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Martínez-Casado A, Acacio M, Matia-Algué Q, Casals A, Villamar A, Franco-Roig A, Mendoza M, Castelló C, Medina S, Calderón G, Costa-Borges N, Mestres E. Culture medium and protein supplementation affect sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay in detecting Triton X-100. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:104120. [PMID: 39084124 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.104120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2024] [Revised: 04/17/2024] [Accepted: 05/15/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION To what extent does the type and concentration of protein and the type of culture medium affect the sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay (MEA) to detect Triton X-100 (TX-100) in culture media? DESIGN The effect of the concentration of bovine serum albumin (BSA) and human serum albumin (HSA) was assessed by supplementing media with 0.5 or 5 mg/ml. Potassium-supplemented simplex optimized medium (KSOM) and human tubal fluid (HTF) were used as complex and simple formulation media, respectively. Variables were combined, forming study groups where embryos were cultured in test media spiked with a sublethal TX-100 concentration. The conditions of greatest sensitivity were determined by statistical comparison of blastocyst formation rates and total cell counts between groups. RESULTS Although all of the study groups showed equal capacity for sustaining proper embryo development, the reported sensitivity of the MEA differed between groups when subjected to TX-100. HTF conferred significantly greater sensitivity than KSOM regardless of the type and concentration of protein used, and medium supplementation with 5 mg/ml BSA rather than 0.5 mg/ml BSA resulted in significantly higher sensitivity regardless of the type of medium used. This increase in concentration also resulted in higher sensitivity when supplementing HTF with HSA. The BSA groups provided more sensitivity than their HSA counterparts, except for the KSOM + 0.5 mg/ml BSA group. Cell count analysis did not provide further significant conclusions. CONCLUSIONS For TX-100 detection within culture medium, the type and concentration of protein and the type of culture medium have a direct effect on MEA sensitivity. These results could help to standardize the MEA protocol, and increase its ability to detect sublethal concentrations of embryotoxic substances, especially TX-100, thus avoiding possible clinical harmful effects.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mònica Acacio
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Alba Casals
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Andrea Villamar
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Aina Franco-Roig
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Marta Mendoza
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carolina Castelló
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sara Medina
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Gloria Calderón
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nuno Costa-Borges
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Enric Mestres
- Embryotools R&D Centre, Parc Científic de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.
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Valera MÁ, Albert C, Marcos J, Larreategui Z, Bori L, Meseguer M. A propensity score-based, comparative study assessing humid and dry time-lapse incubation, with single-step medium, on embryo development and clinical outcomes. Hum Reprod 2022; 37:1980-1993. [PMID: 35904473 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deac165] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does culture in a high relative humidity atmosphere improve clinical outcomes when using a time-lapse integrated incubator and single-step culture medium? SUMMARY ANSWER Using an integrated time-lapse system and single-step culture medium, culture in a high relative humidity atmosphere increases the likelihood of embryos, especially those subjected to preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies, to achieve a pregnancy compared to those cultured in dry conditions. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The use of a humid atmosphere inside incubators can reduce changes in culture media osmolality, which has been reported to have a significant effect on embryo quality and morphokinetics. Studies assessing the effect of humid culture (HC) in clinical outcomes are, however, scarce and inconclusive, mostly due to a high variability in culture conditions and reduced sample size. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Retrospective cohort study performed over 1627 ICSI cycles performed during 3 consecutive years in which embryo cohorts were cultured in a time-lapse incubator with three dry and three humidified chambers, and using single-step culture medium. Clinical outcomes were compared between treatments in which embryo cohorts were cultured in either humid (n = 833) or dry (n = 794) conditions. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The study includes autologous treatments, with (N = 492) and without (N = 372) preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) and ovum donation treatments (N = 763), performed in three university-affiliated private IVF centres. Stimulation, oocyte pickup and fertilization were performed according to the standard procedures of the clinic. All embryo cohorts were cultured in the same model of time-lapse incubator, distributed to either a dry or humidified chamber, while the rest of the culture variables remained equal. The population was weighted by the inverse probability of treatment to control for all measured confounders. The association between HC and the main outcome was assessed by logistic regression over the weighted population. The E-value was reported as a way of considering for unmeasured confounders. Differences in embryo development and other secondary outcomes between the study groups were assessed by Pearson Chi-squared test, ANOVA test and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE An univariable logistic regression analysis, weighted by the inverse probability of treatment, determined that embryos cultured in humid conditions are more likely to achieve a clinical pregnancy than those cultured in dry conditions (odds ratio (OR) = 1.236 (95% CI 1.009-1.515), P = 0.041, E = 1.460). Through stratification, it was determined that said effect is dependent on the type of treatment: no improvement in clinical pregnancy was present in ovum donation or autologous treatments, but a statistically significant positive effect was present in treatments with preimplantation genetic testing (OR = 1.699 (95% CI 1.084-2.663), P = 0.021, E = 1.930). Said increase does not relate with an improvement in later outcomes. Differences were also found in variables related to embryo developmental morphokinetics. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The retrospective nature of the study makes it susceptible to some bias linked to the characteristics of the treatments. To lessen the effect of possible biases, cases were weighted by the inverse probability of treatment prior to the evaluation of the outcome, as means to assess for measured confounders. In addition, the E-value of the weighted OR was calculated as a sensitivity analysis for unmeasured confounders. A randomized prospective study could be performed for further assessing the effect of humid conditions in clinical outcome. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These results support that embryo culture under conditions of high relative humidity contributes to optimize clinical results in undisturbed culture in a time-lapse incubator with single-step medium. To our knowledge, this is the largest study on the matter and the first performing a propensity score-based analysis. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the ''Centro para el Desarrollo Tecnologico Industrial'' from the Spanish Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities (CDTI-20170310) and Generalitat Valenciana and European Social Fund (ACIF/2019/264). None of the authors have any competing interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Ángeles Valera
- Clinical Research, IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute la Fe, Valencia, Spain.,IVF Laboratory, IVI-RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | | | - Lorena Bori
- Clinical Research, IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute la Fe, Valencia, Spain.,IVF Laboratory, IVI-RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Marcos Meseguer
- Clinical Research, IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute la Fe, Valencia, Spain.,IVF Laboratory, IVI-RMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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3
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Chen S, Huang P, Sun Y, Du S, Lin Y, Zheng B, Lin D. Tripronuclear Zygotes in IVF Laboratory Quality Control: Experimental Evaluation and Potential Applications. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:949-954. [PMID: 35115820 PMCID: PMC8805836 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s345818] [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: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study set out to evaluate quality control within a new in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory environment and of new incubators based on the culture results of tripronuclear zygotes. The representative environmental indicators within new and old IVF laboratories were monitored, and tripronuclear zygotes were cultured in the two laboratories; the results were analyzed and compared. Subsequently, tripronuclear (3PN) zygotes were cultured in both new and old incubators and the culture results were compared. No differences were found in embryo development between 3PN zygotes in the old and new laboratories. However, in the quality control test, the degeneration rate and developmental arrest rate in the new incubator early phase group were significantly increased when compared with the old incubators. Moreover, the grade I embryo rate also decreased significantly. Nevertheless, all the above comparisons in the new incubator later phase group showed no statistical significance as compared to those observed in old incubators. Tripronuclear zygotes are sensitive to the environment in IVF laboratories and can be considered useful during quality control trials of new IVF laboratories and new equipment including incubators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzhu Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengyu Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengrong Du
