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Antifreeze Proteins: Novel Applications and Navigation towards Their Clinical Application in Cryobanking. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23052639. [PMID: 35269780 PMCID: PMC8910022 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052639] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2022] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 02/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Antifreeze proteins (AFPs) or thermal hysteresis (TH) proteins are biomolecular gifts of nature to sustain life in extremely cold environments. This family of peptides, glycopeptides and proteins produced by diverse organisms including bacteria, yeast, insects and fish act by non-colligatively depressing the freezing temperature of the water below its melting point in a process termed thermal hysteresis which is then responsible for ice crystal equilibrium and inhibition of ice recrystallisation; the major cause of cell dehydration, membrane rupture and subsequent cryodamage. Scientists on the other hand have been exploring various substances as cryoprotectants. Some of the cryoprotectants in use include trehalose, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), ethylene glycol (EG), sucrose, propylene glycol (PG) and glycerol but their extensive application is limited mostly by toxicity, thus fueling the quest for better cryoprotectants. Hence, extracting or synthesizing antifreeze protein and testing their cryoprotective activity has become a popular topic among researchers. Research concerning AFPs encompasses lots of effort ranging from understanding their sources and mechanism of action, extraction and purification/synthesis to structural elucidation with the aim of achieving better outcomes in cryopreservation. This review explores the potential clinical application of AFPs in the cryopreservation of different cells, tissues and organs. Here, we discuss novel approaches, identify research gaps and propose future research directions in the application of AFPs based on recent studies with the aim of achieving successful clinical and commercial use of AFPs in the future.
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Rodrigues AQ, Picolo VL, Goulart JT, Silva IMG, Ribeiro RB, Aguiar BA, Ferreira YB, Oliveira DM, Lucci CM, de Bem AF, Paulini F. Metabolic activity in cryopreserved and grafted ovarian tissue using high-resolution respirometry. Sci Rep 2021; 11:21517. [PMID: 34728762 PMCID: PMC8563867 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-01082-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Accepted: 10/19/2021] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue followed by transplantation represents a strategy to restore ovarian function and fertility. Stress from cryopreservation-thawing processes can lead to alterations and/or damage to mitochondrial structure and functionality. High resolution respirometry and histological analysis were used to evaluate the effect of cryopreservation and transplantation on ovarian tissue. Four different conditions were performed: Fresh non-transplanted tissue, Fresh transplanted tissue, Cryopreserved non-transplanted tissue and Cryopreserved transplanted tissue. All groups were able to respond to the substrates-uncoupler-inhibitor protocol. We found a dramatic decrease in general oxygen consumption in hemi-ovaries submitted to cryopreservation and/or transplantation. The effect of cryopreservation on mitochondrial metabolism was less intense than effect of transplantation, since the transplantation affected all of the mitochondrial states. A total of 2644 follicles were analyzed. Of these, 2198 were classified as morphologically normal. The percentage of morphologically normal follicles was significantly lower in the Cryopreserved transplanted group when compared to the Cryopreserved non-transplanted group and the Fresh transplanted group (p-value < 0.05). Despite decreased follicular viability and mitochondrial activity, the cryopreservation followed by transplantation of ovarian tissue proved feasible for attempts to restore ovarian function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aline Q Rodrigues
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Victor L Picolo
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Jair T Goulart
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Isabella M G Silva
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Rayane B Ribeiro
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Beatriz A Aguiar
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Yasmin B Ferreira
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Daniela M Oliveira
- Department of Genetics and Morphology, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Carolina M Lucci
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Andreza F de Bem
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Paulini
- Department of Physiological Sciences, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Brasília, DF, 70910-900, Brazil.
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Gualtieri R, Kalthur G, Barbato V, Di Nardo M, Adiga SK, Talevi R. Mitochondrial Dysfunction and Oxidative Stress Caused by Cryopreservation in Reproductive Cells. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10030337. [PMID: 33668300 PMCID: PMC7996228 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10030337] [Citation(s) in RCA: 75] [Impact Index Per Article: 25.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2021] [Revised: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/20/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria, fundamental organelles in cell metabolism, and ATP synthesis are responsible for generating reactive oxygen species (ROS), calcium homeostasis, and cell death. Mitochondria produce most ROS, and when levels exceed the antioxidant defenses, oxidative stress (OS) is generated. These changes may eventually impair the electron transport chain, resulting in decreased ATP synthesis, increased ROS production, altered mitochondrial membrane permeability, and disruption of calcium homeostasis. Mitochondria play a key role in the gamete competence to facilitate normal embryo development. However, iatrogenic factors in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) may affect their functional competence, leading to an abnormal reproductive outcome. Cryopreservation, a fundamental technology in ART, may compromise mitochondrial function leading to elevated intracellular OS that decreases sperm and oocytes' competence and the dynamics of fertilization and embryo development. This article aims to review the role played by mitochondria and ROS in sperm and oocyte function and the close, biunivocal relationships between mitochondrial damage and ROS generation during cryopreservation of gametes and gonadal tissues in different species. Based on current literature, we propose tentative hypothesis of mechanisms involved in cryopreservation-associated mitochondrial dysfunction in gametes, and discuss the role played by antioxidants and other agents to retain the competence of cryopreserved reproductive cells and tissues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roberto Gualtieri
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India; (G.K.); (S.K.A.)
| | - Vincenza Barbato
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
| | - Maddalena Di Nardo
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Department of Clinical Embryology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India; (G.K.); (S.K.A.)
