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Deng S, Xu Y, Warden AR, Xu L, Duan X, He J, Bao K, Xiao R, Azmat M, Hong L, Jiang L, Shen G, Zhang Z, Ding X. Quantitative Proteomics and Metabolomics of Culture Medium from Single Human Embryo Reveal Embryo Quality-Related Multiomics Biomarkers. Anal Chem 2024; 96:11832-11844. [PMID: 38979898 DOI: 10.1021/acs.analchem.4c01494] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/10/2024]
Abstract
An effective tool to assess embryo quality in the assisted reproduction clinical practice will enhance successful implantation rates and mitigate high risks of multiple pregnancies. Potential biomarkers secreted into culture medium (CM) during embryo development enable rapid and noninvasive methods of assessing embryo quality. However, small volumes, low biomolecule concentrations, and impurity interference collectively preclude the identification of quality-related biomarkers in single blastocyst CM. Here, we developed a noninvasive trace multiomics approach to screen for potential markers in individual human blastocyst CM. We collected 84 CM samples and divided them into high-quality (HQ) and low-quality (LQ) groups. We evaluated the differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and metabolites (DEMs) in HQ and LQ CM. A total of 504 proteins and 189 metabolites were detected in individual blastocyst CM. Moreover, 9 DEPs and 32 DEMs were identified in different quality embryo CM. We also categorized HQ embryos into positive implantation (PI) and negative implantation (NI) groups based on ultrasound findings on day 28. We identified 41 DEPs and 4 DEMs associated with clinical implantation outcomes in morphologically HQ embryos using a multiomics analysis approach. This study provides a noninvasive multiomics analysis technique and identifies potential biomarkers for clinical embryo developmental quality assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuxin Deng
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yuan Xu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200025, China
| | - Antony R Warden
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Li Xu
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Xiaoqian Duan
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Jie He
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Kaiwen Bao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Runing Xiao
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Mehmoona Azmat
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Liao Hong
- Department of Clinical Laboratory Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Lai Jiang
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Guangxia Shen
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Zhenbo Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tongji Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai 200092, China
| | - Xianting Ding
- Department of Anesthesiology and Surgical Intensive Care Unit, Xinhua Hospital, School of Medicine and School of Biomedical Engineering, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- State Key Laboratory of Systems Medicine for Cancer, Institute for Personalized Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
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Choi JW, Kim SW, Kim HS, Kang MJ, Kim SA, Han JY, Kim H, Ku SY. Effects of Melatonin, GM-CSF, IGF-1, and LIF in Culture Media on Embryonic Development: Potential Benefits of Individualization. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:751. [PMID: 38255823 PMCID: PMC10815572 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25020751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
The implantation of good-quality embryos to the receptive endometrium is essential for successful live birth through in vitro fertilization (IVF). The higher the quality of embryos, the higher the live birth rate per cycle, and so efforts have been made to obtain as many high-quality embryos as possible after fertilization. In addition to an effective controlled ovarian stimulation process to obtain high-quality embryos, the composition of the embryo culture medium in direct contact with embryos in vitro is also important. During embryonic development, under the control of female sex hormones, the fallopian tubes and endometrium create a microenvironment that supplies the nutrients and substances necessary for embryos at each stage. During this process, the development of the embryo is finely regulated by signaling molecules, such as growth factors and cytokines secreted from the epithelial cells of the fallopian tube and uterine endometrium. The development of embryo culture media has continued since the first successful human birth through IVF in 1978. However, there are still limitations to mimicking a microenvironment similar to the reproductive organs of women suitable for embryo development in vitro. Efforts have been made to overcome the harsh in vitro culture environment and obtain high-quality embryos by adding various supplements, such as antioxidants and growth factors, to the embryo culture medium. Recently, there has been an increase in the number of studies on the effect of supplementation in different clinical situations such as old age, recurrent implantation failure (RIF), and unexplained infertility; in addition, anticipation of the potential benefits from individuation is rising. This article reviews the effects of representative supplements in culture media on embryo development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jung-Won Choi
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Sung-Woo Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Sun Kim
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Moon-Joo Kang
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Sung-Ah Kim
- Laboratory of In Vitro Fertilization, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (J.-W.C.); (H.-S.K.); (M.-J.K.); (S.-A.K.)
| | - Ji-Yeon Han
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Hoon Kim
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung-Yup Ku
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University Hospital, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea; (S.-W.K.); (J.-Y.H.); (H.K.)
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Seoul National University College of Medicine, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
- Institute of Reproductive Medicine and Population, Medical Research Center, Seoul National University, Seoul 03080, Republic of Korea
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Špirková A, Kovaříková V, Šefčíková Z, Pisko J, Kšiňanová M, Koppel J, Fabian D, Čikoš Š. Glutamate can act as a signaling molecule in mouse preimplantation embryos. Biol Reprod 2022; 107:916-927. [PMID: 35746896 PMCID: PMC9562114 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2022] [Revised: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Free amino acids are present in the natural environment of the preimplantation embryo, and their availability can influence early embryo development. Glutamic acid is one of the amino acids with highest concentrations in female reproductive fluids, and we investigated whether glutamic acid/glutamate can affect preimplantation embryo development by acting through cell membrane receptors. Using RT-PCR, we detected 15 ionotropic glutamate receptor transcripts and 8 metabotropic glutamate receptor transcripts in mouse ovulated oocytes and/or in vivo developed blastocysts. Using immunohistochemistry, we detected expression of two AMPA receptor subunits, three kainate receptor subunits and member 5 metabotropic glutamate receptor protein in blastocysts. Extracellular concentrations of glutamic acid starting at 5 mM impaired mouse blastocyst development, and this fact may be of great practical importance since glutamic acid and its salts (mainly monosodium glutamate) are widely used as food additives. Experiments with glutamate receptor agonists (in combination with gene expression analysis) revealed that specific AMPA receptors (formed from GRIA3 and/or GRIA4 subunits), kainate receptors (formed from GRIK 3 and GRIK 4 or GRIK 5 subunits) and GRM5 glutamate receptor were involved in this effect. The glutamic acid-induced effects were prevented or reduced by pre-treatment of blastocysts with AMPA, kainate and GRM5 receptor antagonists, further confirming the involvement of these receptor types. Our results show that glutamic acid can act as a signaling molecule in preimplantation embryos, exerting its effects through activation of cell membrane receptors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Špirková
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Veronika Kovaříková
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Zuzana Šefčíková
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Jozef Pisko
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Martina Kšiňanová
- Institute of Molecular Physiology and Genetics, Centre of Biosciences, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Dúbravská cesta 9, 840 05 Bratislava, Slovakia
| | - Juraj Koppel
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Dušan Fabian
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
| | - Štefan Čikoš
- Institute of Animal Physiology, Centre of Biosciences of the Slovak Academy of Sciences, Šoltésovej 4-6, 04001 Košice, Slovakia
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Leese HJ, McKeegan PJ, Sturmey RG. Amino Acids and the Early Mammalian Embryo: Origin, Fate, Function and Life-Long Legacy. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9874. [PMID: 34574797 PMCID: PMC8467587 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18189874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 08/27/2021] [Accepted: 08/27/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Amino acids are now recognised as having multiple cellular functions in addition to their traditional role as constituents of proteins. This is well-illustrated in the early mammalian embryo where amino acids are now known to be involved in intermediary metabolism, as energy substrates, in signal transduction, osmoregulation and as intermediaries in numerous pathways which involve nitrogen metabolism, e.g., the biosynthesis of purines, pyrimidines, creatine and glutathione. The amino acid derivative S-adenosylmethionine has emerged as a universal methylating agent with a fundamental role in epigenetic regulation. Amino acids are now added routinely to preimplantation embryo culture media. This review examines the routes by which amino acids are supplied to the early embryo, focusing on the role of the oviduct epithelium, followed by an outline of their general fate and function within the embryo. Functions specific to individual amino acids are then considered. The importance of amino acids during the preimplantation period for maternal health and that of the conceptus long term, which has come from the developmental origins of health and disease concept of David Barker, is discussed and the review concludes by considering the potential utility of amino acid profiles as diagnostic of embryo health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry J. Leese
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Paul J. McKeegan
- Centre for Anatomical and Human Sciences, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
| | - Roger G. Sturmey
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull HU6 7RX, UK;
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, The University of Manchester, St Mary’s Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
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Mancini V, Schrimpe-Rutledge AC, Codreanu SG, Sherrod SD, McLean JA, Picton HM, Pensabene V. Metabolomic Analysis Evidences That Uterine Epithelial Cells Enhance Blastocyst Development in a Microfluidic Device. Cells 2021; 10:1194. [PMID: 34068340 PMCID: PMC8153284 DOI: 10.3390/cells10051194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Revised: 05/09/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Here we report the use of a microfluidic system to assess the differential metabolomics of murine embryos cultured with endometrial cells-conditioned media (CM). Groups of 10, 1-cell murine B6C3F1 × B6D2F1 embryos were cultured in the microfluidic device. To produce CM, mouse uterine epithelial cells were cultured in potassium simplex optimized medium (KSOM) for 24 h. Media samples were collected from devices after 5 days of culture with KSOM (control) and CM, analyzed by reverse phase liquid chromatography and untargeted positive ion mode mass spectrometry analysis. Blastocyst rates were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in CM (71.8%) compared to control media (54.6%). We observed significant upregulation of 341 compounds and downregulation of 214 compounds in spent media from CM devices when compared to control. Out of these, 353 compounds were identified showing a significant increased abundance of metabolites involved in key metabolic pathways (e.g., arginine, proline and pyrimidine metabolism) in the CM group, suggesting a beneficial effect of CM on embryo development. The metabolomic study carried out in a microfluidic environment confirms our hypothesis on the potential of uterine epithelial cells to enhance blastocyst development. Further investigations are required to highlight specific pathways involved in embryo development and implantation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Mancini
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Alexandra C. Schrimpe-Rutledge
- Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 7300 Stevenson Center Lane, Nashville, TN 37235, USA; (A.C.S.-R.); (S.G.C.); (S.D.S.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Simona G. Codreanu
- Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 7300 Stevenson Center Lane, Nashville, TN 37235, USA; (A.C.S.-R.); (S.G.C.); (S.D.S.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Stacy D. Sherrod
- Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 7300 Stevenson Center Lane, Nashville, TN 37235, USA; (A.C.S.-R.); (S.G.C.); (S.D.S.); (J.A.M.)
