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Znachorova T, Dudko N, Ming H, Jiang Z, Fulka H. The timing of pronuclear transfer critically affects the developmental competence and quality of embryos. Mol Hum Reprod 2024; 30:gaae024. [PMID: 38991843 PMCID: PMC11262804 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaae024] [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: 02/15/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 07/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Pronuclear transfer has been successfully used in human-assisted reproduction to suppress the adverse effects of a defective oocyte cytoplasm or to bypass an idiopathic developmental arrest. However, the effects of the initial parental genome remodelling in a defective cytoplasm on the subsequent development after pronucleus transfer have not been systematically studied. By performing pronuclear transfer in pre-replication and post-replication mouse embryos, we show that the timing of the procedure plays a critical role. Although apparently morphologically normal blastocysts were obtained in both pre- and post-replication pronuclear transfer groups, post-replication pronuclear transfer led to a decrease in developmental competence and profound changes in embryonic gene expression. By inhibiting the replication in the abnormal cytoplasm before pronuclear transfer into a healthy cytoplasm, the developmental potential of embryos could be largely restored. This shows that the conditions under which the first embryonic replication occurs strongly influence developmental potential. Although pronuclear transfer is the method of choice for mitigating the impact of a faulty oocyte cytoplasm on early development, our results show that the timing of this intervention should be restricted to the pre-replication phase.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tereza Znachorova
- Department of Cell Nucleus Plasticity, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Nataliia Dudko
- Department of Cell Nucleus Plasticity, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Hao Ming
- Department of Animal Sciences, Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- Department of Animal Sciences, Genetics Institute, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Helena Fulka
- Department of Cell Nucleus Plasticity, Institute of Experimental Medicine of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
- Department of Biology of Reproduction, Institute of Animal Science, Prague, Czech Republic
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2
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State of the art in assisted reproductive technologies for patients with advanced maternal age. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:149-156. [PMID: 36810125 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
According to the World Health Organization, the female reproductive age lasts up to 49 years, but problems with the realization of women's reproductive rights may arise much earlier. Significant numbers of factors affect the state of reproductive health: socioeconomic, ecological, lifestyle features, the level of medical literacy, and the state of the organization and medical care quality. Among the reasons for fertility decline in advanced reproductive age are the loss of cellular receptors for gonadotropins, an increase in the threshold of sensitivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary system to the action of hormones and their metabolites, and many others. Furthermore, negative changes accumulate in the oocyte genome, reducing the possibility of fertilization, normal development and implantation of the embryo and healthy offspring birth. Another theory of ageing causing changes in oocytes is the mitochondrial free radical theory of ageing. Taking into account all these age-related changes in gametogenesis, this review considers modern technologies aimed at the preservation and realization of female fertility. Among the existing approaches, two main ones can be distinguished: methods allowing the preservation of reproductive cells at a younger age using ART intervention and cryobanking, as well as methods aimed at improving the basic functional state of advanced-age women's oocytes and embryos.
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3
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Cyranoski D, Contreras JL, Carrington VT. Intellectual property and assisted reproductive technology. Nat Biotechnol 2023; 41:14-20. [PMID: 36653491 DOI: 10.1038/s41587-022-01592-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- David Cyranoski
- Institute for the Advanced Studies of Human Biology (WPI-ASHBi), Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - Jorge L Contreras
- S.J. Quinney College of Law, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
- Department of Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
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4
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Ishii T, de Miguel Beriain I. Shifting to a model of donor conception that entails a communication agreement among the parents, donor, and offspring. BMC Med Ethics 2022; 23:18. [PMID: 35246130 PMCID: PMC8895777 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-022-00756-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Some persons conceived with donor gametes react negatively when they found their birth via donor conception. They request access to information about and seek to communicate with the donor. However, some countries mandate donor anonymity. Other countries allow donor-conceived persons to access donor information, but they can only use this access if their parents have disclosed donor conception to them. We investigated a thorny issue of donor conception: whether donor conception should be shifted from an anonymous basis to a non-anonymous basis. Methods We review the issues and concerns regarding donor conception. We then consider the impact of direct-to-consumer genetic testing on donor conception, as well as the influence of donor conception on offspring’s identity and the potential of different types of donors. To discuss the future policy of donor conception, the policies on the anonymity of gamete donors were investigated using publicly-available documents in 15 countries. Results The aim of mandating donor anonymity is to protect the privacy of the donor and intended parents. However, the diffusion of direct-to-consumer genetic testing may make it impossible to maintain anonymity. Birth via donor conception shapes the offspring’s identity, and the donor may further influence the development of offspring’s identity through communications. It remains important to disclose donor conception to donor-conceived offspring and to provide them with donor information. However, that information might be insufficient for some donor-conceived persons. Here are benefits to having open-identity donors and known donors. Such donors can make an agreement with the parents regarding future communication with the offspring, although both sides should respect privacy. Subsequent counseling for all parties involved can result in better tripartite communication agreements. Conclusions In sum, ethical and practical issues that complicate donor anonymity are driving a shift to non-anonymous donor conception, in which all parties come to a communication agreement. To pave the way for such a donor conception system, transitional measures can be put into place. For countries that already adopted non-anonymous donor conception, ensuring the communication agreements is important to protect the rights of parents, donor, and offspring. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12910-022-00756-1.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Ishii
- Office of Health and Safety, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, 0600808, Japan.