- Centre for Fertility Preservation, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal 576 104, India
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Complesso Universitario di Monte S. Angelo, Via Cinthia, 80126 Naples, Italy; (V.B.); (M.D.N.); (R.T.)
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Leonel ECR, Corral A, Risco R, Camboni A, Taboga SR, Kilbride P, Vazquez M, Morris J, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA. Stepped vitrification technique for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20008. [PMID: 31882972 PMCID: PMC6934833 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The advantage of stepped vitrification (SV) is avoiding ice crystal nucleation, while decreasing the toxic effects of high cryoprotectant concentrations. We aimed to test this method for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian cortex was taken from 7 fertile adult women. Samples were subjected to an SV protocol performed in an automatic freezer, which allowed sample transfer to ever higher concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the temperature was reduced. Histological evaluation of the vitrified-warmed tissue showed large numbers of degenerated follicles after 24 hours of in vitro culture. We therefore evaluated DMSO perfusion rates by X-ray computed tomography, ice crystal formation by freeze-substitution, and cell toxicity by transmission electron microscopy, seeking possible reasons why follicles degenerated. Although cryoprotectant perfusion was considered normal and no ice crystals were formed in the tissue, ultrastructural analysis detected typical signs of DMSO toxicity, such as mitochondria degeneration, alterations in chromatin condensation, cell vacuolization and extracellular matrix swelling in both stromal and follicular cells. The findings indicated that the method failed to preserve follicles due to the high concentrations of DMSO used. However, adaptations can be made to avoid toxicity to follicles caused by elevated levels of cryoprotectants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Departament of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Ariadna Corral
- Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA), University of Seville, Calle Thomas Alva Edison 7, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Ramon Risco
- Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA), University of Seville, Calle Thomas Alva Edison 7, 41092, Seville, Spain.,Engineering School of Sevilla, University of Seville, Camino Descubrimientos S/N, Isla Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Departament of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Peter Kilbride
- General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - Marina Vazquez
- Engineering School of Sevilla, University of Seville, Camino Descubrimientos S/N, Isla Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain.,General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - John Morris
- General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Gynecology and Andrology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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Rivas Leonel EC, Lucci CM, Amorim CA. Cryopreservation of Human Ovarian Tissue: A Review. Transfus Med Hemother 2019; 46:173-181. [PMID: 31244585 PMCID: PMC6558345 DOI: 10.1159/000499054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue has been increasingly applied worldwide to safeguard fertility in cancer patients, notably in young girls and women who cannot delay the onset of their treatment. Moreover, it has been proposed to patients with benign pathologies with a risk of premature ovarian insufficiency. So far, more than 130 live births have been reported after transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue, and almost all patients recovered their ovarian function after tissue reimplantation. SUMMARY This review aims to summarize the recent results described in the literature regarding human ovarian tissue cryopreservation in terms of methods and main results obtained so far. To cryopreserve human ovarian tissue, most studies describe a slow freezing/rapid thawing protocol, which is usually an adaptation of a protocol developed for sheep ovarian tissue. Since freezing has been shown to have a deleterious effect on ovarian stroma and granulosa cells, various research groups have been vitrifying ovarian tissue. Despite promising results, only 2 babies have been born after transplantation of vitrified/warmed ovarian tissue. Optimization of both cryopreservation strategies as well as thawing/warming protocols is therefore necessary to improve the survival of follicles in cryopreserved ovarian tissue. KEY MESSAGES Human ovarian tissue cryopreservation has been successfully applied worldwide to preserve fertility in patients with malignant or nonmalignant pathologies that have a detrimental effect on fertility. Human ovarian tissue cryopreservation could also be applied as an alternative to postpone pregnancy or menopause in healthy women. Slow freezing and vitrification procedures have been applied to cryopreserve human ovarian tissue, but both alternatives require optimization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
- Institute of Biosciences, Department of Biology, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Carolina M. Lucci
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Department of Physiology, University of Brasília, Brasília, Brazil
| | - Christiani A. Amorim