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunhong Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Beihong Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Beihong Zheng; Dianliang Lin, Tel +86-13763821254, Email ;
| | - Dianliang Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
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4
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Zander-Fox D, Villarosa L, McPherson NO. Albumin used in human IVF contain different levels of lipids and modify embryo and fetal growth in a mouse model. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2371-2381. [PMID: 34114110 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02255-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Different commercial human embryo culture mediums can alter embryo quality and change birthweight. One component that could be contributing to variations but is not widely investigated is human serum albumin (HSA). HSA plays a multitude of roles during embryo culture and is a carrier for molecules including lipids. It remains unclear if lipid composition of HSA varies among commercial products and its effects on embryo quality, implantation, and fetal outcomes are relatively unknown. METHODS Utilizing a mouse model of embryo culture, we cultured zygotes until the blastocyst stage (72-h culture) in G1/G2 containing either Vitrolife HSA, Sage HSA, or Recombinant HSA at 10%. Blastocyst quality (development, total cell number, superoxide generation), blastocyst lipid content (neutral lipids, non-esterified fatty acids, phospholipids, and triglycerides), implantation, and fetal lengths and weights were assessed. Fatty acid quantification of HSA source was assessed by standard thin-layer chromatography. RESULTS Sage HSA had the greatest fatty acid composition, with an eightfold increase in saturated fatty acids. This coincided with reduced blastocyst development, increased superoxide generation, neutral lipids and triglycerides levels of blastocysts, and decreased implantation rates (p < 0.05). Unexpectedly, while Recombinant HSA had the lowest overall lipids it had 70-fold increase in palmitoleic acid and the lowest fetal weights (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Indicates the importance of a balance between different types/amount of lipids, and an "optimal ratio" required for embryo and fetal development. Therefore, the lipid content of HSA should be considered when choosing a suitable HSA source for use in clinical IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Repromed, Dulwich South Australia, Australia.
- Department of Bioengineering, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
- Monash University, Clayton, Australia.
- Monash IVF Group, Richmond, Victoria, Australia.
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.
| | - Lauren Villarosa
- Repromed, Dulwich South Australia, Australia
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Nicole O McPherson
- Robinson Research Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
- School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
- Freemasons Center for Male Health and Wellbeing, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
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5
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Delaroche L, Oger P, Genauzeau E, Meicler P, Lamazou F, Dupont C, Humaidan P. Embryotoxicity testing of IVF disposables: how do manufacturers test? Hum Reprod 2021; 35:283-292. [PMID: 32053198 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2019] [Revised: 11/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do manufacturers perform embryotoxicity testing in their quality control programs when validating IVF consumables? SUMMARY ANSWER The Mouse Embryo Assay (MEA) and Human Sperm Survival Assay (HSSA) used for IVF disposables differed from one manufacturer to another. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Many components used in IVF laboratories, such as culture media and disposable consumables, may negatively impact human embryonic development. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Through a questionnaire-based survey, the main manufacturers of IVF disposable devices were contacted during the period November to December 2018 to compare the methodology of the MEA and HSSA. We focused on catheters for embryo transfer, catheters for insemination, straws, serological pipettes, culture dishes and puncture needles used in the ART procedures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS We approached the manufacturers of IVF disposables and asked for details about methodology of the MEA and HSSA performed for toxicity testing of their IVF disposable devices. All specific parameters like mouse strains, number of embryos used, culture conditions (media, temperature, atmosphere), extraction protocol, subcontracting, and thresholds were registered and compared between companies. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Twenty-one companies were approached, of which only 11 answered the questionnaire. Significant differences existed in the methodologies and thresholds of the MEA and HSSA used for toxicity testing of IVF disposables. Importantly, some of these parameters could influence the sensitivity of the tests. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although we approached the main IVF manufacturers, the response rate was relatively low. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study confirms the high degree of heterogeneity of the embryotoxicity tests performed by manufacturers when validating their IVF disposable devices. Currently, no regulations exist on this issue. Professionals should call for and request standardization and a future higher degree of transparency as regards embryotoxicity testing from supplying companies; moreover, companies should be urged to provide the users clear and precise information about the results of their tests and how testing was performed. Future recommendations are urgently awaited to improve the sensitivity and reproducibility of embryotoxicity assays over time. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study did not receive any funding. L.D. declares a competing interest with Patrick Choay SAS. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Delaroche
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France.,Centre de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - P Oger
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - E Genauzeau
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France.,Centre de Biologie Médicale, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - P Meicler
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - F Lamazou
- Centre d'AMP, Ramsay Santé, Hôpital Privé de Parly 2, 21 rue Moxouris, 78150 Le Chesnay, France
| | - C Dupont
- INSERM équipe Lipodystrophies génétiques et acquises. Service de biologie de la reproduction-CECOS, Sorbonne Université, Saint Antoine Research Center, AP-HP, Hôpital Tenon, F-75020 Paris, France
| | - P Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Resenvej 25, 7800 Skive, Denmark.,Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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6
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Motiei M, Vaculikova K, Cela A, Tvrdonova K, Khalili R, Rumpik D, Rumpikova T, Glatz Z, Saha T. Non-Invasive Human Embryo Metabolic Assessment as a Developmental Criterion. J Clin Med 2020; 9:E4094. [PMID: 33353110 PMCID: PMC7766269 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9124094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [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: 11/24/2020] [Revised: 12/14/2020] [Accepted: 12/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The selection of a highly-viable single embryo in assisted reproductive technology requires an acceptable predictive method in order to reduce the multiple pregnancy rate and increase the success rate. In this study, the metabolomic profiling of growing and impaired embryos was assessed on the fifth day of fertilization using capillary electrophoresis in order to find a relationship between the profiling and embryo development, and then to provide a mechanistic insight into the appearance/depletion of the metabolites. This unique qualitative technique exhibited the appearance of most non-essential amino acids and lactate, and depleting the serine, alanyl-glutamine and pyruvate in such a manner that the embryos impaired in their development secreted a considerably higher level of lactate and consumed a significantly higher amount of alanyl-glutamine. The different significant ratios of metabolomic depletion/appearance between the embryos confirm their potential for the improvement of the prospective selection of the developed single embryos, and also suggest the fact that pyruvate and alanyl-glutamine are the most critical ATP suppliers on the fifth day of blastocyst development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Motiei
- Centre of Polymer Systems, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Třída Tomáše Bati 5678, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic
| | - Katerina Vaculikova
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
| | - Andrea Cela
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Katerina Tvrdonova
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Sciences, University of Hradec Kralove, 50003 Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic;
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk, University Hospital Brno, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Reza Khalili
- Department of Paediatrics and Inherited Metabolic Disorders, First Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and General University Hospital in Prague, Ke Karlovu 2, 12808 Prague, Czech Republic;
| | - David Rumpik
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Tatana Rumpikova
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (D.R.); (T.R.)