| | - John A. McLean
- Center for Innovative Technology (CIT), Department of Chemistry, Vanderbilt University, 7300 Stevenson Center Lane, Nashville, TN 37235, USA; (A.C.S.-R.); (S.G.C.); (S.D.S.); (J.A.M.)
| | - Helen M. Picton
- Reproduction and Early Development Research Group, Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Virginia Pensabene
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- Leeds Institute of Medical Research, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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Mullen SF. Toward a predictive theoretical model for osmolality rise with non-humidified incubation: a randomized, multivariate response-surface study. Hum Reprod 2021; 36:1230-1241. [PMID: 33561199 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deab015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Revised: 12/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What factors associated with embryo culture techniques contribute to the rate of medium osmolality change over time in an embryo culture incubator without added humidity? SUMMARY ANSWER The surface area-to-volume ratio of culture medium (surface area of the medium exposed to an oil overlay), as well as the density and height of the overlaying oil, all interact in a quantitative way to affect the osmolality rise over time. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Factors such as medium volume, different oil types, and associated properties, individually, can affect osmolality change during non-humidified incubation. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Several experimental designs were used, including simple single-factor completely randomized designs, as well as a multi-factor response surface design. Randomization was performed at one or more levels for each experiment. Osmolality measurements were performed over 7 days, with up to 8 independent osmolality measurements performed per treatment group over that time. For the multi-factor study, 107 independent combinations of factor levels were assessed to develop the mathematical model. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This study was conducted in a research laboratory setting. Commercially available embryo culture medium and oil was used. A MINC incubator without water for humidification was used for the incubation. Osmolality was measured with a vapor pressure osmometer after calibration. Viscometry and density were conducted using a rheometer, and volumetric flasks with an analytical balance, respectively. Data analyses were conducted with several commercially available software programs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Preliminary experiments showed that the surface area-to-volume ratio of the culture medium, oil density, and oil thickness above the medium all contributed significantly (P < 0.05) to the rise in osmolality. A multi-factor experiment showed that a combination of these variables, in the form of a truncated cubic polynomial, was able to predict the rise in osmolality, with these three variables interacting in the model (P < 0.05). Repeatability, as measured by the response of identical treatments performed independently, was high, with osmolality values being ± 2 of the average in most instances. In the final mathematical model, the terms of the equation were significant predictors of the outcome, with all P-values being significant, and only one P-value > 0.0001. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although the range of values for the variables were selected to encompass values that are expected to be encountered in usual embryo culture conditions, variables outside of the range used may not result in accurate model predictions. Although the use of a single incubator type and medium type is not expected to affect the conclusions, that remains an uncertainty. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Using this predictive model will help to determine if one should be cautious in using a specific system and will provide guidance on how a system may be modified to provide improved stability during embryo culture. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by Cook Medical. The author is a Team Lead and Senior Scientist at Cook Medical. The author has no other conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven F Mullen
- Research and Development, Cook Medical, Bloomington, IN 47404, USA
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Inoue N, Nishida Y, Harada E, Sakai K, Narahara H. GC-MS/MS analysis of metabolites derived from a single human blastocyst. Metabolomics 2021; 17:17. [PMID: 33495963 PMCID: PMC7835178 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-021-01770-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The field of assisted reproductive technology (ART) has significantly advanced; however, morphological evaluation remains as the chosen method of assessment of embryo quality. OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine metabolic changes in embryo culture medium to develop a non-invasive method for evaluation of embryo quality. METHODS We performed metabolic analysis of culture medium obtained from a single blastocyst cultured for freezing. RESULTS In total, 187 (39.8%) of the 469 detectable organic acid metabolites were identified. A significant change (p < 0.05) was observed in eight metabolites between the good-quality and poor-quality embryo groups. Differences were observed in several metabolic pathways between the good-quality and poor-quality embryo groups. Metabolites that showed significant changes were primarily involved in the metabolism of branched-chain amino acids. CONCLUSION The quantification of metabolism in human embryos may assist in identification and selection of good-quality embryos with high rates of survival before freezing and implantation in conjunction with morphological classification. This may help to identify embryos with high rates of survival.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Inoue
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Yoshihiro Nishida
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan.
| | - Emi Harada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Kumiko Sakai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
| | - Hisashi Narahara
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Oita University, 1-1 Idaigaoka, Hasama-machi, Yufu, Oita, 879-5593, Japan
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9
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Liu T, Li J, Dou H, Xiang X, Chen W, Zhang T, Li L, Zhang X, Dong X, Chen L, Lin X, Li J, Sun HX, Gu Y, Lin L. Low-Concentration Essential Amino Acids in PZM-3 Improve the Developmental Competence of Porcine Embryos Produced by Handmade Cloning. Cell Reprogram 2020; 22:282-290. [PMID: 33181023 DOI: 10.1089/cell.2020.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Essential amino acids (EAA) of inappropriate concentration have been reported to compromise the development of embryo. This study aimed to investigate the effect of EAA on the developmental competence of porcine embryos produced by either handmade cloning (HMC) or parthenogenetic activation (PA). In experiment 1, we examined the in vitro developmental competence of PA embryos after culture in PZM-3 containing different concentrations (v/v) of EAA (0%, 1%, and 2%). The results indicated that reducing the concentration of EAA from 2% to 1% significantly improved the blastocyst formation (36% vs. 54%), while 0% would compromise the blastocyst formation rate (54% vs. 38%). In experiment 2, we further investigated the effect of EAA concentration (1% and 2%) on the in vitro developmental competence and gene expression of HMC embryos. Blastocyst rate significantly increased by reducing concentration of EAA (41% vs. 53%) and those genes upregulated were enriched in oxidative phosphorylation, PPAR signaling pathway, and metabolism-related pathways. In experiment 3, the in vivo developmental competence of HMC embryos cultured in the medium supplemented with 1% EAA was examined. Embryos derived from both non-gene-modified fetal fibroblasts (FFs) and gene-modified fetal fibroblasts (GMFFs) were transferred to recipients. The pregnancy rates were 83% and 78% separately. Out of the pregnancies, 5 (FFs) and 6 (GMFFs) were successfully developed to term. Our study indicates that supplementing EAA to embryo culture medium at a concentration of 1% can improve the in vitro developmental competence of porcine HMC embryos and the blastocyst obtained can successfully develop to term, which could be beneficial for the production of gene-modified piglets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianbin Liu
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.,BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | - Jie Li
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Hongwei Dou
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | - Xi Xiang
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | - Wenbin Chen
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Lin Li
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | - Xingju Zhang
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China
| | | | | | - Xuyi Lin
- BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China.,Guangdong Xin 'an Vocational and Technical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Jing Li
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | | | - Ying Gu
- BGI Education Center, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenzhen, China.,BGI-Shenzhen, Shenzhen, China
| | - Lin Lin
- BGI Ark Biotechnology Co., LTD (BAB), Shenzhen, China.,Department of Biomedicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Zamfirescu RC, Day ML, Morris MB. mTORC1/2 signaling is downregulated by amino acid-free culture of mouse preimplantation embryos and is only partially restored by amino acid readdition. Am J Physiol Cell Physiol 2020; 320:C30-C44. [PMID: 33052068 DOI: 10.1152/ajpcell.00385.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Development of the mammalian preimplantation embryo is influenced by autocrine/paracrine factors and the availability of nutrients. Deficiencies of these during in vitro culture reduce the success of assisted reproductive technologies. The mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) pathway integrates external and internal signals, including those by amino acids (AAs), to promote normal preimplantation development. For this reason, AAs are often included in embryo culture media. In this study, we examined how withdrawal and addition of AAs to culture media modulate mTORC1 pathway activity compared with its activity in mouse embryos developed in vivo. Phosphorylation of signaling components downstream of mTORC1, namely, p70 ribosomal protein S6 kinase (p70S6K), ribosomal protein S6, and 4E binding protein 1 (4E-BP1), and that of protein kinase B (Akt), which lies upstream of mTORC1, changed significantly across stages of embryos developed in vivo. For freshly isolated blastocysts placed in vitro, the absence of AAs in the culture medium, even for a few hours, decreased mTORC1 signaling, which could only be partially restored by their addition. Long-term culture of early embryos to blastocysts in the absence of AAs decreased mTORC1 signaling to a greater extent and again this could only be partially restored by their inclusion. This failure to fully restore is probably due to decreased phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mTORC2 signaling in culture, as indicated by decreased P-AktS473. mTORC2 lies upstream of mTORC1 and is insensitive to AAs, and its reduced activity probably results from loss of maternal/autocrine factors. These data highlight reduced mTORC1/2 signaling activity correlating with compromised development in vitro and show that the addition of AAs can only partially offset these effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radu C Zamfirescu