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Gallardo M, Paulini F, Corral A, Balcerzyk M, Lucci CM, Ambroise J, Merola M, Fernandez-Maza L, Risco R, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA. Evaluation of a new freezing protocol containing 20% dimethyl sulphoxide concentration to cryopreserve human ovarian tissue. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:653-665. [PMID: 30391164 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.09.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2017] [Revised: 08/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/04/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Could a modification in the ovarian tissue freezing protocol improve follicle survival after cryopreservation and xenotransplantation? DESIGN Ovarian tissue was used from 13 adult patients, frozen either with our original protocol, or a modified version involving a higher concentration of dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO), larger volume of cryopreservation solution and lower seeding temperature. After thawing, the ovarian fragments were xenotransplanted to six mice with severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) for 3 weeks. RESULTS The proportion of primordial follicles decreased, and the proportion of growing follicles increased significantly (all P < 0.01) after cryopreservation and xenografting compared with fresh controls for both protocols. Follicle density, development, ultrastructure and function were similar between treatments. CONCLUSIONS This study showed that, although the higher DMSO concentration did not improve survival of preantral follicles, it did not seem to induce any major toxicity in the follicle population either.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel Gallardo
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Ginemed Clínicas Sevilla, Calle Farmaceutico Murillo Herrera 3, Sevilla 41010, Spain
| | - Fernanda Paulini
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Physiological Sciences Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro - Asa Norte, Brasília DF 70910, Brazil
| | - Ariadna Corral
- National Center for Accelerators, C/Thomas Alva Edison, 7, Seville 41092, Spain
| | - Marcin Balcerzyk
- National Center for Accelerators, C/Thomas Alva Edison, 7, Seville 41092, Spain
| | - Carolina M Lucci
- Physiological Sciences Department, Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Brasília, Campus Universitário Darcy Ribeiro - Asa Norte, Brasília DF 70910, Brazil
| | - Jérôme Ambroise
- Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique and Centre de Technologies Moléculaires Appliquées, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Hippocrate 54, bte. B1.54.01, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Marta Merola
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Rámon Risco
- National Center for Accelerators, C/Thomas Alva Edison, 7, Seville 41092, Spain; Engineering School of Seville, Camino de los Descubrimientos s/n, Seville 41092, Spain
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium; Gynecology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, Brussels 1200, Belgium
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte. B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
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Silva LM, Mbemya GT, Guerreiro DD, Brito DCC, Donfack NJ, Morais MLG, Rodrigues GQ, Bruno JB, Rocha RMP, Alves BG, Apgar GA, Cibin FWS, Figueiredo JR, Rodrigues APR. Effect of Catalase or Alpha Lipoic Acid Supplementation in the Vitrification Solution of Ovine Ovarian Tissue. Biopreserv Biobank 2018; 16:258-269. [DOI: 10.1089/bio.2017.0122] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Luciana M. Silva
- PPGCV-LAMOFOPA-Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Brasil
| | - Gildas T. Mbemya
- PPGCV-LAMOFOPA-Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Brasil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Jamily B. Bruno
- PPGCV-LAMOFOPA-Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Brasil
| | | | - Benner G. Alves
- PPGCV-LAMOFOPA-Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Brasil
| | - Gary A. Apgar
- PPGCV-LAMOFOPA-Universidade Estadual do Ceará (UECE), Fortaleza, Brasil
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Efficiency of mannitol-supplemented medium during adding/removing ovarian tissue with penetrating cryoprotective agents. Cell Tissue Bank 2017; 19:123-132. [PMID: 28365880 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-017-9623-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/29/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Most protocols to cryopreserve ovarian tissue utilize the permeable cryoprotective agents (CPAs) in 1.5 M concentration. However the issues related to the ability to use higher concentrations of CPAs have remained open. The research aim was to assess the efficiency of media containing osmotically active sugars (sucrose, mannitol) at stepwise adding/removing of 3 M dimethylsulphoxide (DMSO) and propanediol (PROH) on ovarian tissue integrity. After the CPAs adding/removing the ovarian tissue injury was histologically examined, as well as the oocyte volume in tissue structure was assessed. It has been found, that after adding/removing of PROH and DMSO solutions the maximum amount of normal follicles made 67-93% when using Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) with 200 mM sucrose. Assessment of tissue damage after adding/removing of CPAs has demonstrated that the percentage of normal follicles was 83-87% using DMSO in presence of both sucrose and mannitol as the dilution media components. While removing PROH the level of follicles preservation was 2.5× higher when using mannitol compared with sucrose. Our results indicate that the ovarian tissue injury was minimal during adding 3 M CPAs using DMEM, containing sucrose and following application of mannitol at removing both DMSO and PROH.
