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Aguila L, Cabrera P, Arias ME, Silva M, Felmer R. Effect of sperm treatment with lysolecithin on in vitro outcomes of equine intracytoplasmic sperm injection. J Equine Vet Sci 2024; 138:105095. [PMID: 38810588 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2024.105095] [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: 01/11/2024] [Revised: 05/03/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/31/2024]
Abstract
Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in horses is currently employed for clinical and commercial uses, but the protocol could be optimized to improve its efficiency. We have hypothesized that destabilization of plasma and acrosomal membranes prior to injection would positively impact the developmental potential of equine zygotes generated by ICSI. This study evaluated effects of the sperm treatment with lysolecithin on plasma and acrosomal membranes and on oocyte activation ability, initially following heterologous ICSI on bovine oocytes and subsequently employing equine oocytes. The effects of the lysolecithin -treatment on the efficiency of conventional and piezo-assisted equine ICSI were evaluated. To do this, the equine sperm were treated with different concentrations of lysolecithin and the sperm plasma membrane, acrosome and DNA integrity were evaluated by flow cytometry. The results showed that a lysolecithin concentration of 0.08 % destabilized the membranes of all sperm and affected DNA integrity within the range described for the species (8-30 %). In addition, the heterologous ICSI assay showed that lysolecithin treatment was detrimental to the sperm's ability to activate the oocyte, therefore, chemical oocyte activation was used after equine ICSI after injection with lysolecithin -treated sperm. This group showed similar developmental rate to the control group with and without exogenous activation. In conclusion, lysolecithin pre-treatment is not necessary when using ICSI to produce equine embryos in vitro. The results from the current study provide additional insight regarding the factors impacting ICSI in horses.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Aguila
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - P Cabrera
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Doctoral Program in Applied Cellular and Molecular Biology, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - M E Arias
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Department of Agricultural Production, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - M Silva
- Departament of Veterinary Sciences and Public Health, Universidad Católica de Temuco, Temuco 4811322, Chile
| | - R Felmer
- Laboratory of Reproduction, Centre of Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile; Department of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources, Faculty of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco 4811322, Chile.
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2
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Nicholson CL, Dean M, Attia A, Milne PA, Martins da Silva S. Artificial oocyte activation improves ICSI outcomes following unexplained fertilization abnormalities. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:104327. [PMID: 39241689 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.104327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2024] [Revised: 06/12/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is artificial oocyte activation (AOA) effective for patients with unexplained low or no fertilization following IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)? DESIGN All IVF/ICSI cases resulting in total fertilization failure or fertilization rate ≤25% at Ninewells Assisted Conception Unit, Dundee between January 2014 and December 2021 (n = 231) were reviewed contemporaneously. After exclusion of obvious stimulation, egg, sperm and/or assisted reproductive technology laboratory factors, patients with at least one cycle of IVF/ICSI resulting in apparently unexplained fertilization abnormalities were offered research investigations, including sperm immunocytochemistry for phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) protein expression. This retrospective case-control cohort study evaluated laboratory and clinical outcomes for 39 couples (15 attended for sperm studies research) that subsequently undertook ICSI-AOA with Ca2+ ionophore. RESULTS Comparing preceding IVF/ICSI and subsequent ICSI-AOA for each patient, the number of eggs collected was similar; however, ICSI-AOA resulted in a significantly improved fertilization rate (57.2% versus 7.1%; P < 0.0001). The uplift for a subset of 10 patients identified with PLCζ deficiency was 66.3% versus 4.6% (P < 0.0001). Overall, ICSI-AOA resulted in a higher number of fresh embryo transfers (94.6% versus 33.3%; P < 0.0001), a significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and live birth rate (LBR; 18.9% versus 2.6%; P = 0.02), a significant increase in cycles with surplus embryos suitable for cryostorage (43.6% versus 0%; P < 0.0001), and increased cumulative CPR (41.0% versus 2.6%; P < 0.0001) and LBR (38.5% versus 2.6%; P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION AOA is a powerful tool that can transform clinical outcomes for couples experiencing apparently unexplained fertilization abnormalities. PLCζ assays have the potential to be valuable diagnostic tools to determine patient selection for ICSI-AOA, and research efforts should continue to focus on their development.
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Affiliation(s)
- C L Nicholson
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - M Dean
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - A Attia
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK
| | - P A Milne
- Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK
| | - S Martins da Silva
- Reproductive Medicine Research Group, School of Medicine, Ninewells Hospital and Medical School, University of Dundee, Dundee, UK; Assisted Conception Unit, Ninewells Hospital, Dundee, UK.