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Margot L Day
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Michael B Morris
- Discipline of Physiology and Bosch Institute, Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Medical Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, New South Wales, Australia
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11
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Poncet N, Halley PA, Lipina C, Gierliński M, Dady A, Singer GA, Febrer M, Shi Y, Yamaguchi TP, Taylor PM, Storey KG. Wnt regulates amino acid transporter Slc7a5 and so constrains the integrated stress response in mouse embryos. EMBO Rep 2020; 21:e48469. [PMID: 31789450 PMCID: PMC6944906 DOI: 10.15252/embr.201948469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2019] [Revised: 10/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Amino acids are essential for cellular metabolism, and it is important to understand how nutrient supply is coordinated with changing energy requirements during embryogenesis. Here, we show that the amino acid transporter Slc7a5/Lat1 is highly expressed in tissues undergoing morphogenesis and that Slc7a5-null mouse embryos have profound neural and limb bud outgrowth defects. Slc7a5-null neural tissue exhibited aberrant mTORC1 activity and cell proliferation; transcriptomics, protein phosphorylation and apoptosis analyses further indicated induction of the integrated stress response as a potential cause of observed defects. The pattern of stress response gene expression induced in Slc7a5-null embryos was also detected at low level in wild-type embryos and identified stress vulnerability specifically in tissues undergoing morphogenesis. The Slc7a5-null phenotype is reminiscent of Wnt pathway mutants, and we show that Wnt/β-catenin loss inhibits Slc7a5 expression and induces this stress response. Wnt signalling therefore normally supports the metabolic demands of morphogenesis and constrains cellular stress. Moreover, operation in the embryo of the integrated stress response, which is triggered by pathogen-mediated as well as metabolic stress, may provide a mechanistic explanation for a range of developmental defects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadège Poncet
- Division of Cell & Developmental BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
- Present address:
Institute of PhysiologyUniversity of ZürichZürichSwitzerland
| | - Pamela A Halley
- Division of Cell & Developmental BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Christopher Lipina
- Division of Cell Signalling and ImmunologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Marek Gierliński
- Division of Computational BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Alwyn Dady
- Division of Cell & Developmental BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Gail A Singer
- Division of Cell & Developmental BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Melanie Febrer
- Sequencing FacilitySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
- Present address:
Illumina CanadaVictoriaBCCanada
| | - Yun‐Bo Shi
- Section on Molecular MorphogenesisNICHD, NIHBethesdaMDUSA
| | - Terry P Yamaguchi
- Cancer and Developmental Biology LaboratoryCenter for Cancer ResearchNational Cancer Institute‐Frederick, NIHFrederickMDUSA
| | - Peter M Taylor
- Division of Cell Signalling and ImmunologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
| | - Kate G Storey
- Division of Cell & Developmental BiologySchool of Life SciencesUniversity of DundeeDundeeUK
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12
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Zhao DC, Li YM, Ma JL, Yi N, Yao ZY, Li YP, Quan Y, Li XN, Xu CL, Qiu Y, Wu LQ. Single-cell RNA sequencing reveals distinct gene expression patterns in glucose metabolism of human preimplantation embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2019; 31:237-247. [PMID: 30017025 DOI: 10.1071/rd18178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Precise regulation of glucose metabolism-related genes is essential for early embryonic development. Although previous research has yielded detailed information on the biochemical processes, little is yet known of the dynamic gene expression profiles in glucose metabolism of preimplantation embryos at a single-cell resolution. In the present study, we performed integrated analysis of single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) data of human preimplantation embryos that had been cultured in sequential medium. Different cells in the same embryo have similar gene expression patterns in glucose metabolism. During the switch from the cleavage to morula stage, the expression of glycolysis-related genes, such as glucose transporter genes (solute carrier family 2 (facilitated glucose transporter), member 1 (SLC2A1) and solute carrier family 2 (facilitated glucose transporter), member 3 (SLC2A3) and genes encoding hexokinase, phosphofructokinase, pyruvate kinase and lactate dehydrogenase, is increased. The genes involved in the pentose phosphate pathway are highly expressed at the cleavage stage, generating the reducing power to balance oxidative stress derived from biosynthesis. Expression of the genes involved in the biosynthesis of glycerophospholipids is increased after the morula stage. Nevertheless, the expression of tricarboxylic acid-related genes remains relatively unchanged during the preimplantation stages. In conclusion, we discovered that the gene expression profiles are dynamic according to glucose utilisation in the embryos at different stages, which contributes to our understanding of regulatory mechanisms of glucose metabolism-related genes in human preimplantation embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Di-Cheng Zhao
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, 72 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yu-Mei Li
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Jie-Liang Ma
- Translational Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji Hospital, Department of Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Ning Yi
- Translational Center for Stem Cell Research, Tongji Hospital, Department of Regenerative Medicine, Tongji University School of Medicine, 1239 Siping Road, Shanghai 200065, China
| | - Zhong-Yuan Yao
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, 72 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yan-Ping Li
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, 87 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Yi Quan
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, 72 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Xin-Ning Li
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, 72 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
| | - Chang-Long Xu
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Nanning Second People's Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, 13 Dancun Road, Nanning, 530031, China
| | - Ying Qiu
- The Reproductive Medical Center of Nanning Second People's Hospital, Guangxi Medical University, 13 Dancun Road, Nanning, 530031, China
| | - Ling-Qian Wu
- The State Key Laboratory of Medical Genetics of China, Central South University, 72 Xiangya Road, Changsha, 410008, China
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13
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Poverini R, Lisi R, Lisi F, Berlinghieri V, Bielli W, Carfagna P, Costantino A, Iacomino D, Nicodemo G. Common medium versus advanced IVF medium for cryopreserved oocytes in heterologous cycles. Cell Death Discov 2018; 4:34. [PMID: 29531831 PMCID: PMC5841294 DOI: 10.1038/s41420-017-0025-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2017] [Revised: 11/16/2017] [Accepted: 11/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulation factor plays different crucial roles during embryo implantation and subsequent development. Here we aimed to evaluate the effects of embryo cell culture medium, with the inclusion of granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulation factor (GM-CSF), on embryo development and pregnancy rate. To this end, we took advantage of our retrospective observational study to correlate the outcomes from two different culture media. We included in this study 25 unselected patient from our IVF Center that underwent heterologous IVF cycle with crypreserved oocytes. We analyze the fertilization rate, pregnancy rate, and embryo quality at different day of transfer obtained from two different media composition. Our results show that the rate of fertilization and the pregnancy rate were increased using medium added with this particular type of cytokines (GM-CSF).
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Poverini
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - R. Lisi
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - F. Lisi
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | | | - W. Bielli
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - P. Carfagna
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | | | - D. Iacomino
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
| | - G. Nicodemo
- IVF Unit, Casa di Cura Villa Mafalda, Rome, Italy
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14
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Mukhopadhyay A, Dwarkanath P, Bhanji S, Devi S, Thomas A, Kurpad AV, Thomas T. Maternal intake of milk and milk proteins is positively associated with birth weight: A prospective observational cohort study. Clin Nutr ESPEN 2018; 25:103-109. [PMID: 29779803 DOI: 10.1016/j.clnesp.2018.03.125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2017] [Revised: 12/19/2017] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A striking number of low birth weight (LBW) Indian babies are born annually. Previous studies have confirmed the positive association between milk intake and birth weight. However, the relations between protein and vitamin B12 from milk and birth weight have not been systematically explored. AIMS We examined the relations between birth weight and maternal intake of milk, protein from milk and vitamin B12 from milk. METHODS This prospective, observational cohort study was conducted in an urban South Indian hospital. The dietary intakes of milk and milk products were assessed using validated food frequency questionnaire and at delivery birth outcomes were measured. The relations between milk products, milk protein, and vitamin B12 from milk with birth weight and gestational weight gain were assessed in 2036 births with first trimester dietary and delivery data. RESULTS Median consumption of milk products in the first trimester was 310 g·day-1 and average birth weight was 2876 g. Birth weight was positively associated with intake of milk products and of % protein from milk products (%milk protein) in the first trimester [β = 86.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 29.1, 144.6; β = 63.1, 95% CI: 10.8, 115.5; P < 0.001 for both]. Intake of milk products and of %milk protein in the third trimester was positively associated with gestational weight gain (GWG) between the second and third trimester (One-way ANOVA, P < 0.001 and = 0.001, respectively). Neither birth weight nor GWG were associated with %vitamin B12 from milk products. CONCLUSIONS These findings indicate that intake of milk products in the first trimester and especially, protein from milk products is positively associated with birth weight in this South Asian Indian population.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Mukhopadhyay
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India.
