cultured until the blastocyst stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Abdala
- ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | | | - Aşina Bayram
- ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Laura Melado
- ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Barbara Lawrenz
- ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Obstetrical Department, Women's University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | | - Daniela Nogueira
- ART Fertility Clinics, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Inovie Fertilité, Toulouse, France
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Sciorio R, Rinaudo P. Culture conditions in the IVF laboratory: state of the ART and possible new directions. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2591-2607. [PMID: 37725178 PMCID: PMC10643723 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02934-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/21/2023] Open
Abstract
In the last four decades, the assisted reproductive technology (ART) field has witnessed advances, resulting in improving pregnancy rates and diminishing complications, in particular reduced incidence of multiple births. These improvements are secondary to advanced knowledge on embryonic physiology and metabolism, resulting in the ability to design new and improved culture conditions. Indeed, the incubator represents only a surrogate of the oviduct and uterus, and the culture conditions are only imitating the physiological environment of the female reproductive tract. In vivo, the embryo travels through a dynamic and changing environment from the oviduct to the uterus, while in vitro, the embryo is cultured in a static fashion. Importantly, while culture media play a critical role in optimising embryo development, a large host of additional factors are equally important. Additional potential variables, including but not limited to pH, temperature, osmolality, gas concentrations and light exposure need to be carefully controlled to prevent stress and permit optimal implantation potential. This manuscript will provide an overview of how different current culture conditions may affect oocyte and embryo viability with particular focus on human literature.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, CHUV-Lausanne University Hospital, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Paolo Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA, USA
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8
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Arav A, Natan Y, Hejja T, Blum YD, Poliansky Y, Patrizio P. The effect of amorphous calcium carbonate as a culture media supplement on embryonic development of murine sibling embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:2409-2418. [PMID: 37552357 PMCID: PMC10504146 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02899-5] [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: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 07/21/2023] [Indexed: 08/09/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to compare the addition in culture media of stabilized amorphous calcium carbonate (ACC) versus calcium chloride (CaCl2) or calcium carbonate in crystalline form (CCC) on growth rates among sibling mouse embryos. METHODS We evaluated the effect of different ACC concentrations on the rates of embryo compaction at 60 h, blastocyst rate at 84 h and percentage of fully hatched at 108 h following hCG injection. As ACC is stabilized by tripolyphosphate (TPP), we also evaluated the addition of TPP alone to the culture media. Finally, we compared supplemented ACC culture media to one-step SAGE and Irvine cleavage media. RESULTS The results revealed that ACC accelerates the compaction and blastocyst rates, as well as the percentage of fully hatched embryos in a dose-dependent manner, with an increased positive effect at 2.5 mM. The magnitude of the effect for ACC-supplemented media on the embryo developmental rate was between 30 to 40% (p < 0.01) faster for each stage, compared to both SAGE and Irvine one-step standard media. Embryos cultured with SAGE or Irvine media with or without supplementation of CaCl2 or CCC, did not produce the same improvements as observed with ACC. CONCLUSION In conclusion, the ACC demonstrates a rapid modulation effect for restoring media optimal pH. ACC can inhibit cathepsin B activity during in vitro culture of fibroblast cells. The beneficial impact of ACC on cleavage mouse embryos is likely due to an improved buffering effect causing slower pH media variations, which may enhance quality and implantation potential of embryos following in vitro culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amir Arav
- A.A Cash Technology, Shlomtzion Hamalca, 59, Tel Aviv, Israel.
| | - Yehudit Natan
- A.A Cash Technology, Shlomtzion Hamalca, 59, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | | | | | | | - Pasquale Patrizio
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
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Zhu Y, Feng HL, Jiang MX. Evaluation of an automated dish preparation system for IVF and embryo culture using a mouse mode. Sci Rep 2023; 13:16490. [PMID: 37779165 PMCID: PMC10543539 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-43665-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/27/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Manual dish preparation for IVF in human fertility clinics or animal laboratories heavily relies on embryologists' experience, which can lead to occupational illness due to long-term and monotonous operation. Therefore, introducing an automated technique to replace traditional methods is crucial for improving working efficiency and reducing work burden for embryologists. In the current study in the mouse, both manual and automated methods were used to prepare IVF or embryo culture dishes. A one-way analysis of variance was conducted to compare several factors, including preparation time, qualified rates, media osmolality of dishes, fertilization rates, and embryonic development to assess the efficiency and potential of automated preparation. The results showed that automation system significantly reduced the required time and increased the efficiencies and qualified rates of dish preparation, especially for embryo culture dishes, without significantly altering medium osmolalities. There were no significant differences between two preparations in fertilization rates and embryo development in mice. Thus, automated dish preparation can improve working efficiency and qualified rates while maintaining fertilization rates and subsequent embryonic development without compromising osmolality stability of medium. It presents a superior alternative to manual preparation, reducing the workload of embryologists and facilitating the standardization of operational procedures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhu
- Medical Experiment Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Huai L Feng
- New York Fertility Center, New York-Presbyterian Healthcare System Affiliate Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, USA
| | - Man-Xi Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.
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Ducreux B, Barberet J, Guilleman M, Pérez-Palacios R, Teissandier A, Bourc’his D, Fauque P. Assessing the influence of distinct culture media on human pre-implantation development using single-embryo transcriptomics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1155634. [PMID: 37435029 PMCID: PMC10330962 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1155634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of assisted reproductive technologies is consistently rising across the world. However, making an informed choice on which embryo culture medium should be preferred to ensure satisfactory pregnancy rates and the health of future children critically lacks scientific background. In particular, embryos within their first days of development are highly sensitive to their micro-environment, and it is unknown how their transcriptome adapts to different embryo culture compositions. Here, we determined the impact of culture media composition on gene expression in human pre-implantation embryos. By employing single-embryo RNA-sequencing after 2 or 5 days of the post-fertilization culture in different commercially available media (Ferticult, Global, and SSM), we revealed medium-specific differences in gene expression changes. Embryos cultured pre-compaction until day 2 in Ferticult or Global media notably displayed 266 differentially expressed genes, which were related to essential developmental pathways. Herein, 19 of them could have a key role in early development, based on their previously described dynamic expression changes across development. When embryos were cultured after day 2 in the same media considered more suitable because of its amino acid enrichment, 18 differentially expressed genes thought to be involved in the transition from early to later embryonic stages were identified. Overall, the differences were reduced at the blastocyst stage, highlighting the ability of embryos conceived in a suboptimal in vitro culture medium to mitigate the transcriptomic profile acquired under different pre-compaction environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Ducreux
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
| | - Julie Barberet
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
| | - Magali Guilleman
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
| | - Raquel Pérez-Palacios
- Departamento de Anatomía, Embriología y Genética Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
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Paulson RJ. What do you mean, you don't know what is in the culture media? F S Rep 2023; 4:127. [PMID: 37398613 PMCID: PMC10310953 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfre.2023.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Paulson
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, California
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12
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Aslih N, Dekel BZ, Malonek D, Michaeli M, Polotov D, Shalom-Paz E. Non-invasive evaluation of embryos using mid-infrared attenuated total reflection spectrometry of incubation medium: a preliminary study. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 46:793-801. [PMID: 36925364 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.12.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/13/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can mid-infrared attenuated total reflection (MIR ATR) spectroscopy combined with machine learning methods be used as an additional tool to predict embryo quality and IVF treatment outcomes? DESIGN Spent culture media was collected and analysed. MIR ATR absorbance spectra were measured using an ALPHA II spectrometer equipped with an attenuated total reflection (ATR) spectrometry accessory. Patient and treatment data and results were collected and analysed in combination with machine learning techniques to identify possible correlations. The main outcome measures were to define the characteristics of absorbance spectra of spent culture media and to distinguish the difference in absorbance between top- and low-quality embryos, day 3 and day 5 embryos and implanting embryos versus non-implanting embryos. RESULTS Spent culture media of 227 embryos was collected and analysed. Absorbance peaks in the culture media were different between day 3 and day 5 embryos. Moreover, significant differences in P-values, spanning from 0.014 to 0.044 in absorbance peaks for day 3 embryos and 0.024 up to 0.04 for day 5 embryos, were seen between implanting and non-implanting embryos. Machine learning techniques offered a pregnancy prediction value of 84.6% for day 3 embryos. CONCLUSIONS MIR ATR may offer an additional parameter for better selection of embryos based on the spectrometric absorbance and secretions of metabolites in the culture media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nardin Aslih
- IVF Unit, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel.