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3
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Bekaert B, Boel A, Rybouchkin A, Cosemans G, Declercq S, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, Parrington J, Stoop D, Coucke P, Menten B, Heindryckx B. Various repair events following CRISPR/Cas9-based mutational correction of an infertility-related mutation in mouse embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1605-1617. [PMID: 38557805 PMCID: PMC11224219 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03095-9] [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: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Unpredictable genetic modifications and chromosomal aberrations following CRISPR/Cas9 administration hamper the efficacy of germline editing. Repair events triggered by double-strand DNA breaks (DSBs) besides non-homologous end joining and repair template-driven homology-directed repair have been insufficiently investigated in mouse. In this work, we are the first to investigate the precise repair mechanisms triggered by parental-specific DSB induction in mouse for paternal mutational correction in the context of an infertility-related mutation. METHODS We aimed to correct a paternal 22-nucleotide deletion in Plcz1, associated with lack of fertilisation in vitro, by administrating CRISPR/Cas9 components during intracytoplasmic injection of Plcz1-null sperm in wild-type oocytes combined with assisted oocyte activation. Through targeted next-generation sequencing, 77 injected embryos and 26 blastomeres from seven injected embryos were investigated. In addition, low-pass whole genome sequencing was successfully performed on 17 injected embryo samples. RESULTS Repair mechanisms induced by two different CRISPR/Cas9 guide RNA (gRNA) designs were investigated. In 13.73% (7/51; gRNA 1) and 19.05% (4/21; gRNA 2) of the targeted embryos, only the wild-type allele was observed, of which the majority (85.71%; 6/7) showed integrity of the targeted chromosome. Remarkably, for both designs, only in one of these embryos (1/7; gRNA 1 and 1/4; gRNA2) could repair template use be detected. This suggests that alternative repair events have occurred. Next, various genetic events within the same embryo were detected after single-cell analysis of four embryos. CONCLUSION Our results suggest the occurrence of mosaicism and complex repair events after CRISPR/Cas9 DSB induction where chromosomal integrity is predominantly contained.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Bekaert
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Boel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Rybouchkin
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - G Cosemans
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Declercq
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - S M Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
- Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, 2333 ZA, the Netherlands
| | - J Parrington
- Department of Pharmacology, University of Oxford, Mansfield Road, Oxford, OX1 3QT, UK
| | - D Stoop
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P Coucke
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Menten
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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Gonzalez-Castro RA, Carnevale EM. Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1): The Function and Potential for Fertility Assessment and In Vitro Embryo Production in Cattle and Horses. Vet Sci 2023; 10:698. [PMID: 38133249 PMCID: PMC10747197 DOI: 10.3390/vetsci10120698] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2023] [Revised: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Phospholipase C Zeta 1 (PLCZ1) is considered a major sperm-borne oocyte activation factor. After gamete fusion, PLCZ1 triggers calcium oscillations in the oocyte, resulting in oocyte activation. In assisted fertilization, oocyte activation failure is a major cause of low fertility. Most cases of oocyte activation failures in humans related to male infertility are associated with gene mutations and/or altered PLCZ1. Consequently, PLCZ1 evaluation could be an effective diagnostic marker and predictor of sperm fertilizing potential for in vivo and in vitro embryo production. The characterization of PLCZ1 has been principally investigated in men and mice, with less known about the PLCZ1 impact on assisted reproduction in other species, such as cattle and horses. In horses, sperm PLCZ1 varies among stallions, and sperm populations with high PLCZ1 are associated with cleavage after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In contrast, bull sperm is less able to initiate calcium oscillations and undergo nuclear remodeling, resulting in poor cleavage after ICSI. Advantageously, injections of PLCZ1 are able to rescue oocyte failure in mouse oocytes after ICSI, promoting full development and birth. However, further research is needed to optimize PLCZ1 diagnostic tests for consistent association with fertility and to determine whether PLCZ1 as an oocyte-activating treatment is a physiological, efficient, and safe method for improving assisted fertilization in cattle and horses.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Elaine M. Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA;
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5