| | - P Dwarkanath
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - S Bhanji
- Harvard Business School, Boston, MA, 02163, USA
| | - S Devi
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - A Thomas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - A V Kurpad
- Division of Nutrition, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
| | - T Thomas
- Division of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, St. John's Research Institute, St. John's National Academy of Health Sciences, Bangalore, 560034, India
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15
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Darbandi S, Darbandi M, Khorram Khorshid HR, Sadeghi MR, Agarwal A, Sengupta P, Al-Hasani S, Akhondi MM. Ooplasmic transfer in human oocytes: efficacy and concerns in assisted reproduction. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2017; 15:77. [PMID: 28969648 PMCID: PMC5625659 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-017-0292-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2017] [Accepted: 09/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ooplasmic transfer (OT) technique or cytoplasmic transfer is an emerging technique with relative success, having a significant status in assisted reproduction. This technique had effectively paved the way to about 30 healthy births worldwide. Though OT has long been invented, proper evaluation of the efficacy and risks associated with this critical technique has not been explored properly until today. This review thereby put emphasis upon the applications, efficacy and adverse effects of OT techniques in human. MAIN BODY Available reports published between January 1982 and August 2017 has been reviewed and the impact of OT on assisted reproduction was evaluated. The results consisted of an update on the efficacy and concerns of OT, the debate on mitochondrial heteroplasmy, apoptosis, and risk of genetic and epigenetic alteration. SHORT CONCLUSION The application of OT technique in humans demands more clarity and further development of this technique may successfully prove its utility as an effective treatment for oocyte incompetence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Darbandi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahsa Darbandi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | | | - Mohammad Reza Sadeghi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Glickman Urological and Kidney Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Pallav Sengupta
- Physiology Unit Faculty of Medicine Lincoln University College, Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
| | - Safaa Al-Hasani
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, University of Schleswig-Holstein, Luebeck, Germany
| | - Mohammad Mehdi Akhondi
- Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
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16
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Abstract
The phenotype of the human embryo conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF), that is its morphology, developmental kinetics, physiology and metabolism, can be affected by numerous components of the laboratory and embryo culture system (which comprise the laboratory environment). The culture media formulation is important in determining embryo phenotype, but this exists within a culture system that includes oxygen, temperature, pH and whether an embryo is cultured individually or in a group, all of which can influence embryo development. Significantly, exposure of an embryo to one suboptimal component of the culture system of laboratory typically predisposes the embryo to become more vulnerable to a second stressor, as has been well documented for atmospheric oxygen and individual culture, as well as for oxygen and ammonium. Furthermore, the inherent viability of the human embryo is derived from the quality of the gametes from which it is created. Patient age, aetiology, genetics, lifestyle (as well as ovarian stimulation in women) are all known to affect the developmental potential of gametes and hence the embryo. Thus, as well as considering the impact of the IVF laboratory environment, one needs to be aware of the status of the infertile couple, as this impacts how their gametes and embryos will respond to an in vitro environment. Although far from straight forward, analysing the interactions that exist between the human embryo and its environment will facilitate the creation of more effective and safer treatments for the infertile couple.
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17
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Nerenz RD. Omics in Reproductive Medicine: Application of Novel Technologies to Improve the IVF Success Rate. Adv Clin Chem 2016; 76:55-95. [PMID: 27645816 DOI: 10.1016/bs.acc.2016.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
Treatment for many infertile couples often consists of in vitro fertilization (IVF) but an estimated 70% of IVF cycles fail to produce a live birth. In an attempt to improve the live birth rate, the vast majority of IVF cycles performed in the United States involve the transfer of multiple embryos, a practice that increases the risk of multiple gestation pregnancy. This is a concern because multiple gestation pregnancies are associated with an increased incidence of maternal and fetal complications and significant cost associated with the care of preterm infants. As the ideal outcome of each IVF cycle is the birth of a single healthy baby, significant effort has focused on identifying embryos with the greatest developmental potential. To date, selection of euploid embryos using comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS) is the most promising approach while metabolomic and proteomic assessment of spent culture medium have the potential to noninvasively assess embryo viability. Endometrial gene expression profiling may help determine the optimal time to perform embryo transfer. While CCS has been implemented in some clinics, further development and optimization will be required before analysis of spent culture medium and endometrial gene expression profiling make the transition to clinical use. This review will describe efforts to identify embryos with the greatest potential to result in a healthy, live birth, with a particular emphasis on detection of embryo aneuploidy and metabolic profiling of spent embryo culture medium. Assessment of endometrial receptivity to identify the optimal time to perform embryo transfer will also be discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- R D Nerenz
- Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH, United States.
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18
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Wale PL, Gardner DK. The effects of chemical and physical factors on mammalian embryo culture and their importance for the practice of assisted human reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2015. [PMID: 26207016 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 174] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although laboratory procedures, along with culture media formulations, have improved over the past two decades, the issue remains that human IVF is performed in vitro (literally 'in glass'). METHODS Using PubMed, electronic searches were performed using keywords from a list of chemical and physical factors with no limits placed on time. Examples of keywords include oxygen, ammonium, volatile organics, temperature, pH, oil overlays and incubation volume/embryo density. Available clinical and scientific evidence surrounding physical and chemical factors have been assessed and presented here. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Development of the embryo outside the body means that it is constantly exposed to stresses that it would not experience in vivo. Sources of stress on the human embryo include identified factors such as pH and temperature shifts, exposure to atmospheric (20%) oxygen and the build-up of toxins in the media due to the static nature of culture. However, there are other sources of stress not typically considered, such as the act of pipetting itself, or the release of organic compounds from the very tissue culture ware upon which the embryo develops. Further, when more than one stress is present in the laboratory, there is evidence that negative synergies can result, culminating in significant trauma to the developing embryo. It is evident that embryos are sensitive to both chemical and physical signals within their microenvironment, and that these factors play a significant role in influencing development and events post transfer. From the viewpoint of assisted human reproduction, a major concern with chemical and physical factors lies in their adverse effects on the viability of embryos, and their long-term effects on the fetus, even as a result of a relatively brief exposure. This review presents data on the adverse effects of chemical and physical factors on mammalian embryos and the importance of identifying, and thereby minimizing, them in the practice of human IVF. Hence, optimizing the in vitro environment involves far more than improving culture media formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra L Wale
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia Melbourne IVF, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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19
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Lees JG, Rathjen J, Sheedy JR, Gardner DK, Harvey AJ. Distinct profiles of human embryonic stem cell metabolism and mitochondria identified by oxygen. Reproduction 2015; 150:367-82. [PMID: 26159831 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Oxygen is a powerful regulator of cell function and embryonic development. It has previously been determined that oxygen regulates human embryonic stem (hES) cell glycolytic and amino acid metabolism, but the effects on mitochondria are as yet unknown. Two hES cell lines (MEL1, MEL2) were analyzed to determine the role of 5% (physiological) and 20% (atmospheric) oxygen in regulating mitochondrial activity. In response to extended physiological oxygen culture, MEL2 hES cells displayed reduced mtDNA content, mitochondrial mass and expression of metabolic genes TFAM, NRF1, PPARa and MT-ND4. Furthermore, MEL2 hES cell glucose consumption, lactate production and amino acid turnover were elevated under physiological oxygen. In stark contrast, MEL1 hES cell amino acid and carbohydrate use and mitochondrial function were relatively unaltered in response to oxygen. Furthermore, differentiation kinetics were delayed in the MEL1 hES cell line following BMP4 treatment. Here we report the first incidence of metabolic dysfunction in a hES cell population, defined as a failure to respond to oxygen concentration through the modulation of metabolism, demonstrating that hES cells can be perturbed during culture despite exhibiting the defining characteristics of pluripotent cells. Collectively, these data reveal a central role for oxygen in the regulation of hES cell metabolism and mitochondrial function, whereby physiological oxygen promotes glucose flux and suppresses mitochondrial biogenesis and gene expression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jarmon G Lees
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Joy Rathjen
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - John R Sheedy
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Alexandra J Harvey
- School of BiosciencesUniversity of Melbourne, Parkville 3010, Victoria, AustraliaMenzies Institute of Medical ResearchUniversity of Tasmania, Hobart 7000, Tasmania, Australia
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20