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Zhou XH, Zhang D, Shi J, Wu YJ. Comparison of vitrification and conventional slow freezing for cryopreservation of ovarian tissue with respect to the number of intact primordial follicles: A meta-analysis. Medicine (Baltimore) 2016; 95:e4095. [PMID: 27684791 PMCID: PMC5265884 DOI: 10.1097/md.0000000000004095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Vitrification is the standard method for cryopreserving human oocytes and embryos, but its effects on ovarian tissue are uncertain. The purpose of this meta-analysis was to compare the proportion of intact primordial follicles in ovarian tissue cryopreserved with vitrification versus slow freezing. METHODS Medline, Cochrane, EMBASE, and Google Scholar databases were searched until November 11, 2014 using combinations of the search terms: ovarian tissue, cryopreservation, vitrification, follicle, follicles. Inclusion criteria were randomized controlled trails, two-arm prospective studies, and retrospective studies in which ovarian tissues were preserved by vitrification or conventional slow freezing. The primary outcome was the proportion of intact primordial follicles. RESULTS Six studies were included in the meta-analysis. The number of patients ranged from 3 to 20, and age ranged from 20 to 43 years. Total number of morphologically intact follicles ranged from 14 to 2058, among which 6 to 724 were primordial. The pooled odds ratio (OR) showed no significant difference in the proportion of intact primordial follicles after slow freezing or vitrification (OR = 1.228, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.769-1.961, P = 0.390). Sensitivity analysis using the leave-one-out approach indicated no considerable changes in the direction and magnitude of the pooled estimates when individual studies were excluded one at a time, indicating good reliability of the current analysis. CONCLUSIONS Vitrification and slow freezing produce equivalent results with respect to intact primordial follicles for the cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue. However, the included studies varied in the cryopreservation protocols used.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Yi-Jun Wu
- Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310003, China
- Correspondence: Yi-Jun Wu, Department of General Surgery, First Affiliated Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, No. 79 Qingchun Road, Hangzhou 310003, Zhejiang Province, China (e-mail: )
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Sampaio da Silva AM, Bruno JB, de Lima LF, Ribeiro de Sá NA, Lunardi FO, Ferreira ACA, Vieira Correia HH, de Aguiar FLN, Araújo VR, Lobo CH, de Alencar Araripe Moura A, Campello CC, Smitz J, de Figueiredo JR, Ribeiro Rodrigues AP. Connexin 37 and 43 gene and protein expression and developmental competence of isolated ovine secondary follicles cultured in vitro after vitrification of ovarian tissue. Theriogenology 2016; 85:1457-67. [PMID: 26876055 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2016.01.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 12/01/2015] [Accepted: 01/04/2016] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Cryoinjuries caused by vitrification of tissues and organs lead to the loss of membrane proteins that mediate intercellular communications, such as connexins 37 (Cx37) and 43 (Cx43). Thus, the present study aimed to evaluate ovine Cx37 and Cx43 gene and protein expressions and developmental competence by in vitro-cultured secondary follicles retrieved from vitrified ovarian tissue. Ovarian fragments for the same ovary pair were distributed into six treatments: (1) fresh ovarian tissue (FOT); (2) vitrified ovarian tissue (VOT); (3) isolated follicles from fresh ovarian tissue (FIF); (4) isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue; (5) isolated follicles from fresh ovarian tissue followed by in vitro culture (CFIF); (6) isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue followed by in vitro culture (CVIF). In all treatments, Cx37 and Cx43 gene and protein expression patterns were evaluated by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry. In addition, secondary follicles were analyzed according to follicular integrity and growth, apoptosis, and cell proliferation. In vitro-cultured secondary follicles (CFIF and CVIF) were evaluated based on morphology (extruded follicles), antrum formation, and viability. The percentage of intact follicles was higher, whereas antrum formation, oocyte extrusion rate, and follicle viability were lower in CVIF than in CFIF treatment (P < 0.05). Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated deoxyuridine triphosphates nick end-labeling assay demonstrated that apoptosis was absent in FIF, whereas follicles from all other treatments showed positive labeling. Cell proliferation index was higher in isolated follicles from vitrified ovarian tissue and CVIF treatments than in follicles from FIF. Expression of Cx43 messenger RNA was lower in CVIF treatment when compared with follicles from all other treatments (P < 0.05). Follicle Cx37 messenger RNA levels did not show alterations in any treatment (P > 0.05). Cx37 and Cx43 immunolabeling was localized mainly on granulosa cells and oocytes, respectively. In conclusion, isolation of ovine secondary follicles could be done successfully after vitrification of ovarian tissue, and the basement membrane integrity remained intact after in vitro culture. Although the gene and protein expression of Cx37 did not change after vitrification of ovarian tissue, Cx43 turned out to be altered in secondary follicles after vitrification and in vitro culture.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jamily Bezerra Bruno
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Laritza Ferreira de Lima
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Valdevane Rocha Araújo
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Carlos Henrique Lobo
- Group of Research in Biology of Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará UFC, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Arlindo de Alencar Araripe Moura
- Group of Research in Biology of Reproduction, Department of Animal Science, Federal University of Ceará UFC, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Cláudio Cabral Campello
- Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LAMOFOPA, PPGCV, State University of Ceara, Fortaleza, Ceará, Brazil