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Zhang Y, Tang J, Wang X, Sun Y, Yang T, Shen X, Yang X, Shi H, Sun X, Xin A. Loss of ACTL7A causes small head sperm by defective acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2023; 21:82. [PMID: 37667331 PMCID: PMC10476415 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-023-01130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Actin-like 7 A (ACTL7A) is essential for acrosome formation, fertilization and early embryo development. ACTL7A variants cause acrosome detachment responsible for male infertility and early embryonic arrest. In this study, we aim to explore the additional functions of ACTL7A beyond the process of acrosome biogenesis and investigate the possible underlying mechanisms. METHODS Nuclear morphology analysis was used to observe the sperm head shape of ACTL7A-mutated patients. Actl7a knock-out (KO) mouse model was generated. Immunofluorescence and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed to analyze the structure of spermatids during spermiogenesis. Tandem mass tags labeling quantitative proteomics strategy was employed to explore the underlying molecular mechanisms. The expression levels of key proteins in the pathway were analyzed by western blotting. Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI)-artificial oocyte activation (AOA) technology was utilized to overcome fertilization failure in male mice with a complete knockout of Actl7a. RESULTS The new phenotype of small head sperm associated with loss of ACTL7A in patients was discovered, and further confirmed in Actl7a-KO mice. Immunofluorescence and TEM analyses revealed that the deletion of ACTL7A damaged the formation of acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex, leading to abnormalities in the shaping of sperm heads. Moreover, a proteomic analysis of testes from WT and Actl7a-KO mice revealed that differentially expressed genes were notably enriched in PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway which is strongly associated with autophagy. Inhibition of autophagy via PI3K/AKT/mTOR signaling pathway activation leading to PDLIM1 accumulation might elucidate the hindered development of manchette in Actl7a-KO mice. Remarkably, AOA successfully overcame fertilization failure and allowed for the successful production of healthy offspring from the Actl7a complete knockout male mice. CONCLUSIONS Loss of ACTL7A causes small head sperm as a result of defective acrosome-acroplaxome-manchette complex via autophagy inhibition. ICSI-AOA is an effective technique to rescue male infertility resulting from ACTL7A deletion. These findings provide essential evidence for the diagnosis and treatment of patients suffering from infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yini Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jianan Tang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xuemei Wang
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Yisi Sun
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Tianying Yang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Xiaorong Shen
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xinyue Yang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, 200011, China.
| | - Aijie Xin
- Shanghai-MOST Key Laboratory of Health and Disease Genomics, NHC Key Lab of Reproduction Regulation,Shanghai Institute for Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Technologies (SIBPT), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032, China.
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6
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Bekaert B, Boel A, De Witte L, Vandenberghe W, Popovic M, Stamatiadis P, Cosemans G, Tordeurs L, De Loore AM, Chuva de Sousa Lopes SM, De Sutter P, Stoop D, Coucke P, Menten B, Heindryckx B. Retained chromosomal integrity following CRISPR-Cas9-based mutational correction in human embryos. Mol Ther 2023; 31:2326-2341. [PMID: 37376733 PMCID: PMC10422011 DOI: 10.1016/j.ymthe.2023.06.013] [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: 12/09/2022] [Revised: 04/11/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Human germline gene correction by targeted nucleases holds great promise for reducing mutation transmission. However, recent studies have reported concerning observations in CRISPR-Cas9-targeted human embryos, including mosaicism and loss of heterozygosity (LOH). The latter has been associated with either gene conversion or (partial) chromosome loss events. In this study, we aimed to correct a heterozygous basepair substitution in PLCZ1, related to infertility. In 36% of the targeted embryos that originated from mutant sperm, only wild-type alleles were observed. By performing genome-wide double-digest restriction site-associated DNA sequencing, integrity of the targeted chromosome (i.e., no deletions larger than 3 Mb or chromosome loss) was confirmed in all seven targeted GENType-analyzed embryos (mutant editing and absence of mutation), while short-range LOH events (shorter than 10 Mb) were clearly observed by single-nucleotide polymorphism assessment in two of these embryos. These results fuel the currently ongoing discussion on double-strand break repair in early human embryos, making a case for the occurrence of gene conversion events or partial template-based homology-directed repair.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bieke Bekaert
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annekatrien Boel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lisa De Witte
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Winter Vandenberghe
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mina Popovic
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Stamatiadis
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gwenny Cosemans
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lise Tordeurs
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Athina-Maria De Loore
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Susana Marina Chuva de Sousa Lopes
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium; Department of Anatomy and Embryology, Leiden University Medical Center, 2333 ZA Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dominic Stoop
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Paul Coucke
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Menten
- Center for Medical Genetics Ghent, Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Ghent University, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
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7