| | - Ben Zion Dekel
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ruppin Academic Center, Emek Hefer, Israel
| | - Dov Malonek
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Ruppin Academic Center, Emek Hefer, Israel
| | | | - Diana Polotov
- IVF Unit, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
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13
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Savy V, Stein P, Shi M, Williams CJ. PMCA1 depletion in mouse eggs amplifies calcium signaling and impacts offspring growth†. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:1439-1451. [PMID: 36130203 PMCID: PMC10144700 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac180] [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: 07/12/2022] [Revised: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 09/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Egg activation in mammals is triggered by oscillations in egg intracellular calcium (Ca2+) level. Ca2+ oscillation patterns can be modified in vitro by changing the ionic composition of culture media or in vivo by conditions affecting mitochondrial function, such as obesity and inflammation. In mice, disruption of Ca2+ oscillations in vitro impacts embryo development and offspring growth. Here we tested the hypothesis that, even without in vitro manipulation, abnormal Ca2+ signaling following fertilization impacts offspring growth. Plasma membrane Ca2+ ATPases (PMCA) extrude cytosolic Ca2+ to restore Ca2+ homeostasis. To disrupt Ca2+ signaling in vivo, we conditionally deleted PMCA1 (cKO) in oocytes. As anticipated, in vitro fertilized cKO eggs had increased Ca2+ exposure relative to controls. To assess the impact on offspring growth, cKO females were mated to wild type males to generate pups that had high Ca2+ exposure at fertilization. Because these offspring would be heterozygous, we also tested the impact of global PMCA1 heterozygosity on offspring growth. Control heterozygous pups that had normal Ca2+ at fertilization were generated by mating wild type females to heterozygous males; these control offspring weighed significantly less than their wild type siblings. However, heterozygous offspring from cKO eggs (and high Ca2+ exposure) were larger than heterozygous controls at 12 week-of-age and males had altered body composition. Our results show that global PMCA1 haploinsufficiency impacts growth and support that abnormal Ca2+ signaling after fertilization in vivo has a long-term impact on offspring weight. These findings are relevant for environmental and medical conditions affecting Ca2+ handling and for design of culture conditions and procedures for domestic animal and human assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Savy
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Paula Stein
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Min Shi
- Biostatistics & Computational Biology Branch, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | - Carmen J Williams
- Reproductive & Developmental Biology Laboratory, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
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14
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Ma BX, Huang B, Chen D, Jin L, Rao Q. Are Early Embryo Cleavage Kinetics Affected by Energy Substrates in Different Culture Media? Curr Med Sci 2022; 42:1297-1304. [PMID: 36544035 DOI: 10.1007/s11596-022-2648-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to investigate the influence of different culture media on early embryonic cleavage kinetics using time-lapse analysis and to determine the possible relationships between energy substrates in culture media and the cleavage kinetics. METHODS A total of 10 021 embryos from 1310 couples were cultured in time-lapse incubators. Embryos cultured in Vitrolife media were allocated to group I, and those in COOK media to group II. Embryo cleavage time points up to the 8-cell stage (t2-t8) were observed after pronuclei fading. RESULTS The baseline demographic features, in vitro fertilization indications, ovarian stimulation protocol, oocyte-cumulus complexes, fertilization rate, together with pregnancy and perinatal outcomes were similar (P>0.05) between groups I and II. According to the time-lapse analysis, all embryos in group I showed significantly faster cleavage speed than those in group II (P<0.05). Furthermore, there was better synchrony in division (s3) and a longer length of the third cell cycle duration (cc3) in group II. Interestingly, implanted embryos in group II showed faster cleavage speed than those in group I, especially at t4 and t7. The glucose contents and multiple major amino acids were similar between the two groups. Lactic and pyruvic acid contents were generally higher in group I than those in group II. CONCLUSION Because different commercial culture media may influence cleavage kinetics of embryos, it is essential for embryologists to take culture media into consideration in selecting a potential embryo when using a time-lapse system before implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bing-Xin Ma
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Bo Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Dan Chen
- Guangdong Institute of Sport Science, Guangzhou, 510663, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Qun Rao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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15
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Deluao JC, Winstanley Y, Robker RL, Pacella-Ince L, Gonzalez MB, McPherson NO. OXIDATIVE STRESS AND REPRODUCTIVE FUNCTION: Reactive oxygen species in the mammalian pre-implantation embryo. Reproduction 2022; 164:F95-F108. [PMID: 36111646 DOI: 10.1530/rep-22-0121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In brief Reactive oxygen species are generated throughout the pre-implantation period and are necessary for normal embryo formation. However, at pathological levels, they result in reduced embryo viability which can be mediated through factors delivered by sperm and eggs at conception or from the external environment. Abstract Reactive oxygen species (ROS) occur naturally in pre-implantation embryos as a by-product of ATP generation through oxidative phosphorylation and enzymes such as NADPH oxidase and xanthine oxidase. Biological concentrations of ROS are required for crucial embryonic events such as pronuclear formation, first cleavage and cell proliferation. However, high concentrations of ROS are detrimental to embryo development, resulting in embryo arrest, increased DNA damage and modification of gene expression leading to aberrant fetal growth and health. In vivo embryos are protected against oxidative stress by oxygen scavengers present in follicular and oviductal fluids, while in vitro, embryos rely on their own antioxidant defence mechanisms to protect against oxidative damage, including superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione and glutamylcysteine synthestase. Pre-implantation embryonic ROS originate from eggs, sperm and embryos themselves or from the external environment (i.e. in vitro culture system, obesity and ageing). This review examines the biological and pathological roles of ROS in the pre-implantation embryo, maternal and paternal origins of embryonic ROS, and from a clinical perspective, we comment on the growing interest in combating increased oxidative damage in the pre-implantation embryo through the addition of antioxidants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joshua C Deluao
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Yasmyn Winstanley
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Robker
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Biomedicine Discovery Institute, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria, Australia
| | - Leanne Pacella-Ince
- Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
| | - Macarena B Gonzalez
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Nicole O McPherson
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Freemasons Centre for Male Health and Wellbeing, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Adelaide Health and Medical School, School of Biomedicine, Discipline of Reproduction and Development, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Repromed, Dulwich, Australia
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16
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Koeck RM, Busato F, Tost J, Zandstra H, Remy S, Langie S, Gielen M, van Golde R, Dumoulin JCM, Brunner H, Zamani Esteki M, van Montfoort APA. At age 9, the methylome of assisted reproductive technology children that underwent embryo culture in different media is not significantly different on a genome-wide scale. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:2709-2721. [PMID: 36206092 PMCID: PMC9627755 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac213] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2022] [Revised: 09/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can we detect DNA methylation differences between ART children that underwent embryo culture in different media? SUMMARY ANSWER We identified no significant differences in site-specific or regional DNA methylation between the different culture medium groups. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo culture in G3 or K-SICM medium leads to differences in embryonic, neonatal and childhood outcomes, including growth and weight. The methylome may mediate this association as the period of in vitro culture of ART treatments coincides with epigenetic reprogramming. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was conducted as a follow-up to a previous culture medium comparison study in which couples were pseudo-randomized to embryo culture in G3 or K-SICM medium. Of the resultant singletons, 120 (n = 65 G3, n = 55 K-SICM), were recruited at age 9. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The ART children provided a saliva sample from which the methylome was analysed using the Infinium MethylationEPIC array. After quality and context filtering, 106 (n = 57 G3, n = 49 K-SICM) samples and 659 708 sites were retained for the analyses. Differential methylation analyses were conducted using mixed effects linear models corrected for age, sex, sample plate and cell composition. These were applied to all cytosine-guanine dinucleotide (CpG) sites, various genomic regions (genes, promoters, CpG Islands (CGIs)) and as a targeted analysis of imprinted genes and birth weight-associated CpG sites. Differential variance was assessed using the improved epigenetic variable outliers for risk prediction analysis (iEVORA) algorithm and methylation outliers were identified using a previously defined threshold (upper or lower quartile plus or minus three times the interquartile range, respectively). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE After correcting for multiple testing, we did not identify any significantly differentially methylated CpG sites, genes, promoters or CGIs between G3 and K-SICM children despite a lenient corrected P-value threshold of 0.1. Targeted analyses of (sites within) imprinted genes and birth weight-associated sites also did not identify any significant differences. The number of DNA methylation outliers per sample was comparable between the culture medium groups. iEVORA identified 101 differentially variable CpG sites of which 94 were more variable in the G3 group. LARGE SCALE DATA Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) GSE196432. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION To detect significant methylation differences with a magnitude of <10% between the groups many more participants would be necessary; however, the clinical relevance of such small differences is unclear. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The results of this study are reassuring, suggesting that if there is an effect of the culture medium on DNA methylation (and methylation-mediated diseases risk), it does not differ between the two media investigated here. The findings concur with other methylome studies of ART neonates and children that underwent embryo culture in different media, which also found no significant methylome differences. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Study funded by March of Dimes (6-FY13-153), EVA (Erfelijkheid Voortplanting & Aanleg) specialty programme (grant no. KP111513) of Maastricht University Medical Centre (MUMC+) and the Horizon 2020 innovation (ERIN) (grant no. EU952516) of the European Commission. The authors do not report any conflicts of interest relevant to this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Dutch Trial register-NL4083.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka M Koeck
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Florence Busato
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, CEA-Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, Evry, France
| | - Jorg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, CEA-Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, Evry, France
| | - Heleen Zandstra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sylvie Remy
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
| | - Sabine Langie
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Mol, Belgium
- Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, The Netherlands
| | - Marij Gielen
- Department of Epidemiology and Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ron van Golde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - John C M Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Han Brunner
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Masoud Zamani Esteki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
- Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Aafke P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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17
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Taha MM, Rizk MS, Zayed MA, Abdel-Haleem FM, Barhoum A. Non-Enzymatic Phenylboronic Acid-Based Optode Membrane for Glucose Monitoring in Serums of Diabetic Patients and in the Culture Medium of Human Embryos. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:7135. [PMID: 36236234 PMCID: PMC9571803 DOI: 10.3390/s22197135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 08/30/2022] [Accepted: 09/15/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring glucose levels is important not only for diabetics, but also for tracking embryonic development in human embryo culture media. In this study, an optochemical sensor (glucose-selective polymer membrane) was fabricated for the determination of glucose in serum from diabetic patients and the culture media of human embryos. The optode membranes were formulated using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as the polymer matrix and 4',5'-dibromofluorescein octadecyl ester (ETH 7075) as the chromoionophore. The sensitivity of the optode membranes was optimized using two different plasticizers (tricresyl phosphate-TCP and nitrophenyloctyl ether-NOPE) and three ionophores (nitrophenylboronic acid-NPBA, trifluorophenyboronic acid-TFPBA, 4'-nitrobenzo-15-crown-5) and tested for glucose detection. The best optode membrane was formulated from 49.5% PVC, 49.5% TCP, 1% NPBA, and 1% ETH 7075. It showed a linear dynamic range of 10-3 M to 10-1 M, with a detection limit of 9 × 10-4 M and a response time of 2 min. The detection mechanism involves H-bonding between NPBA and glucose, which was confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The reaction also involves the formation of boronate esters in basic media with deprotonation of the chromoionophore (ETH 7075), leading to a decrease in UV-Vis absorbance at λmax = 530 nm. The membrane optode was used for glucose determination in synthetic culture medium, commercial embryo culture medium (GLOBAL® TOTAL® W/HEPES), and serum from normal and diabetic patients, showing good accuracy and precision of the optode.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed M. Taha