| | - Johan Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
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Talevi R, Barbato V, Fiorentino I, Braun S, De Stefano C, Ferraro R, Sudhakaran S, Gualtieri R. Successful slush nitrogen vitrification of human ovarian tissue. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:1523-1531.e1. [PMID: 26902858 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.01.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2015] [Revised: 01/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study whether slush nitrogen vitrification improves the preservation of human ovarian tissue. DESIGN Control vs. treatment study. SETTING University research laboratory. PATIENT(S) Ovarian biopsies collected from nine women (aged 14-35 years) during laparoscopic surgery for benign gynecologic conditions. INTERVENTION(S) None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Ovarian cortical strips of 2 × 5 × 1 mm were vitrified with liquid or slush nitrogen. Fresh and vitrified cortical strips were analyzed for cryodamage and viability under light, confocal, and transmission electron microscopy. RESULT(S) Compared with liquid nitrogen, vitrification with slush nitrogen preserves [1] follicle quality (grade 1 follicles: fresh control, 50%; liquid nitrogen, 27%; slush nitrogen, 48%); [2] granulosa cell ultrastructure (intact cells: fresh control, 92%; liquid nitrogen, 45%; slush nitrogen, 73%), stromal cell ultrastructure (intact cells: fresh control, 59.8%; liquid nitrogen, 24%; slush nitrogen, 48.7%), and DNA integrity (TUNEL-positive cells: fresh control, 0.5%; liquid nitrogen, 2.3%; slush nitrogen, 0.4%); and [3] oocyte, granulosa, and stromal cell viability (oocyte: fresh control, 90%; liquid nitrogen, 63%; slush nitrogen, 87%; granulosa cells: fresh control, 93%; liquid nitrogen, 53%; slush nitrogen, 81%; stromal cells: fresh control, 63%; liquid nitrogen, 30%; slush nitrogen, 52%). CONCLUSION(S) The histology, ultrastructure, and viability of follicles and stromal cells are better preserved after vitrification with slush nitrogen compared with liquid nitrogen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riccardo Talevi
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy.
| | - Vincenza Barbato
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Ilaria Fiorentino
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Sabrina Braun
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Cristofaro De Stefano
- Unità di Fisiopatologia della Riproduzione e Sterilità di Coppia, Azienda Ospedaliera San Giuseppe Moscati, Avellino, Italy
| | - Raffaele Ferraro
- Iatropolis, Genesis Day Surgery Sterilità della Coppia, Caserta, Italy
| | - Sam Sudhakaran
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
| | - Roberto Gualtieri
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Napoli "Federico II", Complesso Universitario di Monte S Angelo, Napoli, Italy
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Tanpradit N, Comizzoli P, Srisuwatanasagul S, Chatdarong K. Positive impact of sucrose supplementation during slow freezing of cat ovarian tissues on cellular viability, follicle morphology, and DNA integrity. Theriogenology 2015; 83:1553-61. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2014] [Revised: 01/29/2015] [Accepted: 01/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Gamzatova Z, Komlichenko E, Kostareva A, Galagudza M, Ulrikh E, Zubareva T, Sheveleva T, Nezhentseva E, Kalinina E. Autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue--effective method of fertility preservation in cancer patients. Gynecol Endocrinol 2014; 30 Suppl 1:43-7. [PMID: 25200829 DOI: 10.3109/09513590.2014.945789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To review the literature and to present the latest advances in the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. MATERIALS AND METHODS A literature review was conducted for all relevant articles assessing the fertility preservation, ovarian tissue transplantation, standard freezing and vitrification of ovarian tissue. RESULTS One of the promising and effective methods for fertility preservation may be the autotransplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue. At present, 30 babies have been born after orthotopic autotransplantation of frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue. Restoration of ovarian activity occurs between 3.5 months and 6.5 months. The longevity of autotransplanted ovarian tissue is about 5-7 years. The follicles are similarly preserved after all freezing methods; however, the ovarian stroma is significantly better preserved after vitrification than after slow freezing. An important topic for further research is preparation of the "vascular bed", optimization of vitrification technique and the development of alternative procedures to avoid the transmission of cancer cells via ovarian tissue autotransplantation - "artificial ovary". CONCLUSIONS Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue has unique advantages over other strategies. This method: (1) does not delay cancer treatment; (2) is safer for hormone dependent malignancy; (3) can be done independent of menstrual cycles; (4) is the only option for prepubertal girls; (5) can restore not only fertility but endocrine function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zaynab Gamzatova
- Federal Almazov Medical Research Centre , Saint Petersburg , Russia
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14
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Ishikawa T, Kyoya T, Nakamura Y, Sato E, Tomiyama T, Kyono K. Oxygen consumption rate of early pre-antral follicles from vitrified human ovarian cortical tissue. J Reprod Dev 2014; 60:460-7. [PMID: 25262776 PMCID: PMC4284321 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2014-009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
The study of human ovarian tissue transplantation and cryopreservation has advanced significantly. Autotransplantation of human pre-antral follicles isolated from cryopreserved cortical tissue is a promising option for the preservation of fertility in young cancer patients. The purpose of the present study was to reveal the effect of vitrification after low-temperature transportation of human pre-antral follicles by using the oxygen consumption rate (OCR). Cortical tissues from 9 ovaries of female-to-male transsexuals were vitrified after transportation (6 or 18 h). The follicles were enzymatically isolated from nonvitrified tissue (group I, 18 h of transportation), vitrified-warmed tissue (group II, 6 and 18 h of transportation) and vitrified-warmed tissue that had been incubated for 24 h (group III, 6 and 18 h of transportation). OCR measurement and the LIVE/DEAD viability assay were performed. Despite the ischemic condition, the isolated pre-antral follicles in group
