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Sciorio R, Greco PF, Adel M, Maresca L, Greco E, Fleming S. Exploring the benefit of different methods to perform assisted hatching in the ART laboratory: A narrative review. Reprod Biol 2024; 24:100923. [PMID: 38972173 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2024.100923] [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: 05/06/2024] [Revised: 06/21/2024] [Accepted: 06/27/2024] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
In the last decades, to enhance success rates in assisted reproductive technology (ART) cycles, scientists have continually tried to optimize embryo culture and selection to increase clinical outcomes. In this scenario, the application of laser technology has increased considerably worldwide and is currently applied across ART in several ways: for assisted hatching (AH) or thinning of the zona pellucida (ZP), embryo biopsy, to immobilize and select the sperm during intracytoplasmic sperm injection, as well as to induce artificial blastocyst shrinkage before cryopreservation. Laser-AH has been suggested as a procedure to improve embryo implantation: the concept is that drilling holes through or thinning of the ZP could improve the hatching process and implantation. The artificial disruption of the ZP can be performed by different approaches: mechanically, chemically and with the laser, which is one of the most favourable and easy methods to remove part of the ZP and to augment the possibilities of implantation in patients defined as having a poor prognosis of success, or when the ZP is too thick. However, in the current literature, there is not sufficient evidence about the potential risk or impairment that laser utilization might induce on embryo development; therefore, the main aim of the current review is to provide an overview of the existing knowledge on the ZP and the mechanisms of manipulating it to improve the effectiveness of ART. Also, it emphasizes the positive aspect of laser application as a powerful tool that might increase the chance of pregnancy for infertile couples undergoing ART cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | | | - Mohammed Adel
- Zoology Department, Faculty of Science, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | - Ermanno Greco
- Villa Mafalda, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UniCamillus, International Medical University, Rome, Italy
| | - Steven Fleming
- Discipline of Anatomy & Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
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Clinical Outcome, Socioeconomic Status and Psychological Constrains of Patients Undergoing Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) in Northern Greece. Medicina (B Aires) 2022; 58:medicina58101493. [PMID: 36295653 PMCID: PMC9611400 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58101493] [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: 07/17/2022] [Revised: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and objectives: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) offers patients the possibility of having a healthy baby free of chromosomal or genetic disorders. The present study focuses on the application of PGT for patients located in Northern Greece, investigating their clinical outcomes, their motives, and their overall physical and emotional experience during the treatment, in association with their socioeconomic background. Materials and Methods: Couples who underwent PGT for a monogenic condition (PGT-M, n = 19 cycles) or aneuploidy (PGT-A, n = 22 cycles) participated in the study. Fertilization, implantation, and pregnancy rates were recorded for all cycles. The couples were asked to fill in a questionnaire about the consultation they had received prior to treatment, their sociodemographic information, and the psychological impact PGT had on both the female and male partner. Results: The fertilization, implantation, and ongoing pregnancy rates for the PGT-M and PGT-A cycles were 81.3%, 70.6%, and 52.9%, and 78.2%, 64.3%, and 57.1%, respectively. Females experienced more intense physical pain than their male partners while psychological pain was encountered by both partners and occasionally in higher instances in males. No typical socioeconomic background of the patients referred for PGT in Northern Greece was noticed. Conclusion: PGT is an attractive alternative to prenatal diagnosis (PND), aiming to establisha healthy pregnancy by identifying and avoiding the transfer of chromosomally or genetically abnormal embryos to the uterus. Although the benefits of PGT were well-received by all patients undergoing the procedure, psychological pain was evident and especially prominent in patients with a previous affected child or no normal embryos for transfer. Holistic counseling is of utmost importance in order to make patients' experience during their journey to have a healthy baby less emotionally demanding and help them make the right choices for the future.
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Chatzimeletiou K, Petrogiannis N, Sioga A, Emmanouil-Nikoloussi EN, Panagiotidis Y, Prapa M, Patrikiou A, Filippa M, Zervakakou G, Papanikolaou K, Makedos A, Kolibianakis E, Tarlatzis BC, Grimbizis G. The human embryo following biopsy on day 5 vs day 3: viability, ultrastructure and spindle / chromosomes configurations. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:219-233. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.02.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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From Zygote to Blastocyst: Application of Ultrashort Lasers in the Field of Assisted Reproduction and Developmental Biology. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11101897. [PMID: 34679594 PMCID: PMC8534476 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11101897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 10/08/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the use of lasers in medical diagnosis and therapies, as well as in fundamental biomedical research is now almost routine, advanced laser sources and new laser-based methods continue to emerge. Due to the unique ability of ultrashort laser pulses to deposit energy into a microscopic volume in the bulk of a transparent material without disrupting the surrounding tissues, the ultrashort laser-based microsurgery of cells and subcellular components within structurally complex and fragile specimens such as embryos is becoming an important tool in developmental biology and reproductive medicine. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms of ultrashort laser pulse interaction with the matter, advantages of their application for oocyte and preimplantation embryo microsurgery (e.g., for oocyte/blastomere enucleation and embryonic cell fusion), as well as for nonlinear optical microscopy for studying the dynamics of embryonic development and embryo quality assessment. Moreover, we focus on ultrashort laser-based approaches and techniques that are increasingly being applied in the fundamental research and have the potential for successful translation into the IVF (in vitro fertilization) clinics, such as laser-mediated individual embryo labelling and controlled laser-assisted hatching.