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Quintana-Vehí A, Martínez M, Zamora MJ, Rodríguez A, Vassena R, Miguel-Escalada I, Popovic M. Significant differences in efficiency between two commonly used ionophore solutions for assisted oocyte activation (AOA): a prospective comparison of ionomycin and A23187. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1661-1668. [PMID: 37247099 PMCID: PMC10352473 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02833-9] [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: 02/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 05/30/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Despite the success of ICSI in treating severe male factor infertile patients, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in around 1-3% of ICSI cycles. To overcome FF, the use of calcium ionophores has been proposed to induce oocyte activation and restore fertilization rates. However, assisted oocyte activation (AOA) protocols and ionophores vary between laboratories, and the morphokinetic development underlying AOA remains understudied. METHODS A prospective single-center cohort study involving 81 in vitro matured metaphase-II oocytes from 66 oocyte donation cycles artificially activated by A23187 (GM508 CultActive, Gynemed) (n=42) or ionomycin (n=39). Parthenogenesis was induced, and morphokinetic parameters (tPNa, tPNf, t2-t8, tSB, and tB) were compared between the 2 study groups and a control group comprising 39 2PN-zygotes from standard ICSI cycles. RESULTS Ionomycin treatment resulted in higher activation rates compared to A23187 (38.5% vs 23.8%, p=0.15). Importantly, none of the A23187-activated parthenotes formed blastocysts. When evaluating the morphokinetic dynamics between the two ionophores, we found that tPNa and tPNf were significantly delayed in the group treated by A23187 (11.84 vs 5.31, p=0.002 and 50.15 vs 29.69, p=0.005, respectively). t2 was significantly delayed in A23187-activated parthenotes when compared to the double heterologous control embryo group. In contrast, the morphokinetic development of ionomycin-activated parthenotes was comparable to control embryos (p>0.05). CONCLUSION Our results suggest that A23187 leads to lower oocyte activation rates and profoundly affects morphokinetic timings and preimplantation development in parthenotes. Despite our limited sample size and low parthenote competence, standardization and further optimization of AOA protocols may allow wider use and improved outcomes for FF cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - M Martínez
- Clínica EUGIN, C/ Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M J Zamora
- Clínica EUGIN, C/ Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - R Vassena
- Eugin Group, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - M Popovic
- Eugin Group, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
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8
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Bafleh WS, Abdulsamad HMR, Al-Qaraghuli SM, El Khatib RY, Elbahrawi RT, Abdukadir AM, Alsawae SM, Dimassi Z, Hamdan H, Kashir J. Applications of advances in mRNA-based platforms as therapeutics and diagnostics in reproductive technologies. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1198848. [PMID: 37305677 PMCID: PMC10250609 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1198848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The recent COVID-19 pandemic led to many drastic changes in not only society, law, economics, but also in science and medicine, marking for the first time when drug regulatory authorities cleared for use mRNA-based vaccines in the fight against this outbreak. However, while indeed representing a novel application of such technology in the context of vaccination medicine, introducing RNA into cells to produce resultant molecules (proteins, antibodies, etc.) is not a novel principle. It has been common practice to introduce/inject mRNA into oocytes and embryos to inhibit, induce, and identify several factors in a research context, while such aspects have also been proposed as potential therapeutic and diagnostic applications to combat infertility in humans. Herein, we describe key areas where mRNA-based platforms have thus far represented potential areas of clinical applications, describing the advantages and limitations of such applications. Finally, we also discuss how recent advances in mRNA-based platforms, driven by the recent pandemic, may stand to benefit the treatment of infertility in humans. We also present brief future directions as to how we could utilise recent and current advancements to enhance RNA therapeutics within reproductive biology, specifically with relation to oocyte and embryo delivery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wjdan S. Bafleh
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Haia M. R. Abdulsamad
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sally M. Al-Qaraghuli
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Riwa Y. El Khatib
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Rawdah Taha Elbahrawi
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azhar Mohamud Abdukadir
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Zakia Dimassi
- Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hamdan Hamdan
- Department of Physiology and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Healthcare Engineering Innovation Center (HEIC), Khalifa University of Science and Technology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Junaid Kashir
- Department of Biology, College of Arts and Science, Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Department of Comparative Medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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9
