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Martínez-Casado A, Acacio M, Matia-Algué Q, Casals A, Villamar A, Franco-Roig A, Mendoza M, Castelló C, Medina S, Calderón G, Costa-Borges N, Mestres E. Culture medium and protein supplementation affect sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay in detecting Triton X-100. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:104120. [PMID: 39084124 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.104120] [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: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION To what extent does the type and concentration of protein and the type of culture medium affect the sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay (MEA) to detect Triton X-100 (TX-100) in culture media? DESIGN The effect of the concentration of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA) was assessed by supplementing media with 0.5 or 5 mg/ml. Potassium-supplemented simplex optimized medium (KSOM) and human tubal fluid (HTF) were used as complex and simple formulation media, respectively. Variables were combined, forming study groups where embryos were cultured in test media spiked with a sublethal TX-100 concentration. The conditions of greatest sensitivity were determined by statistical comparison of blastocyst formation rates and total cell counts between groups. RESULTS Although all of the study groups showed equal capacity for sustaining proper embryo development, the reported sensitivity of the MEA differed between groups when subjected to TX-100. HTF conferred significantly greater sensitivity than KSOM regardless of the type and concentration of protein used, and medium supplementation with 5 mg/ml BSA rather than 0.5 mg/ml BSA resulted in significantly higher sensitivity regardless of the type of medium used. This increase in concentration also resulted in higher sensitivity when supplementing HTF with HSA. The BSA groups provided more sensitivity than their HSA counterparts, except for the KSOM + 0.5 mg/ml BSA group. Cell count analysis did not provide further significant conclusions. CONCLUSIONS For TX-100 detection within culture medium, the type and concentration of protein and the type of culture medium have a direct effect on MEA sensitivity. These results could help to standardize the MEA protocol, and increase its ability to detect sublethal concentrations of embryotoxic substances, especially TX-100, thus avoiding possible clinical harmful effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mònica Acacio
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alba Casals
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Villamar
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aina Franco-Roig
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Mendoza
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carolina Castelló
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Medina
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gloria Calderón
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuno Costa-Borges
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Mestres
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Santos JT, Soobrian L, Kashyap S. Off-gassing plasticware to decrease the toxicity effect in embryo culture. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:428-433. [PMID: 34286940 PMCID: PMC8312287 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20210005] [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] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Methods: Results: Conclusions:
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Lisa Soobrian
- Genesis Fertility Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Sonya Kashyap
- Genesis Fertility Centre, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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3
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Delaroche L, Oger P, Genauzeau E, Meicler P, Lamazou F, Dupont C, Humaidan P. Embryotoxicity testing of IVF disposables: how do manufacturers test? Hum Reprod 2021; 35:283-292. [PMID: 32053198 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do manufacturers perform embryotoxicity testing in their quality control programs when validating IVF consumables? SUMMARY ANSWER The Mouse Embryo Assay (MEA) and Human Sperm Survival Assay (HSSA) used for IVF disposables differed from one manufacturer to another. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Many components used in IVF laboratories, such as culture media and disposable consumables, may negatively impact human embryonic development. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Through a questionnaire-based survey, the main manufacturers of IVF disposable devices were contacted during the period November to December 2018 to compare the methodology of the MEA and HSSA. We focused on catheters for embryo transfer, catheters for insemination, straws, serological pipettes, culture dishes and puncture needles used in the ART procedures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We approached the manufacturers of IVF disposables and asked for details about methodology of the MEA and HSSA performed for toxicity testing of their IVF disposable devices. All specific parameters like mouse strains, number of embryos used, culture conditions (media, temperature, atmosphere), extraction protocol, subcontracting, and thresholds were registered and compared between companies. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Twenty-one companies were approached, of which only 11 answered the questionnaire. Significant differences existed in the methodologies and thresholds of the MEA and HSSA used for toxicity testing of IVF disposables. Importantly, some of these parameters could influence the sensitivity of the tests. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although we approached the main IVF manufacturers, the response rate was relatively low. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study confirms the high degree of heterogeneity of the embryotoxicity tests performed by manufacturers when validating their IVF disposable devices. Currently, no regulations exist on this issue. Professionals should call for and request standardization and a future higher degree of transparency as regards embryotoxicity testing from supplying companies; moreover, companies should be urged to provide the users clear and precise information about the results of their tests and how testing was performed. Future recommendations are urgently awaited to improve the sensitivity and reproducibility of embryotoxicity assays over time. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study did not receive any funding. L.D. declares a competing interest with Patrick Choay SAS. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Delaroche
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France.,Centre de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - P Oger
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - E Genauzeau
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France.,Centre de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - P Meicler
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - F Lamazou
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - C Dupont
- INSERM équipe Lipodystrophies génétiques et acquises. Service de biologie de la reproduction-CECOS, Sorbonne Université, Saint Antoine Research Center, AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - P Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Resenvej 25, 7800 Skive, Denmark.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Parameters of the Mouse Embryo Assay that affect detection of peroxides in mineral oil. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:547-555. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/08/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 32:451-460. [PMID: 29695546 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
There are numerous reports on embryo culture media and conditions in the laboratory, as the subject is multifaceted and complex, reflecting the variation in practice. In this scoping review, we attempt to approach the topic of culture media and conditions from the practitioners' perspective aiming to highlight, in a comprehensive fashion, important aspects regarding the options available, introduce points of debate and controversy, while maintaining the viewpoint of the practicing embryologist's concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Deligeoroglou
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Improved detection of mineral oil toxicity using an extended mouse embryo assay. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:391-397. [PMID: 28064422 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0856-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) relies on sound laboratory methods and culture conditions which depend on sensitive quality control (QC) testing. This study aimed to improve the sensitivity of mouse embryo assays (MEA) for detection of mineral oil toxicity. METHODS Five experiments were conducted to study modifications of the standard mouse embryo assay (MEA) in order to improve sensitivity using clinical grade mineral oil with known peroxide concentrations. Assessment of blastocyst development at either 96 h or in an extended MEA (eMEA) to 144 h was tested in each experiment. In experiment 1, ability to detect peroxides in oil was compared in the MEA, eMEA, and cell number at 96 h. In experiment 2, serial dilutions of peroxide in oil were used along with time-lapse imaging to compare sensitivity of the morphokinetic MEA to the eMEA. Culture conditions that may affect assay sensitivity were assessed in experiments 3-5, which examined the effect of group versus individual culture, oxygen concentration, and protein supplementation. RESULTS Extended MEA and cell counts identified toxicity not detected by the routine endpoint of blastocyst rate at 96 h. The eMEA was fourfold more sensitive than the standard MEA, and this sensitivity was similar to the morphokinetic MEA. Group culture had a protective effect against toxicity, while oxygen concentration did not affect blastocyst development. Protein supplementation with HSA had a protective effect on blastocyst development in eMEA. CONCLUSIONS The standard MEA used by manufacturers does not detect potentially lethal toxicity of peroxides in mineral oil. While group culture may mask toxicity, protein supplementation and oxygen concentration have minimal effect on assay sensitivity. The eMEA and time-lapse morphokinetic assessment are equally effective in detection of peroxide toxicity and thus provide manufacturers and end-users a simple process modification that can be readily adopted into an existing QC program.