| | - Zdenek Glatz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science, Masaryk University, 62500 Brno, Czech Republic; (A.C.); (Z.G.)
| | - Tomas Saha
- Footwear Research Centre, University Institute, Tomas Bata University in Zlin, Nad Ovcirnou 3685, 76001 Zlin, Czech Republic; (K.V.); (T.S.)
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7
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Walters EA, Brown JL, Krisher R, Voelkel S, Swain JE. Impact of a controlled culture temperature gradient on mouse embryo development and morphokinetics. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:494-499. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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8
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‘There is only one thing that is truly important in an IVF laboratory: everything’ Cairo Consensus Guidelines on IVF Culture Conditions. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:33-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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9
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Magata F, Ideta A, Okubo H, Matsuda F, Urakawa M, Oono Y. Growth potential of bovine embryos presenting abnormal cleavage observed through time lapse cinematography. Theriogenology 2019; 133:119-124. [PMID: 31085381 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2019.04.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2019] [Revised: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 04/26/2019] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Time-lapse monitoring (TLM) has emerged as a novel technology for the continuous and noninvasive evaluation of embryos. TLM has revealed the prevalence of specific dysmorphisms such as abnormal development during the early-cleavage stage of embryos. However, little information is available on the prevalence and consequences of abnormal cleavage in bovine embryos. Hence, this study aimed to investigate growth potential of bovine embryos presenting abnormal cleavage, such as reverse cleavage (RC), direct cleavage (DC), and irregular and unsmooth ruffling of the oolema membrane (ruffling). Bovine embryos derived through in vitro fertilization (IVF) were cultured in the microwell culture dishes, and the kinetics of in vitro development were observed through TLM at 20-min intervals for 10 d. Approximately 36% of embryos that developed into a blastocyst presented abnormal cleavage. Morphokinetic evaluations revealed that RC, DC, and ruffling embryos showed slower development compared to embryos with normal cleavage (P < 0.01). Embryos with RC and DC, but not ruffling, revealed impaired hatchability (P < 0.05) with increased collapses of the blastocyst cavity until hatching (P < 0.0001). Moreover, the RC and DC embryos presented increased chromosomal aneuploidy (P < 0.05). These results suggest a compromised viability of embryos with RC and DC. This is the first report that clarified the effect of abnormal cleavage on the morphokinetics and growth potential of bovine IVF embryos. Results indicate that the kinetic evaluation of bovine embryos using the time-lapse imaging system will be beneficial for selecting embryos with a high viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Magata
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Veterinary Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan.
| | - A Ideta
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - H Okubo
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - F Matsuda
- Department of Veterinary Medical Science, The University of Tokyo, Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - M Urakawa
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
| | - Y Oono
- Research and Development Group, Zen-noh Embryo Transfer Center, Kamishihoro, Hokkaido, Japan
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10
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Pollet-Villard X, Levy R. [Impact of air quality on practices and results in the IVF laboratory]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 46:713-728. [PMID: 30340957 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
The concept of Air Quality often refers to particulate and microbiological contamination of ambiant air. European Directive 2006/86/CE encompass the IVF process and specify a class A air quality for manipulation of tissue and cells, in a class D environment (A over D rule). Recognizing the paramount importance of ensuring the highest microbiological and particulate safety in the IVF laboratory, it is equally important to take into account practicability issues and the financial burden of these recommendations, as well as the utter need to protect gametes and embryo viability during their IVF journey. The usefulness of such stringent recommendations may also be questionned given the absence of published cases of airborne contaminations and related patients infections after embryo transfer. The European directive stems from pharmaceutical standards and were not specifically designed for human IVF. Gametes and embryos are indeed extremely sensitive to physical and chemical stress and require strict temperature, osmolarity and pH control, as well as an absence of chemical contamination during manipulation and culture. These conditions are hardly obtained when using laminar flow hoods. Following concerns raised by many experts in the field, exceptions to the A over D rule were added in the 2006/86/CE Directives. This narrative review discusses all these aspects in a critical way and compare scientific and legal requirements applying to IVF practices in different regions of the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- X Pollet-Villard
- Nataliance, laboratoire Medibio, laboratoire BPR-as, LaboFrance, 755, avenue Jacqueline-Auriol, 45770 Saran, France.