I consumed oxygen, and the mean OCRs increased with developmental stage. Neither the transportation time nor patient age seemed to affect the OCR in this group. Meanwhile, the mean OCR was significantly lower (P < 0.05) in group II but was comparable to that of group I after 24 h of incubation. The integrity of vitrified-warmed primordial and primary follicles was clearly corroborated by the LIVE/DEAD viability assay. These results demonstrate that the OCR can be used to directly estimate the effect of vitrification on the viability of primordial and primary follicles and to select the viable primordial and primary follicles from vitrified-warmed follicles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takayuki Ishikawa
- Reproduction Research Center, Kyono ART Clinic, Sendai 980-0014, Japan; Graduate School of Agricultural Science, Tohoku University, Sendai 981-8555, Japan
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Amorim CA, Dolmans MM, David A, Jaeger J, Vanacker J, Camboni A, Donnez J, Van Langendonckt A. Vitrification and xenografting of human ovarian tissue. Fertil Steril 2012; 98:1291-8.e1-2. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2012.07.1109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2012] [Revised: 06/25/2012] [Accepted: 07/12/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Amorim CA, David A, Dolmans MM, Camboni A, Donnez J, Van Langendonckt A. Impact of freezing and thawing of human ovarian tissue on follicular growth after long-term xenotransplantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2011; 28:1157-65. [PMID: 22105186 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-011-9672-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/02/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To assess follicular growth after xenografting in order to understand how freezing and/or grafting may affect follicular development. METHODS Human ovarian biopsies were used for fresh and frozen-thawed xenografting to SCID mice. After xenotransplantation, follicular morphology and proportion, oocyte and follicle diameter, and quantitative and qualitative parameters of antral follicles were analyzed. RESULTS The proportion of growing follicles was significantly higher in grafted than non-grafted ovarian tissue. Follicular growth to the antral stage was observed and there was no significant difference in oocyte or follicle diameter in fresh or frozen-thawed grafts. Although no significant difference was observed in antral area or zona pellucida thickness, the theca layer in antral follicles from frozen-thawed grafted tissue was found to be significantly thinner than in fresh grafts. CONCLUSION Antral follicles obtained after grafting of frozen-thawed human ovarian tissue showed a thinner theca cell layer compared to those from fresh grafts, which could affect follicular development and function. Further studies are nevertheless warranted to confirm the identity of theca cells and assess if they retain the ability to respond to luteinizing hormone and produce androgens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christiani A Amorim
- Department of Gynecology, Université Catholique de Louvain, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Brussels, 1200, Belgium
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Amorim CA, Curaba M, Van Langendonckt A, Dolmans MM, Donnez J. Vitrification as an alternative means of cryopreserving ovarian tissue. Reprod Biomed Online 2011; 23:160-86. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2011.04.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 115] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2010] [Revised: 03/10/2011] [Accepted: 04/14/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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18
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Fabbri R, Pasquinelli G, Keane D, Magnani V, Paradisi R, Venturoli S. Optimization of protocols for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation with sucrose, 1,2-propanediol and human serum. Reprod Biomed Online 2010; 21:819-28. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2010.07.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2010] [Revised: 07/16/2010] [Accepted: 07/20/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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A simple and efficient method for preparation of isolated ovarian follicles for transmission electron microscopy. J Assist Reprod Genet 2010; 27:97-101. [PMID: 20140639 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-010-9389-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2009] [Accepted: 01/11/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A simple method for preparation of isolated ovarian follicles for transmission electron microscopy (TEM) using transwell inserts is described. MATERIALS AND METHODS Pre-antral follicles were enzymatically isolated from mouse ovaries and cultured overnight on transwell insert polyester membranes. The following day, isolated ovarian follicles were processed for TEM by moving the transwell insert through successive wells containing the fixation and embedding reagents. After polymerization of the resin, the polyester membrane with the follicles embedded in the resin was disengaged from the transwell unit. The resin was sectioned. Semi-thin sections were stained with toluidine blue while ultra-thin sections were stained by uranyl acetate and examined by light microscopy and TEM, respectively. RESULTS Isolated ovarian follicles were easily processed in groups for TEM. Follicles were well embedded and there appeared to be no loss of tissue during processing. The ultra-structure of processed isolated ovarian follicles was well preserved with little evidence of processing artifacts. CONCLUSIONS In situ processing and preparation of isolated ovarian follicles by first allowing attachment on transwell insert membranes was shown to be a simple, rapid and effective method for TEM.