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
- Adam International Hospital, Aden Street Mohandesein Anas Ibn Malek, Giza 12411, Egypt
| | - Mahmoud S. Rizk
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Mohamed A. Zayed
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
| | - Fatehy M. Abdel-Haleem
- Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Cairo University, Giza 12613, Egypt
- Center for Hazards Mitigation, Environmental Studies and Research (CHMESR), Cairo University, Giza 11795, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Barhoum
- NanoStruc Research Group, Chemistry Department, Faculty of Science, Helwan University, Cairo 11795, Egypt
- National Centre for Sensor Research, School of Chemical Sciences, Dublin City University, D09 V209 Dublin, Ireland
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18
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Lloyd DT, Skinner HG, Maguire R, Murphy SK, Motsinger-Reif AA, Hoyo C, House JS. Clomifene and Assisted Reproductive Technology in Humans Are Associated with Sex-Specific Offspring Epigenetic Alterations in Imprinted Control Regions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10450. [PMID: 36142363 PMCID: PMC9499479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Children conceived with assisted reproductive technology (ART) have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including congenital malformations and imprinted gene disorders. In a retrospective North Carolina-based-birth-cohort, we examined the effect of ovulation drugs and ART on CpG methylation in differentially methylated CpGs in known imprint control regions (ICRs). Nine ICRs containing 48 CpGs were assessed for methylation status by pyrosequencing in mixed leukocytes from cord blood. After restricting to non-smoking, college-educated participants who agreed to follow-up, ART-exposed (n = 27), clomifene-only-exposed (n = 22), and non-exposed (n = 516) groups were defined. Associations of clomifene and ART with ICR CpG methylation were assessed with linear regression and stratifying by offspring sex. In males, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the PEG3 ICR [β(95% CI) = -1.46 (-2.81, -0.12)] and hypermethylation of the MEG3 ICR [3.71 (0.01, 7.40)]; clomifene-only was associated with hypomethylation of the NNAT ICR [-5.25 (-10.12, -0.38)]. In female offspring, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the IGF2 ICR [-3.67 (-6.79, -0.55)]. Aberrant methylation of these ICRs has been associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic and behavioral outcomes in children. The results suggest that the increased risk of adverse outcomes in offspring conceived through ART may be due in part to altered methylation of ICRs. Larger studies utilizing epigenome-wide interrogation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon T. Lloyd
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Harlyn G. Skinner
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Rachel Maguire
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Susan K. Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Alison A. Motsinger-Reif
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - John S. House
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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19
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Menezo Y, Elder K, Clement P, Clement A, Patrizio P. Biochemical Hazards during Three Phases of Assisted Reproductive Technology: Repercussions Associated with Epigenesis and Imprinting. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23168916. [PMID: 36012172 PMCID: PMC9408922 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23168916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2022] [Revised: 08/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Medically assisted reproduction, now considered a routine, successful treatment for infertility worldwide, has produced at least 8 million live births. However, a growing body of evidence is pointing toward an increased incidence of epigenetic/imprinting disorders in the offspring, raising concern that the techniques involved may have an impact on crucial stages of early embryo and fetal development highly vulnerable to epigenetic influence. In this paper, the key role of methylation processes in epigenesis, namely the essential biochemical/metabolic pathways involving folates and one-carbon cycles necessary for correct DNA/histone methylation, is discussed. Furthermore, potential contributors to epigenetics dysregulation during the three phases of assisted reproduction: preparation for and controlled ovarian hyperstimulation (COH); methylation processes during the preimplantation embryo culture stages; the effects of unmetabolized folic acid (UMFA) during embryogenesis on imprinting methyl “tags”, are described. Advances in technology have opened a window into developmental processes that were previously inaccessible to research: it is now clear that ART procedures have the potential to influence DNA methylation in embryonic and fetal life, with an impact on health and disease risk in future generations. Critical re-evaluation of protocols and procedures is now an urgent priority, with a focus on interventions targeted toward improving ART procedures, with special attention to in vitro culture protocols and the effects of excessive folic acid intake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire Clément, 17 Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France
- Correspondence:
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Cambridge CB1 0BE, UK
| | | | - Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire Clément, 17 Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France
| | - Pasquale Patrizio
- Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL 33136, USA
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20
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Koeck RM, Busato F, Tost J, Consten D, van Echten-Arends J, Mastenbroek S, Wurth Y, Remy S, Langie S, Nawrot TS, Plusquin M, Alfano R, Bijnens EM, Gielen M, van Golde R, Dumoulin JCM, Brunner H, van Montfoort APA, Zamani Esteki M. Methylome-wide analysis of IVF neonates that underwent embryo culture in different media revealed no significant differences. NPJ Genom Med 2022; 7:39. [PMID: 35768464 PMCID: PMC9243125 DOI: 10.1038/s41525-022-00310-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing number of children born are conceived through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), which has been linked to an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, as well as altered growth profiles and cardiometabolic differences in the resultant individuals. Some of these outcomes have also been shown to be influenced by the use of different IVF culture media and this effect is hypothesised to be mediated epigenetically, e.g. through the methylome. As such, we profiled the umbilical cord blood methylome of IVF neonates that underwent preimplantation embryo development in two different IVF culture media (G5 or HTF), using the Infinium Human Methylation EPIC BeadChip. We found no significant methylation differences between the two groups in terms of: (i) systematic differences at CpG sites or regions, (ii) imprinted sites/genes or birth weight-associated sites, (iii) stochastic differences presenting as DNA methylation outliers or differentially variable sites, and (iv) epigenetic gestational age acceleration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka M Koeck
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Florence Busato
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, CEA - institut de Biologie François Jacob, Université Paris Saclay, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Jorg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, CEA - institut de Biologie François Jacob, Université Paris Saclay, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Dimitri Consten
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022, GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Jannie van Echten-Arends
- Section of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Wurth
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022, GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvie Remy
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Sabine Langie
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven University (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Rossella Alfano
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Esmée M Bijnens
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marij Gielen
- Department of Epidemiology and Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ron van Golde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - John C M Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Han Brunner
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Aafke P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Masoud Zamani Esteki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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21
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van Duijn L, Steegers-Theunissen RP, Baart EB, Willemsen S, Laven JS, Rousian M. The impact of culture medium used in IVF-treatment on post-implantation embryonic growth and development with emphasis on sex-specificity: The Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1085-1096. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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22
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Cheredath A, Uppangala S, Asampille G, Lakshmi R. V, Joseph D, Raval K, Gowda G. A. N, Kalthur G, Adiga SK. Duration of dry and humidified incubation of single-step embryo culture medium and oxygen tension during sham culture do not alter medium composition. F1000Res 2022; 11:242. [PMID: 35811802 PMCID: PMC9214662 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.109895.4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The extended embryo culture using single-step medium gained popularity in clinical in vitro fertilisation (IVF). However, there are concerns about the degradation of unstable medium components and their negative effects on the developing embryos. Further, dry-incubation can increase osmolality, which can in-turn enhance the concentration of constituents of the media and their stability. Hence, this study was conducted to understand the immediate changes in the culture media constituents in relation to clinically comparable situations such as single-step extended embryo culture and use of dry and humidified-incubation in two-different gaseous conditions. Methods: Commercially available single-step medium was sham-cultured in droplets under oil in two different conditions viz. dry (37°C; 6%CO 2; 5%O 2) and humidified (37°C; 6% CO 2; atmospheric O 2) for 0h, 72h, and 120h intervals. Droplets were subjected to the sensitivity-enhanced nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)-based profiling using 800 MHz NMR equipped with a cryogenically cooled micro-coil (1.7mm) probe. NMR profile of the embryo culture medium between the two groups were comprehensively assessed. Results: A total of ten amino acids and four energy substrates were identified from the culture medium. The medium constituents identified showed a non-significant increase in the dry-incubation group at 72h and then declined at 120h. Humidified incubation had no effects on the level of the identified medium constituents until 120h. No significant differences in the levels of medium constituents identified were observed between the dry and humidified-groups at various time-points tested. Conclusions: A non-significant variation in the levels of medium constituents observed in the dry-incubation of single-step medium most unlikely to influence a clinical outcome. However, the impact of these subtle changes on the (epi)genetic integrity of the embryos in a clinical set-up to be addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aswathi Cheredath
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Department of Reproductive Science,, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Gitanjali Asampille
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Vani Lakshmi R.
- Department of Data Science, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - David Joseph
- NMR Research Centre, Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore, 576104, India
| | - Keyur Raval
- Department of Chemical Engineering, National Institute of Technology Karnataka, Surathkal, India
| | - Nagana Gowda G. A.
- Northwest Metabolomics Research Center, Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Division of Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal. Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, 576104, India
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23
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van Duijn L, Rousian M, Kramer CS, van Marion ES, Willemsen SP, Speksnijder JP, Laven JSE, Steegers-Theunissen RPM, Baart EB. The Impact of Culture Medium on Morphokinetics of Cleavage Stage Embryos: An Observational Study. Reprod Sci 2022; 29:2179-2189. [PMID: 35534767 PMCID: PMC9352745 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00962-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2021] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
To study the impact of culture media on preimplantation morphokinetics used for predicting clinical outcomes. All IVF and ICSI cycles performed between 2012 and 2017 with time-lapse information available were included. In November 2014, culture medium was changed from Vitrolife G-1 PLUS to SAGE 1-Step. Each embryo was retrospectively assigned a morphokinetic-based KIDScore for prediction of implantation. Clinical outcomes were retrieved from medical records. Linear mixed models were used to study differences in morphokinetic parameters, a proportional odds model for KIDScore ranking and logistic regression for differences in clinical outcomes. All analyses were adjusted for patient and treatment characteristics. In 253 (63.1%) cycles, embryos (n = 671) were cultured in Vitrolife, and in 148 (36.9%) cycles, embryos (n = 517) were cultured in SAGE. All cleavage divisions occurred earlier for SAGE embryos than for Vitrolife embryos (2-cell: -2.28 (95%CI: -3.66, -0.89), 3-cell: -2.34 (95%CI: -4.00, -0.64), 4-cell: -2.41 (95%CI: -4.11, -0.71), 5-cell: -2.54 (95%CI: -4.90, -0.18), 6-cell: -3.58 (95%CI: -6.08, -1.08), 7-cell: -5.62 (95%CI: -8.80, -2.45) and 8-cell: -5.32 (95%CI: -9.21, -1.42) hours, respectively). Significantly more embryos cultured in SAGE classified for the highest KIDScore compared to embryos cultured in Vitrolife (p < 0.001). No differences were observed in clinical outcomes. Our results demonstrate an impact of culture medium on preimplantation embryo developmental kinetics, which affects classification within the KIDScore algorithm, while pregnancy outcomes were comparable between the groups. This study underscores the need to include the type of culture medium in the development of morphokinetic-based embryo selection tools.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linette van Duijn
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Melek Rousian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Charlotte S Kramer
- Division of Human Nutrition and Health, Wageningen University and Research, Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Eva S van Marion
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Sten P Willemsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.,Department of Biostatistics, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeroen P Speksnijder
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | - Joop S E Laven
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands
| | | | - Esther B Baart
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Dr. Molewaterplein 40, Rotterdam, 3015 GD, The Netherlands. .,Department of Developmental Biology, Erasmus MC, University Medical Center Rotterdam, Rotterdam, The Netherlands.