| | - Iñigo de Miguel Beriain
- Law and the Human Genome RG, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Faculty of Law, Library Building, 6th-Floor, Leioa Campus, Barrio Sarriena S/N, 48940, Leioa, Spain
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5
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Huang QY, Chen SR, Chen JM, Shi QY, Lin S. Therapeutic options for premature ovarian insufficiency: an updated review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:28. [PMID: 35120535 PMCID: PMC8815154 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-00892-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a rare gynecological condition. This disease causes menstrual disturbances, infertility, and various health problems. Historically, hormone replacement therapy is the first-line treatment for this disorder. Women diagnosed with POI are left with limited therapeutic options. In order to remedy this situation, a new generation of therapeutic approaches, such as in vitro activation, mitochondrial activation technique, stem cell and exosomes therapy, biomaterials strategies, and platelet-rich plasma intra-ovarian infusion, is being developed. However, these emerging therapies are yet in the experimental stage and require precise design components to accelerate their conversion into clinical treatments. Thus, each medical practitioner bears responsibility for selecting suitable therapies for individual patients. In this article, we provide a timely analysis of the therapeutic strategies that are available for POI patients and discuss the prospects of POI therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiao-Yi Huang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Shao-Rong Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Jia-Ming Chen
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China
| | - Qi-Yang Shi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
| | - Shu Lin
- Centre of Neurological and Metabolic Research, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.34 North Zhongshan Road, Quanzhou, 362000, Fujian Province, China.
- Diabetes and Metabolism Division, Garvan Institute of Medical Research, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, Sydney, NSW, 2010, Australia.
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6
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Aryamvally A, Myers MF, Huang T, Slone J, Pilipenko V, Hartmann JE. Mitochondrial replacement therapy: Genetic counselors' experiences, knowledge, and opinions. J Genet Couns 2021; 30:828-837. [PMID: 33469959 DOI: 10.1002/jgc4.1382] [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: 04/24/2020] [Revised: 11/13/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondrial disorders affect at least 1 in 5,000 individuals worldwide and are often incurable and fatal. Mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT) is an in vitro fertilization technique used to prevent the transmission of mitochondrial disorders. Currently, MRT is the only approach that provides mothers who carry a pathogenic variant in their mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), the opportunity to have a biological child without a mitochondrial disease. MRT involves the combination of nuclear DNA from the egg of the carrier mother and the cytoplasm from an oocyte donor, which contains healthy mitochondria. While MRT was approved for use in the UK in 2015, the ban on congressional funding for research on 'heritable genetic modification' has made MRT unavailable within the US borders. This survey-based study aimed to describe genetic counselors' experience, knowledge, and opinions about MRT. Additionally, we also assessed whether genetic counselors' comfort discussing MRT with patients, and feelings about clinical use of MRT in the United States changed after providing information about MRT compared with baseline. Responses were received from 139 genetic counselors in North America. Findings indicate low awareness and knowledge about MRT among participants. However, more participants expressed comfort with discussing MRT with patients and more participants were able to form opinions about statements about MRT after they were provided with information about MRT. This study is the first to assess genetic counselors' opinions toward MRT and suggests the need for more education about novel technologies such as MRT among genetic counselors.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Melanie F Myers
- Divison of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Taosheng Huang
- Divison of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA.,College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Jesse Slone
- Divison of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Valentina Pilipenko
- Divison of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
| | - Julianne E Hartmann
- Divison of Human Genetics, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH, USA
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7
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Sendra L, García-Mares A, Herrero MJ, Aliño SF. Mitochondrial DNA Replacement Techniques to Prevent Human Mitochondrial Diseases. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:E551. [PMID: 33430493 PMCID: PMC7827455 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22020551] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 01/03/2021] [Accepted: 01/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diseases are a group of maternally inherited genetic disorders caused by a lack of energy production. Currently, mtDNA diseases have a poor prognosis and no known cure. The chance to have unaffected offspring with a genetic link is important for the affected families, and mitochondrial replacement techniques (MRTs) allow them to do so. MRTs consist of transferring the nuclear DNA from an oocyte with pathogenic mtDNA to an enucleated donor oocyte without pathogenic mtDNA. This paper aims to determine the efficacy, associated risks, and main ethical and legal issues related to MRTs. Methods: A bibliographic review was performed on the MEDLINE and Web of Science databases, along with searches for related clinical trials and news. Results: A total of 48 publications were included for review. Five MRT procedures were identified and their efficacy was compared. Three main risks associated with MRTs were discussed, and the ethical views and legal position of MRTs were reviewed. Conclusions: MRTs are an effective approach to minimizing the risk of transmitting mtDNA diseases, but they do not remove it entirely. Global legal regulation of MRTs is required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis Sendra
- Unidad de Farmacogenética, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (S.F.A.)