| | - R Levy
- Service de médecine de la reproduction-Cecos, hôpital Tenon, HUEP, AP-HP, 4, rue de la Chine, 75020 Paris, France; UMRS 938, Sorbonne universités, université Pierre-et-Marie-Curie (UPMC), université Paris 06, 75012 Paris France
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11
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 32:451-460. [PMID: 29695546 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
There are numerous reports on embryo culture media and conditions in the laboratory, as the subject is multifaceted and complex, reflecting the variation in practice. In this scoping review, we attempt to approach the topic of culture media and conditions from the practitioners' perspective aiming to highlight, in a comprehensive fashion, important aspects regarding the options available, introduce points of debate and controversy, while maintaining the viewpoint of the practicing embryologist's concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Deligeoroglou
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Mortimer D, Cohen J, Mortimer ST, Fawzy M, McCulloh DH, Morbeck DE, Pollet-Villard X, Mansour RT, Brison DR, Doshi A, Harper JC, Swain JE, Gilligan AV. Cairo consensus on the IVF laboratory environment and air quality: report of an expert meeting. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:658-674. [PMID: 29656830 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Revised: 02/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
This proceedings report presents the outcomes from an international Expert Meeting to establish a consensus on the recommended technical and operational requirements for air quality within modern assisted reproduction technology (ART) laboratories. Topics considered included design and construction of the facility, as well as its heating, ventilation and air conditioning system; control of particulates, micro-organisms (bacteria, fungi and viruses) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) within critical areas; safe cleaning practices; operational practices to optimize air quality while minimizing physicochemical risks to gametes and embryos (temperature control versus air flow); and appropriate infection-control practices that minimize exposure to VOC. More than 50 consensus points were established under the general headings of assessing site suitability, basic design criteria for new construction, and laboratory commissioning and ongoing VOC management. These consensus points should be considered as aspirational benchmarks for existing ART laboratories, and as guidelines for the construction of new ART laboratories.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Mortimer
- Oozoa Biomedical, Box 93012 Caulfeild Village, West Vancouver, BC, V7W 3G4, Canada.
| | - J Cohen
- ART Institute of Washington, 3 Regent Street, Suite 301, Livingston, New Jersey 07039, USA
| | - S T Mortimer
- Oozoa Biomedical, Box 93012 Caulfeild Village, West Vancouver, BC, V7W 3G4, Canada
| | - M Fawzy
- Ibnsina and Banon IVF Centers, IbnSina Hospital, El Aref Squeer, Sohag, 123456 Egypt
| | - D H McCulloh
- NYU Fertility Center, New York University Langone Medical Center, New York, NY 10016, USA
| | - D E Morbeck
- Fertility Associates, Private Bag 28901 Remuera, Auckland 1051, New Zealand
| | - X Pollet-Villard
- Centre AMP Nataliance, Laboratoire Medibio, 551 Avenue Jacqueline Auriol, 45770 Saran, France
| | - R T Mansour
- The Egyptian IVF-ET Center, 3 St. 161 Maadi Gardens, Cairo, 11431 Egypt
| | - D R Brison
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - A Doshi
- The Embryology and PGD Academy Ltd, 85 Walden Road, Sewards End, Saffron Walden, Essex CB10 2LG, UK
| | - J C Harper
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, Gower Street, London WC1E 6BT, UK
| | - J E Swain
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, 10290 RidgeGate Circle, Lone Tree, Colorado 80124, USA
| | - A V Gilligan
- Alpha Environmental Inc, 11 Ackerman Avenue, Emerson, NJ 07630, USA
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Fawzy M, Emad M, Gad MA, Sabry M, Kasem H, Mahmoud M, Bedaiwy MA. Comparing 36.5°C with 37°C for human embryo culture: a prospective randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 36:620-626. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2017] [Revised: 12/11/2017] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
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Herrick JR, Lyons SM, Greene-Ermisch AF, Broeckling CD, Schoolcraft WB, Krisher RL. A carnivore embryo's perspective on essential amino acids and ammonium in culture medium: effects on the development of feline embryos†. Biol Reprod 2018; 99:1070-1081. [DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2018] [Accepted: 05/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jason R Herrick
- Colorado Center for Reproductive Medicine, Lone Tree, Colorado, USA
| | - Sarah M Lyons
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
| | | | - Corey D Broeckling
- Proteomics and Metabolomics Facility, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, Colorado, USA
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16
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Fawzy M, AbdelRahman MY, Zidan MH, Abdel Hafez FF, Abdelghafar H, Al-Inany H, Bedaiwy MA. Humid versus dry incubator: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:277-283. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 05/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Improved detection of mineral oil toxicity using an extended mouse embryo assay. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:391-397. [PMID: 28064422 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0856-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2016] [Accepted: 11/25/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Successful in vitro fertilization (IVF) relies on sound laboratory methods and culture conditions which depend on sensitive quality control (QC) testing. This study aimed to improve the sensitivity of mouse embryo assays (MEA) for detection of mineral oil toxicity. METHODS Five experiments were conducted to study modifications of the standard mouse embryo assay (MEA) in order to improve sensitivity using clinical grade mineral oil with known peroxide concentrations. Assessment of blastocyst development at either 96 h or in an extended MEA (eMEA) to 144 h was tested in each experiment. In experiment 1, ability to detect peroxides in oil was compared in the MEA, eMEA, and cell number at 96 h. In experiment 2, serial dilutions of peroxide in oil were used along with time-lapse imaging to compare sensitivity of the morphokinetic MEA to the eMEA. Culture conditions that may affect assay sensitivity were assessed in experiments 3-5, which examined the effect of group versus individual culture, oxygen concentration, and protein supplementation. RESULTS Extended MEA and cell counts identified toxicity not detected by the routine endpoint of blastocyst rate at 96 h. The eMEA was fourfold more sensitive than the standard MEA, and this sensitivity was similar to the morphokinetic MEA. Group culture had a protective effect against toxicity, while oxygen concentration did not affect blastocyst development. Protein supplementation with HSA had a protective effect on blastocyst development in eMEA. CONCLUSIONS The standard MEA used by manufacturers does not detect potentially lethal toxicity of peroxides in mineral oil. While group culture may mask toxicity, protein supplementation and oxygen concentration have minimal effect on assay sensitivity. The eMEA and time-lapse morphokinetic assessment are equally effective in detection of peroxide toxicity and thus provide manufacturers and end-users a simple process modification that can be readily adopted into an existing QC program.
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Blondin P. Logistics of large scale commercial IVF embryo production. Reprod Fertil Dev 2017; 29:32-36. [DOI: 10.1071/rd16317] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The use of IVF in agriculture is growing worldwide. This can be explained by the development of better IVF media and techniques, development of sexed semen and the recent introduction of bovine genomics on farms. Being able to perform IVF on a large scale, with multiple on-farm experts to perform ovum pick-up and IVF laboratories capable of handling large volumes in a consistent and sustainable way, remains a huge challenge. To be successful, there has to be a partnership between veterinarians on farms, embryologists in the laboratory and animal owners. Farmers must understand the limits of what IVF can or cannot do under different conditions; veterinarians must manage expectations of farmers once strategies have been developed regarding potential donors; and embryologists must maintain fluent communication with both groups to make sure that objectives are met within predetermined budgets. The logistics of such operations can be very overwhelming, but the return can be considerable if done right. The present mini review describes how such operations can become a reality, with an emphasis on the different aspects that must be considered by all parties.