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Chatzimeletiou K, Sioga A, Petrogiannis N, Panagiotidis Y, Prapa M, Patrikiou A, Tarlatzis BC, Grimbizis G. Viability assessment using fluorescent markers and ultrastructure of human biopsied embryos vitrified in open and closed systems. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 43:833-842. [PMID: 34593325 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.05.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Revised: 05/04/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Are there any differences in viability and ultrastructure amongst embryos biopsied on Day 5 versus Day 3 following vitrification in open and closed systems and compared to fresh embryos? DESIGN One hundred human embryos (40 blastocysts biopsied on Day 5 and subsequently vitrified in open or closed systems and 60 Day 3 biopsied embryos that developed to blastocysts but were rejected for transfer following preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic/single gene defects and for aneuploidies were either treated fresh [n = 20] or vitrified [n = 40] in open or closed systems) and following warming and culture for 4 h were subjected to viability staining with carboxyfluorescein-diacetate succinimidylester/propidium iodide or processed for transmission electron microscopy. RESULTS No statistically significant differences were observed in the viability of human biopsied embryos following vitrification in open and closed systems. Compared to fresh embryos, vitrified ones had a higher incidence of damage (propidium iodide-stained cells) irrespective of the vitrification method (P = 0.005). These damaged cells were more prominent in Day 5 biopsied blastocysts and mainly located at the position of cutting. Characteristic lipofuscin droplets (representative of apoptosis) and a higher number of vacuoles and distension of mitochondria were also more evident in vitrified embryos, although this was not statistically assessed. CONCLUSIONS Vitrification in open and closed systems does not adversely affect the viability and ultrastructure of Day 5 and Day 3 biopsied embryos as revealed by the minimal yet statistically significant cell damage observed. This damage may be compensated by the embryos, which in their attempt to fully recover following vitrification, potentially enable 'rescue' processes to eliminate it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki 56403, Greece.
| | - Antonia Sioga
- Laboratory of Histology and Embryology, Aristotle University Medical School, Thessaloniki 54124, Greece
| | | | | | - Marialena Prapa
- Iakentro Advanced Medical Centre, Thessaloniki 54250, Greece
| | - Antonios Patrikiou
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki 56403, Greece
| | - Basil C Tarlatzis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki 56403, Greece
| | - Grigoris Grimbizis
- Unit for Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki 56403, Greece
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Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Capalbo A, Rubio C, Innocenti F, García-Pascual CM, Ubaldi FM, Handyside A. The dawn of the future: 30 years from the first biopsy of a human embryo. The detailed history of an ongoing revolution. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:453-473. [PMID: 32441746 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2019] [Revised: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Following early studies showing no adverse effects, cleavage stage biopsy by zona drilling using acid Tyrode's solution, and removal of single blastomeres for preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) and identification of sex in couples at risk of X-linked disease, was performed by Handyside and colleagues in late 1989, and pregnancies reported in 1990. This method was later used for specific diagnosis of monogenic conditions, and a few years later also for chromosomal structural and/or numerical impairments, thereby establishing a valuable alternative option to prenatal diagnosis. This revolutionary approach in clinical embryology spread worldwide, and several other embryo biopsy strategies developed over three decades in a process that is still ongoing. The rationale of this narrative review is to outline the different biopsy approaches implemented across the years in the workflow of the IVF clinics that provided PGT: their establishment, the first clinical experiences, their downsides, evolution, improvement and standardization. The history ends with a glimpse of the future: minimally/non-invasive PGT and experimental embryo micromanipulation protocols. This grand theme review outlines a timeline of the evolution of embryo biopsy protocols, whose implementation is increasing worldwide together with the increasing application of PGT techniques in IVF. It represents a vade mecum especially for the past, present and upcoming operators and experts in this field to (re)live this history from its dawn to its most likely future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Danilo Cimadomo
- Clinica Valle Giulia, Genera Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- Clinica Valle Giulia, Genera Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Capalbo
- Igenomix Italy, Marostica, Italy.,Dipartimento di Scienze Anatomiche, Istologiche, Medico Legali e dell'Apparato Locomotore, Sezione Istologia ed Embriologia Medica, University of Rome 'Sapienza', Rome, Italy
| | - Carmen Rubio
- R&D Department, Igenomix and Incliva, Valencia, Spain
| | - Federica Innocenti
- Clinica Valle Giulia, Genera Center for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Alan Handyside
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, UK
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Ilina IV, Khramova YV, Ivanova AD, Filatov MA, Silaeva YY, Deykin AV, Sitnikov DS. Controlled hatching at the prescribed site using femtosecond laser for zona pellucida drilling at the early blastocyst stage. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:517-529. [PMID: 33205358 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01998-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2020] [Accepted: 10/27/2020] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To study whether the application of femtosecond laser pulses for zona pellucida (ZP) drilling of blastocysts at the embryonic or abembryonic poles can promote hatching to start immediately through the hole formed and ensure high hatching rates and embryo viability. METHODS Mouse blastocyst (E3.5) ZP were microdissected with femtosecond laser pulses (514-nm wavelength, 280-fs pulse duration, 2.5-kHz repetition rate) close to the trophoblast or inner cell mass (ICM). The sizes of the holes formed were in the range of 4.5-8.5 μm. Additional longitudinal incisions (5-7-μm long) on either side of the hole were created to determine whether hatching had started at the correct position. Embryos post-laser-assisted ZP drilling and intact embryos were cultured under standard conditions for 2 days; embryo quality was assessed twice daily. The hatching rates and in vitro and in vivo implantation rates (only for embryos with ZP dissected close to the ICM) were estimated. RESULTS Femtosecond laser-assisted ZP drilling at the early blastocyst stage facilitated embryo hatching to start at the artificial opening with probability approaching 100%. Despite the artificial opening's small size, no embryo trapping during hatching was observed. Both experimental groups had higher hatching rates than the control groups (93.3-94.7% vs. 83.3-85.7%, respectively). The in vitro implantation rate was comparable with that of the control group (92.3% vs. 95.4%). No statistically significant differences were obtained in the in vivo implantation rates between the experimental and control groups. CONCLUSIONS Blastocyst-stage femtosecond laser microsurgery of ZP is fast and delicate and enables the hatching process to be initiated in a controlled manner through a relatively small opening, with no embryo trapping.