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Keros V, Xella S, Hultenby K, Pettersson K, Sheikhi M, Volpe A, Hreinsson J, Hovatta O. Vitrification versus controlled-rate freezing in cryopreservation of human ovarian tissue. Hum Reprod 2009; 24:1670-83. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dep079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 247] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
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Camboni A, Martinez-Madrid B, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA, Nottola SA, Donnez J, Van Langendonckt A. Preservation of fertility in young cancer patients: contribution of transmission electron microscopy. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 17:136-50. [PMID: 18616902 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60303-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
During the last decade, new technologies in reproductive medicine have emerged to preserve the fertility of women whose gonadal function is threatened by premature menopause or gonadotoxic treatments. To offer an individualized approach to these patients, different experimental procedures are under investigation, including oocyte cryopreservation and cryopreservation and transplantation of ovarian tissue in the form of cortical fragments, whole ovary or isolated follicles. This review shows that transmission electron microscopy (TEM), combined with other in-vivo and in-vitro analysis techniques, is a valuable tool in the establishment of new experimental protocols to preserve female fertility. Ultrastructural studies allow in-depth evaluation of the oocyte's unique morpho-functional characteristics, which explain its low cryotolerance, and provide essential information on follicular, stromal and endothelial cell integrity, as well as cellular interactions crucial for normal folliculogenesis. In order to be able to offer appropriate and efficient options in every clinical situation, oocyte in-vitro maturation and ovarian tissue transplantation need to be optimized. Further development of new approaches, such as follicular isolation and whole ovary transplantation, should be encouraged. Fine ultrastructural details highlighted by TEM studies will be useful for the further optimization of these emerging technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Camboni
- Department of Gynecology, Université Catholique de Louvain, 1200 Brussels, Belgium
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22
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Nottola SA, Camboni A, Van Langendonckt A, Demylle D, Macchiarelli G, Dolmans MM, Martinez-Madrid B, Correr S, Donnez J. Cryopreservation and xenotransplantation of human ovarian tissue: an ultrastructural study. Fertil Steril 2008; 90:23-32. [PMID: 17761177 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2007.05.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2006] [Revised: 03/23/2007] [Accepted: 05/29/2007] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To analyze the ultrastructure of human ovarian follicles after cryopreservation and short-term xenografting. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. SETTING Academic gynecology and anatomy research units. PATIENT(S) Ovarian cortical biopsy specimens were obtained from 13 patients. INTERVENTION(S) Each ovarian biopsy specimen was dissected into pieces of 1 mm(3) and divided into three groups: [1] fresh tissue, [2] frozen-thawed tissue, and [3] frozen-thawed tissue xenografted onto the peritoneum of nude mice for 3 weeks. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Follicular ultrastructure was assessed by light and transmission electron microscopy in [1] fresh, [2] frozen, and [3] frozen-grafted tissue. RESULT(S) Thirty-five ovarian follicles were analyzed by light and transmission electron microscopy. Twenty-five primordial and primary ovarian follicles were found. Most of them exhibited ultrastructurally well preserved features (fresh [N = 8/10], frozen [N = 7/10], and frozen-grafted [N = 4/5] tissue). Ten secondary follicles were present in xenografts. By transmission electron microscopy, all the healthy-looking secondary follicles (70%) were shown to contain intact oocytes, with features typical of earlier developmental stages, surrounded by several layers of follicular cells. CONCLUSION(S) The present study demonstrates, for the first time, that cryopreservation and xenotransplantation do not appear to greatly affect human primordial/primary follicle ultrastructure. Interestingly, in frozen-thawed xenografts, secondary human ovarian follicles presented a well preserved ultrastructure, but asynchrony between oocyte and granulosa cell development was detected. The possible causes for this asynchrony are discussed.