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24
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Factors influencing mosaicism: A retrospective analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:491-500. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.04.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2021] [Revised: 04/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/27/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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25
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Sacha CR, Gopal D, Liu CL, Cabral HR, Stern JE, Carusi DA, Racowsky C, Bormann CL. The impact of single-step and sequential embryo culture systems on obstetric and perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies: the Massachusetts Outcomes Study of Assisted Reproductive Technology. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1246-1254. [PMID: 35473909 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the obstetric and perinatal outcomes of deliveries conceived with embryos from single-step vs. sequential culture media systems. DESIGN Historical cohort of Massachusetts vital records linked to assisted reproductive technology clinic data from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System and laboratory embryology data from two large academic hospital fertility centers. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENTS Patients with singleton live birth deliveries between 2004 and 2017 conceived with autologous assisted reproductive technology cycles with fresh blastocyst transfer using either single-step (n = 1,058) or sequential (n = 474) culture media systems. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Associations of single-step vs. sequential culture with obstetric outcomes (mode of delivery, placental abnormalities, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and gestational diabetes) and perinatal outcomes (preterm birth, low birthweight, small-for-gestational-age, and large-for-gestational-age [LGA]) were assessed with multivariate logistic modeling, adjusted for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, parity, insurance type, protein supplementation, oxygen concentration, fertilization method, and number of transferred embryos. RESULTS Compared with sequential culture, single-step culture was associated with increased odds of LGA (adjusted odds ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 1.04-4.22). There were no statistically significant differences between single-step and sequential culture media systems in the odds of placental abnormalities, pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, prematurity, small-for-gestational-age, or low birthweight. CONCLUSIONS Single-step culture is associated with increased odds of LGA, indicating that embryo culture media systems may affect perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R Sacha
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Daksha Gopal
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Chia-Ling Liu
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Howard R Cabral
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Judy E Stern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Daniela A Carusi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - Charles L Bormann
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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26
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Calcium chloride dihydrate supplementation at ICSI improves fertilization and pregnancy rates in patients with previous low fertilization: a retrospective paired treatment cycle study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:1055-1064. [PMID: 35262809 PMCID: PMC9107552 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02407-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine if 5mM calcium chloride dihydrate supplementation of the Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) media at the time of ICSI (ICSI-Ca) improves fertilization, utilization, and clinical pregnancy rates compared to ICSI alone, particularly in patients with a history of low fertilization (< 50%). METHODS Retrospective study between 2016 and 2021 at Monash IVF Victoria on a paired cohort of patients (n = 178 patients) where an ICSI cycle was analyzed coupled with the subsequent ICSI-Ca cycle. The paired cohort was further subdivided into a low-fertilization cohort (< 50% fertilization on previous cycles: n = 66 patients) compared to the remaining patients with fertilization ≥ 50% (n = 122). Exclusion criteria included donor cycles, PGT patients, surgical sperm retrieval, women ≥ 45 years old, patients with > 6 cycles, and patients with ≤ 5 inseminated oocytes. RESULTS Calcium supplementation significantly increased both fertilization (28.8% ICSI vs 49.7% ICSI-Ca, P < 0.0001) and clinical pregnancy rate (4.9% ICSI vs 25.0% ICSI-Ca: P < 0.05) in the low-fertilization cohort but not in the normal-fertilization cohort. Interestingly, utilization rate significantly increased in the normal-fertilization cohort (32.6% ICSI vs ICSI-Ca: 44.9%, P < 0.01) but not in the low-fertilization cohort, although the number of embryos utilized per patient after ICSI-Ca increased in both groups. CONCLUSION Calcium supplementation does not appear to be a detrimental addition to ICSI and may improve IVF outcomes, particularly for patients with a history of low fertilization. Further investigations including prospective case-matched studies or a RCT are required to confirm these findings.
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27
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Anagnostopoulou C, Rosas IM, Gugnani N, Desai D, Manoharan M, Singh N, Leonardi Diaz SI, Singh K, Wirka KA, Gupta S, Darbandi S, Chockalingam A, Darbandi M, Boitrelle F, Finelli R, Sallam HN, Agarwal A. An expert commentary on essential equipment, supplies and culture media in the ART laboratory. Panminerva Med 2022; 64:140-155. [PMID: 35146990 DOI: 10.23736/s0031-0808.22.04671-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The ART laboratory is a complex system designed to sustain the fertilization, survival, and culture of the preimplantation embryo to the blastocyst stage. ART outcomes depend on numerous factors, among which are the equipment, supplies and culture media used. The number and type of incubators also may affect ART results. While large incubators may be more suitable for media equilibration, bench-top incubators may provide better embryo culture conditions in separate or smaller chambers and may be coupled with time-lapse systems that allow continuous embryo monitoring. Microscopes are essential for observation, assessment, and micromanipulation. Workstations provide a controlled environment for gamete and embryo handling and their quantity should be adjusted according to the number of ART cycles treated in order to provide a steady and efficient workflow. Continuous maintenance, quality control and monitoring of equipment is essential and quality control devices such as the thermometer, and pH-meter are necessary to maintain optimal culture conditions. Tracking, appropriate delivery and storage conditions, and quality control of all consumables is recommended so that the adequate quantity and quality is available for use. Embryo culture media have evolved: preimplantation embryos are cultured either by sequential media or single-step media that can be used for interrupted or uninterrupted culture. There is currently no sufficient evidence that any individual commercially-available culture system is better than others in terms of embryo viability. In this review, we aim to analyse the various parameters that should be taken into account when choosing the essential equipment, consumables and culture media systems that will create optimal culture conditions and provide the most effective patient treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Israel M Rosas
- Citmer Reproductive Medicine, IVF LAB, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Nivita Gugnani
- BabySoon Fertility and IVF Center, New Delhi, India India Institute of Medical Sciences, Delhi, India
| | - Dimple Desai
- DPU IVF & ENDOSCOPY CENTER, Dr. D. Y. Patil Hospital & Research Centre, Pune, India
| | | | | | | | - Keerti Singh
- Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Cave Hill Campus, Barbados
| | - Kelly A Wirka
- Fertility & Endocrinology, Medical Affairs, EMD Serono, USA
| | - Sajal Gupta
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Sara Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran.,Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mahsa Darbandi
- Fetal Health Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran.,Gene Therapy and Regenerative Medicine Research Center, Hope Generation Foundation, Tehran, Iran
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, Poissy, France.,Department of Biology, Reproduction, Epigenetics, Environment and Development, Paris Saclay University, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA
| | - Hassan N Sallam
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Alexandria University Faculty of Medicine, Alexandria, Egypt
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio, USA -
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28
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Utsunomiya T, Yao T, Itoh H, Kai Y, Kumasako Y, Setoguchi M, Nakagata N, Abe H, Ishikawa M, Kyono K, Shibahara H, Tsutsumi O, Terada Y, Fujii S, Yanagida K, Yokoyama M, Niimura S, Endo T, Fukuda Y, Inoue M, Kono T, Kuji N, Tawara F, Yoshida H, Yokota Y, Tada Y. Creation, effects on embryo quality, and clinical outcomes of a new embryo culture medium with 31 optimized components derived from human oviduct fluid: A prospective multicenter randomized trial. Reprod Med Biol 2022; 21:e12459. [PMID: 35431648 PMCID: PMC8999156 DOI: 10.1002/rmb2.12459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2021] [Revised: 03/23/2022] [Accepted: 03/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Our aim is to make an ideal embryo culture medium close to human oviduct fluid (HOF) components, and to evaluate the quality of this medium with embryo quality and clinical outcomes in assisted reproductive technology (ART) by a prospective randomized controlled trial (RCT). Methods Study I: HOF was collected laparoscopically from patients (n = 28) with normal pelvic findings. According to HOF analysis results, the new medium "HiGROW OVIT®" (OVIT) was designed. Study II: Embryos (2 pronuclei (2PN) = 9633) were assigned from 1435 patients. The blastulation rate (BR), good BR (gBR), utilized (transferred/cryo-preserved) BR (uBR), pregnancy rate (PR), and miscarriage rate (MR) were compared between the OVIT and control groups by RCT. Results The novel medium 'OVIT' was produced according to 31 HOF components. The concentrations of essential amino acids (e-AAs) were lower in OVIT than in current media, yet the opposite was true for ne-AA concentrations. gBR and uBR were higher in the OVIT group than in the control group. In the older female group, gBT and uBR were significantly higher in the OVIT group. Conclusions The novel medium 'OVIT' was produced according to HOF data. The OVIT had significantly better embryo quality and clinical outcomes than the current media.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tatsuma Yao