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Blomfield S, Redding GP, Bronlund JE, Stewart B, Peek J. A Model for Characterisation of the Thermal Environment of Embryos in a Petri Dish During In Vitro Culture. Cell Mol Bioeng 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s12195-016-0454-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
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Can we modify assisted reproductive technology practice to broaden reproductive care access? Fertil Steril 2016; 105:1138-1143. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.03.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2016] [Accepted: 03/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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Gilbert RS, Nunez B, Sakurai K, Fielder T, Ni HT. Genetic mouse embryo assay: improving performance and quality testing for assisted reproductive technology (ART) with a functional bioassay. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:13. [PMID: 27009109 PMCID: PMC4806453 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0149-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Accepted: 03/15/2016] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growing concerns about safety of ART on human gametes, embryos, clinical outcomes and long-term health of offspring require improved methods of risk assessment to provide functionally relevant assays for quality control testing and pre-clinical studies prior to clinical implementation. The one-cell mouse embryo assay (MEA) is the most widely used for development and quality testing of human ART products; however, concerns exist due to the insensitivity/variability of this bioassay which lacks standardization and involves subjective analysis by morphology alone rather than functional analysis of the developing embryos. We hypothesized that improvements to MEA by the use of functional molecular biomarkers could enhance sensitivity and improve detection of suboptimal materials/conditions. RESULTS Fresh one-cell transgenic mouse embryos with green fluorescent protein (GFP) expression driven by Pou6f1 or Cdx2 control elements were harvested and cultured to blastocysts in varied test and control conditions to compare assessment by standard morphology alone versus the added dynamic expression of GFP for screening and selection of critical raw materials and detection of suboptimal culture conditions. Transgenic mouse embryos expressing functionally relevant biomarkers of normal early embryo development can be used to monitor the developmental impact of culture conditions. CONCLUSIONS This novel approach provides a superior MEA that is more meaningful and sensitive for detection of embryotoxicity than morphological assessment alone.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca S. Gilbert
- Department of Research and Development, Irvine Scientific, 1830 E. Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 USA
| | - Brandy Nunez
- Department of Research and Development, Irvine Scientific, 1830 E. Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 USA
| | - Kumi Sakurai
- Department of Research and Development, Irvine Scientific, 1830 E. Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 USA
| | - Thomas Fielder
- Transgenic Mouse Facility, University of California Irvine (UCI), 121 Bison Modular, Irvine, CA 92697 USA
| | - Hsiao-Tzu Ni
- Department of Research and Development, Irvine Scientific, 1830 E. Warner Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92705 USA
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Doody KJ, Broome EJ, Doody KM. Comparing blastocyst quality and live birth rates of intravaginal culture using INVOcell™ to traditional in vitro incubation in a randomized open-label prospective controlled trial. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:495-500. [PMID: 26843390 PMCID: PMC4818641 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0661-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2015] [Accepted: 01/13/2016] [Indexed: 10/27/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study is to to compare the efficacy of intravaginal culture (IVC) of embryos in INVOcell™ (INVO Bioscience, MA, USA) to traditional in vitro fertilization (IVF) incubators in a laboratory setting using a mild pre-determined stimulation regimen based solely on anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) and body weight with minimal ultrasound monitoring. The primary endpoint examined was total quality blastocysts expressed as a percentage of total oocytes placed in incubation. Secondary endpoints included percentage of quality blastocysts transferred, pregnancy, and live birth rates. METHODS In this prospective randomized open-label controlled single-center study, 40 women aged <38 years of age with a body mass index (BMI) of <36 and an AMH of 1-3 ng/mL were randomized prior to trigger to receive either IVC or IVF. Controlled ovarian stimulation was administered with human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) in a fixed gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist cycle based solely on AMH and body weight. A single ultrasound-monitoring visit was performed on the 10th day of stimulation. One or two embryos were transferred following 5 days of culture. RESULTS IVF produced a greater percentage of total quality embryos as compared to IVC (50.6 vs. 30.7 %, p = 0.0007, respectively). There was no significant difference between in IVF and IVC in the percentage of quality blastocysts transferred (97.5 vs. 84.9 %, p = 0.09) or live birth rate (60 % IVF, 55 % IVC). CONCLUSIONS IVF was shown to be superior to IVC in creating quality blastocysts. However, both IVF and IVC produced identical blastocysts for transfer resulting in similar live birth rates. IVC using INVOcell™ is effective and may broaden access to fertility care in selected patient populations by ameliorating the need for a traditional IVF laboratory setting. Further studies will help elucidate the potential physiological, psychological, geographic, and financial impact of IVC on the delivery of fertility care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin J Doody
- Center for Assisted Reproduction, 1701 Park Place Ave, Bedford, TX, 76022, USA.
| | | | - Kathleen M Doody
- Center for Assisted Reproduction, 1701 Park Place Ave, Bedford, TX, 76022, USA
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Building a better mouse embryo assay: effects of mouse strain and in vitro maturation on sensitivity to contaminants of the culture environment. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 33:237-45. [PMID: 26644221 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0623-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2015] [Accepted: 11/22/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study is to compare the sensitivity of the standard one-cell mouse embryo assay (MEA) to that using in vitro-matured oocytes from hybrid and outbred mice. METHODS The study was done by culturing embryos in the presence or absence of two concentrations (0.0005 or 0.001 % v/v) of Triton X-100 (TX100). Embryonic development, blastocyst cell numbers (total and allocation to the trophectoderm [TE] and inner cell mass [ICM]), and blastocyst gene expression were evaluated. RESULTS Neither concentration of TX100 affected (P > 0.05) cleavage, blastocyst development, or hatching in one-cell embryos from BDF1 mice. However, all cell number endpoints were reduced (P < 0.05) by the high concentration of TX100 and the number of ICM cells was reduced (P < 0.05) by the low concentration of TX100. Inhibitory (P < 0.05) effects of the high concentration of TX100 were observed in in vitro maturation (IVM) embryos from BDF1, CF1, and SW, but not ICR, mice. Cell number and allocation were negatively affected by the high concentration of TX100 in CF1 and SW embryos, but not in BDF1 or ICR embryos. The only developmental endpoints affected by the low concentration of TX100 were cleavage of BDF1 oocytes, blastocyst development of SW embryos, and cell numbers (total and inner cell mass (ICM)) of SW blastocysts. CONCLUSIONS The sensitivity of the MEA to TX100 is improved by using embryos from in vitro-matured oocytes, using oocytes from some outbred (SW or CF1, not ICR) strains of mice, and evaluating blastocyst cell number and allocation.