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Alfredo García-Mares
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - María José Herrero
- Unidad de Farmacogenética, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (S.F.A.)
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
| | - Salvador F. Aliño
- Unidad de Farmacogenética, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain; (L.S.); (S.F.A.)
- Departamento de Farmacología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, 46010 Valencia, Spain;
- Unidad de Farmacología Clínica, Área del Medicamento, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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8
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Koňaříková E, Marković A, Korandová Z, Houštěk J, Mráček T. Current progress in the therapeutic options for mitochondrial disorders. Physiol Res 2020; 69:967-994. [PMID: 33129249 PMCID: PMC8549882 DOI: 10.33549/physiolres.934529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondrial disorders manifest enormous genetic and clinical heterogeneity - they can appear at any age, present with various phenotypes affecting any organ, and display any mode of inheritance. What mitochondrial diseases do have in common, is impairment of respiratory chain activity, which is responsible for more than 90% of energy production within cells. While diagnostics of mitochondrial disorders has been accelerated by introducing Next-Generation Sequencing techniques in recent years, the treatment options are still very limited. For many patients only a supportive or symptomatic therapy is available at the moment. However, decades of basic and preclinical research have uncovered potential target points and numerous compounds or interventions are now subjects of clinical trials. In this review, we focus on current and emerging therapeutic approaches towards the treatment of mitochondrial disorders. We focus on small compounds, metabolic interference, such as endurance training or ketogenic diet and also on genomic approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Koňaříková
- Laboratory of Bioenergetics, Institute of Physiology Czech Acad. Sci., Prague, Czech Republic. ,
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9
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Bottani E, Lamperti C, Prigione A, Tiranti V, Persico N, Brunetti D. Therapeutic Approaches to Treat Mitochondrial Diseases: "One-Size-Fits-All" and "Precision Medicine" Strategies. Pharmaceutics 2020; 12:E1083. [PMID: 33187380 PMCID: PMC7696526 DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics12111083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2020] [Revised: 11/08/2020] [Accepted: 11/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Primary mitochondrial diseases (PMD) refer to a group of severe, often inherited genetic conditions due to mutations in the mitochondrial genome or in the nuclear genes encoding for proteins involved in oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). The mutations hamper the last step of aerobic metabolism, affecting the primary source of cellular ATP synthesis. Mitochondrial diseases are characterized by extremely heterogeneous symptoms, ranging from organ-specific to multisystemic dysfunction with different clinical courses. The limited information of the natural history, the limitations of currently available preclinical models, coupled with the large variability of phenotypical presentations of PMD patients, have strongly penalized the development of effective therapies. However, new therapeutic strategies have been emerging, often with promising preclinical and clinical results. Here we review the state of the art on experimental treatments for mitochondrial diseases, presenting "one-size-fits-all" approaches and precision medicine strategies. Finally, we propose novel perspective therapeutic plans, either based on preclinical studies or currently used for other genetic or metabolic diseases that could be transferred to PMD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuela Bottani
- Department of Diagnostics and Public Health, Section of Pharmacology, University of Verona, 37134 Verona, Italy
| | - Costanza Lamperti
- Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy; (C.L.); (V.T.)
| | - Alessandro Prigione
- Department of General Pediatrics, Neonatology, and Pediatric Cardiology, University Clinic Düsseldorf (UKD), Heinrich Heine University (HHU), 40225 Dusseldorf, Germany;
| | - Valeria Tiranti
- Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy; (C.L.); (V.T.)
| | - Nicola Persico
- Department of Clinical Science and Community Health, University of Milan, 20122 Milan, Italy;
- Fetal Medicine and Surgery Service, Fondazione IRCCS Ca’ Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, 20122 Milan, Italy
| | - Dario Brunetti
- Medical Genetics and Neurogenetics Unit, Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico C. Besta, 20126 Milan, Italy; (C.L.); (V.T.)