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Gürke J, Hirche F, Thieme R, Haucke E, Schindler M, Stangl GI, Fischer B, Navarrete Santos A. Maternal Diabetes Leads to Adaptation in Embryonic Amino Acid Metabolism during Early Pregnancy. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0127465. [PMID: 26020623 PMCID: PMC4447349 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0127465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2014] [Accepted: 04/15/2015] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
During pregnancy an adequate amino acid supply is essential for embryo development and fetal growth. We have studied amino acid composition and branched chain amino acid (BCAA) metabolism at day 6 p.c. in diabetic rabbits and blastocysts. In the plasma of diabetic rabbits the concentrations of 12 amino acids were altered in comparison to the controls. Notably, the concentrations of the BCAA leucine, isoleucine and valine were approximately three-fold higher in diabetic rabbits than in the control. In the cavity fluid of blastocysts from diabetic rabbits BCAA concentrations were twice as high as those from controls, indicating a close link between maternal diabetes and embryonic BCAA metabolism. The expression of BCAA oxidizing enzymes and BCAA transporter was analysed in maternal tissues and in blastocysts. The RNA amounts of three oxidizing enzymes, i.e. branched chain aminotransferase 2 (Bcat2), branched chain ketoacid dehydrogenase (Bckdha) and dehydrolipoyl dehydrogenase (Dld), were markedly increased in maternal adipose tissue and decreased in liver and skeletal muscle of diabetic rabbits than in those of controls. Blastocysts of diabetic rabbits revealed a higher Bcat2 mRNA and protein abundance in comparison to control blastocysts. The expression of BCAA transporter LAT1 and LAT2 were unaltered in endometrium of diabetic and healthy rabbits, whereas LAT2 transcripts were increased in blastocysts of diabetic rabbits. In correlation to high embryonic BCAA levels the phosphorylation amount of the nutrient sensor mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) was enhanced in blastocysts caused by maternal diabetes. These results demonstrate a direct impact of maternal diabetes on BCAA concentrations and degradation in mammalian blastocysts with influence on embryonic mTOR signalling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jacqueline Gürke
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Frank Hirche
- Department of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - René Thieme
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Elisa Haucke
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Maria Schindler
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Gabriele I. Stangl
- Department of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, Martin Luther University Halle-Wittenberg, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Bernd Fischer
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
| | - Anne Navarrete Santos
- Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology, Martin Luther University Faculty of Medicine, Halle (Saale), Germany
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21
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Lin YH, Hwang JL, Huang LW, Seow KM, Hsieh BC, Tzeng CR. Comparison of Quinn's Advantage fertilization medium and tissue culture medium 199 for in vitro maturation of oocytes. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2015; 53:17-20. [PMID: 24767640 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2013.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/30/2013] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of the study was to compare the Quinn's Advantage fertilization medium (Q1) and the tissue culture medium 199 (TCM199) for in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes and ammonium production during IVM. MATERIALS AND METHODS The immature murine oocytes were randomly added into Q1 and TCM199. Ammonium concentrations were measured at the start and after 18 hours of IVM, and the mature oocytes were fertilized and cultured into blastocysts. The blastocysts were then stained for inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm. RESULTS The maturation rate was higher in Q1 than in TCM199 (85.7% vs. 76.6%, p = 0.024). The fertilization and blastocyst rates were slightly higher in Q1, but not significant. Differential staining of the blastocysts showed slightly higher ICM ratio in the blastocysts derived from Q1. Mean ammonium concentrations in Q1 and TCM199 at Time 0 were 184.9 and 339.2 μg/dL, respectively (p = 0.05), and after 18 hours of IVM were 268.7 and 443.6 μg/dL, respectively (p = 0.045). Addition of ammonium chloride into Q1 adversely affects IVM. CONCLUSION Q1 is superior to TCM199 in terms of oocyte maturation, which may be due to lower ammonium concentration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu-Hung Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Taiwan University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Jiann-Loung Hwang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Lee-Wen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Kok-Min Seow
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Bih-Chwen Hsieh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shin Kong Wu Ho-Su Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan; School of Medicine, Fu Jen Catholic University, Taipei, Taiwan.
| | - Chii-Ruey Tzeng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
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Kermack AJ, Finn-Sell S, Cheong YC, Brook N, Eckert JJ, Macklon NS, Houghton FD. Amino acid composition of human uterine fluid: association with age, lifestyle and gynaecological pathology. Hum Reprod 2015; 30:917-24. [PMID: 25697730 PMCID: PMC4359399 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do the amino acid levels of human uterine fluid vary with age, BMI, phase of menstrual cycle, benign pathology or diet? SUMMARY ANSWER The levels of 18 amino acids in human uterine fluid were shown to be affected only by maternal diet. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Murine, bovine and ovine uterine amino acid content has been reported, but no reliable data on the human exist. Murine studies have demonstrated that the intrauterine periconceptional nutritional environment is affected by maternal diet. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Uterine secretions were aspirated from 56 women aged 18–45 years. The women were recruited preoperatively from gynaecological theatre operating schedules or hysterosalpingo-contrast-sonography (HyCoSy) lists. A proportion of these women had proven fertility; however, the majority were being investigated for subfertility. The BMI, gynaecological history and dietary pattern of these women were also assessed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography was used to analyse the concentrations of 18 amino acids within the uterine fluid and blood serum. The results were analysed against the women's stage of cycle, age, BMI and diet. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The profile of 18 amino acids in uterine fluid was described. In total, human uterine fluid was observed to contain an amino acid concentration of 3.54 mM (interquartile range: 2.27–6.24 mM). The relative concentrations of 18 amino acids were not significantly altered by age, BMI, cycle phase or the presence of specific benign gynaecological pathologies. However, a diet identified by a validated scoring system as being less healthy was associated with higher concentrations of asparagine (P = 0.018), histidine (P = 0.011), serine (P = 0.033), glutamine (P = 0.049), valine (P = 0.025), phenylalanine (P = 0.019), isoleucine (P = 0.025) and leucine (P = 0.043) in the uterine fluid compared with a healthier diet, defined as one with a higher intake of fresh vegetables, fruit, whole-grain products and fish and a low intake of red and processed meat and high fat dairy products. There were no significant correlations between serum amino acid concentrations and those in the uterine fluid. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our results enabled us to detect the effect of diet on the concentrations of amino acids in human uterine fluid; however, the study may not have had sufficient numbers to detect mild effects of BMI or age. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These findings increase our understanding of the nutritional environment encountered by the preimplantation embryo, and indicate how periconceptional diet may alter this. Given the importance of early embryo environment for programming of development and future health, this information may aid in the development of nutritional interventions aimed at optimizing the preimplantation phase of human embryo development in vivo. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was funded by the NIHR, the Medical Research Council (G0701153) and the University of Southampton and was supported by the NIHR BRC in Nutrition and Southampton University NHS Foundation Trust. The authors declare no conflicts of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra J Kermack
- Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells & Regeneration, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Complete Fertility Centre, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK NIHR BRC in Nutrition Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Sarah Finn-Sell
- Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells & Regeneration, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Ying C Cheong
- Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Complete Fertility Centre, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Nicholas Brook
- Complete Fertility Centre, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Judith J Eckert
- Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells & Regeneration, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Nick S Macklon
- Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Complete Fertility Centre, Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Princess Anne Hospital, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK NIHR BRC in Nutrition Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Franchesca D Houghton
- Centre for Human Development, Stem Cells & Regeneration, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK Academic Unit of Human Development & Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK
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Leese HJ. History of oocyte and embryo metabolism. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 27:567-71. [DOI: 10.1071/rd14278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2014] [Accepted: 01/10/2015] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
The basic pattern of metabolism in mammalian oocytes and early embryos was established in the 1960s and 1970s, largely in terms of the consumption of oxygen and the utilisation of nutrients present in culture media at the time, mainly glucose, pyruvate and lactate. The potential importance of endogenous fuels was also recognised but was largely ignored, only to be rediscovered quite recently. The 1980s and 1990s saw the arrival of a ‘new generation’ of culture media, characterised metabolically by the addition of amino acids, an initiative driven strongly by the need to improve embryo culture and selection methods in assisted reproductive technologies. This trend has continued alongside some basic metabolic studies and the general recognition of the importance of metabolism in all aspects of biology. A framework for future studies on oocyte and early embryo metabolism has been provided by: (1) the developmental origins of health and disease concept and recognition of the relationship between development, epigenetics and metabolism; (2) the need to understand cell signalling within, and between the cells of, the early embryo; and (3) the importance of identifying the mechanisms underlying dialogue between the oocyte and early embryo and the female reproductive tract.