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Braga DPAF, Halpern G, Setti AS, Figueira RCS, Iaconelli A, Borges E. The impact of food intake and social habits on embryo quality and the likelihood of blastocyst formation. Reprod Biomed Online 2015; 31:30-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2015.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2014] [Revised: 03/03/2015] [Accepted: 03/17/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
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Swain JE. Decisions for the IVF laboratory: comparative analysis of embryo culture incubators. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:535-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 12/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Stimulation of mitochondrial embryo metabolism by dichloroacetic acid in an aged mouse model improves embryo development and viability. Fertil Steril 2014; 101:1458-66. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.12.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2013] [Revised: 12/05/2013] [Accepted: 12/26/2013] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
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Butler JM, Johnson JE, Boone WR. The heat is on: room temperature affects laboratory equipment--an observational study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1389-93. [PMID: 23918464 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0064-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2013] [Accepted: 07/17/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the effect of ambient room temperature on equipment typically used in in vitro fertilization (IVF). DESIGN We set the control temperature of the room to 20 °C (+/-0.3) and used CIMScan probes to record temperatures of the following equipment: six microscope heating stages, four incubators, five slide warmers and three heating blocks. We then increased the room temperature to 26 °C (+/-0.3) or decreased it to 17 °C (+/-0.3) and monitored the same equipment again. We wanted to determine what role, if any, changing room temperature has on equipment temperature fluctuation. RESULTS There was a direct relationship between room temperature and equipment temperature stability. When room temperature increased or decreased, equipment temperature reacted in a corresponding manner. Statistical differences between equipment were found when the room temperature changed. What is also noteworthy is that temperature of equipment responded within 5 min to a change in room temperature. CONCLUSIONS Clearly, it is necessary to be aware of the affect of room temperature on equipment when performing assisted reproductive procedures. Room and equipment temperatures should be monitored faithfully and adjusted as frequently as needed, so that consistent culture conditions can be maintained. If more stringent temperature control can be achieved, human assisted reproduction success rates may improve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia M Butler
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Greenville Health System University Medical Group, 890 W. Faris Rd., Suite 470, Greenville, SC, USA,
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Zander-Fox D, Lane M, Hamilton H. Slow freezing and vitrification of mouse morula and early blastocysts. J Assist Reprod Genet 2013; 30:1091-8. [PMID: 23888311 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-013-0056-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2013] [Accepted: 07/10/2013] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess the relative success of morula and early blastocyst slow freezing and vitrification in regards to survival and implantation rates utilising protocols which could be clinically implemented as a viable alternative to expanded blastocyst stage freezing. METHODS Mouse morula and early blastocysts were either slow frozen/thawed or vitrified/warmed. Their subsequent survival, blastocyst development and blastocyst cell number and allocation to either the inner cell mass, trophectoderm or epiblast was assessed. In addition blastocysts were also transferred to pseudopregnant recipients and implantation and fetal development was determined. RESULTS Vitrification of both morula and early blastocysts resulted in significantly higher rates of survival and blastocyst development compared to slow freezing. In addition slow frozen early blastocysts had significantly reduced blastocyst cell number compared to control however vitrified morula and early blasocyts and slow frozen morula had equivocal blastocyst cell numbers. Transfer of blastocysts from both methods of cryopreservation resulted in similar implantation rates however the placentas created from slow frozen early blastocysts were significantly lighter than control (95.5 g ± 5.4 vs. 122.0 g ± 4.2 respectively). CONCLUSIONS Vitrification resulted in significantly higher rates of morula and early blastocyst survival and blastocyst development compared to slow freezing. In addition this study has validated the use of a closed DMSO free vitrification protocol which could then be investigated for use in the clinical setting as an alternative to expanded blastocyst freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Deirdre Zander-Fox
- Repromed Department of R&D, 180 Fullarton Road, Dulwich, South Australia, Australia,
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Wolff HS, Fredrickson JR, Walker DL, Morbeck DE. Advances in quality control: mouse embryo morphokinetics are sensitive markers of in vitro stress. Hum Reprod 2013; 28:1776-82. [PMID: 23595971 PMCID: PMC3685335 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/det102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can time-lapse analysis of cell division timings [morphokinetics (MK)] in mouse embryos detect toxins at concentrations that do not affect blastocyst formation? SUMMARY ANSWER An MK algorithm enhances assay sensitivity while providing results 24–48 h sooner than the traditional mouse embryo assay (MEA). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Current quality control testing methodology is sensitive but further improvements are needed to assure optimal culture conditions. MKs of embryo development may detect small variations in culture conditions. STUDY DESIGN Cross sectional—control versus treatment. Mouse embryo development kinetics of 466 embryos were analyzed according to exposure to various concentrations of toxins and toxic mineral oil. MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Cryopreserved 1-cell embryos from F1 hybrid mice were cultured with cumene hydroperoxide (CH) (0, 2, 4, 6 and 8 µM) and Triton X-100 (TX-100; 0, 0.0008, 0.0012, 0.0016 and 0.002%). Using the Embryoscope, time-lapse images were obtained every 20 min for 120 h in seven focal planes. End-points were timing and pattern of cell division and embryo development. The blastocyst rate (BR) was defined as the percentage of embryos that developed to the expanded blastocyst stage within 96 h. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE BR was not affected for embryos cultured in the three lowest concentrations of CH and the four lowest concentrations of TX-100. In contrast, a unique MK model detected all concentrations tested (P < 0.05). The MK model identified toxicity in two lots of toxic mineral oil that did not affect BR (P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limited number of toxins were used so that the results may not apply to all potential embryo toxins. A larger sample size may also demonstrate other statistically significant developmental kinetic parameters. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS MKs in mouse embryos are a sensitive and efficient method for quality control testing of in vitro culture conditions. BR, the end-point of traditional quality control assays, did not detect sublethal concentrations of toxins in the culture milieu in our study. This study demonstrates that temporal variation at key developmental stages reflects the quality of the culture environment. An MEA that incorporates MK will provide enhanced sensitivity and faster turn-around times. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study was supported by Mayo Clinic Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology Small Grant Program. The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- H S Wolff
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN 55905, USA
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Khan Z, Wolff HS, Fredrickson JR, Walker DL, Daftary GS, Morbeck DE. Mouse strain and quality control testing: improved sensitivity of the mouse embryo assay with embryos from outbred mice. Fertil Steril 2013. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
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Campbell JM, Lane M, Vassiliev I, Nottle MB. Epiblast cell number and primary embryonic stem cell colony generation are increased by culture of cleavage stage embryos in insulin. J Reprod Dev 2012; 59:131-8. [PMID: 23171593 PMCID: PMC3934205 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2012-103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Human embryos for hESC derivation are often donated at the cleavage stage and of reduced
quality. Poor quality embryos have lower efficiency for hESC derivation. However, cleavage
stage mouse embryos develop into higher quality expanded blastocysts if they are cultured
with insulin, suggesting that this approach could be used to improve hESC derivation from
poor quality cleavage stage embryos. The present study used a mouse model to examine this
approach. In particular we examined the effect of insulin on the number of epiblast cells
in blastocysts on days 4, 5 and 6 using Oct4 and Nanog co-expression. Second we examined
the effect of insulin on the frequency with which outgrowths can be derived from these.