- Department of Medical Biotechnology and Translational Medicine, University of Milan, 20129 Milan, Italy
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10
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Chiang JL, Shukla P, Pagidas K, Ahmed NS, Karri S, Gunn DD, Hurd WW, Singh KK. Mitochondria in Ovarian Aging and Reproductive Longevity. Ageing Res Rev 2020; 63:101168. [PMID: 32896666 DOI: 10.1016/j.arr.2020.101168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is one of the hallmarks of aging. Consistently mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and function decline with age in various tissues. There is increasing evidence to support that mitochondrial dysfunction drives ovarian aging. A decreased mtDNA copy number is also reported during ovarian aging. However, the mitochondrial mechanisms contributing to ovarian aging and infertility are not fully understood. Additionally, investigations into mitochondrial therapies to rejuvenate oocyte quality, select viable embryos and improve mitochondrial function may help enhance fertility or extend reproductive longevity in the future. These therapies include the use of mitochondrial replacement techniques, quantification of mtDNA copy number, and various pharmacologic and lifestyle measures. This review aims to describe the key evidence and current knowledge of the role of mitochondria in ovarian aging and identify the emerging potential options for therapy to extend reproductive longevity and improve fertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine L Chiang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1700 6(th)Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - Pallavi Shukla
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul Genetics Building Room 630, 720 20(th)Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States; Department of Molecular Endocrinology, National Institute for Research in Reproductive Health (NIRRH), Jehangir Merwanji Street, Parel, Mumbai, 400012, India
| | - Kelly Pagidas
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, TCM University, 9 Jason Drive, Lincoln, RI, 02865, United States
| | - Noha S Ahmed
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul Genetics Building Room 630, 720 20(th)Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States; Department of Dermatology, Zagazig University, 44519 Shaibet an Nakareyah, Zagazig 2, Ash Sharqia Governorate, Egypt
| | - Srinivasu Karri
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul Genetics Building Room 630, 720 20(th)Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States
| | - Deidre D Gunn
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1700 6(th)Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - William W Hurd
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology & Infertility, University of Alabama at Birmingham, 1700 6(th)Avenue South, Birmingham, AL, 35233, United States
| | - Keshav K Singh
- Department of Genetics, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Kaul Genetics Building Room 630, 720 20(th)Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States; UAB Department of Genetics, Center for Women's Reproductive Health, Kaul Genetics Building University of Alabama at Birmingham, Room 620, 720 20(th)Street South, Birmingham, AL, 35294, United States.
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11
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Nicol D, Richards B. Mitochondrial Donation: The Australian Story. JOURNAL OF BIOETHICAL INQUIRY 2020; 17:161-164. [PMID: 32588180 DOI: 10.1007/s11673-020-09988-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Dianne Nicol
- Faculty of Law, University of Tasmania, Sandy Bay, Tasmania, 7005, Australia.
| | - Bernadette Richards
- Law School, University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, 5005, Australia
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12
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Jans V, Dondorp W, Mastenbroek S, Mertes H, Pennings G, Smeets H, de Wert G. Between innovation and precaution: how did offspring safety considerations play a role in strategies of introducing new reproductive techniques? Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa003. [PMID: 32201741 PMCID: PMC7077615 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The field of reproductive medicine has been criticized for introducing ARTs without systematic research on possible safety risks and for failing to meet the standards of evidence-based innovation held elsewhere in medicine. In this paper, firstly, we ask whether ‘responsible innovation’ has been a concern for the field, and if so, how it has understood the practical implications of this idea for the development and introduction of potentially risky new ARTs. Secondly, we consider whether the field has indeed fallen short of its responsibilities in this respect, and if so, how things can be improved. To answer these questions, we present three case studies involving the introduction of a new reproductive technology: ICSI, preimplantation genetic testing and mitochondrial replacement therapy. As a framework for analyzing these cases, we used Per Sandin’s account of the four dimensions of dealing with risks (threat, uncertainty, action, command) that are central to debates about the possible role of the so-called precautionary principle. We conclude that, although offspring safety concerns have been on the agenda of the debate about bringing the relevant technologies to the clinic, systematic safety and effectiveness studies were not always conducted. As professionals in assisted reproduction have a responsibility to take account of the welfare of the children they are creating, we suggest a policy of proceeding with systematic caution. Legal measures may be needed to ensure that professional guidance is followed in practice. Finally, an open question concerns the threshold for acceptable risk in the context of introducing new ARTs. Multiple stakeholders, including professional societies and patient organizations, should have a role in the urgent debate about this.