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Human ovarian tissue cryopreservation: effect of sucrose concentration on morphological features after thawing. Reprod Biomed Online 2008; 16:257-67. [DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60583-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
The clinical role of oocyte cryopreservation in assisted reproduction, as an adjunct to sperm and embryo cryopreservation, has been comparatively slow to evolve as a consequence of theoretical concerns related to efficacy and safety. Basic biological studies in the 1990's alleviated many of these concerns leading to more widespread adoption of the technology. While a number of babies were born from the approach validated in the 1990's, its perceived clinical inefficiency led to the search for improved methods. Introduction of elevated dehydrating sucrose concentrations during cryopreservation increased survival and fertilization rates, but there is no well-controlled evidence of improved clinical outcome. Similarly, the use of sodium-depleted cryopreservation media has not been demonstrated to increase clinical efficiency. More recently, and in the absence of basic biological studies addressing safety issues, the application of vitrification techniques to human oocytes has resulted in reports of a number of live births. The small number of babies born from clinical oocyte cryopreservation and the paucity of well-controlled studies currently preclude valid comparisons between approaches. Legal restrictions on the ability to select embryos from cryopreserved oocytes in Italy, where many of the available reports originate, also obscure attempts to assess oocyte cryopreservation objectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Debra A Gook
- Reproductive Services/Melbourne IVF, Royal Women's Hospital, 132 Grattan Street, Carlton, Victoria 3053, and Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Melbourne, Australia.
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Martinez-Madrid B, Camboni A, Dolmans MM, Nottola S, Van Langendonckt A, Donnez J. Apoptosis and ultrastructural assessment after cryopreservation of whole human ovaries with their vascular pedicle. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1153-65. [PMID: 17239875 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2006] [Revised: 08/23/2006] [Accepted: 11/01/2006] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate possible damage caused by freeze-thawing whole human ovaries. DESIGN Prospective experimental study. SETTING Academic gynecology research unit in a university hospital. PATIENT(S) Ovaries were obtained from three women (aged 29-36 years). INTERVENTION(S) Ovaries were perfused and bathed in cryoprotective solution, and slow freezing was performed. Rapid thawing was achieved by perfusion and bathing with a decreased sucrose gradient. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Apoptosis was assessed by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated biotinylated deoxyuridine triphosphates nick end-labeling (TUNEL) method and by immunohistochemistry for active caspase-3 in fresh ovaries, after cryoprotectant exposure, and after thawing. Morphometric analysis of TUNEL-positive surface area was performed. Ultrastructure was assessed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) in the thawed tissue. RESULT(S) No primordial or primary follicles were found to be positive for either TUNEL or active caspase-3. No statistically significant difference in mean TUNEL-positive surface area values was found between the three groups: fresh, 0.05% +/- 0.03%, with 134 high-power fields (HPFs); cryoperfused, 0.02% +/- 0.01%, with 130 HPFs; and thawed, 0.09% +/- 0.03%, with 622 HPFs. By means of TEM, follicles and vessels showed a well-preserved ultrastructure, with 96.7% (29/30) healthy-looking primordial and primary follicles, and 96.3% (180/187) healthy-looking endothelial cells. CONCLUSION(S) Cryopreservation of intact human ovary with its vascular pedicle, according to the freeze-thawing protocol described here, is not associated with any signs of apoptosis or ultrastructural alterations in any cell types. Whole-organ vascular transplantation may thus be a viable option in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Belen Martinez-Madrid
- Department of Gynecology, Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc, Université Catholique de Louvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Fabbri R, Pasquinelli G, Bracone G, Orrico C, Paradisi R, Seraccioli R, Venturoli S. Fetal calf serum versus human serum: ultrastructural evaluation of protein support influence on human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Ultrastruct Pathol 2006; 30:253-60. [PMID: 16971350 DOI: 10.1080/01913120600820187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to examine the effect of the different protein supports in the cryopreservation solution on improving human ovarian tissue preservation after frozen-thawed procedures. Biopsies of ovarian cortical tissue were obtained from 14 subjects. All specimens were cryopreserved using a slow freezing/rapid thawing method in a solution consisting of propanediol and sucrose in different proportions of 3 protein supports: 30% human serum (HS) (solution A), 20% HS (solution B), or 20% fetal calf serum (solution C). After thawing, 191 follicles and a total of 70 samples were analyzed using transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The post-thaw preservation rate of the follicles in solution A was significantly higher with respect to solution C (p < 0.05). Unlike the follicles, the stromal cell morphology was not affected by any of the solutions investigated. By comparing stromal morphology and the patient age, it was found that HS better preserved the tissue in patients over 20 years of age with respect to younger ones, which showed a wider variability in ovarian preservation. TEM evaluation showed that 30% HS is more suitable for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation, and research should be focused on defining cryopreservation protocols specific to young patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- R Fabbri
- Human Reproductive Medicine Unit, Policlinico S. Orsola-Malpighi, University of Bologna, Bologna, Italy.
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