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Schulte K, Ehmcke J, Schlatt S, Boiani M, Nordhoff V. Lower total cell numbers in mouse preimplantation embryos cultured in human assisted reproductive technique (ART) media are not induced by apoptosis. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1620-30. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.08.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2015] [Revised: 08/10/2015] [Accepted: 08/21/2015] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The advances in the world of IVF during the last decades have been rapid and impressive and culture media play a major role in this success. Until the 1980s fertility centers made their media in house. Nowadays, there are numerous commercially available culture media that contain various components including nutrients, vitamins and growth factors. This review goes through the past, present and future of IVF culture media and explores their composition and quality assessment. METHODS A computerized search was performed in PubMed regarding IVF culture media including results from 1929 until March 2014. Information was gathered from the websites of companies who market culture media, advertising material, instructions for use and certificates of analysis. The regulation regarding IVF media mainly in the European Union (EU) but also in non-European countries was explored. RESULTS The keyword 'IVF culture media' gave 923 results in PubMed and 'embryo culture media' 12 068 results dating from 1912 until March 2014, depicting the increased scientific activity in this field. The commercialization of IVF culture media has increased the standards bringing a great variety of options into clinical practice. However, it has led to reduced transparency and comparisons of brand names that do not facilitate the scientific dialogue. Furthermore, there is some evidence suggesting that suboptimal culture conditions could cause long-term reprogramming in the embryo as the periconception period is particularly susceptible to epigenetic alterations. IVF media are now classified as class III medical devices and only CE (Conformité Européene)-marked media should be used in the EU. CONCLUSION The CE marking of IVF culture media is a significant development in the field. However, the quality and efficiency of culture media should be monitored closely. Well-designed randomized controlled trials, large epidemiological studies and full transparency should be the next steps. Reliable, standardized models assessing multiple end-points and post-implantation development should replace the mouse embryo assay. Structured long-term follow-up of children conceived by assisted reproduction technologies and traceability are of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elpiniki Chronopoulou
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Joyce C Harper
- UCL Centre for PG and D, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, UCLH, London, UK
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Khan Z, Wolff HS, Fredrickson JR, Walker DL, Daftary GS, Morbeck DE. Mouse strain and quality control testing: improved sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay with embryos from outbred mice. Fertil Steril 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Pont JC, Patrat C, Fauque P, Camp ML, Gayet V, Wolf JP. [Pre-washing catheter dramatically improves the post intrauterine insemination pregnancy rate]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2012; 40:356-9. [PMID: 22503402 DOI: 10.1016/j.gyobfe.2012.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/06/2011] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the effectiveness of pre-washing the intrauterine insemination catheters on IUI outcome. PATIENTS AND METHODS Infertile couples (n=322) involved in a IUI program were included in the study. IUI indications were cervical factors, ovulation dysfunction, cryopreserved semen and unexplained infertility. Every other week for two years, IUI catheters were washed with culture medium prior to intrauterine sperm insemination. RESULT(S) Only the first IUI for each couple were analyzed. Washing the catheter, prior to use, resulted in a 49.7% increase in clinical pregnancy rate (22.0% vs 14.7% P<0.05). This result is observed with fresh sperm (15.7% vs 11.1%) and frozen-thawed sperm as well (31.1% vs 19.8%). The early pregnancy termination rate was similar in all groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Pre-washing the catheter before IUI should be recommended in Good Laboratory Practice Guidelines as it is already the case for embryo transfer catheters. This raises the problem of washing all single-use devices, in contact with gametes or embryos during IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- J-C Pont
- Service d'histologie embryologie biologie de la reproduction, université Paris Descartes, 123, boulevard Port-Royal, 75014 Paris, France
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Human sperm bioassay for reprotoxicity testing in embryo culture media: some practical considerations in reducing the assay time. Adv Urol 2010; 2010:136898. [PMID: 21234335 PMCID: PMC3017937 DOI: 10.1155/2010/136898] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2010] [Revised: 11/03/2010] [Accepted: 11/09/2010] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Human sperm assay (HSA) is a preferred in house quality control and proficiency test (PT) practiced in fertility laboratories. HSA is performed over varying durations, apparently without following set criteria. To better understand the assay time required for reprotoxicity testing in embryo culture media, we compared American-Association-of-Bioanalysts-(AAB-) administered HSA data to our own assay performed using PT samples obtained from AAB. Participating laboratories were required to culture sperm for 48 hours to determine media acceptability. Conclusions drawn from 48- and 24-hour observations were the same, suggesting that HSA could identify reprotoxic media in less time than required by AAB. Our assay revealed that changes in motility grade in adulterated media are significantly different from those in control media. Furthermore, grade changes can be identified earlier than differences in motility loss between samples. Analyzing motility and motility quality together provides a method for establishing an optimal time for HSA.