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Affiliation(s)
- Verna Jans
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society and Research School GROW for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Wybo Dondorp
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society and Research School GROW for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Amsterdam University Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Heidi Mertes
- Bioethics Institute Ghent (BIG), Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Guido Pennings
- Bioethics Institute Ghent (BIG), Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hubert Smeets
- Department of Clinical Genomics, Research School GROW for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Guido de Wert
- Department of Health, Ethics and Society and Research School GROW for Oncology & Developmental Biology, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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13
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Ishii T. Should Long-Term Follow-up Post-Mitochondrial Replacement be Left up to Physicians, Parents, or Offspring? New Bioeth 2019; 25:318-331. [PMID: 31429373 DOI: 10.1080/20502877.2019.1654672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
UK law permits parents to use mitochondrial replacement (MR) to have genetically-related children without serious mitochondrial disease. However, long-term follow-up is required for each case. Whether this follow-up should be left to physicians, parents, or offspring has not been established. Due to the experimental status of MR, physicians must inform parents of the risks and the importance of follow-up tailored to a specific mitochondrial disease. Given that the use of MR is a responsible exercise of reproductive freedom, parents should ensure that the follow-up is performed properly and in the best interests of their offspring. On becoming legally competent, the resulting children should be entitled to refuse follow-up provided that the prevention of mitochondrial disease with no adverse effects has been evident till then. This offspring-centred long-term follow-up approach might also be applied to the use of MR for infertility treatment, even though the primary endpoint is healthy live births.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Ishii
- Office of Health and Safety, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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14
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Mobarak H, Heidarpour M, Tsai PSJ, Rezabakhsh A, Rahbarghazi R, Nouri M, Mahdipour M. Autologous mitochondrial microinjection; a strategy to improve the oocyte quality and subsequent reproductive outcome during aging. Cell Biosci 2019; 9:95. [PMID: 31798829 PMCID: PMC6884882 DOI: 10.1186/s13578-019-0360-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Along with the decline in oocyte quality, numerous defects such as mitochondrial insufficiency and the increase of mutation and deletion have been reported in oocyte mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) following aging. Any impairments in oocyte mitochondrial function have negative effects on the reproduction and pregnancy outcome. It has been stated that infertility problems caused by poor quality oocytes in women with in vitro fertilization (IVF) and repeated pregnancy failures are associated with aging and could be overcome by transferring large amounts of healthy mitochondria. Hence, researches on biology, disease, and the therapeutic use of mitochondria continue to introduce some clinical approaches such as autologous mitochondrial transfer techniques. Following mitochondrial transfer, the amount of ATP required for aged-oocyte during fertilization, blastocyst formation, and subsequent embryonic development could be an alternative modality. These modulations improve the pregnancy outcome in women of high reproductive aging as well. In addition to overview the clinical studies using mitochondrial microinjection, this study provides a framework for future approaches to develop effective treatments and preventions of congenital transmission of mitochondrial DNA mutations/diseases to offspring. Mitochondrial transfer from ovarian cells and healthy oocytes could lead to improved fertility outcome in low-quality oocytes. The modulation of mitochondrial bioactivity seems to regulate basal metabolism inside target oocytes and thereby potentiate physiological activity of these cells while overcoming age-related infertility in female germ cells.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halimeh Mobarak
- Women’s Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mohammad Heidarpour
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Pei-Shiue Jason Tsai
- Center for Developmental Biology and Regenerative Medicine Research, National Taiwan University/NTU, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, School of Veterinary Medicine, National Taiwan University/NTU, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Aysa Rezabakhsh
- Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Reza Rahbarghazi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mahdi Mahdipour
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
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15
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Ishii T, Beriain IDM. Safety of Germline Genome Editing for Genetically Related "Future" Children as Perceived by Parents. CRISPR J 2019; 2:370-375. [PMID: 31746634 PMCID: PMC6919246 DOI: 10.1089/crispr.2019.0010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