- Research and Development CenterFuso Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd.OsakaJapan
| | | | | | | | | | - Naomi Nakagata
- Centre for Animal Resources and DevelopmentKumamoto UniversityKumamotoJapan
| | - Hiroyuki Abe
- Graduate School of Science and EngineeringYamagata UniversityYamagataJapan
| | | | | | - Hiroaki Shibahara
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyHyogo College of MedicineHyogoJapan
| | | | - Yukihiro Terada
- Graduate School of Medicine and Faculty of MedicineAkita UniversityAkitaJapan
| | | | - Kaoru Yanagida
- Reproduction CentreInternational University of Health and WelfareTochigiJapan
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Tomohiro Kono
- Faculty of Applied BiosciencesTokyo University of AgricultureTokyoJapan
| | - Naoaki Kuji
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyTokyo Medical UniversityTokyoJapan
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29
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Skrutková Langmajerová M, Pelcová M, Vedrová P, Celá A, Glatz Z. Capillary electrophoresis-mass spectrometry as a tool for the noninvasive target metabolomic analysis of underivatized amino acids for evaluating embryo viability in assisted reproduction. Electrophoresis 2021; 43:679-687. [PMID: 34897743 DOI: 10.1002/elps.202100328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Revised: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Monitoring metabolite uptake and excretion in the culture medium is a noninvasive technique that is used for the metabolic study of cleaving embryos after in vitro fertilization. Low sample consumption, the versatility of the detection, and optimal sensitivity and selectivity are essential elements for extracellular metabolome analyses, and can be conveniently achieved by combining CE with mass spectrometric detection. This paper reports a method for amino acid determination in a limited volume sample (8 μL) of spent culture media collected after the cultivation of in vitro fertilized embryos. Special attention was focused on the sample preparation procedure. The sample was processed with acetonitrile, which facilitates online sample preconcentration via field-amplified sample stacking, and undesired sample evaporation was significantly reduced by the simultaneous addition of dimethyl sulfoxide. Key parameters that affected electrophoretic separation and mass spectrometric detection were investigated, including the type of buffers and organic solvent, optimization of their concentrations, and finally the settings for their ionization. The separation and quantification of 19 amino acids were achieved using 15% acetic acid as the background electrolyte with a sheath liquid consisting of an equimolar mixture of methanol and water. The applicability of the optimized system was demonstrated by determining the amino acid profile in 40 samples of spent cultivation medium in this pilot study. This developed method also has great potential for amino acid analyses in minute sample volumes of other biological matrices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marta Pelcová
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavla Vedrová
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Celá
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Glatz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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30
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Mestres E, Matia-Algué Q, Villamar A, Casals A, Acacio M, García-Jiménez M, Martínez-Casado A, Castelló C, Calderón G, Costa-Borges N. Characterization and comparison of commercial oils used for human embryo culture. Hum Reprod 2021; 37:212-225. [PMID: 34791223 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2021] [Revised: 10/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there significant differences between the available commercial oil brands used for human IVF? SUMMARY ANSWER Important differences have been detected among the tested oil brands in their potential to stabilize culture conditions and, more importantly, in their direct effect on embryo development and viability. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Mineral oil is a critical component of the human culture system due to its protective and stabilizing roles during in vitro embryo development. Many different oils are available on the market, with differences in their viscosity, density and overall quality. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Thirteen different commercial oil brands were compared. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Each oil was firstly analyzed to assess its viscosity, density, peroxide value and potential oxidation. Secondly, the capacity of each oil to reduce pH, osmolality and temperature fluctuations during embryo culture and manipulation was compared. Lastly, a sensitive mouse embryo assay (MEA) protocol, previously optimized to detect toxicity in oils samples, was used to compare the overall quality of the different brands in terms of embryo developmental rates up to the blastocyst stage. At the end of the MEAs, a triple labeling protocol was applied to analyze Oct4+ cells, apoptotic cells and total cell counts in the blastocysts obtained by fluorescence microscopy. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Significant divergences were detected in the rise of osmolality and the equilibration and stability of pH between different oils, which could be correlated to their physico-chemical characteristics. In particular, oil samples with a higher viscosity tended to offer an additional protection against fluctuations in the culture conditions, however, the differences in temperature stability between oils were minor. Two out of the 13 oil samples, which were commercially available, were identified as embryo-toxic by applying the MEA protocol with increased sensitivity for toxicity detection. Additionally, substantial differences in the total number of cells and the number of cells in the inner cell mass of the obtained blastocysts were also detected between oil groups. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A single lot of oil was used for each brand and, thus, lot-to-lot variations in oil quality could not be determined. However, several bottles from the same oil were included to account for potential intra-lot variability. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Commercial oils differ in both their physical characteristics and their performance in maintaining the stability of the culture conditions during in vitro embryo culture. Oil selection is important for embryo culture success. Additionally, the detection of embryo-toxic oils which had already been released to the human IVF market showcases the importance of applying sensitive MEA protocols for a better detection of toxicity in this type of samples. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was privately funded. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mestres
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Q Matia-Algué
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Villamar
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Casals
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Acacio
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M García-Jiménez
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Martínez-Casado
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Castelló
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Calderón
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Costa-Borges
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Embryo culture media differentially alter DNA methylating enzymes and global DNA methylation in embryos and oocytes. J Mol Histol 2021; 53:63-74. [PMID: 34741214 PMCID: PMC8570397 DOI: 10.1007/s10735-021-10038-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
The effects of culture media on DNA methylation process, which is one of the epigenetic mechanisms, have not been clearly elucidated although it is known that in vitro culture conditions alter epigenetic mechanisms. This study was designed to address the question: does embryo culture media approach, sequential or single step, differentially affect DNA methylating enzymes and global DNA methylation. Mouse zygotes were cultured either in single step or sequential culture media until the blastocyst stage and in vivo developed blastocyst were utilized as control. Similarly, GV stage oocytes were in vitro matured either in single step or first step of sequential culture media. In vivo matured MII oocytes were used as control. The expression levels and cellular localization of Dnmt1 and 3a enzymes were analyzed by immunofluorescence and western blot analysis while global DNA methylation was evaluated by immunofluorescence. We found that signal intensities of Dnmt1 and Dnmt3a enzymes were significantly low in embryos or oocytes cultured in sequential media compared to single step media and control, which were comparable amongst themself. Similarly, global DNA methylation level in single step media and control groups was comparable but both was higher than the sequential media. This study demonstrated that composition of culture media may differentially affect DNA methylation levels in mouse embryos and oocytes. Since abnormal DNA methylation may cause aberrant oocyte or embryo development, we think that further studies are needed to test human embryos and oocyte, and to explain molecular mechanisms.
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Redox Regulation and Oxidative Stress in Mammalian Oocytes and Embryos Developed In Vivo and In Vitro. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182111374. [PMID: 34769890 PMCID: PMC8583213 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182111374] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2021] [Revised: 10/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Oocytes and preimplantation embryos require careful regulation of the redox environment for optimal development both in vivo and in vitro. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are generated throughout development as a result of cellular metabolism and enzyme reactions. ROS production can result in (i) oxidative eustress, where ROS are helpful signalling molecules with beneficial physiological functions and where the redox state of the cell is maintained within homeostatic range by a closely coupled system of antioxidants and antioxidant enzymes, or (ii) oxidative distress, where excess ROS are deleterious and impair normal cellular function. in vitro culture of embryos exacerbates ROS production due to a range of issues including culture-medium composition and laboratory culture conditions. This increase in ROS can be detrimental not only to assisted reproductive success rates but can also result in epigenetic and genetic changes in the embryo, resulting in transgenerational effects. This review examines the effects of oxidative stress in the oocyte and preimplantation embryo in both the in vivo and in vitro environment, identifies mechanisms responsible for oxidative stress in the oocyte/embryo in culture and approaches to reduce these problems, and briefly examines the potential impacts on future generations.