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Abstract
The UK Association of Clinical Embryologists held a workshop on Culture Systems for assisted conception in Sheffield on 22 May 2013. The meeting was organised in the light of the availability of numerous commercial products for the culture of human preimplantation embryos in vitro and the absence of data comparing the performance of these products. Expert opinions were presented, along with survey data provided by participating IVF Centres. The workshop highlighted the lack of a sound evidence base to support the selection of any one commercial product over another, and raised concerns over the lack of information defining precisely the composition of media, and the potential for adverse long-term effects of such products following their use in assisted conception.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia N Bolton
- Assisted Conception Unit, Guy's & St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, Guy's Hospital , Great Maze Pond, London , UK
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25
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The regulatory role of icariin on apoptosis in mouse preimplantation embryos with reduced microRNA-21. Theriogenology 2014; 82:461-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Revised: 05/10/2014] [Accepted: 05/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The advances in the world of IVF during the last decades have been rapid and impressive and culture media play a major role in this success. Until the 1980s fertility centers made their media in house. Nowadays, there are numerous commercially available culture media that contain various components including nutrients, vitamins and growth factors. This review goes through the past, present and future of IVF culture media and explores their composition and quality assessment. METHODS A computerized search was performed in PubMed regarding IVF culture media including results from 1929 until March 2014. Information was gathered from the websites of companies who market culture media, advertising material, instructions for use and certificates of analysis. The regulation regarding IVF media mainly in the European Union (EU) but also in non-European countries was explored. RESULTS The keyword 'IVF culture media' gave 923 results in PubMed and 'embryo culture media' 12 068 results dating from 1912 until March 2014, depicting the increased scientific activity in this field. The commercialization of IVF culture media has increased the standards bringing a great variety of options into clinical practice. However, it has led to reduced transparency and comparisons of brand names that do not facilitate the scientific dialogue. Furthermore, there is some evidence suggesting that suboptimal culture conditions could cause long-term reprogramming in the embryo as the periconception period is particularly susceptible to epigenetic alterations. IVF media are now classified as class III medical devices and only CE (Conformité Européene)-marked media should be used in the EU. CONCLUSION The CE marking of IVF culture media is a significant development in the field. However, the quality and efficiency of culture media should be monitored closely. Well-designed randomized controlled trials, large epidemiological studies and full transparency should be the next steps. Reliable, standardized models assessing multiple end-points and post-implantation development should replace the mouse embryo assay. Structured long-term follow-up of children conceived by assisted reproduction technologies and traceability are of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elpiniki Chronopoulou
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Joyce C Harper
- UCL Centre for PG and D, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, UCLH, London, UK
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Abstract
Preimplantation embryo metabolism demonstrates distinctive characteristics associated with the developmental potential of embryos. On this basis, metabolite content of culture media was hypothesized to reflect the implantation potential of individual embryos. This hypothesis was tested in consecutive studies reporting a significant association between culture media metabolites and embryo development or clinical pregnancy. The need for a noninvasive, reliable, and rapid embryo assessment strategy promoted metabolomics studies in vitro fertilization (IVF) in an effort to increase success rates of single embryo transfers. With the advance of analytical techniques and bioinformatics, commercial instruments were developed to predict embryo viability using spectroscopic analysis of surplus culture media. However, despite the initial promising results from proof-of-principal studies, recent randomized controlled trials using commercial instruments failed to show a consistent benefit in improving pregnancy rates when metabolomics is used as an adjunct to morphology. At present, the application of metabolomics technology in clinical IVF laboratory requires the elimination of factors underlying inconsistent findings, when possible, and development of reliable predictive models accounting for all possible sources of bias throughout the embryo selection process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Uyar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Wale PL, Gardner DK. Oxygen Affects the Ability of Mouse Blastocysts to Regulate Ammonium1. Biol Reprod 2013; 89:75. [DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.113.109256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
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Gardner DK, Hamilton R, McCallie B, Schoolcraft WB, Katz-Jaffe MG. Human and mouse embryonic development, metabolism and gene expression are altered by an ammonium gradient in vitro. Reproduction 2013; 146:49-61. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-12-0348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Ammonium is generated in culture media by the spontaneous deamination of amino acids at 37 °C and through the metabolism of amino acids by human embryos. The appearance of ammonium is a time-dependent phenomenon and can compromise embryo physiology, development and viability. In this study, the effects of a gradient of ammonium on the development, metabolism and transcriptome of human and mouse embryos were investigated. Pronucleate oocytes were cultured in the presence of an ammonium gradient that mimicked the spontaneous deamination of Eagle's amino acids together with 1 mM glutamine. All embryos were cultured in sequential media G1/G2 at 5% O2, 6% CO2 and 89% N2. Human embryo metabolism was assessed through a non-invasive fluorometric analysis of pyruvate consumption. Transcriptome analysis was performed on the resultant blastocysts from both species using a microarray technology. Embryo development prior to compaction was negatively affected by the presence of low levels of ammonium in both species. Human embryo metabolism was significantly inhibited after just 24 and 48 h of culture. Transcriptome analysis of blastocysts from both species revealed significantly altered gene expression profiles, both decreased and increased. Functional annotation of the altered genes revealed the following over represented biological processes: metabolism, cell growth and/or maintenance, transcription, cell communication, transport, development and transcription regulation. These data emphasize the enhanced sensitivity of the cleavage-stage embryo to its environment and highlight the requirement to renew culture media at frequent intervals in order to alleviate the in vitro induced effects of ammonium build-up in the environment surrounding the embryo.
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A medium-chain fatty acid as an alternative energy source in mouse preimplantation development. Sci Rep 2012; 2:930. [PMID: 23226596 PMCID: PMC3514685 DOI: 10.1038/srep00930] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
To further optimize the culturing of preimplantation embryos, we undertook metabolomic analysis of relevant culture media using capillary electrophoresis time-of-flight mass spectrometry (CE-TOFMS). We detected 28 metabolites: 23 embryo-excreted metabolites including 16 amino acids and 5 media-derived metabolites (e.g., octanoate, a medium-chain fatty acid (MCFA)). Due to the lack of information on MCFAs in mammalian preimplantation development, this study examined octanoate as a potential alternative energy source for preimplantation embryo cultures. No embryos survived in culture media lacking FAs, pyruvate, and glucose, but supplementation of octanoate rescued the embryonic development. Immunoblotting showed significant expression of acyl-CoA dehydrogenase and hydroxyacyl-CoA dehydrogenase, important enzymes for ß-oxidation of MCFAs, in preimplantation embryo. Furthermore, CE-TOFMS traced [1-13C8] octanoate added to the culture media into intermediate metabolites of the TCA cycle via ß-oxidation in mitochondria. These results are the first demonstration that octanoate could provide an efficient alternative energy source throughout preimplantation development.
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Abstract
This review considers how our understanding of preimplantation embryo metabolism has progressed since the pioneering work on this topic in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Research has been stimulated by a desire to understand how metabolic events contribute to the development of the zygote into the blastocyst, the need for biomarkers of embryo health with which to improve the success of assisted conception technologies, and latterly by the ‘Developmental Origins of Health and Disease’ (DOHaD) concept. However, arguably, progress has not been as great as it might have been due to methodological difficulties in working with tiny amounts of tissue and the low priority assigned to fundamental research on fertility and infertility, with developments driven more by technical than scientific advances. Nevertheless, considerable progress has been made in defining the roles of the traditional nutrients: pyruvate, glucose, lactate, and amino acids; originally considered as energy sources and biosynthetic precursors, but now recognized as having multiple, overlapping functions. Other nutrients; notably lipids, are beginning to attract the attention they deserve. The pivotal role of mitochondria in early embryo development and the DOHaD concept, and in providing a cellular focus for metabolic events is now recognized. Some unifying ideas are discussed; namely ‘stress–response models’ and the ‘quiet embryo hypothesis’; the latter aiming to relate the metabolism of individual preimplantation embryos to their subsequent viability. The review concludes by updating the state of knowledge of preimplantation embryo metabolism in the early 1970s and listing some future research questions.
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Abstract
Amino acids are beneficial for the developing preimplantation embryo and therefore form an important component of culture media. This chapter will critically review the importance of amino acids for preimplantation embryos and the impact of this research for the development of sequential culture media used in many assisted conception units. The advantages of culturing embryos in a full complement of amino acids, at close to physiological concentrations will be considered. Moreover, the noninvasive measurement of amino acid turnover by individual embryos, a method which holds great promise to assess developmental competency prior to transfer, will also be discussed. Thus, this chapter highlights the fundamental role of amino acids for the metabolic and homeostatic regulation of the preimplantation embryo.
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Yoon J, Yoon HJ, Juhn KM, Ko JK, Yoon SH, Ko Y, Lim JH. Application of two different synthetic sequential media for the human IVF-ET program: a prospective, randomized, and comparative study. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2011; 38:186-92. [PMID: 22384441 PMCID: PMC3283082 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2011.38.4.186] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2011] [Revised: 11/18/2011] [Accepted: 11/28/2011] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Since IVF program was first established, various types of media and culture systems have been developed either in-house or commercially. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of in-house Maria Research Center (MRC) media to that of commercially available Sydney IVF media in human day 3 embryo transfer cycles. Methods Three hundred sixty nine couples were included in this prospective, randomized, and comparative study. All couples undergoing IVF treatment at the Maria Fertility Hospital were randomly assigned to either Sydney IVF (n=178) or MRC (n=191) media. Results No difference was observed between the MRC media and Sydney IVF media groups with respect to fertilization rate (74.4% vs. 75.5%). The clinical pregnancy and implantation rates of MRC media (47.1% and 20.0%, respectively) were also similar to those of Sydney IVF media (44.4% and 19.4%, respectively). However, the proportion of embryos with good quality on day 3 was significantly higher in the MRC media group than the Sydney IVF media group (50.2% vs. 43.2%) (p<0.05). Conclusion MRC media were as effective as Sydney IVF media for sustaining embryo development and pregnancy rates. The present study implies that MRC media can be a suitable alternative to commercially available media for human IVF-ET program.