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12
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Boone WR, Higdon HL, Johnson JE. Quality Management Issues in the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1177/205891581000100103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) of 1988 describes requirements and guidelines for implementing a quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) program for moderate and high complexity laboratories. These requirements and guidelines apply to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratories as well. The general topic of QC and QA as it pertains to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET) is extensively reviewed. This review summarizes many of the QC and QA events that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this biotechnological field. These events include control of the culture environment inside and outside of the incubator, as well as factors that affect culture media. This review also discusses, in considerable detail, the QC and the QA that pertain to equipment used within the laboratory and how to control for potential contaminants, which reside within the laboratory. This review provides evidence to indicate the need for laboratory personnel to monitor quality improvement issues on a continuous basis. Personnel must be willing to change as improvements in technology occur in order to meet the ever-evolving demands of a more difficult patient population. Suggestions for meeting these demands are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R. Boone
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - H. Lee Higdon
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Jane E. Johnson
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Peroxides in mineral oil used for in vitro fertilization: defining limits of standard quality control assays. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:87-92. [PMID: 20107889 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-009-9383-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the relative sensitivities of the 1 and 2-cell mouse embryo assays (MEA) and the human sperm motility assay (HSMA) for peroxides in mineral oil. The effect of peroxide on blastocyst cell number and apoptosis was also studied. METHODS One and two-cell MEA and HSMA were performed using mineral oil containing cumene hydroperoxide (CH). RESULTS The 1-cell MEA was twice as sensitive as the 2-cell MEA and 20-times more sensitive than the HSMA for CH in mineral oil. The sensitivity of the 1-cell MEA doubled when embryos were cultured individually versus group culture. CH decreased blastocyst cell number in a dose dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Individually cultured 1-cell embryos had the highest sensitivity for peroxides in mineral oil. Current quality control assays, including group cultured murine embryos and human sperm motility, have limited sensitivity for peroxides in mineral oil and may not detect levels of peroxides that cause sub-lethal cellular damage.
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Ferreira CR, Souza GHMF, Riccio MF, Catharino RR, Pontes JHF, Basso AC, Júnior JCE, Perecin F, Eberlin MN. Mass spectrometry fingerprinting of media used for in vitro production of bovine embryos. RAPID COMMUNICATIONS IN MASS SPECTROMETRY : RCM 2009; 23:1313-1320. [PMID: 19338029 DOI: 10.1002/rcm.3995] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Using the bovine species as a biological model, direct infusion chip-based nano-electrospray ionization mass spectrometry (nano-ESI-MS) fingerprinting in the positive ion mode is used to obtain fast chemical profiles of media used for in vitro production of bovine embryos. Nano-ESI-MS fingerprinting is useful for characterization and routine quality control requiring no sample pre-separation, being able to differentiate four different media (IVM, IVF, SOF and HSOF) via principal component analysis (PCA). For media stored at +4 degrees C for up to 45 days, no significant (p>0.05) variation was observed in cleavage and blastocyst rate development, as well as in the nano-ESI-MS chemical profiles. For media exposed to a heat shock (60 degrees C for 3 h), no significant decrease (p>0.05) in embryo development rates was observed, but nano-ESI-MS profiles were quite distant from fresh control media in the PCA. For frozen media (-70 degrees C for 2 months), again no significant variation (p>0.05) in embryo development was noticed, but nano-ESI-MS profiles from all media were significantly affected. These results indicate that nano-ESI(+)-MS fingerprinting was able to characterize different media based on their specific chemical profile. The technique seems therefore applicable as a routine quality control assay, detecting, for example, compositional changes after temperature variations that may affect post-transfer embryo viability.