Finally, we tested whether prior culture in the presence of insulin results in blastocysts
with increased capacity to generate ESC colonies. Culture of cleavage stage embryos with
insulin increased the number of Oct4 and Nanog positive cells in blastocysts at all time
points examined. Prior culture with insulin had no effect on outgrowths generated from
blastocysts plated on days 4 or 5. However, insulin treatment of blastocysts plated on day
6 resulted in increased numbers of outgrowths with larger epiblasts compared with
controls. 13% of insulin treated day 6 blastocysts produced primary ESC colonies compared
with 6% of controls. In conclusion, treatment with insulin can improve epiblast cell
number in mice leading to an increase with which primary ESC colonies can be generated and
may improve hESC isolation from reduced quality embryos donated at the cleavage stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Campbell
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, SA 5005, Australia
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Braga DPAF, Setti AS, de Cássia S Figueira R, Machado RB, Iaconelli A, Borges E. Patient selection criteria for blastocyst transfers in extended embryo culture programs. J Assist Reprod Genet 2012; 29:1357-62. [PMID: 23054364 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-012-9875-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2012] [Accepted: 10/02/2012] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify the correlation between different cycles, patient factors and blastocyst characteristics. METHODS The study included 420 patients undergoing ICSI cycles and 2781 graded blastocysts, which took into account the blastocyst quality. The correlations between the blastocyst parameters and the patient and cycle characteristics were assessed. RESULTS The blastocyst development was negatively correlated with the maternal age, BMI and dose of FSH. The ICM was negatively correlated with the FSH dose, whereas the TE quality was influenced by the FSH dose, the maternal age and the number of retrieved oocytes. The embryo morphology on days two and three may predict the blastocyst developmental competence. CONCLUSIONS Older patients and patients with high BMI should not be included in extended embryo culture programmes. The extended culture may not favour embryos with poor morphology on days two and three of development. Additionally, a lower ovarian stimulation and decreased oocyte yields may lead to the development of high-quality blastocysts.
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Potential of inner cell mass outgrowth and amino acid turnover as markers of quality in the in vitro fertilization laboratory. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:863-9.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2012] [Revised: 05/11/2012] [Accepted: 06/11/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Campbell JM, Nottle MB, Vassiliev I, Mitchell M, Lane M. Insulin increases epiblast cell number of in vitro cultured mouse embryos via the PI3K/GSK3/p53 pathway. Stem Cells Dev 2012; 21:2430-41. [PMID: 22339667 DOI: 10.1089/scd.2011.0598] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
High-quality embryos give rise to embryonic stem cells (ESCs) at greater efficiencies than poor-quality embryos. However, most embryos available for human ESC derivation are of a reduced quality as a result of culture in relatively simple media up to 10 years earlier, before cryopreservation, or before compaction. In the present study, we used a mouse model to determine whether a culture with insulin from the 8-cell stage could increase the number of ESC progenitor epiblast cells in blastocysts, as well as endeavor to determine the molecular mechanism of the insulin's effect. Culture in media containing 1.7 ρM insulin increased epiblast cell number (determined by Oct4 and Nanog co-expression), and proportion in day 6 blastocysts. The inhibition of phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K) (via LY294002), an early second messenger of the insulin receptor, blocked this effect. The inhibition of glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3) or p53, 2 s messengers inactivated by insulin signaling (via CT99021 or pifithrin-α, respectively), increased epiblast cell numbers. When active, GSK3 and p53 block the transcription of Nanog, which is important for maintaining pluripotency. A simultaneous inhibition of GSK3 and p53 had no synergistic effects on epiblast cell number. The induced activation of GSK3 and p53, via the inhibition of proteins responsible for their inactivation (PKA via H-89 and SIRT-1 via nicotinamide, respectively), blocked the insulin's effect on the epiblast.From our findings, we conclude that insulin increases epiblast cell number via the activation of PI3K, which ultimately inactivates GSK3 and p53. Furthermore, we suggest that the inclusion of insulin in culture media could be used as a strategy for increasing the efficiency with which the ESC lines can be derived from cultured embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jared M Campbell
- Centre for Stem Cell Research, School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia.
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Campbell JM, Mitchell M, Nottle MB, Lane M. Development of a Mouse Model for Studying the Effect of Embryo Culture on Embryonic Stem Cell Derivation. Stem Cells Dev 2011; 20:1577-86. [DOI: 10.1089/scd.2010.0357] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jared M. Campbell
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
- Centre for Stem Cell Research, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Megan Mitchell
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Mark B. Nottle
- Centre for Stem Cell Research, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
- Robinson Institute, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
| | - Michelle Lane
- School of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia
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Wakefield SL, Lane M, Mitchell M. Impaired Mitochondrial Function in the Preimplantation Embryo Perturbs Fetal and Placental Development in the Mouse1. Biol Reprod 2011; 84:572-80. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.110.087262] [Citation(s) in RCA: 89] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
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Fullston T, Mitchell M, Wakefield S, Lane M. Mitochondrial inhibition during preimplantation embryogenesis shifts the transcriptional profile of fetal mouse brain. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:691-701. [DOI: 10.1071/rd10292] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2010] [Accepted: 02/01/2011] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Environmental stress results in perturbations to mitochondrial function in the preimplantation embryo and hinders subsequent embryo and possibly offspring development. Global gene expression in fetal mouse brain was investigated following targeted mitochondrial inhibition by amino-oxyacetate (AOA) from the 2-cell to the blastocyst stage. Blastocysts were transferred to pseudopregnant recipients and RNA extracted from Day 18 fetal brains for microarray interrogation. Exposure to 5 μM AOA during preimplantation embryo development induced differential expression of 166 genes (>1.25 fold) in the fetal brain, relative to control medium-cultured embryos. Altered expression pathways included carbohydrate metabolism, neurological development, cellular proliferation and death, DNA replication, recombination and repair. Of 28 genes exhibiting the greatest change in expression, qPCR confirmed that 16 were significantly altered. Targeted qPCR assessment of a further 20 genes associated with methylation, acetylation and mitochondrial dysfunction revealed that three were significantly altered (Immp1l, Nars2, Sat2) and Dmap1 exhibited a sex-specific response to AOA exposure. Only 2/48 genes had significantly altered expression by qPCR (Nola3, Timm8b) in fetal brains exposed to 50 μM AOA embryo culture, excluding an AOA dose-dependent response. It was concluded that perturbation of mitochondrial function induced by 5 μM AOA during preimplantation embryo development alters gene expression in the neonatal brain in a manner that suggests that proper brain development may be compromised.