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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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Fauque P, Jouannet P, Davy C, Guibert J, Viallon V, Epelboin S, Kunstmann JM, Patrat C. Cumulative results including obstetrical and neonatal outcome of fresh and frozen-thawed cycles in elective single versus double fresh embryo transfers. Fertil Steril 2010; 94:927-35. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2009.03.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Revised: 03/06/2009] [Accepted: 03/30/2009] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Chrostowski MK, McGonnigal BG, Stabila JP, Padbury JF. Role of the L-amino acid transporter-1 (LAT-1) in mouse trophoblast cell invasion. Placenta 2010; 31:528-34. [PMID: 20421131 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2009.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2009] [Revised: 12/06/2009] [Accepted: 12/08/2009] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
LAT-1 (L-type amino acid transporter 1) is a system L, Na(+)-independent amino acid transporter responsible for transport of large neutral amino acids. Dysregulated expression of LAT-1 is characteristic of many primary human cancers and it's over expression is related to tumor invasion. LAT-1 is highly expressed in the trophoblast giant cells (TGCs) at the time of implantation. Since trophoblast giant cells are highly invasive during the process of endometrial implantation and placentation, LAT-1 may play a role in the invasive phenotype. Our objectives were to identify the effects of increased and decreased LAT-1 expression on mouse trophoblast invasion. We therefore examined the role of amino acid deprivation, pharmacologic blockade specific to leucine transport and gene silencing (siRNA) on LAT-1 expression and trophoblast cell invasion. We utilized mouse primary trophoblast stem (TS) cells. LAT-1 mRNA expression was quantified by real time qPCR, protein by Western blotting and cell invasion was measured in Transwell plates through Matrigel. Amino acid transport using uptake of tritiated leucine. Under limited leucine availability and/or pharmacologic blockage, LAT-1 gene expression was significantly increased, p<0.05. This was associated with a 3-fold increase in cell invasion, p<0.05. In contrast, following siRNA-mediated gene silencing decreased LAT-1 expression (both mRNA and protein) was associated with decreased cell invasion and decreased leucine uptake, p<0.05. Upregulation of LAT-1 gene expression via limited amino acid availability or following pharmacologic blockade of transport leads to an increase in mouse trophoblast stem cell invasiveness. Downregulation of LAT-1 expression via genetic silencing leads to inhibition of invasiveness. These results demonstrate that LAT-1 plays an important role in trophoblast invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Chrostowski
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Graduate Program in Pathobiology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, USA
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Chrostowski MK, McGonnigal BG, Stabila JP, Padbury JF. LAT-1 expression in pre- and post-implantation embryos and placenta. Placenta 2009; 30:270-6. [PMID: 19193433 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2008.12.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2008] [Revised: 12/26/2008] [Accepted: 12/30/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES LAT-1 (L-type amino acid transporter 1) is a system L, Na(+)-independent amino acid transporter responsible for transport of large neutral amino acids. Dysregulated expression of LAT-1 is characteristic of many primary human cancers and is related to tumor invasion. Primary rat hepatocytes in culture increase LAT-1 mRNA in response to amino acid depletion. Transformed hepatic cell lines demonstrate constitutive expression of LAT-1. These observations suggest that LAT-1 expression confers a growth and survival advantage under limited amino acid availability. LAT-1 is highly expressed in the placenta. It has been shown previously that amino acids are fundamental regulators of cell function and energy metabolism in pre-implantation embryos. Our objectives were to analyze qualitatively and quantitatively LAT-1 expression in pre-implantation stages of mouse embryo development and to identify cell types expressing LAT-1 in post-implantation stages. METHODS LAT-1 was quantified by real-time qPCR. Localization of expression was by laser capture microdissection, in situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry. RESULTS Our results show increasing mRNA levels of LAT-1 as the embryo develops from zygote to blastocyst with highest levels at hatching blastocyst. Expression studies of LAT-1 on microdissected samples from developing mouse placenta show highest levels of LAT-1 mRNA in trophoblast giant cells (TGCs) at the time of implantation (E7.5), followed by maternal decidua, ectoplacental cone and epiblast. At later stages of development (E9.5 and E11.5) no differential expression of LAT-1 was observed. In situ hybridization and immunohistochemistry also showed differential expression of LAT-1 mRNA and protein, respectively, with darkest staining in TGCs at E7.5. By E9.5 and E11.5 mRNA expression was no longer preferentially localized to TGCs, hybridization was equal across the different cell types and regions. LAT-1 protein expression, however, still showed highest intensity of staining in TGCs at E9.5 and E11.5. CONCLUSIONS Since trophoblast giant cells are invasive cells that displace and phagocytose the uterine epithelial cells, these data suggest that LAT-1 may play a role in the invasive phenotype. The mechanism of LAT-1 regulation during placentation, therefore, might provide valuable clues to its role in tumor progression and invasion.
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Affiliation(s)
- M K Chrostowski
- Division of Biology and Medicine, Graduate Program in Pathobiology, Brown University, Providence, Rhode Island, Brown University, 101 Dudley St, Providence, RI 02905, USA
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Sturmey RG, Brison DR, Leese HJ. Symposium: innovative techniques in human embryo viability assessment. Assessing embryo viability by measurement of amino acid turnover. Reprod Biomed Online 2009; 17:486-96. [PMID: 18854101 DOI: 10.1016/s1472-6483(10)60234-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This review assesses the ability of non-invasive 'amino acid profiling' to predict early embryo viability. The history of amino acid supplementation of embryo culture media and the role of amino acids in early embryo development are first considered and these are followed by a review of methods to quantify amino acid depletion and production by single embryos. Data on amino acid profiling of embryos from a number of species are then discussed. It is concluded that this technology has excellent potential to improve the selection of single embryos for transfer in clinical IVF.
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Gupta MK, Uhm SJ, Lee SH, Lee HT. Role of nonessential amino acids on porcine embryos produced by parthenogenesis or somatic cell nuclear transfer. Mol Reprod Dev 2008; 75:588-97. [PMID: 17886265 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.20789] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
Amino acids play a multitude of roles during early embryonic development and have been demonstrated to facilitate improved development of in vivo or in vitro fertilized and parthenogenetic embryos in several species. However, review of emerging literatures, shows that culture milieu of cloned embryos might be different from those of in vitro fertilized embryos. This study therefore, evaluated the effect of nonessential amino acids (NEAA) on yield and quality of porcine embryos produced by somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and compared them with parthenogenetic embryos as control. Analysis showed that, supplementation of NEAA to culture medium significantly improved the blastocyst rate of parthenogenetic (38.9 +/- 8.8 vs. 27.5 +/- 9.0%) as well as SCNT (22.5 +/- 2.2 vs. 13.8 +/- 3.4%) embryos although cleavage rates were not different (P < 0.05). These blastocysts also had higher hatching ability and contained higher cell number than control blastocysts (P < 0.05). TUNEL labeling revealed that blastocysts cultured in the presence of NEAA were less predisposed to biochemical apoptosis and showed lower indices of TUNEL, fragmentation, and total apoptosis than those cultured in the absence of NEAA (P < 0.05). Real-time qRT-PCR analysis further revealed that NEAA decreased the expression ratio of BAX:BCL-xL and enhanced the relative abundance of IGF2 transcripts. Therefore, our study suggests that NEAA improves the yield and quality of cloned porcine embryos by enhancing blastocyst expansion, hatching, and total cell number and decreasing the apoptosis by positively modulating the expression of embryo survival related genes, similar to those reported for in vivo or in vitro fertilized embryos. Nonessential amino acids improve the yield and quality of cloned and parthenogenetic porcine embryos and modulate the expression of embryo survival related genes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mukesh Kumar Gupta
- Department of Animal Biotechnology, Bio-Organ Research Center, Konkuk University, 1, Hwayang-dong, Gwangjin-Gu, Seoul, South Korea
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Jalota S, Bhaduri SB, Tas AC. Using a synthetic body fluid (SBF) solution of 27 mM HCO3− to make bone substitutes more osteointegrative. MATERIALS SCIENCE & ENGINEERING. C, MATERIALS FOR BIOLOGICAL APPLICATIONS 2008. [DOI: 10.1016/j.msec.2007.10.058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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Mtango NR, Potireddy S, Latham KE. Oocyte quality and maternal control of development. INTERNATIONAL REVIEW OF CELL AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2008; 268:223-90. [PMID: 18703408 DOI: 10.1016/s1937-6448(08)00807-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The oocyte is a unique and highly specialized cell responsible for creating, activating, and controlling the embryonic genome, as well as supporting basic processes such as cellular homeostasis, metabolism, and cell cycle progression in the early embryo. During oogenesis, the oocyte accumulates a myriad of factors to execute these processes. Oogenesis is critically dependent upon correct oocyte-follicle cell interactions. Disruptions in oogenesis through environmental factors and changes in maternal health and physiology can compromise oocyte quality, leading to arrested development, reduced fertility, and epigenetic defects that affect long-term health of the offspring. Our expanding understanding of the molecular determinants of oocyte quality and how these determinants can be disrupted has revealed exciting new insights into the role of oocyte functions in development and evolution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namdori R Mtango
- Fels Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Biology, Temple University School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA 19140, USA
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Late stages of embryo progression are a much better predictor of clinical pregnancy than early cleavage in intracytoplasmic sperm injection and in vitro fertilization cycles with blastocyst-stage transfer. Fertil Steril 2007; 87:1041-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.11.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2006] [Revised: 11/01/2006] [Accepted: 11/07/2006] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Abstract
With the growing move in in-vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics to transfer fewer embryos to women, there is an increasing reliance on the IVF laboratory to maximize embryo viability. Subsequently, there is justified scrutiny on the culture system and the media used to sustain the human embryo in vitro. The transfer of fewer embryos to patients also creates an increased dependence on the ability to cryopreserve embryos successfully. Therefore, in addition to the ability of a culture system to produce a single top-quality embryo for transfer, it is also necessary to enhance the cryotolerance of sibling embryos so that they can survive freezing or vitrification. Therefore, when examining which culture media is the best, it is prudent to not only examine the ability of a culture system to produce a pregnancy with the one or two highest-grade embryos, but also to determine how many embryos from the entire cohort (both fresh and frozen embryos) are capable of producing a live birth. Additionally, research on animal models has demonstrated that stress, and the resultant adaptation to conditions during pre-implantation stages, can affect pregnancy loss and fetal growth. It is therefore important to understand the role of each medium component and to identify possible sources of cellular stress to the embryo that will ultimately affect the function and viability of the conceptus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Lane
- Research Centre for Reproductive Health, Discipline of Paediatrics and Reproductive Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia.