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Li Q, Wang Y, Zheng W, Guo J, Zhang S, Gong F, Lu GX, Lin G, Dai J. Biallelic variants in IQCN cause sperm flagellar assembly defects and male infertility. Hum Reprod 2023:7142890. [PMID: 37140151 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead079] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 03/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/05/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the effect of defects in the manchette protein IQ motif-containing N (IQCN) on sperm flagellar assembly? SUMMARY ANSWER Deficiency in IQCN causes sperm flagellar assembly defects and male infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The manchette is a transient structure that is involved in the shaping of the human spermatid nucleus and protein transport within flagella. Our group recently reported that the manchette protein IQCN is essential for fertilization. Variants in IQCN lead to total fertilization failure and defective acrosome structure phenotypes. However, the function of IQCN in sperm flagellar assembly is still unknown. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fifty men with infertility were recruited from a university-affiliated center from January 2014 to October 2022. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Genomic DNA was extracted from the peripheral blood samples of all 50 individuals for whole-exome sequencing. The ultrastructure of the spermatozoa was assessed by transmission electron microscopy. Computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) was used to test the parameters of curvilinear velocity (VCL), straight-line velocity (VSL), and average path velocity (VAP). An Iqcn knockout (Iqcn-/-) mouse model was generated by CRISPR-Cas9 technology to evaluate sperm motility and the ultrastructure of the flagellum. Hyperactivation and sperm fertilizing ability were assessed in a mouse model. Immunoprecipitation followed by liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry was used to detect IQCN-binding proteins. Immunofluorescence was used to validate the localization of IQCN-binding proteins. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Biallelic variants in IQCN (c.3913A>T and c.3040A>G; c.2453_2454del) were identified in our cohort of infertile men. The sperm from the affected individuals showed an irregular '9 + 2' structure of the flagellum, which resulted in abnormal CASA parameters. Similar phenotypes were observed in Iqcn-/- male mice. VSL, VCL, and VAP in the sperm of Iqcn-/- male mice were significantly lower than those in Iqcn+/+ male mice. Partial peripheral doublet microtubules (DMTs) and outer dense fibers (ODFs) were absent, or a chaotic arrangement of DMTs was observed in the principal piece and end piece of the sperm flagellum. Hyperactivation and IVF ability were impaired in Iqcn-/- male mice. In addition, we investigated the causes of motility defects and identified IQCN-binding proteins including CDC42 and the intraflagellar transport protein families that regulate flagellar assembly during spermiogenesis. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION More cases are needed to demonstrate the relation between IQCN variants and phenotypes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings expand the genetic and phenotypic spectrum of IQCN variants in causing male infertility, providing a genetic marker for sperm motility deficiency and male infertility. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (81974230 and 82202053), the Changsha Municipal Natural Science Foundation (kq2202072), the Hunan Provincial Natural Science Foundation (2022JJ40658), and the Scientific Research Foundation of Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya (YNXM-202114 and YNXM-202201). No conflicts of interest were declared. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Yize Wang
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Shunji Zhang
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Guang-Xiu Lu
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Dai
- Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Changsha, China
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10
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Gunderson SJ, Snowden N, Field JJ. Embryo Cryopreservation in a Patient with Sickle Cell Disease Utilizing Letrozole and Enoxaparin: A Case Report. Hematol Rep 2023; 15:101-107. [PMID: 36810554 PMCID: PMC9944850 DOI: 10.3390/hematolrep15010011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 11/15/2022] [Accepted: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To describe a patient with sickle cell disease, a prothrombotic disorder, who underwent successful embryo cryopreservation for the purposes of fertility preservation prior to hematopoietic stem cell transplant. METHODS To report a successful case of gonadotropin stimulation and embryo cryopreservation using the aromatase inhibitor letrozole to maintain low serum estradiol to minimize thrombotic risk in a patient with sickle cell disease (SCD) and history of retinal artery thrombosis planning hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT). The patient was given letrozole (5 mg daily) as well as prophylactic enoxaparin while undergoing gonadotropin stimulation with an antagonist protocol to preserve fertility prior to HSCT. After the oocyte retrieval, letrozole was continued for one additional week. RESULTS The patient's peak serum estradiol concentration was 172 pg/mL during gonadotropin stimulation. Ten mature oocytes were retrieved and a total of 10 blastocysts were cryopreserved. The patient required pain medication and intravenous fluids after oocyte retrieval due to pain but had significant improvement at the scheduled post-operative day one follow-up. No embolic events occurred during stimulation or 6 months thereafter. CONCLUSION The utilization of definitive treatment for SCD with stem cell transplant is increasing. We successfully used letrozole to maintain low serum estradiol during gonadotropin stimulation along with prophylactic enoxaparin in a patient with SCD to minimize her risk of thrombosis. This approach will allow patients planning definitive treatment with stem cell transplant the opportunity to preserve their fertility safely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie J. Gunderson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Correspondence:
| | - Nina Snowden
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
| | - Joshua J. Field
- Department of Hematology, Medical College of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53226, USA
- Versiti Blood Center of Wisconsin, Milwaukee, WI 53233, USA
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11
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Artificial oocyte activation with ionomycin compared with A23187 among patients at risk of failed or impaired fertilization. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 46:35-45. [PMID: 36379856 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.08.105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 08/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Do fertilization rates differ between intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles treated with artificial oocyte activation (AOA) using 10 µmol/l ionomycin or commercial A23187 in women at risk of failed or impaired fertilization? DESIGN This single-centre, 7-year retrospective cohort study included 157 couples with a history of total fertilization failure (TFF, 0%) or low fertilization (<30%) after ICSI, or with severe oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia (OAT) in the male partner. Couples and underwent 171 ICSI-AOA cycles using either 10 µmol/l ionomycin or commercial A23187. The embryological and clinical outcomes were compared. RESULTS Fertilization rates in the ionomycin group were significantly higher than those in the A23187 group for all three subgroups (TFF, 46.9% versus 28.4%, P = 0.002; low fertilization, 67.7% versus 49.2%, P < 0.001; severe OAT, 66.4% versus 31.6%, P < 0.001). AOA with ionomycin significantly increased the day 3 cleavage rate (P = 0.009) when compared with A23187 in the low fertilization group, but not in the TFF or severe OAT group (both P > 0.05). The rates of day 3 good-quality embryos, clinical pregnancy, implantation and live birth, and the cumulative live birth, did not differ between the two groups (all P > 0.05). A total of 64 live births resulted in 72 healthy babies born. CONCLUSIONS AOA with 10 µmol/l ionomycin may be more effective than commercial A23187 in improving oocyte activation in patients at risk of failed or impaired fertilization, especially in cases of sperm-related defects.
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12
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Suto A, Yano Y, Yamamoto Y, Noguchi H, Takeda A, Yamamoto S, Kagawa T, Yoshida K, Hinokio K, Kuwahara A, Yasui T, Iwasa T. Effects of activation with a Ca ionophore and roscovitine on the development of human oocytes that failed to fertilize after ICSI. THE JOURNAL OF MEDICAL INVESTIGATION 2023; 70:321-324. [PMID: 37940514 DOI: 10.2152/jmi.70.321] [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] [Indexed: 11/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The effects of oocyte activation with a Ca ionophore and roscovitine (Ca+R), a selective inhibitor of M-phase promoting factor, on unfertilized oocytes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) or testicular sperm extraction (TESE)-ICSI were evaluated. METHOD Oocytes without pronuclei at 18 hours after ICSI were judged to be unfertilized and were exposed to the Ca ionophore A23187 (5 ?M) with or without roscovitine (50 ?M). The activation rate was measured 3, 7, and 18 hours later. Oocytes with two polar bodies and two pronuclei with a sperm tail were judged to have been activated. RESULTS At 18 hours, the activation rates in the control, Ca ionophore, and Ca+R groups were 3.5% (4/112), 26.9% (7/26), and 32.1% (17/53), respectively. The activation rate of the Ca+R group was significantly higher than that of the control and similar to that of the Ca ionophore group. Among the oocytes that remained unfertilized after TESE-ICSI, the activation rates of the Ca ionophore and Ca+R groups were 22.2% (2/9) and 43.8% (7/16), respectively. CONCLUSIONS Sequential treatment with an Ca ionophore and roscovitine activates oocytes that remain unfertilized after ICSI. In TESE-ICSI, the activation rate tended to be increased by the co-administration of roscovitine with a Ca ionophore. J. Med. Invest. 70 : 321-324, August, 2023.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayako Suto
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuya Yano
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Yuri Yamamoto
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Hiroki Noguchi
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Asuka Takeda
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Shota Yamamoto
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
- Department of Renal and Genitourinary Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Hokkaido University, Hokkaido, Japan
| | | | - Kanako Yoshida
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Kenji Hinokio
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Akira Kuwahara
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
| | | | - Takeshi Iwasa
- School of Medicine, Tokushima University, Tokushima, Japan
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13