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Affiliation(s)
- Inna V Ilina
- Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Izhorskaya st. 13 Bd.2, Moscow, Russian Federation, 125412.
| | - Yulia V Khramova
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 12-1, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119234
| | - Anna D Ivanova
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 12-1, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119234
| | - Maxim A Filatov
- Faculty of Biology, Lomonosov Moscow State University, Leninskie Gory, 12-1, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119234
| | - Yuliya Yu Silaeva
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119334
| | - Alexey V Deykin
- Core Facility Centre, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119334.,Center for Precision Genome Editing and Genetic Technologies for Biomedicine, Institute of Gene Biology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Vavilova st. 34/5, Moscow, Russian Federation, 119334
| | - Dmitry S Sitnikov
- Joint Institute for High Temperatures of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Izhorskaya st. 13 Bd.2, Moscow, Russian Federation, 125412
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Spindle and chromosome configuration analysis of human biopsied versus non-biopsied embryos by confocal laser scanning microscopy following vitrification. ZYGOTE 2019; 27:153-159. [PMID: 31060631 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199419000182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
SummaryThe aim of this study was to investigate the effects of zona drilling and biopsy on day 3 followed by vitrification on day 5 on the cytoskeleton and development of human embryos, by analysing survival rates and spindle and chromosome configurations by fluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy in human biopsied and non-biopsied embryos. In total, 98 human blastocysts (50 non-biopsied and 48 following biopsy on day 3) were vitrified on day 5 using either a commercial dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO)-free vitrification kit or increasing concentrations of DMSO/EG (5%/5-10%/10-20%/20%). Following warming, the blastocysts were allowed to recover in culture for 24 h and were immunostained with α-tubulin, acetylated tubulin, and/or γ-tubulin antibodies in combination with 4',6-diamidino-2-phenylindole (DAPI). Labelled embryos were examined by both fluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy. The survival rates following warming (92% non-biopsied vs 83.3% biopsied) and the incidence of normal spindle chromosome configurations was not statistically different between the two groups (65.2% non-biopsied vs 59.2% biopsied, P>0.05). The incidence of spindle abnormalities including multipolarity, chromosome lagging, congression failure and chromosome bridging were also similar between the two groups (P>0.05). This study is the first to compare the incidence of cytoskeletal abnormalities in biopsied and non-biopsied human embryos following vitrification. We conclude that there was no significant difference in the survival rates and the incidence of spindle abnormalities between the two groups.
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Davidson LM, Liu Y, Griffiths T, Jones C, Coward K. Laser technology in the ART laboratory: a narrative review. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:725-739. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2018] [Revised: 11/01/2018] [Accepted: 12/11/2018] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Kasapi E, Asimakopoulos B, Chatzimeletiou K, Petousis S, Panagiotidis Y, Prapas N, Nikolettos N. Vitrification of Human Germinal Vesicle Oocytes: before or after In Vitro Maturation? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FERTILITY & STERILITY 2017; 11:85-92. [PMID: 28670425 PMCID: PMC5347455 DOI: 10.22074/ijfs.2017.4717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2016] [Accepted: 10/01/2016] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of immature oocytes derived from stimulated cycles could be of great importance, particularly for urgent fertility preservation cases. The current study aimed to determine whether in vitro maturation (IVM) was more successful before or after vitrification of these oocytes. MATERIALS AND METHODS This prospective study was performed in a private in vitro fertilization (IVF) center. We collected 318 germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes from 104 stimulated oocyte donation cycles. Oocytes were divided into two groups according to whether vitrification was applied at the GV stage (group 1) or in vitro matured to the metaphase II (MII) stage and then vitrified (group 2). In the control group (group 3), oocytes were in vitro matured without vitrification. In all three groups, we assessed survival rate after warming, maturation rate, and MII-spindle/chromosome configurations. The chi-square test was used to compare rates between the three groups. Statistical significance was defined at P<0.05 and we used Bonferroni criterion to assess statistical significance regarding the various pairs of groups. The Statistical Package for the Social Sciences version 17.0 was used to perform statistical analysis. RESULTS There was no significant difference in the survival rate after vitrification and warming of GV (93.5%) and MII oocytes (90.8%). A significantly higher maturation rate occurred when IVM was performed before vitrification (82.9%) compared to after vitrification (51%). There was no significant difference in the incidence of normal spindle/ chromosome configurations among warmed oocytes matured in vitro before (50.0%) or after (41.2%) vitrification. However, a higher incidence of normal spindle/chromosome configurations existed in the in vitro matured oocytes which were not subjected to vitrification (fresh oocytes, 77.9%). CONCLUSION In stimulated cycles, vitrification of in vitro matured MII oocytes rather than GV oocytes seems to be more efficient. This approach needs to be verified in nonstimulated fertility preservation cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evangelia Kasapi
- Iakentro Fertility Centre, IVF Laboratory, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Democritus University of Thrace, Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences,
Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Byron Asimakopoulos
- Democritus University of Thrace, Laboratory of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences,
Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Medical School, 1st
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology,
Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | | | | | - Nikos Prapas
- Iakentro Fertility Centre, IVF Laboratory, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Abstract
Vitrification is widely used to cryopreserve supernumerary embryos following in vitro fertilization (IVF). The mouse model was used to investigate the effects of vitrification on blastomere viability, using viability markers, and on the cytoskeleton, by analysing spindle/chromosome configurations, using confocal scanning microscopy. Ninety cleavage and morula stage dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO)/EG vitrified mouse embryos were either processed immediately following warming for viability assessment by labelling with the fluorescent markers carboxyfluorescein-diacetate succinimidylester (CFSE) and propidium iodide (PI) or were cultured to the blastocyst stage and immunostained with α-tubulin antibody to visualize microtubules and DAPI or PI to visualize DNA. Sixty-five fresh embryos were also used as the control. Vitrified embryos showed high survival rates following warming, but they had a higher incidence of damaged blastomeres compared with fresh embryos. Most mitotic spindles examined in all groups were normal, but multivariable analysis revealed that the proportion of abnormal spindles was significantly higher in vitrified/warmed embryos (P < 0.05). This study is the first to examine the immediate effects of vitrification on blastomere viability, using fluorescent markers and shows that although vitrification results in a higher incidence of damaged blastomeres, vitrified embryos may compensate for this limited number of damaged/abnormal cells, as development to the blastocyst stage was not compromised.
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Wong CY, Mills JK. Multi-Pulse laser ablation modeling with applications to automated zona removal. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE OF THE IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. IEEE ENGINEERING IN MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY SOCIETY. ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE 2016; 2015:2567-70. [PMID: 26736816 DOI: 10.1109/embc.2015.7318916] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Laser zona drilling (LZD), the ablation of a portion of the zona pellucida (ZP) in embryos with the use of a laser, is a required step in many embryonic surgical procedures such as assisted hatching and preimplantation genetic diagnosis. The objective of LZD is to remove specific locations of the ZP while minimizing potential harmful thermal effects to important structures of the embryo, namely the blastomeres. Current thermal analyzes of lasers used in LZD only encompass the use of a single pulse, whereas LZD is typically performed using multiple pulses. In this paper we analyze the effect of multipulse LZD and introduce a linear approximation method for multi-pulse LZD. Furthermore, we describe a novel method of measuring the thermal effect of a single laser pulse using the thermosensitive fluorescent dye Rhodamine B and a high speed camera.
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Micromanipulation in assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Biomed Online 2016; 32:339-47. [PMID: 26936146 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2016.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2015] [Revised: 01/21/2016] [Accepted: 01/27/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Micromanipulation describes a set of tools and techniques for cellular microsurgery and manipulation. Micromanipulation techniques have played an important role in basic research and the development of clinical techniques in assisted reproductive technology. This work provides a review of the development and current practices involving micromanipulation in the human clinical assisted reproduction laboratory.
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Wong CY, Mills JK. Automation and optimization of multi-pulse laser zona drilling of mouse embryos during embryo biopsy. IEEE Trans Biomed Eng 2016; 64:629-636. [DOI: 10.1109/tbme.2016.2571060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
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Perkel KJ, Tscherner A, Merrill C, Lamarre J, Madan P. The ART of selecting the best embryo: A review of early embryonic mortality and bovine embryo viability assessment methods. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:822-38. [PMID: 26184077 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Animal reproductive biotechnology is continually evolving. Significant advances have been made in our understanding of early embryonic mortality and embryo development in domestic animals, which has improved the selection and success of in vitro technologies. Yet our knowledge is still relatively limited such that identifying a single embryo with the highest chance of survival and development for transfer remains challenging. While invasive methods such as embryo biopsy can provide useful information regarding the genetic status of the embryos, morphological assessment remains the most common evaluation. A recent shift, however, favors alternative, adjunct approaches for non-invasive assessment of an embryo's viability and developmental potential. Various analytical techniques have facilitated the evaluation of cellular health through the metabolome, the assessment of end products of cellular metabolism, or by analyzing spent media for small RNAs. This review discusses the application of noninvasive approaches for ascertaining the health and viability of in vitro-produced bovine embryos. A comparative analysis of noninvasive techniques for embryo assessment currently being investigated in cattle and humans is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla J Perkel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allison Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Casandra Merrill
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Lamarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pavneesh Madan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Munné S. Improving pregnancy outcome for IVF patients with preimplantation genetic screening. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/17474108.3.5.635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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17
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Greco E, Fabozzi G, Ruberti A, Zavaglia D, Giulia Minasi M. Preimplantation genetic diagnosis and the biopsy technique: Important considerations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2013. [DOI: 10.4236/arsci.2013.12002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Kim HJ, Kim CH, Lee SM, Choe SA, Lee JY, Jee BC, Hwang D, Kim KC. Outcomes of preimplantation genetic diagnosis using either zona drilling with acidified Tyrode's solution or partial zona dissection. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2012; 39:118-24. [PMID: 23106043 PMCID: PMC3479235 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2012.39.3.118] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2012] [Revised: 08/21/2012] [Accepted: 09/14/2012] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To review the outcomes of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) using zona drilling with acid Tyrode's solution (chemical zona pellucida drilling, chemical ZD) and those of partial zona dissection (PZD). Methods Clinical outcomes of seventy-one couples undergoing 85 PGD cycles from January 2005 to December 2010 were included. Blastocyst formation and the hatching rate, clinical pregnancy rate, ongoing pregnancy rate, implantation rate, and fetal gender ratio of the PZD and chemical ZD groups were compared. Results Application of PZD resulted in a significantly higher rate of clinical pregnancy (40.7% vs. 15.4%, p=0.022), ongoing pregnancy (35.6% vs. 11.5%, p=0.023), and implantation (18.1% vs. 5.7%, p=0.007) compared with chemical ZD. Among non-transferred embryos, the rate of blastocyst formation on day 5 (49.1% vs. 39.5%, p=0.016) and hatching on day 6 (47.2% vs. 26.5%, p<0.001) were also significantly higher in the PZD group. Conclusion The mechanical zona dissection method showed better outcomes than chemical ZD in terms of the blastocyst development and pregnancy rate. In this study, the fact that chemical ZD was conducted in different period from mechanical method should be considered in interpreting the result.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hyun Jung Kim
- Institute of Fertility and Genetics, Hamchoon Women's Clinic, Seoul, Korea
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Chatzimeletiou K, Morrison EE, Panagiotidis Y, Vanderzwalmen P, Prapas N, Prapas Y, Tarlatzis BC, Handyside AH. Cytoskeletal analysis of human blastocysts by confocal laser scanning microscopy following vitrification. Hum Reprod 2011; 27:106-13. [PMID: 22028018 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/der344] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitrification of human blastocysts is being used increasingly to cryopreserve supernumerary embryos following IVF. In this study, we investigate the effects of aseptic vitrification on the cytoskeleton and development of human blastocysts, by analysing survival rates and spindle and chromosome configurations by fluorescence and confocal laser scanning microscopy. METHODS A total of 55 fresh blastocysts and 55 day 5 dimethylsulphoxide/ethylene glycol vitrified blastocysts, which were allowed to remain in culture for 24 h post-warming, were rapidly fixed in ice cold methanol, and immunostained with an a-tubulin antibody to visualize microtubules in combination with antibodies against acetylated tubulin (to visualize spindles, poles and mid bodies), gamma tubulin (to identify spindle poles) and 4(6-diamidino-2-phenylindole) to visualize DNA. RESULTS In total, 213 spindles were analysed in the control (fresh) group of which 183/213 (85.9%) were normal, 20/213 (9.4%) were abnormally shaped, 9/213 (4.2%) were multipolar and 1/213 (0.5%) was monopolar. A total of 175 spindles were analysed in the vitrified group, of which 120/175 (68.6%) were normal, 39/175 (22.3%) were abnormally shaped, 10/175 (5.7%) were multipolar and 6/175 (3.4%) were monopolar. The incidence of multipolar spindles was similar in the two groups, but the level of abnormally shaped spindles, often associated with chromosome lagging, or congression failure, was significantly higher in the vitrified group compared with the fresh group (P< 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The high survival rate following thawing and the large proportion of normal spindle/chromosome configurations suggests that vitrification at the blastocyst stage on Day 5 does not adversely affect the development of human embryos and the ability of spindles to form and continue normal cell divisions. However, there was a significantly higher incidence of abnormal spindles in the vitrified group compared with the fresh group, notably of spindles with a focused and an unfocused pole as well as chromosome bridging and disorganized middle spindle fibres at telophase. Further investigation is warranted to elucidate the mitotic stages that are more vulnerable to damage during vitrification, the fate of the abnormal spindles and any potential effects that may be reflected on the chromosomal constitution of the developing blastocysts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- Section of Reproductive Medicine, First Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aristotle University Medical School, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki 56403, Greece.
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Ly KD, Agarwal A, Nagy ZP. Preimplantation genetic screening: does it help or hinder IVF treatment and what is the role of the embryo? J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:833-49. [PMID: 21743973 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9608-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2010] [Accepted: 06/28/2011] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite an ongoing debate over its efficacy, preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) is increasingly being used to detect numerical chromosomal abnormalities in embryos to improve implantation rates after IVF. The main indications for the use of PGS in IVF treatments include advanced maternal age, repeated implantation failure, and recurrent pregnancy loss. The success of PGS is highly dependent on technical competence, embryo culture quality, and the presence of mosaicism in preimplantation embryos. Today, cleavage stage biopsy is the most commonly used method for screening preimplantation embryos for aneuploidy. However, blastocyst biopsy is rapidly becoming the more preferred method due to a decreased likelihood of mosaicism and an increase in the amount of DNA available for testing. Instead of using 9 to 12 chromosome FISH, a 24 chromosome detection by aCGH or SNP microarray will be used. Thus, it is advised that before attempting to perform PGS and expecting any benefit, extended embryo culture towards day 5/6 should be established and proven and the clinical staff should demonstrate competence with routine competency assessments. A properly designed randomized control trial is needed to test the potential benefits of these new developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kim Dao Ly
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio, USA.
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van Echten-Arends J, Mastenbroek S, Sikkema-Raddatz B, Korevaar JC, Heineman MJ, van der Veen F, Repping S. Chromosomal mosaicism in human preimplantation embryos: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2011; 17:620-7. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmr014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 198] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Geber S, Bossi R, Lisboa CB, Valle M, Sampaio M. Laser confers less embryo exposure than acid tyrode for embryo biopsy in preimplantation genetic diagnosis cycles: a randomized study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2011; 9:58. [PMID: 21527004 PMCID: PMC3096917 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-9-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Accepted: 04/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
We compared two methods of zona pellucida drilling. 213 embryos were biopsied with acid Tyrode. Each biopsy took 3 minutes and the entire procedure ~29 minutes. 5% of blastomeres lysed, 49% of embryos became blastocyst and 36% of patients became pregnant. 229 embryos were biopsied with laser. Each biopsy took 30 seconds and the entire procedure ~7 minutes. 2.5% of blastomeres lysed, 50.6% of embryos became blastocyst and 47% of patients became pregnant. We can conclude that laser can be used for embryo biopsy. Reduction of embryo exposure and of removed blastomeres is associated with increased blastocysts available for transfer and a better clinical outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selmo Geber
- ORIGEN, Centro de Medicina Reprodutiva, Av. Contorno 7747, Lourdes, CEP 30110-120, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Renata Bossi
- ORIGEN, Centro de Medicina Reprodutiva, Av. Contorno 7747, Lourdes, CEP 30110-120, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Cintia B Lisboa
- ORIGEN, Centro de Medicina Reprodutiva, Av. Contorno 7747, Lourdes, CEP 30110-120, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcelo Valle
- ORIGEN, Centro de Medicina Reprodutiva, Av. Contorno 7747, Lourdes, CEP 30110-120, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Marcos Sampaio
- ORIGEN, Centro de Medicina Reprodutiva, Av. Contorno 7747, Lourdes, CEP 30110-120, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil
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Are zona pellucida laser drilling and polar body biopsy safe for in vitro matured oocytes? J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:423-7. [PMID: 20495883 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9422-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2010] [Accepted: 04/19/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preconception diagnosis requires first polar body biopsy. When the hole in the zona pellucida is made with a laser beam, heat propagation could, like the biopsy itself, be deleterious. Our aim was to evaluate the effect of this technique on human in vitro matured oocyte and embryo development. METHODS One hunded fifty five retrieved immature oocytes from 75 women, matured in vitro, were distributed in 3 groups: 50 oocytes in a control group, without laser drilling and first polar body biopsy, 52 oocytes in a group with only laser drilling, and 53 oocytes in a group with both laser drilling and first polar body biopsy. Safety was evaluated using four criteria: [1] oocyte lysis rate, [2] oocyte activation rate, [3] oocyte development after calcium ionophore treatment, [4] and embryo chromosome breakage incidence after Tarkowski preparation. RESULTS No difference in the four criteria was observed between the 3 oocyte groups. CONCLUSIONS We did not find evidence of deleterious effect of laser drilling and first polar body biopsy on in vitro matured oocytes, according to our criteria.
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Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG, Stevens J, Rawlins M, Munne S. Preimplantation aneuploidy testing for infertile patients of advanced maternal age: a randomized prospective trial. Fertil Steril 2009; 92:157-62. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2008.05.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 121] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2008] [Revised: 05/06/2008] [Accepted: 05/06/2008] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Munné S, Wells D, Cohen J. Technology requirements for preimplantation genetic diagnosis to improve assisted reproduction outcomes. Fertil Steril 2009; 94:408-30. [PMID: 19409550 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.02.091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 70] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2008] [Revised: 02/23/2009] [Accepted: 02/26/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Preimplantation genetic diagnosis has been proposed as a method to improve assisted reproduction technology outcomes, but different techniques have produced conflicting results. The use of appropriate techniques may provide positive outcomes.
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Finch KA, Fonseka G, Ioannou D, Hickson N, Barclay Z, Chatzimeletiou K, Mantzouratou A, Handyside A, Delhanty J, Griffin DK. Nuclear organisation in totipotent human nuclei and its relationship to chromosomal abnormality. J Cell Sci 2008; 121:655-63. [DOI: 10.1242/jcs.025205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Studies of nuclear organisation, most commonly determining the nuclear location of chromosome territories and individual loci, have furthered our understanding of nuclear function, differentiation and disease. In this study, by examining eight loci on different chromosomes, we tested hypotheses that: (1) totipotent human blastomeres adopt a nuclear organisation akin to that of committed cells; (2) nuclear organisation is different in chromosomally abnormal blastomeres; and (3) human blastomeres adopt a `chromocentre' pattern. Analysis of in vitro fertilisation (IVF) conceptuses permits valuable insight into the cell biology of totipotent human nuclei. Here, extrapolations from images of preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) cases were used to make comparisons between totipotent blastomeres and several committed cells, showing some differences and similarities. Comparisons between chromosomally abnormal nuclei and those with no detected abnormality (NDA) suggest that the former display a significant non-random pattern for all autosomal loci, but there is a less distinct, possibly random, pattern in `NDA' nuclei. No evidence was found that the presence of an extra chromosome is accompanied by an altered nuclear location for that chromosome. Centromeric loci on chromosomes 15 and 16 normally seen at the nuclear periphery were mostly centrally located in aneuploid cells, providing some evidence of a `chromocentre'; however, the chromosome-18 centromere was more peripheral, similar to committed cells. Our results provide clues to the nature of totipotency in human cells and might have future applications for preimplantation diagnosis and nuclear transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A. Finch
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Gothami Fonseka
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Dimitris Ioannou
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Nicholas Hickson
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Zoe Barclay
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
| | - Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- The London Bridge Fertility, Gynaecology and Genetics Centre, 1 St Thomas Street, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RY, UK
| | - Anna Mantzouratou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Alan Handyside
- The London Bridge Fertility, Gynaecology and Genetics Centre, 1 St Thomas Street, London Bridge, London, SE1 9RY, UK
| | - Joy Delhanty
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London, WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Darren K. Griffin
- Department of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, CT2 7NJ, UK
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28
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Preimplantation genetic diagnosis: technological advances to improve accuracy and range of applications. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:532-8. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60460-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Cohen J, Grifo JA. Multicentre trial of preimplantation genetic screening reported in the New England Journal of Medicine: an in-depth look at the findings. Reprod Biomed Online 2007; 15:365-6. [PMID: 17908394 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60358-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
A randomized clinical trial of 406 patients with advanced maternal age by Mastenbroek and co-workers recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine showed a significant decrease in pregnancy outcome after preimplantation genetic screening (PGS). It is our opinion that this study suffers from a number of insurmountable inaccuracies and that these are either a direct consequence of the inexperience of the team or of a general disregard of vital guidelines reported in the literature. Most importantly, the authors show that in their hands embryo biopsy may affect as many as half the embryos. The error rate was not presented, shedding doubt on the authors' abilities to reliably diagnose the biopsied cells. An evaluation of the study indicates that poor biopsy technique, sub standard fixation and FISH methods, poor IVF outcomes and inappropriate patient selection are the cause of the discouraging results obtained by these authors rather than problems inherent to PGS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacques Cohen
- Tyho-Galileo Research Laboratories and Reprogenetics, 3 Regent Street, Livingston, New Jersey 07039, USA.
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30
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Kubisch HM, Johnson KM. The Effects of Blastomere Biopsy and Oxygen Tension on Bovine Embryo Development, Rate of Apoptosis and Interferon-? Secretion. Reprod Domest Anim 2007; 42:509-15. [PMID: 17845607 DOI: 10.1111/j.1439-0531.2006.00814.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
A series of experiments was performed to examine the effects of blastomere biopsies on subsequent development of IVF-derived bovine embryos. The first experiment was designed to assess the optimal time for blastomere removal. One blastomere was removed either 48 or 72 h after IVF. Biopsy at 48 h resulted in 17.2% of embryos proceeding to the blastocyst stage, which was lower than when biopsies were performed at 72 h (37.5%, p < 0.05). In the second experiment, embryos were cultured either under atmospheric or 5% O(2) following blastomere removal. Biopsies had no effect on rate of blastocyst formation with 36% of controls and 33.7% of biopsied embryos proceeding to that stage. However, culture under 5% O(2) significantly increased the number of blastocysts from 29.9% to 40.3% (p < 0.05). This effect was significant in both biopsied and control embryos. In the final experiment, biopsied embryos were again cultured under different oxygen tension. Blastocysts were collected and cultured individually for 48 h in medium droplets in their respective O(2) concentration after which time the medium was assayed for concentration of interferon-tau (IFN-tau). Reduced O(2) concentration again significantly increased blastocyst formation from 24.9% to 41.9% (p < 0.05). IFN-tau secretion was not affected by biopsies, but culture under atmospheric O(2) resulted in significantly increased IFN-tau concentration in medium droplets (12274.0 +/- 2825.9 pM vs 5046.5 +/- 2562.2 pM; p < 0.05).
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Affiliation(s)
- H M Kubisch
- Unit of Reproductive Biology, Division of Veterinary Medicine, Tulane National Primate Research Center, Covington, LA 70433, USA.
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Chatzimeletiou K, Rutherford AJ, Griffin DK, Handyside AH. Is the sperm centrosome to blame for the complex polyploid chromosome patterns observed in cleavage stage embryos from an OAT patient? ZYGOTE 2007; 15:81-90. [PMID: 17391548 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199406004059] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARYOligoasthenoteratozoospermia (OAT) is defined by a combined low count < 20 × 106 sperm/ml, poor motility < 50 % forward progression or < 25 % rapid linear progression and abnormal morphology (5–8 % normal using Kruger strict criteria) and has been associated with increased levels of sperm aneuploidy. Here we report on the cytogenetic findings from three ‘spare’ embryos from a couple that were referred for ICSI because of OAT. The embryos were processed for sequential FISH in three hybridization rounds using probes for chromosomes 3, 7, 9, 13, 17, 18, 21, X and Y. Molecular cytogenetic analysis of nine chromosomes revealed that all three embryos were female polyploid. One of them was uniformly tetraploid for all chromosomes tested, while the remaining two embryos showed evidence of abnormal postzygotic segregation of chromosomes, causing the derivative blastomeres to have uneven chromosomal constitution. In one of them in particular, the non-disjoining chromosomes showed preferential segregation to the same pole, rather than randomly moving towards either pole, suggesting an abnormal spindle and causing the derivative blastomeres to have significantly uneven chromosomal constitutions. The possible scenarios leading to polyploidy and chromosomal imbalance through cytokinetic failure and subsequent abnormal centrosomal distribution are outlined.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Chatzimeletiou
- The London Bridge Fertility, Gynaecology and Genetics Centre, 1 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY, UK.
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Petersen CG, Mauri AL, Baruffi RLR, Oliveira JBA, Felipe V, Massaro FC, Franco JG. Laser-assisted hatching of cryopreserved-thawed embryos by thinning one quarter of the zona. Reprod Biomed Online 2007; 13:668-75. [PMID: 17169177 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60657-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Laser-assisted hatching is little documented in the literature regarding its efficacy in cryopreserved-thawed (CT) embryo transfer cycles. The aim of the present study was to evaluate in a randomized manner the efficacy of thinning one quarter of the zona pellucida of CT embryos to a depth of 50-80% of the original thickness, via laser treatment (the qLZT-AH procedure), in improving implantation and pregnancy rates. Two populations were studied: population I, patients who had all their supernumerary embryos cryopreserved, regardless of their morphology, and population II, patients at risk of ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome who had all their embryos cryopreserved. Artificial and natural protocols were used for the embryo transfers. A total of 350 laser-thinned CT embryos were compared with 352 intact zona embryos. No difference in implantation or pregnancy rate was found after using qLZT-AH in either population. These findings suggest that qLZT-AH should not be routinely performed in cryopreserved embryo programmes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Guilhermino Petersen
- Centre for Human Reproduction Prof Franco Junior, Av. Prof. João Fiusa 689-CEP 14025-310, Ribeirão Preto, SP-Brazil.
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Abstract
Preimplantation genetic aneuploidy screening performed by polar body biopsy has become a frequently used method, especially as in several countries only preconceptional genetic diagnosis is allowed. To penetrate the zona pellucida, mechanical, chemical and laser-assisted techniques have been introduced. In this paper, the advantages, disadvantages, efficacy and safety of these techniques are elucidated.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Dawson
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, IVF Unit, University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein, Campus Luebeck, Ratzeburger Allee 160, Luebeck, Germany
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Laser literature watch. Photomed Laser Surg 2006; 24:424-53. [PMID: 16875454 DOI: 10.1089/pho.2006.24.424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Ghobara TS, Cahill DJ, Ford WCL, Collyer HM, Wilson PE, Al-Nuaim L, Jenkins JM. Effects of assisted hatching method and age on implantation rates of IVF and ICSI. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:261-7. [PMID: 16895643 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60624-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The objective of this study was to investigate whether a change in assisted hatching (AH) technique from total to partial penetration of the zona pellucida improved the outcome of IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles where AH was indicated. This was an observational study conducted from the beginning of January 2000 to the end of April 2005. Total AH was performed in 312 cycles, while partial AH was performed in 592 cycles. In women of all ages, implantation, clinical pregnancy and live birth rates were higher in the partial AH group than in the total AH group (12.6 versus 7.2%, P = 0.0001; 22.3 versus 15.7%, P = 0.02; 18.2 versus 12.5%, P = 0.03 respectively). The benefit of partial AH was most marked in women under 38 years old (i.e. the recurrent implantation failure group). The authors conclude that partial AH is associated with higher implantation and pregnancy rates than total AH, especially in women under 38 years old who suffer from recurrent implantation failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- T S Ghobara
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, University of Bristol, 4 Priory Road, Clifton, Bristol BS8 1TY, UK.
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Findikli N, Kahraman S, Saglam Y, Beyazyurek C, Sertyel S, Karlikaya G, Karagozoglu H, Aygun B. Embryo aneuploidy screening for repeated implantation failure and unexplained recurrent miscarriage. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:38-46. [PMID: 16820107 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)62014-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Among other factors, chromosomal abnormalities that originate from gametogenesis and preimplantation embryonic development are thought to be one of the major contributing factors for early embryonic death and failure of pregnancy. However, so far, no non-invasive technique exists that allows the detection of the chromosomal complement of an oocyte or a developing embryo as a whole. Rather, by removing polar bodies/blastomeres, recent developments on preimplantation genetic diagnosis for aneuploidy screening (PGD-AS) have paved the way to detect and possibly eliminate the majority of chromosomally abnormal embryos, thereby increasing the chance of a healthy pregnancy. This article summarizes the origin and impact of chromosomal abnormalities on human reproduction in cases with repeated implantation failure (RIF) and unexplained recurrent miscarriage. It also discusses recent advances regarding the possible benefits of PGD-AS in such cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Findikli
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, ART, Reproductive Endocrinology and Genetics Unit, Piyalepasa Bulvari, 80270, Okmeydani, Istanbul, Turkey.
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Chatzimeletiou K, Taylor J, Marks K, Grudzinskas JG, Handyside AH. Paternal inheritance of a 16qh- polymorphism in a patient with repeated IVF failure. Reprod Biomed Online 2006; 13:864-7. [PMID: 17169211 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)61036-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Polymorphisms of the size of heterochromatic centromeric regions of chromosomes have been well documented in the human. They appear to have no phenotypic effects in the carriers. However, they appear to be over-represented in infertile couples and those with repeated miscarriages, and there is now growing evidence that they are involved in meiotic pairing, spindle fibre attachment and chromosome movement. Here an analysis of inheritance is reported for a couple presenting with repeated IVF failure in which several embryos were identified as carriers of a polymorphism of the centromeric region of chromosome 16 (16qh-) following aneuploidy screening by sequential fluorescence in-situ hybridization (FISH), using probes for chromosomes 13, 16, 18, 21, 22, X and Y. Detailed cytogenetic analysis by high-resolution banding and FISH of both parents and grandparents established that the polymorphism was familial and inherited from the maternal grandfather. Furthermore, complete analysis of all embryonic nuclei from carrier embryos and others rejected for transfer because of aneuploidy revealed no abnormalities in the segregation pattern of chromosome 16.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katerina Chatzimeletiou
- The London Bridge Fertility, Gynaecology and Genetics Centre, 1 St Thomas Street, London SE1 9RY, UK.
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