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Abstract
The study of in vitro maturation (IVM) of rhesus monkey oocytes has important implications for biomedical research and human infertility treatment. In vitro-matured rhesus monkey oocytes show much less developmental potential than IVM oocytes of other species. Since about 1980 when rhesus monkey IVM, in vitro fertilization (IVF) and in vitro embryo culture (IVC) systems were established, numerous efforts have been made to improve the developmental competence of oocytes and to understand the mechanisms regulating oocyte maturation. This review describes recent progress in this area, particularly the effects of factors such as steroid hormones, energy substrates, amino acids, ovarian follicle status, maternal age and breeding season on the developmental competence, gene expression patterns and genome integrity of rhesus IVM oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Zheng
- Laboratory of Cellular and Developmental Biology, NIDDK, National Institutes of Health, Building 50, Rm 3132, 9000 Rockville Pike, Bethesda, MD 20892-8028, USA.
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Escribá MJ, Escobedo-Lucea C, Mercader A, de los Santos MJ, Pellicer A, Remohí J. Ultrastructure of preimplantation genetic diagnosis-derived human blastocysts grown in a coculture system after vitrification. Fertil Steril 2006; 86:664-71. [PMID: 16831437 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2006.01.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2005] [Revised: 01/27/2006] [Accepted: 01/27/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate ultrastructural features of preimplantation genetic diagnosis (PGD) blastocysts before and after vitrification. DESIGN Descriptive study of both vitrified and fresh hatching blastocysts. SETTING PGD program at the Instituto Universitario, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad. PATIENT(S) Patients undergoing PGD donated their abnormal embryos for research (n = 26). INTERVENTION(S) Biopsied embryos were cultured in the presence of human endometrial cells until day 6. Sixteen blastocysts were vitrified. A total of 11 high-scored hatching blastocysts, 6 warmed and 5 fresh, were fixed for ultrastructure. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) The cytoskeleton structure, type of intercellular junctions, and basic intracellular organelles in trophoectoderm cells and the inner cell mass were analyzed. RESULT(S) Ten of 16 blastocysts (62%) survived the warming process. Six of these showed no signs of cell degeneration and light microscopy revealed similar ultrastructural characteristics to those of controls. However, in trophoectoderm cells from both fresh and cryopreserved blastocysts, a reduced number of tight junctions and the presence of degradation bodies were detected. CONCLUSION(S) The particular ultrastructural features observed in PGD-derived blastocysts could be related to embryo manipulation and culture conditions. Vitrification does not seem to alter blastocysts, as those that survive hatching do not display detectable cellular alterations when observed through electron microscopy.
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Abstract
Mammalian pre-implantation development culminates in the formation of the blastocyst consisting of two distinct cell lineages, approximately a third of the cells comprise the pluripotent inner cell mass (ICM) and the remainder the differentiated trophectoderm (TE). However, the contribution made by these two cell types to the overall energy metabolism of the intact blastocyst has received relatively little attention. In this study, the metabolism of the intact mouse blastocyst and isolated ICMs were determined in terms of total ATP formation (calculated from oxygen consumption and lactate formation), mitochondrial distribution and amino acid turnover to provide an indication of protein synthesis. The TE consumed significantly more oxygen, produced more ATP and contained a greater number of mitochondria than the ICM. Amino acid turnover was significantly greater (p<0.001) in the TE compared with the ICM. Specifically, there was a significant difference in the utilization of aspartate (p=0.020), glutamate (p=0.024), methionine (p=0.037), and serine (p=0.041) between the cells of the ICM and TE. These data suggest that the TE produces approximately 80% of the ATP generated and is responsible for 90% of amino acid turnover compared with the ICM. The major fate of the energy produced by the TE is likely to be the Na(+), K(+)ATPase (sodium pump enzyme) located on the TE basolateral membrane. In conclusion, the pluripotent cells of the ICM display a relatively quiescent metabolism in comparison with that of the TE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Franchesca D Houghton
- Division of Human Genetics, University of Southampton, Duthie Building Mailpoint 808, Southampton General Hospital, Tremona Road, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK.
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Humpherson PG, Leese HJ, Sturmey RG. Amino acid metabolism of the porcine blastocyst. Theriogenology 2005; 64:1852-66. [PMID: 15923030 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2005.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2005] [Revised: 04/20/2005] [Accepted: 04/21/2005] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The pattern of depletion and appearance of a mixture of amino acids by single porcine blastocysts incubated in two different media has been determined non-invasively using high performance liquid chromatography. Zygotes were produced by the in vitro fertilisation of in vitro-matured, abattoir-derived immature oocytes and cultured in medium NCSU 23 with or without amino acids. Embryos grown in the absence of amino acids up to the blastocyst stage were transferred to amino acid-containing culture medium for measurement of turnover (Experiment 1). Blastocysts grown in NCSU 23+amino acids were transferred into fresh droplets of the same medium (Experiment 2). Although the specific pattern of amino acid production and depletion varied between experiments, a general pattern emerged, with arginine being significantly depleted (p<0.001) and alanine consistently appearing in the media, in quantities that varied depending with culture conditions. The data suggest that arginine is important during porcine blastocyst development, most likely contributing to the formation of nitric oxide and polyamines and that alanine is produced as a means of disposing of excess amino groups. A model for the interactions of amino acids during porcine early embryo development is proposed. The profile of amino acid metabolism by porcine blastocysts is qualitatively and quantitatively similar to that given by human embryos during the morula:blastocyst transition suggesting that the porcine blastocyst is a good model for the human.
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Affiliation(s)
- P G Humpherson
- Department of Biology (Area 3), University of York, P.O. Box 373, York YO10 5YW, UK
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Van den Bergh MJG, Siragusa A, Dubied A, Vonbach P, Deshe MF, Flügel K, Ruflin S, Stutz J, Teufelberger K, Kratzer A, Urech C, Hohl M. The use of an hydrogen peroxide multipurpose isolator for inhouse preparation of human embryo culture media: a unique successful Swiss randomized prospective study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2005; 21:381-6. [PMID: 15672950 PMCID: PMC3455858 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-004-7525-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To develop inhouse made (IHM) embryo culture medium with a Multipurpose Isolator and compare the embryo development in a prospective randomized study with commercial media. METHODS Fertilization by intracytoplasmic single sperm injection (ICSI) of Metaphase II oocytes obtained after 96 controlled ovarian hyperstimulation cycles in patients not older than 37 years. Transfer of zygotes to IHM or commercial Cook Sydney IVF Cleavage medium (SIC) immediately after pronucleus observation. Evaluation of embryo cleavage and score, pregnancy, and implantation rate. RESULTS From 100 zygotes cultured in SIC, 61% were at the 4 cell stage 45 h after ICSI compared to 77% (78/101) in the IHM, P < 0.05. The mean embryo score with IHM was 3.9 +/- 0.9 compared to 3.5 +/- 1.2 with SIC, P < 0.05. The clinical pregnancy rate per transfer was 38.9% (37/95), the implantation rate was 23% (46/200), and no differences were observed between the groups.
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Schieve LA, Rasmussen SA, Buck GM, Schendel DE, Reynolds MA, Wright VC. Are children born after assisted reproductive technology at increased risk for adverse health outcomes? Obstet Gynecol 2004; 103:1154-63. [PMID: 15172847 DOI: 10.1097/01.aog.0000124571.04890.67] [Citation(s) in RCA: 117] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
As assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are increasingly used to overcome infertility, there is concern about the health of the children conceived. The empirical evidence for associations with outcomes related to child health is variable and should be evaluated with consideration of methodological shortcomings. Currently, there is convincing evidence that ART treatment may increase the risk of a few outcomes. Experimental laboratory studies document that various constituents in culture media affect various embryo characteristics both positively and negatively. Multiple-gestation pregnancy and birth are increased with ART, both because of multiple embryo transfer and embryo splitting. There is evidence of an increase in chromosomal abnormalities among pregnancies conceived using intracytoplasmic sperm injection and low birth weight and preterm delivery among singletons conceived with all types of ART; however, there remains uncertainty about whether these risks stem from the treatment or the parental infertility. For some outcomes, data of an increased risk with ART are suggestive at best largely because of lack of purposeful study of sufficient size and scope. These include specific perinatal morbidities, birth defects, developmental disabilities, and retinoblastoma. The evidence for an association between ART and spontaneous abortion is inconsistent and weak. There is inconclusive evidence that ART may be associated with genetic imprinting disorders. For childhood cancer, chronic conditions, learning and behavioral disorders, and reproductive effects there is insufficient empirical research to date, but given the data for more proximal outcomes, these outcomes merit further study. Future research needs to address the unique methodological challenges underlying study in this area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura A Schieve
- Division of Reproductive Health, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway NE, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA.
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