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Karabulut S, Camcı İY, Atambay C, Yiğit P, Keskin İ. Sperm selection with Annexin-V coated polystrene bead technique (APB-Tech): A novel and reliable method for the microscopic selection of viable and non-apoptotic sperm to be used for intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Theriogenology 2022; 194:92-103. [PMID: 36209549 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2022.09.028] [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: 03/31/2022] [Revised: 09/01/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Infertility is a growing health problem that affects 20% of couples who want to conceive. 'Intracytoplasmic sperm injection' (ICSI) is a commonly used assisted reproduction treatment technique that offers the couples to overcome a wide variety of infertility reasons, including female, male and unexplained infertility. A crucial step in ICSI is choosing the correct sperm with the highest potential to form a healthy embryo and thus a healthy offspring. The sperm selection strategies aim to obtain a sperm population with better motility and morphology, which are insufficient to predict a sperm's reproductive potential. The elimination of apoptotic sperms, which is shown to be higher in infertile males and which is shown to affect embryo development and reproductive cohort significantly should also be included in the selection strategies. Among all sperm selection methods, there are only a few which can eliminate apoptotic sperm, but because they need extra types of equipments, a long training period, and high costs, they couldn't find place in the most commonly used techniques in an IVF lab. Selecting the non-apoptotic sperm cells will help us choose a sperm that is more likely to be chosen by the natural selection mechanisms and thus will help to mimic the natural conception more. The study aimed to develop a novel, easy and a harmless individual sperm selection technique to enable choosing non-apoptotic viable sperm cells via light microscopy without any need for extra equipment, education and cost to be used for ''ICSI'. The technique is based on the binding ability of Annexin-V covered polystrene beads to the externalized phosphatidylserine at the outer leaflet of an apoptotic sperm's plasma membrane. After Annexin-V covered polystyrene beads were prepared, beads obtained were attached to BALB-c mice sperm, and the technique is optimized to obtain the most efficient attachment conditions. The results are then compared with the results of four well-known reliable apoptosis detection techniques to test the validity and sperm survival test to test the toxicity of the technique. The method is proven to be '''reliable' by comparing it with the results of well-known techniques, including TUNEL and SCSA (sperm chromatin structure assay), and '''safe' by showing its non-toxicity via sperm survival test (SST). In addition, the method enables the selection of sperm cells more closer to naturally-chosen ones from a pool of sperm that should not be allowed to be randomly chosen during microinjection. To date, it was impossible to distinguish a non-apoptotic sperm without harming it or without needing additional equipment other than a routine IVF lab and extra training other than routine andrology work. The technique is named as 'Annexin-V coated polystyrene bead technique (APB-Tech)'. Based on our results, further studies on APB-Tech should be focused on the possible improvement of ICSI outcomes and, thus, success rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İrem Yalım Camcı
- Gebze Technical University, Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics, Kocaeli, Turkey.
| | - Can Atambay
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - Pakize Yiğit
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
| | - İlknur Keskin
- Istanbul Medipol University, School of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey; Health Science and Technologies Research Institute (SABİTA), Beykoz, Istanbul, Turkey.
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14
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Dai J, Li Q, Zhou Q, Zhang S, Chen J, Wang Y, Guo J, Gu Y, Gong F, Tan Y, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. IQCN disruption causes fertilization failure and male infertility due to manchette assembly defect. EMBO Mol Med 2022; 14:e16501. [PMID: 36321563 PMCID: PMC9728048 DOI: 10.15252/emmm.202216501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 09/29/2022] [Accepted: 10/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) is an important cause of infertility; however, the genetic basis of TFF caused by male factors remains to be clarified. In this study, whole-exome sequencing was firstly used to screen for genetic causes of TFF after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and homozygous variants in the novel gene IQ motif-containing N (IQCN) were identified in two affected individuals with abnormal acrosome structures. Then, Iqcn-knockout mice were generated by CRISPR-Cas9 technology and showed that the knockout male mice resembled the human phenotypes. Additionally, we found that IQCN regulates microtubule nucleation during manchette assembly via calmodulin and related calmodulin-binding proteins, which resulted in head deformity with aberrant oocyte activation factor PLCζ. Fortunately, ICSI with assisted oocyte activation can overcome IQCN-associate TFF and male infertility. Thus, our study firstly identified the function of IQCN, highlights the relationship between the manchette assembly and fertilization, and provides a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for male-source TFF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dai
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Qi Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Xiangya HospitalCentral South UniversityChangShaChina
| | - Qinwei Zhou
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Shen Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Junru Chen
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Yize Wang
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina
| | - Jing Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Yifan Gu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Yueqiu Tan
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