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Boone WR, Higdon HL, Johnson JE. Quality Management Issues in the Assisted Reproduction Laboratory. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1177/205891581000100103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
In the United States, the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Act (CLIA) of 1988 describes requirements and guidelines for implementing a quality control/quality assurance (QC/QA) program for moderate and high complexity laboratories. These requirements and guidelines apply to Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) laboratories as well. The general topic of QC and QA as it pertains to in vitro fertilization (IVF) and embryo transfer (ET) is extensively reviewed. This review summarizes many of the QC and QA events that contribute to the advancement of knowledge in this biotechnological field. These events include control of the culture environment inside and outside of the incubator, as well as factors that affect culture media. This review also discusses, in considerable detail, the QC and the QA that pertain to equipment used within the laboratory and how to control for potential contaminants, which reside within the laboratory. This review provides evidence to indicate the need for laboratory personnel to monitor quality improvement issues on a continuous basis. Personnel must be willing to change as improvements in technology occur in order to meet the ever-evolving demands of a more difficult patient population. Suggestions for meeting these demands are offered.
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Affiliation(s)
- William R. Boone
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - H. Lee Higdon
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
| | - Jane E. Johnson
- Greenville Hospital System University Medical Center, Greenville, South Carolina Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Alterations in mouse embryo intracellular pH by DMO during culture impair implantation and fetal growth. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 21:219-29. [PMID: 20615756 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2009] [Revised: 07/02/2009] [Accepted: 04/16/2010] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
The preimplantation embryo is highly susceptible to in-vitro stress, and although this does not necessarily perturb blastocyst development, it can significantly affect embryo physiology and the ability to form a viable pregnancy. This study determined that the preimplantation mouse embryo is highly sensitive to a small decrease in intracellular pH (<0.2 pH units). Embryos cultured in media containing a weak acid (5,5-dimethyl-2,4-oxazolidinedione; DMO) formed blastocysts with decreased cell number and inner cell mass number, as well as increased apoptosis, even though blastocyst development and morphology were unchanged. Interestingly, the effects were similar regardless of whether the pH stress was present for a short-term 'acute' exposure (during the zygote to 2-cell, or 2-cell to 8-cell division) or an extended 'chronic' period of time (continually from the zygote to the blastocyst stage). Exposure to DMO during the first cleavage division did not alter implantation; however, fetal weight and crown-rump length were significantly decreased (P<0.05). In contrast, continuous exposure to DMO throughout preimplantation development reduced not only implantation but also fetal weight and crown-rump length. This study highlights the importance of correct intracellular pH and demonstrates that slight deviations can significantly impact embryo development and viability.
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Peroxides in mineral oil used for in vitro fertilization: defining limits of standard quality control assays. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:87-92. [PMID: 20107889 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-009-9383-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2009] [Accepted: 12/22/2009] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To determine the relative sensitivities of the 1 and 2-cell mouse embryo assays (MEA) and the human sperm motility assay (HSMA) for peroxides in mineral oil. The effect of peroxide on blastocyst cell number and apoptosis was also studied. METHODS One and two-cell MEA and HSMA were performed using mineral oil containing cumene hydroperoxide (CH). RESULTS The 1-cell MEA was twice as sensitive as the 2-cell MEA and 20-times more sensitive than the HSMA for CH in mineral oil. The sensitivity of the 1-cell MEA doubled when embryos were cultured individually versus group culture. CH decreased blastocyst cell number in a dose dependent manner. CONCLUSIONS Individually cultured 1-cell embryos had the highest sensitivity for peroxides in mineral oil. Current quality control assays, including group cultured murine embryos and human sperm motility, have limited sensitivity for peroxides in mineral oil and may not detect levels of peroxides that cause sub-lethal cellular damage.
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External quality control for embryology laboratories. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 20:68-74. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2009.09.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2008] [Revised: 10/13/2008] [Accepted: 09/10/2009] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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Mitchell M, Cashman KS, Gardner DK, Thompson JG, Lane M. Disruption of mitochondrial malate-aspartate shuttle activity in mouse blastocysts impairs viability and fetal growth. Biol Reprod 2008; 80:295-301. [PMID: 18971426 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.069864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The nutrient requirements and metabolic pathways used by the developing embryo transition from predominantly pyruvate during early cleavage stages to glucose at the blastocyst; however, the complexities involved in the regulation of metabolism at different developmental stages are not clear. The aims of this study were to examine the role of the malate-aspartate shuttle (MAS) in nutrient metabolism pathways in the developing mouse blastocyst and the consequences of impaired metabolism on embryo viability and fetal and placental growth. Eight-cell-stage mouse embryos were cultured in the presence of the MAS inhibitor amino-oxyacetate, with or without pyruvate as an energy substrate in the media. When the MAS was inhibited, the rate of glycolysis and lactate production was significantly elevated and glucose uptake reduced, relative to control cultured embryos in the presence of pyruvate. Despite these changes in embryo metabolism, this did not influence development to the blastocyst stage, but it did reduce the number of inner cell mass and trophectoderm cells. When these embryos were transferred to psuedopregnant females, inhibition of the MAS significantly reduced the proportion of embryos that implanted and developed into fetuses on Day 18 of pregnancy. Finally, fetal growth was reduced while placental weight was maintained, leading to a decreased fetal:placental weight ratio relative to control embryos. These results suggest that impaired metabolism of glucose in the blastocyst via the MAS alters the ability of the embryos to implant and form a pregnancy and leads to reduced fetal weight, likely via altered placental development and function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Megan Mitchell
- Research Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
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