The social acceptability of germline genome editing (GGE) depends on its perceived safety, as well as respect for reproductive autonomy. However, it is doubtful that prospective parents sufficiently understand the risks of GGE. In the future, the use of GGE in specific situations seems plausible, as it offers couples potential means to safeguard genetically related future children from a serious disease and overcome infertility due to a gene mutation. Should GGE fail, however, some couples may be obliged to abort affected fetuses, or give birth to adversely affected children, which would be a tragedy. Some children might develop diseases later in life due to overlooked off-target mutations. Compounding this, some parents are unlikely to inform their offspring about the details of conception, hampering necessary follow-up. Prospective parents, scientists and policy makers should carefully discuss the safety implications of GGE for genetically related future children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tetsuya Ishii
- Office of Health and Safety, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Iñigo de Miguel Beriain
- Law and the Human Genome RG, University of the Basque Country UPV/EHU, Faculty of Law, Leioa, Spain.,IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain
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16
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17
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Al Khatib I, Shutt TE. Advances Towards Therapeutic Approaches for mtDNA Disease. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1158:217-246. [PMID: 31452143 DOI: 10.1007/978-981-13-8367-0_12] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria maintain and express their own genome, referred to as mtDNA, which is required for proper mitochondrial function. While mutations in mtDNA can cause a heterogeneous array of disease phenotypes, there is currently no cure for this collection of diseases. Here, we will cover characteristics of the mitochondrial genome important for understanding the pathology associated with mtDNA mutations, and review recent approaches that are being developed to treat and prevent mtDNA disease. First, we will discuss mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), where mitochondria from a healthy donor replace maternal mitochondria harbouring mutant mtDNA. In addition to ethical concerns surrounding this procedure, MRT is only applicable in cases where the mother is known or suspected to carry mtDNA mutations. Thus, there remains a need for other strategies to treat patients with mtDNA disease. To this end, we will also discuss several alternative means to reduce the amount of mutant mtDNA present in cells. Such methods, referred to as heteroplasmy shifting, have proven successful in animal models. In particular, we will focus on the approach of targeting engineered endonucleases to specifically cleave mutant mtDNA. Together, these approaches offer hope to prevent the transmission of mtDNA disease and potentially reduce the impact of mtDNA mutations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iman Al Khatib
- Deparments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Timothy E Shutt
- Deparments of Medical Genetics and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Cumming School of Medicine, Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Hotchkiss Brain Institute, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada.
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18
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MacPherson A, Kimmelman J. Ethical development of stem-cell-based interventions. Nat Med 2019; 25:1037-1044. [PMID: 31270501 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-019-0511-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 06/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
The process of developing new and complex stem-cell-based therapeutics is incremental and requires decades of sustained collaboration among different stakeholders. In this Perspective, we address key ethical and policy challenges confronting the clinical translation of stem-cell-based interventions (SCBIs), including premature diffusion of SCBIs to clinical practice, assessment of risk in trials, obtaining valid informed consent for research participants, balanced and complete scientific reporting and public communications, regulation, and equitable access to treatment. We propose a way forward for translating these therapies with the above challenges in mind.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda MacPherson
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, STREAM Research Group, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Jonathan Kimmelman
- Biomedical Ethics Unit, STREAM Research Group, McGill University, Montreal, Canada.
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19
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Crawford GE, Ledger WL. In vitro fertilisation/intracytoplasmic sperm injection beyond 2020. BJOG 2019; 126:237-243. [PMID: 30548407 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Over 8 million babies have been born following IVF (in vitro fertilisation) and other artificial reproductive technology (ART) procedures since Louise Brown's birth 40 years ago. New innovations have added much complexity to both clinical and laboratory procedures over the last four decades. Translation of novel approaches from basic science into clinical practice continues unabated, widening the applicability of ART to new groups of people and helping improve both chances of healthy live birth and patient acceptability. However, the impact of ART on the health of both patients and their offspring continues to cause concern, and many ethical challenges created by new scientific developments in this field attract widely differing opinions. What is undeniable is that there will be a sustained global growth in utilisation of ART and that reproductive tourism will allow many people to access the treatment they desire notwithstanding national regulations that may forbid some approaches. The greatest challenge is to expand access to ART to those living in the less wealthy nations who are equally deserving of its benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Crawford
- The Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
| | - W L Ledger
- The Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW, Australia.,School of Women's and Children's Health, The University of New South Wales, Randwick, NSW, Australia
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