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Punt–van der Zalm JPEM, Hendriks JCM, Westphal JR, Kremer JAM, Teerenstra S, Wetzels AMM. Toxicity testing of human assisted reproduction devices using the mouse embryo assay. Reprod Biomed Online 2009; 18:529-35. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60130-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Abstract
The mouse is the most widely used model of preimplantation embryo development, but is it a good model? Its small size, prolificacy and ease of handling make the mouse a relatively low cost, readily available and attractive alternative when embryos from other species are difficult or expensive to obtain. However, the real power of the mouse as a model lies in mouse genetics. The development of inbred mouse strains facilitated gene discovery as well as our understanding of gene function and regulation while the development of tools to introduce precise genetic modifications uniquely positioned the mouse as a powerful model system for uncovering gene function. However, all models have limitations; the small size of the mouse limits tissue availability and manipulations that can be performed and differences in physiology among species may make it inappropriate to extrapolate from the mouse to other species. Thus, rather than extrapolating directly from the mouse to other species, it may be more useful to use the mouse as a model system for developing and refining hypotheses to be tested directly in species of interest. In this brief review, the value of the preimplantation mouse embryo as a model is considered, both as a model for other species and as a model for the mouse, as understanding the virtues and limitations of the mouse as a model system is essential to its appropriate use.
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Elsheikh AS, Takahashi Y, Nagano M, Kanagawa H. Manipulated mouse embryos as bioassay system for water quality control. Reprod Domest Anim 2003; 38:204-8. [PMID: 12753554 DOI: 10.1046/j.1439-0531.2003.00427.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Mouse pronuclear stage embryos with intact slit zona pellucida (manipulated) were cultured in vitro until the hatched blastocyst stage in simplex optimized medium with higher K+ concentration (KSOM) prepared with three different water types: tap, deionized reverse osmosis (D-O) water and Milli-Q system (M-Q) water. The culture media were supplemented with or without protein and ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA, disodium salt). The rates of hatched blastocysts were significantly affected (p < 0.01) by micromanipulation, protein supplement and water source. The water source has no influence (p > 0.05) on development in EDTA-supplemented protein-free culture media, whereas in EDTA- and protein-free culture media, the water quality significantly (p < 0.001) affected the rates of development, with higher rates in media prepared with M-Q water. The micromanipulated embryos showed higher sensitivity to the water quality (p < 0.01). It worth mentioning that the rates of hatched blastocysts in protein-free culture media were very low (0-7.5%). Furthermore, the three different water types were analysed by measuring the electrical conductivity, inorganic ions, total organic carbon and endotoxins to evaluate the purity. M-Q water showed the lowest levels of inorganic ion, total organic carbon and endotoxin concentrations. We concluded that manipulated mouse embryos are good system to evaluate the quality of water used in biological system.
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Affiliation(s)
- A S Elsheikh
- Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Veterinary Clinical Sciences, Graduate School of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Japan
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Drakakis P, Loutradis D, Milingos S, Bletsa R, Kallianidis K, Michalas S, Aravantinos D. The in vitro development of mouse embryos beyond the blastocyst stage into the hatching and outgrowth stage using different energy sources. J Assist Reprod Genet 1996; 13:786-92. [PMID: 8986590 DOI: 10.1007/bf02066499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of male and female serum supplementation on the in vitro development of mouse embryos beyond the blastocyst stage until the outgrowth stage since the latter may be related to the nidation of the embryo. We also studied the effect of EGF addition on embryo culture and blastocyst outgrowth. METHODS AND RESULTS The blastocyst and hatching rates of two-cell mouse embryos cultured in Ham's F-10 + BSA, Ham's F-10 + male serum, or Ham's F-10 + female serum were found to be comparable (P > 0.05). The outgrowth rate of hatched blastocysts was significantly increased, though, when they were transferred to 50% male serum compared to either 50% BSA or 50% female serum (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). In the last experiment, either 100 or 150 ng/ml EGF was added to the culture medium from the two-cell stage till blastocyst development and the latter were cultured till outgrowth in 50% BSA, male serum, or female serum. For both concentrations of EGF, the outgrowth rate was significantly higher in male serum compared to the other conditions (P < 0.01 and P < 0.05, respectively). The outgrowth rate was also higher when EGF was used compared to plain medium before transferring the blastocysts to either male or female serum (P < 0.01 for both). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that the development of embryos to the outgrowth stage is significantly enhanced by male serum. The addition of EGF from the two-cell stage also significantly improves the outgrowth success rate for both male and female serum conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Drakakis
- Alexandra Maternity Hospital, 1st Department of Ob/Gyn, Athens University Medical School, Greece
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Abstract
The mouse embryo bioassay (MEB) is a biologically relevant means of quality control (QC) in almost all modes of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Such QC tests are essential to guarantee that all procedures performed and media used are of adequate quality which would not compromise subsequent pregnancy rates. Although most reports on the use of the MEB for QC in ART laboratories refer to its use in the QC of other parameters such as contact materials, contaminants and environmental parameters of the culture conditions, these same bioassays have been also criticized as not being sensitive enough to suboptimal culture conditions that may affect the outcome of human in-vitro fertilization. The aim of this review is to define the conditions of the MEB as a QC test as they may affect the outcome of human in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET).
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Dubin NH, Bornstein DR, Gong Y. Use of endotoxin as a positive (toxic) control in the mouse embryo assay. J Assist Reprod Genet 1995; 12:147-52. [PMID: 7670274 DOI: 10.1007/bf02211385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The mouse embryo assay (MEA) is used to test media used for in vitro fertilization (IVF). Negative controls usually consist of previously tested media known to support growth of embryos to the blastocyst stage by 72 h. Often, no concurrent positive (toxic) controls are reported. Thus, any unusually hardy cohort of embryos may go undetected. Endotoxin was tested for its suitability as a positive control in the MEA. RESULTS Female mice were stimulated with gonadotropins mated with males, and embryos flushed from their oviducts 36 h after HCG injection. Two-cell embryos were pooled and randomly distributed to culture dishes containing media without protein supplement. Endotoxin inhibited blastocyst growth beginning at 50 micrograms/ml, with complete suppression of development at 5000 micrograms/ml. With 500 micrograms/ml endotoxin, an average of 34.8% of the embryos developed to the blastocyst stage for eight separate assays. The interassay coefficient of variation (CV) was 76%, while the intraassay CV was 9.4%. At 48 h the zona pellucida was absent from all of the embryos exposed to the endotoxin. A large difference was found between two lots of endotoxin with the same claimed potency. CONCLUSIONS These studies demonstrate the importance for inclusion of a well-defined positive control when performing the mouse embryo assay.
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Affiliation(s)
- N H Dubin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Union Memorial Hospital, Baltimore, Maryland 21218, USA
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Scott LF, Sundaram SG, Smith S. The relevance and use of mouse embryo bioassays for quality control in an assisted reproductive technology program. Fertil Steril 1993; 60:559-68. [PMID: 8375542 DOI: 10.1016/s0015-0282(16)56176-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To define both the limits of a mouse embryo bioassay for quality control in an assisted reproductive technology (ART) program and the areas where it can be effectively used. DESIGN Embryos at the pronuclear and two-cell stage from three different strains of mice were used to assess the effectiveness of this assay for media quality control using five different media routinely used in ART. Pronuclear and two-cell embryos from CD-1 mice were used to test the ability of a mouse embryo bioassay to control for water quality, contaminants in the culture system, and fluctuations in the environmental conditions using a medium, culture system, and scoring technique that were optimized for this strain. RESULTS The mouse embryo bioassay is not effective in differentiating media appropriate for supporting human embryo development since the development of mouse embryos in vitro is strain, stage, and media related. However, CD-1 embryos were shown to be sensitive to variations in water quality, pH, temperature, incubator conditions, and contaminants in the system when grown in a protein-free medium optimized for their development. Both total blastocyst number and the cell count in the blastocysts were affected. Pronuclear embryos were more sensitive to perturbations in the culture system than two-cell embryos. CONCLUSIONS A mouse embryo bioassay can be effectively used as a means of quality control of water, chemicals, and contact materials and for technique standardization and training in an assisted reproduction program. All the conditions of the test should be defined, pronuclear embryos should be used, and the end point should be fully expanded blastocysts and/or cell numbers in these blastocysts where appropriate.
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Affiliation(s)
- L F Scott
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sinai Hospital of Baltimore, Baltimore, Maryland 21215
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