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Canha-Gouveia A, Prieto-Sánchez MT, Sánchez-Ferrer ML, Mollá M, Martínez-Soto JC, París-Oller E, Soriano-Úbeda C, Landeras J, Coy P. Physicochemical and Functional Characterization of Female Reproductive Fluids: A Report of the First Two Infants Born Following Addition of Their Mother's Fluids to the Embryo Culture Media. Front Physiol 2021; 12:710887. [PMID: 34552502 PMCID: PMC8451538 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.710887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Culture media supplemented with reproductive fluids (RF) have been used in livestock species, improving the efficiency and quality of in vitro produced embryos. However, usefulness in humans is still unknown. In this study, we collected human reproductive fluids (HRFs) ex vivo (from 25 patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy plus bilateral salpingectomy) and in vivo (from 31 oocyte donors). Afterward, protocols to evaluate their osmolality, pH, total protein concentration, endotoxin level, and sterility were optimized, establishing security ranges for their use as natural additives. In addition, a functional assay was developed with bovine embryos grown in vitro in a medium supplemented with 1% of collected HRFs. Finally, a proof of concept was performed with six patients on post ovulation day 2 to evaluate the full-term viability of embryos grown in media supplemented with autologous uterine fluid, collected under in vivo conditions. Two of the embryos resulted in successful pregnancy and delivery of healthy babies. In conclusion, this study establishes a complete quality control sheet of HRFs as additives for embryo culture media and shows first preliminary data on obtaining healthy offspring derived from embryos grown in media supplemented with HRFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Analuce Canha-Gouveia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Teresa Prieto-Sánchez
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Virgen de la Arrixaca" University Clinical Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa Sánchez-Ferrer
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Virgen de la Arrixaca" University Clinical Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Mollá
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,IVI Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Evelyne París-Oller
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Landeras
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,IVI Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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Leese HJ, McKeegan PJ, Sturmey RG. Amino Acids and the Early Mammalian Embryo: Origin, Fate, Function and Life-Long Legacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9874. [PMID: 34574797 PMCID: PMC8467587 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amino acids are now recognised as having multiple cellular functions in addition to their traditional role as constituents of proteins. This is well-illustrated in the early mammalian embryo where amino acids are now known to be involved in intermediary metabolism, as energy substrates, in signal transduction, osmoregulation and as intermediaries in numerous pathways which involve nitrogen metabolism, e.g., the biosynthesis of purines, pyrimidines, creatine and glutathione. The amino acid derivative S-adenosylmethionine has emerged as a universal methylating agent with a fundamental role in epigenetic regulation. Amino acids are now added routinely to preimplantation embryo culture media. This review examines the routes by which amino acids are supplied to the early embryo, focusing on the role of the oviduct epithelium, followed by an outline of their general fate and function within the embryo. Functions specific to individual amino acids are then considered. The importance of amino acids during the preimplantation period for maternal health and that of the conceptus long term, which has come from the developmental origins of health and disease concept of David Barker, is discussed and the review concludes by considering the potential utility of amino acid profiles as diagnostic of embryo health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J. Leese
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Paul J. McKeegan
- Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Roger G. Sturmey
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, The University of Manchester, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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35
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Aboussahoud WS, Smith H, Stevens A, Wangsaputra I, Hunter HR, Kimber SJ, Seif MW, Brison DR. The expression and activity of Toll-like receptors in the preimplantation human embryo suggest a new role for innate immunity. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:2661-2675. [PMID: 34517414 PMCID: PMC8450873 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the innate immunity system active in early human embryo development? SUMMARY ANSWER The pattern recognition receptors and innate immunity Toll-like receptor (TLR) genes are widely expressed in preimplantation human embryos and the pathway appears to be active in response to TLR ligands. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Early human embryos are highly sensitive to their local environment, however relatively little is known about how embryos detect and respond to specific environmental cues. While the maternal immune response is known to be key to the establishment of pregnancy at implantation, the ability of human embryos to detect and signal the presence of pathogens is unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Expression of TLR family and related genes in human embryos was assessed by analysis of published transcriptome data (n = 40). Day 5 (D-5) human embryos (n = 25) were cultured in the presence of known TLR ligands and gene expression and cytokine production measured compared to controls. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human embryos surplus to treatment requirements were donated with informed consent from several ART centres. Embryos were cultured to Day 6 (D-6) in the presence of the TLR3 and TLR5 ligands Poly (I: C) and flagellin, with gene expression measured by quantitative PCR and cytokine release into medium measured using cytometric bead arrays. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE TLR and related genes, including downstream signalling molecules, were expressed variably at all human embryo developmental stages. Results showed the strongest expression in the blastocyst for TLRs 9 and 5, and throughout development for TLRs 9, 5, 2, 6 and 7. Stimulation of Day 5 blastocysts with TLR3 and TLR5 ligands Poly (I: C) and flagellin produced changes in mRNA expression levels of TLR genes, including the hyaluronan-mediated motility receptor (HMMR), TLR5, TLR7, nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) and monocyte chemoattractant Protein-1 (MCP-1) (P < 0.05, P < 0.001 compared to unstimulated controls), and release into culture medium of cytokines and chemokines, notably IL8 (P = 0.00005 and 0.01277 for flagellin and Poly (I: C), respectively). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This was a descriptive and experimental study which suggests that the TLR system is active in human embryos and capable of function, but does not confirm any particular role. Although we identified embryonic transcripts for a range of TLR genes, the expression patterns were not always consistent across published studies and expression levels of some genes were low, leaving open the possibility that these were expressed from the maternal rather than embryonic genome. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This is the first report of the expression and activity of a number of components of the innate immunity TLR system in human embryos. Understanding the role of TLRs during preimplantation human development may be important to reveal immunological mechanisms and potential clinical markers of embryo quality and pregnancy initiation during natural conception and in ART. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the Ministry of Higher Education, The State of Libya, the UK Medical Research Council, and the NIHR Local Comprehensive Research Network and NIHR Manchester Clinical Research Facility and the European Union's Horizon 2020 Research and Innovation Programmes under the Marie Skłodowska-Curie Grant Agreement No. 812660 (DohART-NET). In accordance with H2020 rules, no new human embryos were sacrificed for research activities performed from the EU funding, which concerned only in silico analyses of recorded time-lapse and transcriptomics datasets. None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER n/a.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wedad S Aboussahoud
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Helen Smith
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Adam Stevens
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Ivan Wangsaputra
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Helen R Hunter
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Mourad W Seif
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
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Salmerón AM, Abreu AC, Vilches-Ferrón M, Fernández I. Solution NMR in human embryo culture media as an option for assessment of embryo implantation potential. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2021; 34:e4536. [PMID: 33955062 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2020] [Revised: 02/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
NMR offers the potential to holistically screen hundreds of metabolites and has already proved to be a powerful technique able to provide a global picture of metabolic changes in a wide range of biological systems underlying complex and multifactorial matrixes. This review covers the literature until May 2020 centered on the early prediction of the viability of in vitro developed embryos using several analytical techniques, including NMR. Nowadays, the predominant non-invasive technique for selecting viable embryos is based on morphology, where variables associated with the rate of cleavage and blastocyst formation are evaluated by the embryologist following standardized criteria that are somewhat subjective. This morphological approach is therefore inadequate for the prediction of embryo quality, and several studies have focused on developing new non-invasive methods using molecular approaches based particularly on metabolomics. This review outlines the potential of NMR as one of these non-invasive in vitro methods based on the analysis of spent embryo culture media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana M Salmerón
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Ana Cristina Abreu
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
| | - Miguel Vilches-Ferrón
- Hospital Universitario Torrecárdenas, Unidad de Reproducción Asistida Humana, Almería, Spain
| | - Ignacio Fernández
- Department of Chemistry and Physics, Research Centre CIAIMBITAL, University of Almería, Almería, Spain
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Brom-de-Luna JG, Salgado RM, Felix MR, Canesin HS, Stefanovski D, Diaw M, Hinrichs K. Culture protocols for horse embryos after ICSI: Effect of myo-inositol and time of media change. Anim Reprod Sci 2021; 233:106819. [PMID: 34481215 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2021.106819] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2021] [Revised: 07/22/2021] [Accepted: 07/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In vitro production of horse embryos via intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is a useful clinical and research technique. Current rates of blastocyst production are typically sub-optimal, and few methods to increase the rate of equine blastocyst development have been reported. Factors that might improve blastocyst production in a horse embryo culture system were explored. Myo-inositol is found in the horse oviduct and improves blastocyst development in other species, thus Experiment 1 was conducted to assess the effect of 10 mM myo-inositol added to Day 0-5 embryo culture medium, using horse oocytes recovered by transvaginal aspiration. Experiment 2 was conducted to investigate effects of exclusion of a standard post-ICSI holding step (culture for 30-60 min in M199-based medium). Experiment 3 was conducted using oocytes recovered from abattoir-derived ovaries, to evaluate effects of earlier transition (Day 4 vs. Day 5) to the second-step medium and of media refreshment at different time points (Day 3 and/or Day 7) during embryo culture. In Experiments 1 and 2, there were no differences (P > 0.05) between groups in blastocyst development (Exp. 1, 36.7 % and 39.2 %; Exp. 2, 41.5 % and 44.6 %). In Experiment 3, blastocyst development was not different (P > 0.05) for embryos refreshed at both Day 3 and 7 (10.8 %) or only at Day 7 (26.6 %), or those transferred to second-step medium on Day 4 or Day 5 (20.6 % and 18.5 %). Knowledge of culture procedures compatible with blastocyst formation in vitro is valuable to laboratories starting to develop procedures for ICSI in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joao G Brom-de-Luna
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Renato M Salgado
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Matheus R Felix
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA; Department of Clinical Studies - New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, USA
| | - Heloísa S Canesin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA
| | - Darko Stefanovski
- Department of Clinical Studies - New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, USA
| | - Mouhamadou Diaw
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Katrin Hinrichs
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA; Department of Clinical Studies - New Bolton Center, University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine, USA.
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38
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Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology is today considered a safe and reliable medical intervention, with healthy live births a reality for many IVF and ICSI treatment cycles. However, there are increasing numbers of published reports describing epigenetic/imprinting anomalies in children born as a result of these procedures. These anomalies have been attributed to methylation errors in embryo chromatin remodelling during in vitro culture. Here we re-visit three concepts: (1) the so-called 'in vitro toxicity' of 'essential amino acids' before the maternal to zygotic transition period; (2) the effect of hyperstimulation (controlled ovarian hyperstimulation) on homocysteine in the oocyte environment and the effect on methylation in the absence of essential amino acids; and (3) the fact/postulate that during the early stages of development the embryo undergoes a 'global' demethylation. Methylation processes require efficient protection against oxidative stress, which jeopardizes the correct acquisition of methylation marks as well as subsequent methylation maintenance. The universal precursor of methylation [by S-adenosyl methionine (SAM)], methionine, 'an essential amino acid', should be present in the culture. Polyamines, regulators of methylation, require SAM and arginine for their syntheses. Cystine, another 'semi-essential amino acid', is the precursor of the universal protective antioxidant molecule: glutathione. It protects methylation marks against some undue DNA demethylation processes through ten-eleven translocation (TET), after formation of hydroxymethyl cytosine. Early embryos are unable to convert homocysteine to cysteine as the cystathionine β-synthase pathway is not active. In this way, cysteine is a 'real essential amino acid'. Most IVF culture medium do not maintain methylation/epigenetic processes, even in mouse assays. Essential amino acids should be present in human IVF medium to maintain adequate epigenetic marking in preimplantation embryos. Furthermore, morphological and morphometric data need to be re-evaluated, taking into account the basic biochemical processes involved in early life.