| | - Wei Zheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical ScienceCentral South UniversityChangShaChina,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC‐XIANGYAChangShaChina,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan ProvinceChangShaChina,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning CommissionChangShaChina
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15
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Tsai TE, Lin PH, Lian PF, Li CJ, Vitale SG, Mikuš M, Su WP, Tsai HW, Tsui KH, Lin LT. Artificial oocyte activation may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. J Ovarian Res 2022; 15:102. [PMID: 36085215 PMCID: PMC9463812 DOI: 10.1186/s13048-022-01036-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) is used to improve fertilization rate following fertilization failure after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Several studies have also shown that AOA may be involved in embryo development. Women with poor ovarian response are more likely to encounter in vitro fertilization (IVF) failure due to poor embryo quality. The aim of this study was to investigate whether AOA could improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles. METHODS The retrospective cohort study consisted of 308 patients who fulfilled the POSEIDON Group 4 criteria and received IVF-ICSI cycles. The study group included 91 patients receiving AOA with calcium ionophores following ICSI. A total of 168 patients in the control group underwent ICSI without AOA. The baseline and cycle characteristics and embryo quality were compared between the two groups. RESULTS At baseline, there were more IVF attempts, greater primary infertility, higher basal FSH levels and lower anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. In terms of embryo quality, there were higher cleavage rates and top-quality Day 3 embryo (TQE) rates, as well as higher percentages of more than 1 TQE and TQE rates ≥50 in the AOA group than in the non-AOA group. The multivariate analysis revealed that AOA was positively associated with more than 1 TQE (adjusted OR 3.24, 95% CI 1.63-6.45, P = 0.001) and a TQE rate ≥ 50 (adjusted OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.20-3.80, P = 0.010). When the study population was divided into 2 subgroups based on the age of 40 years old, the beneficial effects of AOA on embryo quality were only observed in the subgroup of age ≥ 40 years old. CONCLUSIONS Our data suggest that AOA with calcium ionophores may improve embryo quality in older patients with diminished ovarian reserve undergoing IVF-ICSI cycles, especially in women aged ≥40 years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tzung-En Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Hsuan Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Pei-Fen Lian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Chia-Jung Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Salvatore Giovanni Vitale
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95124, Catania, Italy
| | - Mislav Mikuš
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Wan-Ping Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Hsiao-Wen Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan
| | - Kuan-Hao Tsui
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Li-Te Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital, No.386, Dazhong 1st Rd., Zuoying Dist, 81362, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Institute of Biopharmaceutical Sciences, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan. .,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei City, Taiwan. .,Department of Biological Science, National Sun Yat-sen University, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
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16
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Human germline nuclear transfer to overcome mitochondrial disease and failed fertilization after ICSI. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:609-618. [PMID: 35064435 PMCID: PMC8995215 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02401-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/15/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Providing additional insights on the efficacy of human nuclear transfer (NT). Here, and earlier, NT has been applied to minimize transmission risk of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) diseases. NT has also been proposed for treating infertility, but it is still unclear which infertility indications would benefit. In this work, we therefore additionally assess the applicability of NT to overcome failed fertilization. METHODS Patient 1 carries a homoplasmic mtDNA mutation (m.11778G > A). Seventeen metaphase II (MII) oocytes underwent pre-implantation genetic testing (PGT), while five MII oocytes were used for spindle transfer (ST), and one in vitro matured (IVM) metaphase I oocyte underwent early pronuclear transfer (ePNT). Patients 2-3 experienced multiple failed intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and ICSI-assisted oocyte activation (AOA) cycles. For these patients, the obtained MII oocytes underwent an additional ICSI-AOA cycle, while the IVM oocytes were subjected to ST. RESULTS For patient 1, PGT-M confirmed mutation loads close to 100%. All ST-reconstructed oocytes fertilized and cleaved, of which one progressed to the blastocyst stage. The reconstructed ePNT-zygote reached the morula stage. These samples showed an average mtDNA carry-over rate of 2.9% ± 0.8%, confirming the feasibility of NT to reduce mtDNA transmission. For patient 2-3 displaying fertilization failure, ST resulted in, respectively, 4/5 and 6/6 fertilized oocytes, providing evidence, for the first time, that NT can enable successful fertilization in this patient population. CONCLUSION Our study showcases the repertoire of disorders for which NT can be beneficial, to overcome either mitochondrial disease transmission or failed fertilization after ICSI-AOA.
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Sáez-Espinosa P, Robles-Gómez L, Ortega-López L, