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Sfakianoudis K, Zikopoulos A, Grigoriadis S, Seretis N, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Xystra P, Kostoulas C, Giougli U, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Georgiou I. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4977. [PMID: 38732193 PMCID: PMC11084717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094977] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Nikolaos Seretis
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Urania Giougli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
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Catalán J, Yánez-Ortiz I, Martínez-Rodero I, Mateo-Otero Y, Nolis P, Yeste M, Miró J. Comparison of the metabolite profile of donkey and horse seminal plasma and its relationship with sperm viability and motility. Res Vet Sci 2023; 165:105046. [PMID: 37883856 DOI: 10.1016/j.rvsc.2023.105046] [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: 07/25/2023] [Revised: 09/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
Previous research revealed that several seminal plasma (SP) metabolites are related to sperm functionality, fertility, and preservation. While it is understood that variations between species exist, whether the SP metabolome differs between donkeys and horses has not been previously investigated. The aim of this work, therefore, was to characterize and compare donkey and horse SP metabolites using nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and relate them to sperm viability and motility. For this purpose, ejaculates from 18 different donkeys and 18 different horses were collected and separated into two aliquots: one for harvesting the SP by centrifugation and obtaining the metabolic profile through NMR, and the other for evaluating sperm viability and motility. Based on total motility and sperm viability, samples were classified as with good (GQ) or poor (PQ) quality. The metabolomic profile of donkey and horse SP revealed the presence of 28 metabolites, which coincided in the two species. Yet, differences between horses and donkeys were observed in the concentration of 18 of these 28 metabolites, as well as between ejaculates classified as GQ or PQ and in the relationship of metabolites with sperm motility and viability. These findings suggest that sperm from donkeys and horses differ in their metabolism and energetic requirements, and that the concentration of specific SP metabolites may be related to sperm functionality. Further research should shed light on the metabolic needs of donkey and horse sperm, and evaluate how the knowledge collected from the contribution of these metabolites can help improve semen preservation in the two species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaime Catalán
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, ES-08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iván Yánez-Ortiz
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, ES-08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Iris Martínez-Rodero
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, ES-08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain
| | - Pau Nolis
- Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Facility, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Bellaterra, ES-08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, ES-17003 Girona, Spain; Catalan Institution for Research and Advanced Studies (ICREA), ES-08010 Barcelona, Spain.
| | - Jordi Miró
- Unit of Animal Reproduction, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, ES-08193 Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain.
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Alizadegan A, Akbarzadeh M, Soltani-Zangbar MS, Sambrani R, Hamdi K, Ghasemzadeh A, Hakimi P, Vahabzadeh B, Dianat-Moghadam H, Mehdizadeh A, Mohammadinejad S, Dolati S, Baharaghdam S, Bayat G, Nouri M, Yousefi M. Isolation of cfDNA from spent culture media and its association with implantation rate and maternal immunomodulation. BMC Res Notes 2022; 15:259. [PMID: 35842732 PMCID: PMC9288726 DOI: 10.1186/s13104-022-06151-8] [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: 05/02/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This investigation aims to evaluate the association between the concentration of cell-free DNA (cfDNA) in the spent culture medium (SCM) with implantation rate and the maternal immune system in the invitro fertilization (IVF). In this study, 30 embryos were cultured and scored according to Gardner's criteria. SCM was gathered on day five from every embryo to analyze the quantity of cfDNA. The real-time PCR technique evaluated the expression level of transcription factors, including Foxp3, RORγt, GATA3, and T-bet. The percentage of Th1, Th2, Th17, Treg, NK cells, and NK cells cytotoxicity was evaluated by flow cytometry. RESULTS The concentration of cfDNA in the β-HCG (-), β-HCG ( +), and ongoing pregnancy groups were 20.70 ± 9.224 ng/µL, 27.97 ± 7.990 ng/µL, and 28.91 ± 8.566 ng/µL, respectively. The ratio of Th1/Th2 and Th17/Treg reduced significantly in pregnant women, as well as the level of NK cells and NK cytotoxicity cells fell dramatically in the ongoing pregnancy group. The expression level of RORγt and T-bet declined while the expression level of Foxp3 and GATA3 increased considerably in pregnant mothers. Our investigation revealed that the concentration level of cfDNA in SCM could not be associated with implantation rate, prediction of ongoing pregnancy, and maternal immune system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Alizadegan
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Maryam Akbarzadeh
- Alzahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | | | - Roshanak Sambrani
- Alzahra Hospital, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Kobra Hamdi
- Woman's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Alieh Ghasemzadeh
- Woman's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Parvin Hakimi
- Woman's Reproductive Health Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Behnam Vahabzadeh
- Faculty of Veterinary and Paramedicine, Urmia Branch, Islamic Azad University, Urmia, Iran
| | - Hassan Dianat-Moghadam
- Department of Genetics and Molecular Biology, School of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Amir Mehdizadeh
- Hematology and Oncology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Mohammadinejad
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sanam Dolati
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Research Center, Aging Research Institute, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Sina Baharaghdam
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Gholamreza Bayat
- Department of Physiology-Pharmacology-Medical Physic, School of Medicine, Alborz University of Medical Sciences, Karaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Nouri
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Faculty of Advanced Medical Sciences, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
| | - Mehdi Yousefi
- Stem Cell Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Science, Tabriz, Iran. .,Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran.
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Tian L, Xia L, Liu H, Kou Y, Huang Z, Wu X, Fan L, Huang J, Wu Q. Increased blastomere number is associated with higher live birth rate in day 3 embryo transfer. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:198. [PMID: 35277132 PMCID: PMC8917733 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04521-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Purpose
To study the relationship between blastomere number and pregnancy outcomes of day 3 embryo transfers.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study included 2237 fresh single day 3 embryo transfer cycles from October 2013 to November 2020. Patients were divided into six groups according to the blastomere number on day 3: ≤ 6-cell (n = 100), 7-cell (n = 207), 8-cell (n = 1522), 9-cell (n = 187), 10-cell (n = 91) and ≥ 11-cell (n = 130). Generalized estimating equation analysis based on multivariate logistic regression model was performed to adjust for potential confounders.
Results
The live birth rate (LBR) was 19.0%, 27.1%, 38.9%, 32.1%, 44.0% and 53.8% for the ≤ 6-cell, 7-cell, 8-cell, 9-cell, 10-cell and ≥ 11-cell groups, respectively (P < 0.001). Specifically, the ≤ 6-cell group was associated with reduced LBR compared with the 8-cell group (aOR 0.50, 95% CI 0.29–0.86; P = 0.013). Conversely, the odds of live birth were significantly increased in patients transferred with 10-cell embryos (aOR 1.62, 95% CI 1.03–2.53; P = 0.035) and ≥ 11-cell embryos (aOR 2.14, 95% CI 1.47–3.11; P < 0.001) when using the 8-cell embryo group as reference. Similar trends were also observed in the rates of positive hCG test and clinical pregnancy, while no significant differences were detected in miscarriage risk.
Conclusion
Increased blastomere number was associated with higher LBR in fresh single day 3 embryo transfer cycles. This finding questions the consensus on the reduced developmental potential of fast-cleaving embryos. Further large prospective studies are warranted for confirmation.
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Why Has Metabolomics So Far Not Managed to Efficiently Contribute to the Improvement of Assisted Reproduction Outcomes? The Answer through a Review of the Best Available Current Evidence. Diagnostics (Basel) 2021; 11:diagnostics11091602. [PMID: 34573944 PMCID: PMC8469471 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics11091602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/24/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolomics emerged to give clinicians the necessary information on the competence, in terms of physiology and function, of gametes, embryos, and the endometrium towards a targeted infertility treatment, namely, assisted reproduction techniques (ART). Our minireview aims to investigate the current status of the use of metabolomics in assisted reproduction, the potential flaws in its use, and to propose specific solutions towards the improvement of ART outcomes through the use of the intervention. We used published reports assessing the role of metabolomic investigation of the endometrium, oocytes, and embryos in improving clinical outcomes in women undergoing ART. We initially found that there is no evidence to support that fertility outcomes can be improved through metabolomics profiling. In contrast, it may be helpful for understanding and appraising the nutritional environment of oocytes and embryos. The causes include the different infertility populations, the difference between animals and humans, technical limitations, and the great heterogeneity in the variables employed. Suggested steps include the standardization of variables of the method itself, the universal creation of a panel where all biomarkers are stored concerning specific infertile populations with different phenotypes or etiologies, specific bioinformatics contribution, significant computing power for data processing, and importantly, properly conducted trials.
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Benammar A, Derisoud E, Vialard F, Palmer E, Ayoubi JM, Poulain M, Chavatte-Palmer P. The Mare: A Pertinent Model for Human Assisted Reproductive Technologies? Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:2304. [PMID: 34438761 PMCID: PMC8388489 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2021] [Revised: 07/28/2021] [Accepted: 08/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Although there are large differences between horses and humans for reproductive anatomy, follicular dynamics, mono-ovulation, and embryo development kinetics until the blastocyst stage are similar. In contrast to humans, however, horses are seasonal animals and do not have a menstrual cycle. Moreover, horse implantation takes place 30 days later than in humans. In terms of artificial reproduction techniques (ART), oocytes are generally matured in vitro in horses because ovarian stimulation remains inefficient. This allows the collection of oocytes without hormonal treatments. In humans, in vivo matured oocytes are collected after ovarian stimulation. Subsequently, only intra-cytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is performed in horses to produce embryos, whereas both in vitro fertilization and ICSI are applied in humans. Embryos are transferred only as blastocysts in horses. In contrast, four cells to blastocyst stage embryos are transferred in humans. Embryo and oocyte cryopreservation has been mastered in humans, but not completely in horses. Finally, both species share infertility concerns due to ageing and obesity. Thus, reciprocal knowledge could be gained through the comparative study of ART and infertility treatments both in woman and mare, even though the horse could not be used as a single model for human ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Achraf Benammar
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - Emilie Derisoud
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - François Vialard
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Eric Palmer
- Académie d’Agriculture de France, 75007 Paris, France;
| | - Jean Marc Ayoubi
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - Marine Poulain
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Foch Hospital, 92150 Suresnes, France
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; (A.B.); (E.D.); (F.V.); (J.M.A.); (M.P.)
- Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d’Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
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Mateo-Otero Y, Fernández-López P, Ribas-Maynou J, Roca J, Miró J, Yeste M, Barranco I. Metabolite Profiling of Pig Seminal Plasma Identifies Potential Biomarkers for Sperm Resilience to Liquid Preservation. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:669974. [PMID: 34124051 PMCID: PMC8194698 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.669974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolomic approaches allow the study of downstream gene expression events since metabolites are considered as the products of cell signaling pathways. For this reason, many studies in humans have already been conducted to determine the influence of the metabolites present in seminal plasma (SP) on sperm physiology, and to identify putative biomarkers. However, in livestock species, these relationships are yet to be uncovered. Thus, the present study aimed to explore: (i) if concentrations of metabolites in pig SP are related to sperm quality and functionality, and (ii) if they could predict the sperm resilience to liquid storage at 17°C. To this end, 28 ejaculates were individually collected and split into three aliquots: one was used for SP analysis through nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy; another served for the evaluation of sperm concentration and morphology; and the last one was utilized to determine sperm functionality parameters using computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) and flow cytometry after 0 h and 72 h of liquid-storage at 17°C. NMR analysis allowed the identification and quantification of 23 metabolites present in pig SP which, except for fumarate, were not observed to follow a breed-dependent behavior. Moreover, specific relationships between metabolites and sperm variables were identified: (i) glutamate, methanol, trimethylamine N-oxide, carnitine, and isoleucine were seen to be related to some sperm quality and functionality parameters evaluated immediately after semen collection; (ii) leucine, hypotaurine, carnitine and isoleucine were found to be associated to the sperm ability to withstand liquid storage; and (iii) Bayesian multiple regression models allowed the identification of metabolite patterns for specific sperm parameters at both 0 h and 72 h. The identification of these relationships opens up the possibility of further investigating these metabolites as potential sperm functional biomarkers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yentel Mateo-Otero
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Pol Fernández-López
- Centre d’Estudis Avançats de Blanes (CEAB), Spanish Research Council (CSIC), Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Ribas-Maynou
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Jordi Roca
- Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Jordi Miró
- Equine Reproduction Service, Department of Animal Medicine and Surgery, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Autonomous University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marc Yeste
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
| | - Isabel Barranco
- Biotechnology of Animal and Human Reproduction (TechnoSperm), Institute of Food and Agricultural Technology, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Unit of Cell Biology, Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Girona, Girona, Spain
- Department of Veterinary Medical Sciences, Via Tolara di Sopra, Bologna, Italy
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Development of Decellularized Oviductal Hydrogels as a Support for Rabbit Embryo Culture. Reprod Sci 2021; 28:1644-1658. [PMID: 33511539 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-020-00446-6] [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: 09/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/20/2020] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The oviducts (fallopian tubes in mammals) function as the site of fertilization and provide necessary support for early embryonic development, mainly via embryonic exposure to the tubal microenvironment. The main objective of this study was to create an oviduct-specific extracellular matrix (oviECM) hydrogel rich in bioactive components that mimics the native environment, thus optimizing the developmental trajectories of cultured embryos. Rabbit oviducts were decellularized through SDS treatment and enzymatic digestion, and the acellular tissue was converted into oviductal pre-gel extracellular matrix (ECM) solutions. Incubation of these solutions at 37 °C resulted in stable hydrogels with a fibrous structure based on scanning electron microscopy. Histological staining, DNA quantification and colorimetric assays confirmed that the decellularized tissue and hydrogels contained no cellular or nuclear components but retained important components of the ECM, e.g. hyaluronic acid, glycoproteins and collagens. To evaluate the ability of oviECM hydrogels to maintain early embryonic development, two-cell rabbit embryos were cultured on oviECM-coated surfaces and compared to those cultured with standard techniques. Embryo development was similar in both conditions, with 95.9% and 98% of the embryos reaching the late morula/early blastocyst stage by 48 h under standard culture and oviECM conditions, respectively. Metabolomic analysis of culture media in the presence or absence of embryos, however, revealed that the oviECM coating may include signalling molecules and release compounds beneficial to embryo metabolism.
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Inoue N, Nishida Y, Harada E, Sakai K, Narahara H. GC-MS/MS analysis of metabolites derived from a single human blastocyst. Metabolomics 2021; 17:17. [PMID: 33495963 PMCID: PMC7835178 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-021-01770-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has significantly advanced; however, morphological evaluation remains as the chosen method of assessment of embryo quality. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine metabolic changes in embryo culture medium to develop a non-invasive method for evaluation of embryo quality. METHODS We performed metabolic analysis of culture medium obtained from a single blastocyst cultured for freezing. RESULTS In total, 187 (39.8%) of the 469 detectable organic acid metabolites were identified. A significant change (p < 0.05) was observed in eight metabolites between the good-quality and poor-quality embryo groups. Differences were observed in several metabolic pathways between the good-quality and poor-quality embryo groups. Metabolites that showed significant changes were primarily involved in the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids. CONCLUSION The quantification of metabolism in human embryos may assist in identification and selection of good-quality embryos with high rates of survival before freezing and implantation in conjunction with morphological classification. This may help to identify embryos with high rates of survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Inoue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Nishida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
| | - Emi Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Kumiko Sakai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Hisashi Narahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
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Motiei M, Vaculikova K, Cela A, Tvrdonova K, Khalili R, Rumpik D, Rumpikova T, Glatz Z, Saha T. Non-Invasive Human Embryo Metabolic Assessment as a Developmental Criterion. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9124094. [PMID: 33353110 PMCID: PMC7766269 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of a highly-viable single embryo in assisted reproductive technology requires an acceptable predictive method in order to reduce the multiple pregnancy rate and increase the success rate. In this study, the metabolomic profiling of growing and impaired embryos was assessed on the fifth day of fertilization using capillary electrophoresis in order to find a relationship between the profiling and embryo development, and then to provide a mechanistic insight into the appearance/depletion of the metabolites. This unique qualitative technique exhibited the appearance of most non-essential amino acids and lactate, and depleting the serine, alanyl-glutamine and pyruvate in such a manner that the embryos impaired in their development secreted a considerably higher level of lactate and consumed a significantly higher amount of alanyl-glutamine. The different significant ratios of metabolomic depletion/appearance between the embryos confirm their potential for the improvement of the prospective selection of the developed single embryos, and also suggest the fact that pyruvate and alanyl-glutamine are the most critical ATP suppliers on the fifth day of blastocyst development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Motiei
- Centre of Polymer Systems, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Třída Tomáše Bati 5678, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +420-7730-324
| | - Katerina Vaculikova
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Andrea Cela
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Katerina Tvrdonova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk, University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Reza Khalili
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Ke Karlovu 2, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - David Rumpik
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Tatana Rumpikova
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Zdenek Glatz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Tomas Saha
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
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11
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Hernández-Vargas P, Muñoz M, Domínguez F. Identifying biomarkers for predicting successful embryo implantation: applying single to multi-OMICs to improve reproductive outcomes. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:264-301. [PMID: 32096829 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful embryo implantation is a complex process that requires the coordination of a series of events, involving both the embryo and the maternal endometrium. Key to this process is the intricate cascade of molecular mechanisms regulated by endocrine, paracrine and autocrine modulators of embryonic and maternal origin. Despite significant progress in ART, implantation failure still affects numerous infertile couples worldwide and fewer than 10% of embryos successfully implant. Improved selection of both the viable embryos and the optimal endometrial phenotype for transfer remains crucial to enhancing implantation chances. However, both classical morphological embryo selection and new strategies incorporated into clinical practice, such as embryonic genetic analysis, morphokinetics or ultrasound endometrial dating, remain insufficient to predict successful implantation. Additionally, no techniques are widely applied to analyse molecular signals involved in the embryo-uterine interaction. More reliable biological markers to predict embryo and uterine reproductive competence are needed to improve pregnancy outcomes. Recent years have seen a trend towards 'omics' methods, which enable the assessment of complete endometrial and embryonic molecular profiles during implantation. Omics have advanced our knowledge of the implantation process, identifying potential but rarely implemented biomarkers of successful implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Differences between the findings of published omics studies, and perhaps because embryonic and endometrial molecular signatures were often not investigated jointly, have prevented firm conclusions being reached. A timely review summarizing omics studies on the molecular determinants of human implantation in both the embryo and the endometrium will help facilitate integrative and reliable omics approaches to enhance ART outcomes. SEARCH METHODS In order to provide a comprehensive review of the literature published up to September 2019, Medline databases were searched using keywords pertaining to omics, including 'transcriptome', 'proteome', 'secretome', 'metabolome' and 'expression profiles', combined with terms related to implantation, such as 'endometrial receptivity', 'embryo viability' and 'embryo implantation'. No language restrictions were imposed. References from articles were also used for additional literature. OUTCOMES Here we provide a complete summary of the major achievements in human implantation research supplied by omics approaches, highlighting their potential to improve reproductive outcomes while fully elucidating the implantation mechanism. The review highlights the existence of discrepancies among the postulated biomarkers from studies on embryo viability or endometrial receptivity, even using the same omic analysis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite the huge amount of biomarker information provided by omics, we still do not have enough evidence to link data from all omics with an implantation outcome. However, in the foreseeable future, application of minimally or non-invasive omics tools, together with a more integrative interpretation of uniformly collected data, will help to overcome the difficulties for clinical implementation of omics tools. Omics assays of the embryo and endometrium are being proposed or already being used as diagnostic tools for personalised single-embryo transfer in the most favourable endometrial environment, avoiding the risk of multiple pregnancies and ensuring better pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purificación Hernández-Vargas
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Muñoz
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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12
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Bartolucci AF, Peluso JJ. Necessity is the mother of invention and the evolutionary force driving the success of in vitro fertilization. Biol Reprod 2020; 104:255-273. [PMID: 32975285 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioaa175] [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: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/21/2020] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
During the last few decades, millions of healthy children have been born with the aid of in vitro fertilization (IVF). This success belies the fact that IVF treatment is comprised of a complex series of interventions starting with a customized control ovarian stimulation protocol. This is followed by the induction of oocyte maturation, the retrieval of mature oocytes and in vitro fertilization, which often involves the microinjection of a single sperm into the oocyte. After fertilization, the resulting embryos are cultured for up to 7 days. The best embryos are transferred into the uterus where the embryo implants and hopefully develops into a healthy child. However, frequently the best embryos are biopsied and frozen. The biopsied cells are analyzed to identify those embryos without chromosomal abnormalities. These embryos are eventually thawed and transferred with pregnancy rates as good if not better than embryos that are not biopsied and transferred in a fresh cycle. Thus, IVF treatment requires the coordinated efforts of physicians, nurses, molecular biologists and embryologists to conduct each of these multifaceted phases in a seamless and flawless manner. Even though complex, IVF treatment may seem routine today, but it was not always the case. In this review the evolution of human IVF is presented as a series of innovations that resolved a technical hurdle in one component of IVF while creating challenges that eventually lead to the next major advancement. This step-by-step evolution in the treatment of human infertility is recounted in this review.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison F Bartolucci
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center.,The Center for Advanced Reproductive Services, Farmington, CT, USA
| | - John J Peluso
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Connecticut Health Center.,Department of Cell Biology, University of Connecticut Health Center, Farmington, CT, USA
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13
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Ferrick L, Lee YSL, Gardner DK. Reducing time to pregnancy and facilitating the birth of healthy children through functional analysis of embryo physiology†. Biol Reprod 2020; 101:1124-1139. [PMID: 30649216 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioz005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2018] [Revised: 12/21/2018] [Accepted: 01/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
An ever-increasing number of couples rely on assisted reproductive technologies (ART) in order to conceive a child. Although advances in embryo culture have led to increases in the success rates of clinical ART, it often takes more than one treatment cycle to conceive a child. Ensuring patients conceive as soon as possible with a healthy embryo is a priority for reproductive medicine. Currently, selection of embryos for transfer relies predominantly on the morphological assessment of the preimplantation embryo; however, morphology is not an absolute link to embryo physiology, nor the health of the resulting child. Non-invasive quantitation of individual embryo physiology, a key regulator of both embryo viability and health, could provide valuable information to assist in the selection of the most viable embryo for transfer, hence reducing the time to pregnancy. Further, according to the Barker Hypothesis, the environment to which a fetus is exposed to during gestation affects subsequent offspring health. If the environment of the preimplantation period is capable of affecting metabolism, which in turn will affect gene expression through the metaboloepigenetic link, then assessment of embryo metabolism should represent an indirect measure of future offspring health. Previously, the term viable embryo has been used in association with the potential of an embryo to establish a pregnancy. Here, we propose the term healthy embryo to reflect the capacity of that embryo to lead to a healthy child and adult.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Ferrick
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, VIC, Australia.,Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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14
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Preimplantation Genetic Testing: Where We Are Today. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21124381. [PMID: 32575575 PMCID: PMC7352684 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21124381] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/13/2020] [Accepted: 06/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) is widely used today in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) centers over the world for selecting euploid embryos for transfer and to improve clinical outcomes in terms of embryo implantation, clinical pregnancy, and live birth rates. Methods: We report the current knowledge concerning these procedures and the results from different clinical indications in which PGT is commonly applied. Results: This paper illustrates different molecular techniques used for this purpose and the clinical significance of the different oocyte and embryo stage (polar bodies, cleavage embryo, and blastocyst) at which it is possible to perform sampling biopsies for PGT. Finally, genetic origin and clinical significance of embryo mosaicism are illustrated. Conclusions: The preimplantation genetic testing is a valid technique to evaluated embryo euploidy and mosaicism before transfer.
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15
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Reamtong O, Simanon N, Thiangtrongjit T, Limpanont Y, Chusongsang P, Chusongsang Y, Anuntakarun S, Payungporn S, Phuphisut O, Adisakwattana P. Proteomic analysis of adult Schistosoma mekongi somatic and excretory-secretory proteins. Acta Trop 2020; 202:105247. [PMID: 31672487 DOI: 10.1016/j.actatropica.2019.105247] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2019] [Revised: 07/30/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Schistosoma mekongi is a causative agent of human schistosomiasis. There is limited knowledge of the molecular biology of S. mekongi and very few studies have examined drug targets, vaccine candidates and diagnostic biomarkers for S. mekongi. To explore the biology of S. mekongi, computational as well as experimental approaches were performed on S. mekongi males and females to identify excretory-secretory (ES) proteins and proteins that are differentially expressed between genders. According to bioinformatic prediction, the S. mekongi ES product was approximately 4.7% of total annotated transcriptome sequences. The classical secretory pathway was the main process to secrete proteins. Mass spectrometry-based quantification of male and female adult S. mekongi proteins was performed. We identified 174 and 156 differential expression of proteins in male and female worms, respectively. The dominant male-biased proteins were involved in actin filament-based processes, microtubule-based processes, biosynthetic processes and homeostatic processes. The major female-biased proteins were related to biosynthetic processes, organelle organization and signal transduction. An experimental approach identified 88 proteins in the S. mekongi secretome. The S. mekongi ES proteins mainly contributed to nutrient uptake, essential substance supply and host immune evasion. This research identifies proteins in the S. mekongi secretome and provides information on ES proteins that are differentially expressed between S. mekongi genders. These findings will contribute to S. mekongi drug and vaccine development. In addition, the study enhances our understanding of basic S. mekongi biology.
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16
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Abstract
As women delay childbearing because of demographic and socioeconomic trends, reproductive aging and ensuing ovarian dysfunction become increasingly more prevalent causes of infertility. Age-related decline in fertility is characterized by both quantitative and qualitative deterioration of the ovarian reserve. Importantly, disorders of aging are frequently associated with mitochondrial dysfunction, as are impaired oogenesis and embryogenesis. Ongoing research explores the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in ovarian aging, and potential ways to exploit mitochondrial mechanisms to slow down or reverse age-related changes in female gonads.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Emre Seli
- Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey
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17
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Metabolic Profiling in Blastocoel Fluid and Blood Plasma of Diabetic Rabbits. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21030919. [PMID: 32019238 PMCID: PMC7037143 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21030919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 01/24/2020] [Accepted: 01/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Metabolic disorders of the mother adversely affect early embryo development, causing changes in maternal metabolism and consequent alterations in the embryo environment in the uterus. The goal of this study was to analyse the biochemical profiles of embryonic fluids and blood plasma of rabbits with and without insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (DT1), to identify metabolic changes associated with maternal diabetes mellitus in early pregnancy. Insulin-dependent diabetes was induced by alloxan treatment in female rabbits 10 days before mating. On day 6 post-coitum, plasma and blastocoel fluid (BF) were analysed by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectroscopy (UPLC-MS/MS) (Metabolon Inc. Durham, NC, USA). Metabolic datasets comprised a total of 284 and 597 compounds of known identity in BF and plasma, respectively. Diabetes mellitus had profound effects on maternal and embryonic metabolic profiles, with almost half of the metabolites changed. As predicted, we observed an increase in glucose and a decrease in 1,5-anhydroglucitol in diabetic plasma samples. In plasma, fructose, mannose, and sorbitol were elevated in the diabetic group, which may be a way of dealing with excess glucose. In BF, metabolites of the pentose metabolism were especially increased, indicating the need for ribose-based compounds relevant to DNA and RNA metabolism at this very early stage of embryo development. Other changes were more consistent between BF and plasma. Both displayed elevated acylcarnitines, body3-hydroxybutyrate, and multiple compounds within the branched chain amino acid metabolism pathway, suggesting that lipid beta-oxidation is occurring at elevated levels in the diabetic group. This study demonstrates that maternal and embryonic metabolism are closely related. Maternal diabetes mellitus profoundly alters the metabolic profile of the preimplantation embryo with changes in all subclasses of metabolites.
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18
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Lin E, Li Z, Huang Y, Ru G, He P. High Dosages of Equine Chorionic Gonadotropin Exert Adverse Effects on the Developmental Competence of IVF-Derived Mouse Embryos and Cause Oxidative Stress-Induced Aneuploidy. Front Cell Dev Biol 2020; 8:609290. [PMID: 33634101 PMCID: PMC7900142 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2020.609290] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Gonadotropins play vital roles in the regulation of female reproductive ability and fertility. Our study aimed to determine the effects of superovulation induced by increasing doses of equine chorionic gonadotropin [eCG; also referred to as pregnant mare serum gonadotropin (PMSG)] on the developmental competence of mouse embryos and on aneuploidy formation during in vitro fertilization (IVF). eCG dose-dependently enhanced the oocyte yield from each mouse. Administration of 15 IU eCG significantly reduced the fertilization rate and the formation of four-cell embryos and blastocysts and increased the risk of chromosome aneuploidy. The IVF-derived blastocysts in the 15 IU eCG treatment group had the fewest total cells, inner cell mass (ICM) cells and trophectoderm (TE) cells. Moreover, more blastocysts and fewer apoptotic cells were observed in the 0, 5, and 10 IU eCG treatment groups than in the 15 IU eCG treatment group. We also investigated reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and variations in several variables: mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP); active mitochondria; mitochondrial superoxide production; adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content; spindle structures; chromosome karyotypes; microfilament distribution; and the expression of Aurora B [an important component of the chromosomal passenger complex (CPC)], the spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) protein mitotic arrest deficient 2 like 1 (MAD2L1), and the DNA damage response (DDR) protein γH2AX. Injection of 15 IU eCG increased ROS levels, rapidly reduced MMP, increased active mitochondria numbers and mitochondrial superoxide production, reduced ATP content, increased abnormal spindle formation rates, and induced abnormalities in chromosome number and microfilament distribution, suggesting that a high dose of eCG might alter developmental competence and exert negative effects on IVF-obtained mouse embryos. Additionally, the appearance of γH2AX and the significantly increased expression of Aurora B and MAD2L1 suggested that administration of relatively high doses of eCG caused Aurora B-mediated SAC activation triggered by ROS-induced DNA damage in early mouse IVF-derived embryos for self-correction of aneuploidy formation. These findings improve our understanding of the application of gonadotropins and provide a theoretical basis for gonadotropin treatment.
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19
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Nõmm M, Porosk R, Pärn P, Kilk K, Soomets U, Kõks S, Jaakma Ü. In vitro culture and non-invasive metabolic profiling of single bovine embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:306-314. [PMID: 30092912 DOI: 10.1071/rd17446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2017] [Accepted: 06/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Selecting high-quality embryos for transfer has been a difficult task when producing bovine embryos invitro. The most used non-invasive method is based on visual observation. Molecular characterisation of embryo growth media has been proposed as a complementary method. In this study we demonstrate a culture medium sampling method for identifying potential embryonic viability markers to predict normal or abnormal embryonic development. During single embryo culture, 20µL culture media was removed at Days 2, 5 and 8 after fertilisation from the same droplet (60µL). In all, 58 samples were analysed using liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. We demonstrate that it is possible to remove samples from the same culture medium droplets and not significantly affect blastocyst rate (25.2%). Changes in any single low molecular weight compound were not predictive enough. Combining multiple low molecular weight signals made it possible to predict Day 2 and 5 embryo development to the blastocyst stage with an accuracy of 64%. Elevated concentrations of lysophosphatidylethanolamines (m/z=453, 566, 588) in the culture media of Day 8 well-developing embryos were observed. Choline (104m/z) and citrate (215m/z) concentrations were increased in embryos in which development was retarded. Metabolic profiling provides possibilities to identify well-developing embryos before transfer, thus improving pregnancy rates and the number of calves born.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Nõmm
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1, Tartu 51006, Estonia
| | - Rando Porosk
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ülikooli 18, Tartu 50090, Estonia
| | - Pille Pärn
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1, Tartu 51006, Estonia
| | - Kalle Kilk
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ülikooli 18, Tartu 50090, Estonia
| | - Ursel Soomets
- Department of Biochemistry, Institute of Biomedicine and Translational Medicine, University of Tartu, Ülikooli 18, Tartu 50090, Estonia
| | - Sulev Kõks
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1, Tartu 51006, Estonia
| | - Ülle Jaakma
- Chair of Animal Breeding and Biotechnology, Institute of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Sciences, Estonian University of Life Sciences, Fr. R. Kreutzwaldi 1, Tartu 51006, Estonia
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20
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Terao H, Wada‐Hiraike O, Nagumo A, Kunitomi C, Azhary JMK, Harada M, Hirata T, Hirota Y, Koga K, Fujii T, Osuga Y. Role of oxidative stress in follicular fluid on embryos of patients undergoing assisted reproductive technology treatment. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2019; 45:1884-1891. [DOI: 10.1111/jog.14040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/29/2019] [Indexed: 01/16/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Hiromi Terao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Osamu Wada‐Hiraike
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Aiko Nagumo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Chisato Kunitomi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Jerilee M. K. Azhary
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Tetsuya Hirata
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yasushi Hirota
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Kaori Koga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Tomoyuki Fujii
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Graduate School of MedicineThe University of Tokyo Tokyo Japan
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21
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Kordus RJ, Hossain A, Corso MC, Chakraborty H, Whitman-Elia GF, LaVoie HA. Cumulus cell pappalysin-1, luteinizing hormone/choriogonadotropin receptor, amphiregulin and hydroxy-delta-5-steroid dehydrogenase, 3 beta- and steroid delta-isomerase 1 mRNA levels associate with oocyte developmental competence and embryo outcomes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1457-1469. [PMID: 31187330 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01489-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Accepted: 05/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine whether a selected set of mRNA biomarkers expressed in individual cumulus granulosa cell (CC) masses show association with oocyte developmental competence, embryo ploidy status, and embryo outcomes. METHODS This prospective observational cohort pilot study assessed levels of mRNA biomarkers in 163 individual CC samples from 15 women stimulated in antagonist cycles. Nineteen mRNA biomarker levels were measured by real-time PCR and related to the development of their corresponding individually cultured oocytes and subsequent embryos, embryo ploidy status, and live birth outcomes. RESULTS PAPPA mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC from oocytes that led to euploid embryos resulting in live births and aneuploid embryos compared to immature oocytes by ANOVA. LHCGR mRNA levels were significantly higher in CC of oocytes resulting in embryos associated with live birth compared to immature oocytes and oocytes resulting in arrested embryos by ANOVA. Using a general linearized mixed model to assess ploidy status, CC HSD3B mRNA levels in oocytes producing euploid embryos were significantly lower than other oocyte outcomes, collectively. When transferred euploid embryos outcomes were analyzed by ANOVA, AREG mRNA levels were significantly lower and PAPPA mRNA levels significantly higher in CC from oocytes that produced live births compared to transferred embryos that did not form a pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS Collectively, PAPPA, LHCGR, and AREG mRNA levels in CC may be able to identify oocytes with the best odds of resulting in a live birth, and HSD3B1 mRNA levels may be able to identify oocytes capable of producing euploid embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Kordus
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
- Fertility Center of the Carolinas, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Prisma Health - Upstate, Greenville, SC, USA
| | - Akhtar Hossain
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Michael C Corso
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA
| | | | - Gail F Whitman-Elia
- Advanced Fertility and Reproductive Endocrinology Institute, LLC, Columbia, SC, USA
- Piedmont Reproductive Endocrinology Group, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Holly A LaVoie
- Department of Cell Biology and Anatomy, University of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, SC, USA.
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22
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D’Occhio MJ, Baruselli PS, Campanile G. Metabolic health, the metabolome and reproduction in female cattle: a review. ITALIAN JOURNAL OF ANIMAL SCIENCE 2019. [DOI: 10.1080/1828051x.2019.1600385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Michael J. D’Occhio
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camden, Australia
| | - Pietro S. Baruselli
- Departamento de Reproducao Animal (VRA), University of Sao Paulo, Sao Paulo, Brazil
| | - Giuseppe Campanile
- Dipartimento di Medicina Veterinaria e Produzioni Animali, University of Naples Federico II, Napoli, Italy
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23
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Metabolism of the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo: implications for assisted reproduction. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2018; 30:163-170. [DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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24
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Siristatidis CS, Sertedaki E, Vaidakis D, Varounis C, Trivella M. Metabolomics for improving pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2018; 3:CD011872. [PMID: 29547689 PMCID: PMC6494410 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011872.pub3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to overcome the low effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and the high incidence of multiple births, metabolomics is proposed as a non-invasive method to assess oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity, and facilitate a targeted subfertility treatment. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity for improving live birth or ongoing pregnancy rates in women undergoing ART, compared to conventional methods of assessment. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and two trial registers (Feburary 2018). We also examined the reference lists of primary studies and review articles, citation lists of relevant publications, and abstracts of major scientific meetings. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity in women undergoing ART. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Pairs of review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted the data. The primary outcomes were rates of live birth or ongoing pregnancy (composite outcome) and miscarriage. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, multiple and ectopic pregnancy, cycle cancellation, and foetal abnormalities. We combined data to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous data and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for the main comparisons using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS We included four trials with a total of 924 women, with a mean age of 33 years. All assessed the role of metabolomic investigation of embryo viability. We found no RCTs that addressed the metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality or endometrial receptivity.We found low-quality evidence of little or no difference between metabolomic and non-metabolomic assessment of embryos for rates of live birth or ongoing pregnancy (OR 1.02, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.35, I² = 0%; four RCTs; N = 924), live birth alone (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.44, I² = 0%; three RCTs; N = 597), or miscarriage (OR 1.18, 95% CI 0.77 to 1.82; I² = 0%; three RCTs; N = 869). A sensitivity analysis excluding studies at high risk of bias did not change the interpretation of the results for live birth or ongoing pregnancy (OR 0.90, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.25, I² = 0%; two RCTs; N = 744). Our findings suggested that if the rate of live birth or ongoing pregnancy was 36% in the non-metabolomic group, it would be between 32% and 45% with the use of metabolomics.We found low-quality evidence of little or no difference between groups in rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.45; I²= 44%; four trials; N = 924) or multiple pregnancy (OR 1.50, 95% CI 0.70 to 3.19; I² = 0%; two RCTs, N = 180). Rates of cycle cancellation were higher in the metabolomics group (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.69; I² = 51%; two RCTs; N = 744, low quality evidence). There was very low-quality evidence of little or no difference between groups in rates of ectopic pregnancy rates (OR 3.00, 95% CI 0.12 to 74.07; one RCT; N = 417), and foetal abnormality (no events; one RCT; N = 125). Data were lacking on other adverse effects. A sensitivity analysis excluding studies at high risk of bias did not change the interpretation of the results for clinical pregnancy (OR 1.03, 95% CI 0.76 to 1.38; I² = 40%; two RCTs; N = 744).The overall quality of the evidence ranged from very low to low. Limitations included serious risk of bias (associated with poor reporting of methods, attrition bias, selective reporting, and other biases), imprecision, and inconsistency across trials. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS According to current trials in women undergoing ART, there is no evidence to show that metabolomic assessment of embryos before implantation has any meaningful effect on rates of live birth, ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, multiple pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy or foetal abnormalities. The existing evidence varied from very low to low-quality. Data on other adverse events were sparse, so we could not reach conclusions on these. At the moment, there is no evidence to support or refute the use of this technique for subfertile women undergoing ART. Robust evidence is needed from further RCTs, which study the effects on live birth and miscarriage rates for the metabolomic assessment of embryo viability. Well designed and executed trials are also needed to study the effects on oocyte quality and endometrial receptivity, since none are currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos S Siristatidis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of AthensAssisted Reproduction Unit, 3rd Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAttikon University HospitalRimini 1AthensChaidariGreece12462
| | - Eleni Sertedaki
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens75 M. Assias StreetGoudiAthensGreece115 27
| | - Dennis Vaidakis
- University of Athens3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology'Attikon' Hospital, ChaidariAthensGreece
| | - Christos Varounis
- Attikon University Hospital2nd Department of Cardiology, University of Athens Medical SchoolRimini 1HaidariAthensGreece12462
| | - Marialena Trivella
- University of OxfordCentre for Statistics in MedicineBotnar Research CentreWindmill RoadOxfordUKOX3 7LD
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article discusses the use of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number as a potential biomarker for embryo viability in assisted reproduction. RECENT FINDINGS Mitochondria have a well-established role in regulating embryo energy metabolism, and their efficiency has significant implications for reproductive success. Two recent studies suggested that elevated mtDNA copy number is associated with decreased implantation potential in human embryos generated by IVF. In the first study, Fragouli et al. reported that blastocysts that are aneuploid and those obtained from older reproductive age women have a higher mtDNA copy number. In addition, euploid blastocysts that failed to implant had a higher mtDNA copy number; and pregnancy did not occur when mtDNA copy number was above a threshold. In a subsequent study, Diez-Juan et al. found that mtDNA copy number inversely correlates with implantation potential of euploid embryos, not only for blastocysts but also for cleavage stage embryos. Instead of a threshold model, they proposed a score for embryos based on mtDNA copy number, which would be indicative of implantation potential. Unlike the previous study, Diez-Juan et al. did not find an age-associated decrease in mtDNA copy number in day 3 or day 5 embryos. SUMMARY Recent reports suggest that mtDNA copy number may be used as a biomarker for embryo viability. Further studies are necessary to determine whether mtDNA copy number constitutes a parameter independent of morphology and preimplantation genetic screening and whether its use may result in higher IVF pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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26
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Zhang YL, Zhang GM, Jia RX, Wan YJ, Yang H, Sun LW, Han L, Wang F. Non-invasive assessment of culture media from goat cloned embryos associated with subjective morphology by gas chromatography - mass spectroscopy-based metabolomic analysis. Anim Sci J 2017; 89:31-41. [PMID: 28833899 DOI: 10.1111/asj.12885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2017] [Accepted: 06/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Pre-implantation embryo metabolism demonstrates distinctive characteristics associated with the development potential of embryos. We aim to determine if metabolic differences correlate with embryo morphology. In this study, gas chromatography - mass spectroscopy (GC-MS)-based metabolomics was used to assess the culture media of goat cloned embryos collected from high-quality (HQ) and low-quality (LQ) groups based on morphology. Expression levels of amino acid transport genes were further examined by quantitative real-time PCR. Results showed that the HQ group presented higher percentages of blastocysts compared with the LQ counterparts (P < 0.05). Metabolic differences were also present between HQ and LQ groups. The culture media of the HQ group showed lower levels of valin, lysine, glutamine, mannose and acetol, and higher levels of glucose, phytosphingosine and phosphate than those of the LQ group. Additionally, expression levels of amino acid transport genes SLC1A5 and SLC3A2 were significantly lower in the HQ group than the LQ group (P < 0.05, respectively). To our knowledge, this is the first report which uses GC-MS to detect metabolic differences in goat cloned embryo culture media. The biochemical profiles may help to select the most in vitro viable embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Li Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Guo-Min Zhang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ruo-Xin Jia
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yong-Jie Wan
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Hua Yang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Ling-Wei Sun
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Le Han
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Jiangsu Livestock Embryo Engineering Laboratory, College of Animal Science, Nanjing Agricultural University, Nanjing, China
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Siristatidis CS, Sertedaki E, Vaidakis D. Metabolomics for improving pregnancy outcomes in women undergoing assisted reproductive technologies. Cochrane Database Syst Rev 2017; 5:CD011872. [PMID: 28534597 PMCID: PMC6481756 DOI: 10.1002/14651858.cd011872.pub2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In order to overcome the low effectiveness of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and the high incidence of multiple births, metabolomics is proposed as a non-invasive method to assess oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity, and facilitate a targeted subfertility treatment. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity for improving live birth or ongoing pregnancy rates in women undergoing ART, compared to conventional methods of assessment. SEARCH METHODS We searched the Cochrane Gynaecology and Fertility Group Trials Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL and two trial registers (November 2016). We also examined the reference lists of primary studies and review articles, citation lists of relevant publications, and abstracts of major scientific meetings. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) on metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality, embryo viability, and endometrial receptivity in women undergoing ART. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Two review authors independently assessed trial eligibility and risk of bias, and extracted the data. The primary outcomes were rates of live birth or ongoing pregnancy (composite outcome) and miscarriage. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy, multiple and ectopic pregnancy, cycle cancellation, and foetal abnormalities. We combined data to calculate odds ratios (ORs) for dichotomous data and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Statistical heterogeneity was assessed using the I² statistic. We assessed the overall quality of the evidence for the main comparisons using GRADE methods. MAIN RESULTS We included four trials with a total of 802 women, with a mean age of 33 years. All assessed the role of metabolomic investigation of embryo viability. We found no RCTs that addressed the metabolomic assessment of oocyte quality or endometrial receptivity.We found low-quality evidence of little or no difference between metabolomic and non-metabolomic assessment of embryos for rates of live birth or ongoing pregnancy (OR 1.11, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.48; I² = 0%; four RCTs; N = 802), or miscarriage (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.78; I² = 0%; two RCTs; N = 434). A sensitivity analysis excluding studies at high risk of bias did not change the interpretation of the results for live birth or ongoing pregnancy (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.71 to 1.38; I² = 0%; two RCTs; N = 621). Our findings suggested that if the rate of live birth or ongoing pregnancy was 36% in the non-metabolomic group, it would be between 32% and 45% with the use of metabolomics.We found low-quality evidence of little or no difference between groups in rates of clinical pregnancy (OR 1.22, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.62; I²= 26%; four trials; N = 802), or multiple pregnancy (OR 1.52, 95% CI 0.71 to 3.23; I² = 0%; two RCTs, N = 181). There was very low-quality evidence of little or no difference between groups in ectopic pregnancy rates (OR 3.37, 95% CI 0.14 to 83.40; one RCT; N = 309), and foetal abnormalities (no events; one RCT; N = 125), and very low-quality evidence of higher rates of cycle cancellation in the metabolomics group (OR 1.78, 95% CI 1.18 to 2.69; I² = 51%; two RCTs; N = 744). Data were lacking on other adverse effects. A sensitivity analysis excluding studies at high risk of bias did not change the interpretation of the results for clinical pregnancy (OR 1.14, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.57; I² = 0%; two RCTs; N = 621).The overall quality of the evidence ranged from very low to low. Limitations included serious risk of bias (associated with poor reporting of methods, attrition bias, selective reporting, and other biases), imprecision, and inconsistency across trials. AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS According to current trials in women undergoing ART, there is insufficient evidence to show that metabolomic assessment of embryos before implantation has any meaningful effect on rates of live birth, ongoing pregnancy, or miscarriage rates. The existing evidence varied from very low to low-quality. Data on adverse events were sparse, so we could not reach conclusions on these. At the moment, there is no evidence to support or refute the use of this technique for subfertile women undergoing ART. Robust evidence is needed from further RCTs, which study the effects on live birth and miscarriage rates for the metabolomic assessment of embryo viability. Well designed and executed trials are also needed to study the effects on oocyte quality and endometrial receptivity, since none are currently available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos S Siristatidis
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of AthensAssisted Reproduction Unit, 3rd Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAttikon University Hospital,Rimini 1AthensGreece12462
| | - Eleni Sertedaki
- Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens75 M. Assias StreetGoudiAthensGreece115 27
| | - Dennis Vaidakis
- University of Athens3rd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology'Attikon' Hospital, ChaidariAthensGreece
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Krisher RL, Heuberger AL, Paczkowski M, Stevens J, Pospisil C, Prather RS, Sturmey RG, Herrick JR, Schoolcraft WB. Applying metabolomic analyses to the practice of embryology: physiology, development and assisted reproductive technology. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 27:602-20. [PMID: 25763765 DOI: 10.1071/rd14359] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The advent of metabolomics technology and its application to small samples has allowed us to non-invasively monitor the metabolic activity of embryos in a complex culture environment. The aim of this study was to apply metabolomics technology to the analysis of individual embryos from several species during in vitro development to gain an insight into the metabolomics pathways used by embryos and their relationship with embryo quality. Alanine is produced by both in vivo- and in vitro-derived human, murine, bovine and porcine embryos. Glutamine is also produced by the embryos of these four species, but only those produced in vitro. Across species, blastocysts significantly consumed amino acids from the culture medium, whereas glucose was not significantly taken up. There are significant differences in the metabolic profile of in vivo- compared with in vitro-produced embryos at the blastocyst stage. For example, in vitro-produced murine embryos consume arginine, asparagine, glutamate and proline, whereas in vivo-produced embryos do not. Human embryos produce more alanine, glutamate and glutamine, and consume less pyruvate, at the blastocyst compared with cleavage stages. Glucose was consumed by human blastocysts, but not at a high enough level to reach significance. Consumption of tyrosine by cleavage stage human embryos is indicative of blastocyst development, although tyrosine consumption is not predictive of blastocyst quality. Similarly, although in vivo-produced murine blastocysts consumed less aspartate, lactate, taurine and tyrosine than those produced in vitro, consumption of these four amino acids by in vitro-derived embryos with high octamer-binding transcription factor 4 (Oct4) expression, indicative of high quality, did not differ from those with low Oct4 expression. Further application of metabolomic technologies to studies of the consumption and/or production of metabolites from individual embryos in a complete culture medium could transform our understanding of embryo physiology and improve our ability to produce developmentally competent embryos in vitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca L Krisher
- National Foundation for Fertility Research, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Adam L Heuberger
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Colorado State University, 2021 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA
| | - Melissa Paczkowski
- National Foundation for Fertility Research, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - John Stevens
- Fertility Laboratories of Colorado, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Courtney Pospisil
- Fertility Laboratories of Colorado, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - Randall S Prather
- Division of Animal Science, University of Missouri, 920 East Campus Drive, Columbia, MO 65211, USA
| | - Roger G Sturmey
- Centre for Cardiovascular and Metabolic Research, The Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Cottingham Road, Kingston Upon Hull, HU6 7RX, UK
| | - Jason R Herrick
- National Foundation for Fertility Research, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
| | - William B Schoolcraft
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, CO 80124, USA
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29
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Kordus RJ, LaVoie HA. Granulosa cell biomarkers to predict pregnancy in ART: pieces to solve the puzzle. Reproduction 2016; 153:R69-R83. [PMID: 27815559 DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0500] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2016] [Revised: 10/31/2016] [Accepted: 11/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Cumulus and mural granulosa cells of the ovarian follicle surround and interact with the developing oocyte. These follicular cells reflect the oocyte's overall health and may indicate subsequent developmental competence of embryos. Biomarkers of granulosa cells associated with individual oocytes could potentially be used in assisted reproduction to indicate which embryos have the best chance of implanting in the uterus and completing gestation. In this review, we have performed a comprehensive assessment of the recent literature for human cumulus and mural granulosa cell mRNA biomarkers as they relate to pregnancy and live birth. A critical discussion of variables affecting granulosa gene expression profiles for in vitro fertilization patients, including patient demographics and ovarian stimulation regimens, is presented. Although studies with microarray data were evaluated, this synopsis focuses on expressed genes that have been validated by quantitative RT-PCR. Furthermore, we summarize the current published data that support or refute identified granulosa expressed genes as potential biomarkers of embryos that give rise to ongoing pregnancy and live birth. Finally, we review studies that offer predictive models for embryo selection for uterine transfer based on biomarkers that show differential gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard J Kordus
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
| | - Holly A LaVoie
- Department of Cell Biology and AnatomyUniversity of South Carolina School of Medicine, Columbia, South Carolina, USA
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Shamonki MI, Jin H, Haimowitz Z, Liu L. Proof of concept: preimplantation genetic screening without embryo biopsy through analysis of cell-free DNA in spent embryo culture media. Fertil Steril 2016; 106:1312-1318. [PMID: 27565258 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.07.1112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2016] [Revised: 07/05/2016] [Accepted: 07/21/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether preimplantation genetic screening (PGS) is possible by testing for free embryonic DNA in spent IVF media from embryos undergoing trophectoderm biopsy. DESIGN Prospective cohort analysis. SETTING Academic fertility center. PATIENT(S) Seven patients undergoing IVF and 57 embryos undergoing trophectoderm biopsy for PGS. INTERVENTION(S) On day 3 of development, each embryo was placed in a separate media droplet. All biopsied embryos received a PGS result by array comparative genomic hybridization. Preimplantation genetic screening was performed on amplified DNA extracted from media and results were compared with PGS results for the corresponding biopsy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) [1] Presence of DNA in spent IVF culture media. [2] Correlation between genetic screening result from spent media and corresponding biopsy. RESULT(S) Fifty-five samples had detectable DNA ranging from 2-642 ng/μL after a 2-hour amplification. Six samples with the highest DNA levels underwent PGS, rendering one result with a derivative log ratio SD (DLRSD) of <0.85 (a quality control metric of oligonucleotide array comparative genomic hybridization). The fluid sample and trophectoderm results were identical demonstrating (45XY, -13). Three samples were reamplified 1 hour later and tested showing improving DLRSD. One of the three samples with a DLRSD of 0.85 demonstrated (46XY), consistent with the biopsy. Overnight DNA amplification showed DNA in all samples. CONCLUSION(S) We demonstrate two novel findings: the presence of free embryonic DNA in spent media and a result that is consistent with trophectoderm biopsy. Improvements in DNA collection, amplification, and testing may allow for PGS without biopsy in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mousa I Shamonki
- Fertility and Surgical Associates of California, Thousand Oaks, California; University of California, Los Angeles, Fertility and Reproductive Health Center, Los Angeles, California.
| | - Helen Jin
- PacGenomics, Agoura Hills, California
| | | | - Lian Liu
- PacGenomics, Agoura Hills, California
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Sengupta A, Krishnaiah SY, Rhoades S, Growe J, Slaff B, Venkataraman A, Olarerin-George AO, Van Dang C, Hogenesch JB, Weljie AM. Deciphering the Duality of Clock and Growth Metabolism in a Cell Autonomous System Using NMR Profiling of the Secretome. Metabolites 2016; 6:E23. [PMID: 27472375 PMCID: PMC5041122 DOI: 10.3390/metabo6030023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 07/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Oscillations in circadian metabolism are crucial to the well being of organism. Our understanding of metabolic rhythms has been greatly enhanced by recent advances in high-throughput systems biology experimental techniques and data analysis. In an in vitro setting, metabolite rhythms can be measured by time-dependent sampling over an experimental period spanning one or more days at sufficent resolution to elucidate rhythms. We hypothesized that cellular metabolic effects over such a time course would be influenced by both oscillatory and circadian-independent cell metabolic effects. Here we use nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy-based metabolic profiling of mammalian cell culture media of synchronized U2 OS cells containing an intact transcriptional clock. The experiment was conducted over 48 h, typical for circadian biology studies, and samples collected at 2 h resolution to unravel such non-oscillatory effects. Our data suggest specific metabolic activities exist that change continuously over time in this settting and we demonstrate that the non-oscillatory effects are generally monotonic and possible to model with multivariate regression. Deconvolution of such non-circadian persistent changes are of paramount importance to consider while studying circadian metabolic oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arjun Sengupta
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Saikumari Y Krishnaiah
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Seth Rhoades
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Jacqueline Growe
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Barry Slaff
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Anand Venkataraman
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Anthony O Olarerin-George
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - Chi Van Dang
- Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, Perelman Schol of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
| | - John B Hogenesch
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Physiology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH 45267, USA.
| | - Aalim M Weljie
- Department of Systems Pharmacology and Translational Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
- Institute of Translational Medicine and Therapeutics, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, USA.
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The endometrial preparation for frozen-thawed euploid blastocyst transfer: a prospective randomized trial comparing clinical results from natural modified cycle and exogenous hormone stimulation with GnRH agonist. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:873-84. [PMID: 27221477 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0736-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2016] [Accepted: 05/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of the study was to evaluate two methods of endometrial preparation for frozen-thawed single euploid blastocyst transfer: modified natural and artificial cycle with GnRH-agonist pituitary suppression. METHODS In this prospective, controlled randomized trial, a total of 236 patients undergoing infertility treatment were randomized in 1:1 ratio; 118 received a frozen-thawed single euploid blastocyst transfer in a modified natural cycle and 118 in an artificial cycle with GnRH-agonist pituitary suppression. In the artificial protocol, GnRH-agonist combined with estradiol valerate was administered. In the natural protocol, only final oocyte maturation was induced using human chorionic gonadotropin administration. The primary end-points were the clinical pregnancy and implantation rates; the secondary end-points were the cost-benefit in terms of drug cost and the number of visits and the woman psychological distress caused by the treatment. RESULTS No significant differences were found in clinical pregnancy, implantation, and miscarriage rates between protocols. The number of clinical and ultrasound controls and the number of laboratory dosages and venous samplings were similar in both study groups. No significant differences were found between the groups in the anxiety and depression values before the start of treatment, on the days of progesterone administration, the blastocyst transfer, and pregnancy test. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this study evidence that in case of frozen-thawed single euploid blastocyst transfer, both protocols are equally effective in terms of clinical outcomes, cost-benefit, and patient compliance. The choice of endometrial preparation protocol should be based on women menstrual and ovulatory characteristics or otherwise on patient need for cycle planning. TRIAL REGISTRATION www.clinicaltrials.gov with number NCT02378584.
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IVF: progress through technology development. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2016; 28:149-50. [PMID: 27077470 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Rødgaard T, Heegaard PM, Callesen H. Non-invasive assessment of in-vitro embryo quality to improve transfer success. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 31:585-92. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Revised: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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Hardarson T, Bungum M, Conaghan J, Meintjes M, Chantilis SJ, Molnar L, Gunnarsson K, Wikland M. Noninferiority, randomized, controlled trial comparing embryo development using media developed for sequential or undisturbed culture in a time-lapse setup. Fertil Steril 2015; 104:1452-9.e1-4. [PMID: 26409153 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2015.08.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Revised: 08/28/2015] [Accepted: 08/28/2015] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether a culture medium that allows undisturbed culture supports human embryo development to the blastocyst stage equivalently to a well-established sequential media. DESIGN Randomized, double-blinded sibling trial. SETTING Independent in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics. PATIENT(S) One hundred twenty-eight patients, with 1,356 zygotes randomized into two study arms. INTERVENTION(S) Embryos randomly allocated into two study arms to compare embryo development on a time-lapse system using a single-step medium or sequential media. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Percentage of good-quality blastocysts on day 5. RESULT(S) Percentage of day 5 good-quality blastocysts was 21.1% (standard deviation [SD] ± 21.6%) and 22.2% (SD ± 22.1%) in the single-step time-lapse medium (G-TL) and the sequential media (G-1/G-2) groups, respectively. The mean difference (-1.2; 95% CI, -6.0; 3.6) between the two media systems for the primary end point was less than the noninferiority margin of -8%. There was a statistically significantly lower number of good-quality embryos on day 3 in the G-TL group [50.7% (SD ± 30.6%) vs. 60.8% (SD ± 30.7%)]. Four out of the 11 measured morphokinetic parameters were statistically significantly different for the two media used. The mean levels of ammonium concentration in the media at the end of the culture period was statistically significantly lower in the G-TL group as compared with the G-2 group. CONCLUSION(S) We have shown that a single-step culture medium supports blastocyst development equivalently to established sequential media. The ammonium concentrations were lower in the single-step media, and the measured morphokinetic parameters were modified somewhat. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01939626.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mona Bungum
- Reproductive Medicine Centre, Skåne University Hospital, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Joe Conaghan
- Pacific Fertility Center, San Francisco, California
| | - Marius Meintjes
- Frisco Institute for Reproductive Medicine, Dallas/Austin, Texas
| | | | | | | | - Matts Wikland
- Fertilitetscentrum, Carlanderska Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
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Bolton VN, Leary C, Harbottle S, Cutting R, Harper JC. How should we choose the ‘best’ embryo? A commentary on behalf of the British Fertility Society and the Association of Clinical Embryologists. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:156-64. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2015.1072646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Krisher RL, Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG. Omics as a window to view embryo viability. Fertil Steril 2015; 103:333-41. [PMID: 25639968 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2014.12.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 12/16/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The advent of advanced omics technologies and the application of these techniques to the analysis of extremely limited material have opened the door to the investigation of embryo physiology in a focused, in-depth approach never before possible. The application of noninvasive metabolomic and proteomic platforms to understanding embryo viability permits the characterization of individual embryos in culture. Initial clinical data have highlighted the promise of these technologies for the development of noninvasive embryo selection criteria. In this way, a complex view of embryo function can be compiled and related to embryo development, quality, and outcome. Application of knowledge gained from omics will transform both our understanding of embryo physiology as well as our ability to select viable embryos for transfer in assisted reproductive technology.
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