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Stimpfel M, Bacer-Kermavner L, Jancar N, Vrtacnik-Bokal E. The influence of the type of embryo culture media on the outcome of IVF/ICSI cycles. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 59:848-854. [PMID: 33218400 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2020.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Embryo culture media are important factors in IVF, which can significantly influence clinical outcome of IVF/ICSI cycles. Despite this, it is still not completely clear which formulation is most optimal and whether sequential or continuous media should be favored. MATERIALS AND METHODS This study retrospectively analyzed the outcome of IVF/ICSI cycles with regard to different types of culture media used to culture embryos, namely sequential and two types of single step continuous embryo culture media. RESULTS If the data were combined for both types of single step continuous embryo culture media the only significant difference we observed was the proportion of poor quality embryos on day 3, which was significantly higher (16.9% vs. 22.5%; P = 0.017) in the sequential media. The pregnancy (55.1% vs. 40.5%; P = 0.113) and live birth rates (42.9% vs. 33.8%; P = 0.308) were lower in continuous media, although the difference was not statistically significant. Furthermore, the blastocyst rate (sequential vs. continuous; 47.4% vs. 47.3%; P = 1), and birthweight (3280 ± 630g vs. 3272 ± 575g; P = 0.96) did not significantly differ regardless of the medium used to culture embryos. Additional comparison of each type of continuous medium to sequential media revealed that the difference in the quality of cleavage stage embryos for combined data of both continuous culture media may be derived from the group of cycles were SAGE 1-Step was used to culture embryos. CONCLUSION These results therefore indicate that continuous media can be equivalent to sequential media and could help lower the workload in busy IVF labs without impairing the clinical results. Although, caution is needed because this study is limited by its retrospective design. To confirm the results, especially in terms of live birth rates and perinatal outcome, a prospective study is needed with a higher number of included couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia.
| | - Lili Bacer-Kermavner
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Nina Jancar
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eda Vrtacnik-Bokal
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Slajmerjeva 3, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Zander-Fox D, Villarosa L, McPherson NO. Albumin used in human IVF contain different levels of lipids and modify embryo and fetal growth in a mouse model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2371-2381. [PMID: 34114110 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Different commercial human embryo culture mediums can alter embryo quality and change birthweight. One component that could be contributing to variations but is not widely investigated is human serum albumin (HSA). HSA plays a multitude of roles during embryo culture and is a carrier for molecules including lipids. It remains unclear if lipid composition of HSA varies among commercial products and its effects on embryo quality, implantation, and fetal outcomes are relatively unknown. METHODS Utilizing a mouse model of embryo culture, we cultured zygotes until the blastocyst stage (72-h culture) in G1/G2 containing either Vitrolife HSA, Sage HSA, or Recombinant HSA at 10%. Blastocyst quality (development, total cell number, superoxide generation), blastocyst lipid content (neutral lipids, non-esterified fatty acids, phospholipids, and triglycerides), implantation, and fetal lengths and weights were assessed. Fatty acid quantification of HSA source was assessed by standard thin-layer chromatography. RESULTS Sage HSA had the greatest fatty acid composition, with an eightfold increase in saturated fatty acids. This coincided with reduced blastocyst development, increased superoxide generation, neutral lipids and triglycerides levels of blastocysts, and decreased implantation rates (p < 0.05). Unexpectedly, while Recombinant HSA had the lowest overall lipids it had 70-fold increase in palmitoleic acid and the lowest fetal weights (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Indicates the importance of a balance between different types/amount of lipids, and an "optimal ratio" required for embryo and fetal development. Therefore, the lipid content of HSA should be considered when choosing a suitable HSA source for use in clinical IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Repromed, Dulwich South Australia, Australia.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia.
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Lauren Villarosa
- Repromed, Dulwich South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicole O McPherson
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Freemasons Center for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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Euploidy rates are not affected when embryos are cultured in a continuous (CCM) or sequential culture medium (SCM): a sibling oocyte study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2199-2207. [PMID: 33834327 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02187-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 03/31/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine if euploidy rates and embryo development differ when blastocysts are cultured in CCM or SCM. METHOD A single-center retrospective observational study was performed from September 2018 to March 2019. Patients [23-46 years] with at least four fresh mature oocytes (MII) without severe male factor infertility were included. Sibling MII were injected and cultured in Global®Total®LP (CCM) or Sage Quinn's Advantage® Cleavage and Blastocyst media (SCM) under 6% CO2, 5% O2, and 89% N2. Fertilization, cleavage, day (D) 5 blastulation, usable blastocyst (blastocysts biopsied/normally fertilized oocytes), and euploidy rates were recorded. Blastocysts were graded prior to trophectoderm (TE) biopsy on D5, 6, or 7 for genetic testing and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) quantification. RESULTS According to clinical practice, 1452 MII were randomly distributed: 751 in CCM and 701 in SCM. No differences were observed in fertilization and cleavages rates for CCM and SCM (77.4% vs 75.5%, p = 0.429 and 97.6% vs 99.1%, p = 0.094, respectively). Blastulation rate on D5 was higher in CCM (70.6% vs 62.2, p = 0.009); however, usable blastocyst rates were comparable (CCM: 58.3% vs SCM: 56.7%, p = 0.625). From a Poisson regression model adjusted for confounding factors, euploidy rates were not different between media (aOR = 1.18, [0.94-1.48], p = 0.157). Euploid blastocyst's mtDNA values were similar (CCM: 32.2, [30.5, 34.1] and SCM: 33.5, [31.8, 35.2], p = 0.345) and top-quality blastocysts (AA/BA) were increased in SCM (OR=1.04, [1.00-1.09], p = 0.037). CONCLUSION Under controlled in vitro conditions, euploidy rates and embryo development are comparable when embryos are cultured in CCM or SCM.
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Ueno S, Ito M, Shimazaki K, Okimura T, Uchiyama K, Yabuuchi A, Kato K. Comparison of Embryo and Clinical Outcomes in Different Types of Incubator Between Two Different Embryo Culture Systems. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:2301-2309. [PMID: 33751461 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00504-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 02/21/2021] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the clinical outcomes of an oxidative stress-reducing embryo culture system (ORES) containing compounds that minimize intercellular oxidative stress, with those of a standard embryo culture system (StES). Furthermore, we investigated the efficiency of the ORES regarding the type of incubator used (time-lapse incubator [TLI] or non-time-lapse dry incubator [non-TLI]) and maternal age. In this retrospective study, we analyzed 3610 oocyte retrieval cycles (in 2537 patients) and 1726 single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer (SVBT) cycles (in 1726 patients) performed in a single center between April 2018 and July 2019. Transfers of single vitrified-warmed blastocysts, confirmed by fetal heartbeat, were used to assess clinical outcomes. The clinical outcomes of ORES and StES were compared in both TLI and non-TLI. Groups were stratified according to maternal age (≤39 years old, young age group; ≥40 years old, advanced age group). A significant difference in ongoing pregnancy rates was observed between the ORES and StES groups when non-TLI was used (34.9 vs. 27.0%, respectively; p < 0.05), unlike when TLI was used. Furthermore, ongoing pregnancy rates were significantly higher in the ORES group (24.8%) than in the StES group (14.9%) in the advanced age group, unlike in the young age group when non-TLI was used. In conclusion, compared to StEs, the ORES during all in vitro fertilization procedures improved ongoing pregnancy rates in the advanced age group using the non-TLI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ueno
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Motoki Ito
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Kiyoe Shimazaki
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Tadashi Okimura
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Kazuo Uchiyama
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Akiko Yabuuchi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kato
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo, 160-0023, Japan.
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Mestres E, García-Jiménez M, Casals A, Cohen J, Acacio M, Villamar A, Matia-Algué Q, Calderón G, Costa-Borges N. Factors of the human embryo culture system that may affect media evaporation and osmolality. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:605-613. [PMID: 33458748 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which lab-related factors impact the culture system's capacity to maintain a stable osmolality during human embryo culture? SUMMARY ANSWER Incubator humidity, the volume of mineral oil, the type of culture media and the design of time-lapse dishes have been identified as important parameters that can cause an impact on media evaporation and consequently osmolality during culture. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Culture medium is a critical component in human embryo culture. Minimizing its evaporation during culture is an adequate strategy to stabilize osmolality and, as a result, improving culture conditions and clinical outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The studied variables included media composition and supplementation; volume of mineral oil; incubator humidification; and the type of dish and incubator used. Additionally, six time-lapse dish models were compared in their ability to prevent evaporation. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Dishes were incubated in parallel to analyze osmolality during culture between groups: synthetic oviductal medium enriched with potassium versus human tubal fluid medium; protein versus no protein supplementation; dry versus humid atmosphere; high versus low volume of mineral oil. Additionally, media evaporation was compared between six models of time-lapse dishes with distinct designs, cultured in a joint incubator. Two of them were retested in their corresponding incubator to analyze the dish-incubator fit. Daily osmolality measurements were compared between groups. Linear regression was performed to analyze evaporation rates. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Protein supplementation did not significantly affect evaporation. Contrarily, humidity levels inside the incubators, the volume of mineral oil and the type of culture media, played an important role in osmolality stabilization. The design of time-lapse dishes and their recommended preparation protocol heavily influenced their evaporation rates, which were further altered by each incubator's characteristics. Media with initially high osmolalities had a bigger risk of reaching hypertonic levels during culture. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION While numerous, the studied variables are limited and therefore other factors could play a role in osmolality dynamics, as well. Incontrollable atmospheric factors could also result in some variation in the observed results between different centers and laboratories. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Published literature has extensively described how hypertonic media may impair embryo development and negatively affect clinical outcomes; therefore, maintaining a stable osmolality during culture should be considered essential. This work is of interest both for embryologists when analyzing their culture system and methodologies, as well as manufacturers in charge of designing IVF consumables. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was privately funded. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mestres
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M García-Jiménez
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Casals
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Cohen
- ART Institute of Washington, Hudson, NY, USA
| | - M Acacio
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Villamar
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Q Matia-Algué
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - G Calderón
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - N Costa-Borges
- Embryotools R&D Center, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Fujii DT, Yohannes E, Por ED, Gillette L, Beesley RD, Heitmann RJ, Chow GE, Burney RO. The proteome of human Fallopian tube lavages during the phase of embryo transit reveals candidate proteins for the optimization of preimplantation embryo culture. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:367-380. [PMID: 33355349 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2020] [Revised: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there phase-specific changes in the early secretory (ES) phase human tubal lavage proteome that can inform and potentially optimize IVF culture media? SUMMARY ANSWER The human tubal lavage proteome during the ES phase relative to the menstrual phase reveals substantial differential protein abundance in pathways such as glycolysis, redox homeostasis and activation of 14-3-3 zeta-mediated signaling. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The Fallopian tube is uniquely suited to the development of the preimplantation embryo as it transits the tube during the ES phase of the menstrual cycle. Euploid cleavage-stage embryo arrest may reflect incomplete recapitulation of in-vivo conditions by current media formulations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Proteome-wide analysis of distal tubal lavage specimens collected from 26 healthy women undergoing open microtubal anastomosis surgery from January 2013 to January 2018 was performed. Specimens were grouped by menstrual cycle phase in order to analyze phase-specific differences in protein abundance. For the murine embryo assay, single-cell embryos (N = 482) were collected from superovulated wild type C57BL/6 female mice and cultured in microdrops over 5 days for the assessment of blastocyst development. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Human tubal lavage specimens were processed for label-free mass spectrometry. Reported menstrual cycle day was confirmed by measuring serum hormones. Key protein targets in the ES phase were validated via immunoblot. The ES phase-specific increase in 14-3-3 zeta protein was confirmed via ELISA of conditioned media obtained from primary human Fallopian tube epithelial cell culture. A murine embryo assay was performed to investigate the impact of graduated concentrations of 14-3-3 zeta on the blastocyst development rate. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Comparison of the ES and menstrual phase human tubal lavage proteomes revealed 74 differentially expressed proteins with enrichment of pathways and biological processes involved in the regulation of carbohydrate metabolism, oxidative stress and cell survival. The adapter-regulator protein 14-3-3 zeta was among the most significantly increased in the ES phase. Supplementation of embryo culture media with 14-3-3 zeta at concentrations tested did not significantly improve the murine blastocyst development. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although select associations were recapitulated in the conditioned media from sex steroid exposed primary human tubal epithelial cells, cell culture represents an in-vitro approximation. Changes to embryo culture media, such as protein supplementation, must undergo rigorous preclinical safety testing prior to adoption for human use. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study represents the first description of the human Fallopian tube lavage proteome across the menstrual cycle, revealing a unique proteomic signature during the ES phase. Although supplementation of culture media with 14-3-3 zeta at appropriate concentrations showed no significant impact on the murine blastocyst development rate, other biologically plausible candidate proteins for individual or high throughput testing strategies are identified. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded in part by an Army Medical Department Advanced Medical Technology Initiative grant from the United States Army Medical Research and Materiel Command's Telemedicine and Advanced Technology Research Center. There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- D T Fujii
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - E Yohannes
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - E D Por
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - L Gillette
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - R D Beesley
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - R J Heitmann
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - G E Chow
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
| | - R O Burney
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
- Department of Clinical Investigation, Madigan Army Medical Center, Tacoma, WA 98431-1100, USA
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Boutourlinsky K, Allègre N, Chazaud C. Ex Vivo Culture for Preimplantation Mouse Embryo to Analyze Pluripotency. Methods Mol Biol 2021; 2214:1-10. [PMID: 32944899 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0958-3_1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A couple of days after fertilization of a mouse oocyte by a sperm, two sequential cell differentiation events segregate pluripotent cells that can be identified by the presence of specific markers. Early mammalian embryos are relatively easy to recover as they are not yet implanted in the uterus matrix. Several decades of experimentation have enabled to find appropriate media to culture them, and therefore provide an excellent way to test different experimental setups such as the use of signaling inhibitors. We provide here a commonly used protocol to culture preimplantation embryos as well as a method to detect pluripotent cells in blastocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katia Boutourlinsky
- Institut GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, Inserm, Clermont-Ferrand, 63000, France
| | - Nicolas Allègre
- Institut GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, Inserm, Clermont-Ferrand, 63000, France
| | - Claire Chazaud
- Institut GReD, Université Clermont Auvergne, CNRS, Inserm, Clermont-Ferrand, 63000, France.
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Ranneva SV, Brusentsev EY, Igonina TN, Ragaeva DS, Rozhkova IN, Ershov NI, Levinson AL, Amstislavsky SY. The Effect of Embryo Culture on Ontogenesis of Mammalian Offspring. Russ J Dev Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360420060077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Motiei M, Vaculikova K, Cela A, Tvrdonova K, Khalili R, Rumpik D, Rumpikova T, Glatz Z, Saha T. Non-Invasive Human Embryo Metabolic Assessment as a Developmental Criterion. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E4094. [PMID: 33353110 PMCID: PMC7766269 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of a highly-viable single embryo in assisted reproductive technology requires an acceptable predictive method in order to reduce the multiple pregnancy rate and increase the success rate. In this study, the metabolomic profiling of growing and impaired embryos was assessed on the fifth day of fertilization using capillary electrophoresis in order to find a relationship between the profiling and embryo development, and then to provide a mechanistic insight into the appearance/depletion of the metabolites. This unique qualitative technique exhibited the appearance of most non-essential amino acids and lactate, and depleting the serine, alanyl-glutamine and pyruvate in such a manner that the embryos impaired in their development secreted a considerably higher level of lactate and consumed a significantly higher amount of alanyl-glutamine. The different significant ratios of metabolomic depletion/appearance between the embryos confirm their potential for the improvement of the prospective selection of the developed single embryos, and also suggest the fact that pyruvate and alanyl-glutamine are the most critical ATP suppliers on the fifth day of blastocyst development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Motiei
- Centre of Polymer Systems, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Třída Tomáše Bati 5678, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Vaculikova
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Andrea Cela
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Katerina Tvrdonova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk, University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Reza Khalili
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Ke Karlovu 2, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - David Rumpik
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Tatana Rumpikova
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Zdenek Glatz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Tomas Saha
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
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Menezo Y, Clement P, Clement A, Elder K. Methylation: An Ineluctable Biochemical and Physiological Process Essential to the Transmission of Life. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239311. [PMID: 33297303 PMCID: PMC7730869 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation is a universal biochemical process which covalently adds methyl groups to a variety of molecular targets. It plays a critical role in two major global regulatory mechanisms, epigenetic modifications and imprinting, via methyl tagging on histones and DNA. During reproduction, the two genomes that unite to create a new individual are complementary but not equivalent. Methylation determines the complementary regulatory characteristics of male and female genomes. DNA methylation is executed by methyltransferases that transfer a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine, the universal methyl donor, to cytosine residues of CG (also designated CpG). Histones are methylated mainly on lysine and arginine residues. The methylation processes regulate the main steps in reproductive physiology: gametogenesis, and early and late embryo development. A focus will be made on the impact of assisted reproductive technology and on the impact of endocrine disruptors (EDCs) via generation of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Bourn, Cambridge CB232TN, UK;
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Chi HJ, Park JS, Yoo CS, Kwak SJ, Son HJ, Kim SG, Sim CH, Lee KH, Koo DB. Effect of evaporation-induced osmotic changes in culture media in a dry-type incubator on clinical outcomes in in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer cycles. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2020; 47:284-292. [PMID: 33227188 PMCID: PMC7711104 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.03552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study investigated whether adding outer-well medium to inhibit osmotic changes in culture media in a dry-type incubator improved the clinical outcomes of in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) cycles. METHODS In culture dishes, the osmotic changes in media (20 µL)-covered oil with or without outer-well medium (humid or dry culture conditions, respectively) were compared after 3 days of incubation in a dry-type incubator. One-step (Origio) and G1/G2 (Vitrolife) media were used. RESULTS The osmotic changes in the dry culture condition (308 mOsm) were higher than in the humid culture conditions (285-290 mOsm) after 3 days of incubation. In day 3 IVF-ET cycles, although the pregnancy rate did not significantly differ between the dry (46.2%) and humid culture (52.2%) groups, the rates of abortion and ongoing pregnancy were significantly better in the humid culture group (2.3% and 50.2%, respectively) than in the dry culture group (8.3% and 37.8%, respectively, p<0.05). In day 5 IVF-ET cycles, the abortion rate was significantly lower in the humid culture group (2.2%) than in the dry culture group (25.0%, p<0.01), but no statistically significant difference was observed in the rates of clinical and ongoing pregnancy between the dry (50.0% and 25.0%, respectively) and humid culture groups (59.5% and 57.3%, respectively) because of the small number of cycles. CONCLUSION Hyperosmotic changes in media occurred in a dry-type incubator by evaporation, although the medium was covered with oil. These osmotic changes were efficiently inhibited by supplementation of outer-well medium, which resulted in improved pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Deog-Bon Koo
- Institute of Infertility, Daegu University, Daegu, Korea
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Rescue Potential of Supportive Embryo Culture Conditions on Bovine Embryos Derived from Metabolically Compromised Oocytes. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21218206. [PMID: 33147848 PMCID: PMC7663530 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21218206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 10/26/2020] [Accepted: 10/30/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Elevated non-esterified fatty acid (NEFA), predominantly palmitic acid (PA), concentrations in blood and follicular fluid are a common feature in maternal metabolic disorders such as obesity. This has a direct negative impact on oocyte developmental competence and the resulting blastocyst quality. We use NEFA-exposure during bovine oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) as a model to mimic oocyte maturation under maternal metabolic stress conditions. However, the impact of supportive embryo culture conditions on these metabolically compromised zygotes are not known yet. We investigated if the addition of anti-apoptotic, antioxidative and mitogenic factors (namely, Insulin-Transferrin-Selenium (ITS) or serum) to embryo culture media would rescue development and important embryo quality parameters (cell proliferation, apoptosis, cellular metabolism and gene expression patterns) of bovine embryos derived from high PA- or high NEFA-exposed oocytes when compared to controls (exposed to basal NEFA concentrations). ITS supplementation during in vitro culture of PA-exposed oocytes supported the development of lower quality embryos during earlier development. However, surviving blastocysts were of inferior quality. In contrast, addition of serum to the culture medium did not improve developmental competence of PA-exposed oocytes. Furthermore, surviving embryos displayed higher apoptotic cell indices and an aberrant cellular metabolism. We conclude that some supportive embryo culture supplements like ITS and serum may increase IVF success rates of metabolically compromised oocytes but this may increase the risk of reduced embryo quality and may thus have other long-term consequences.
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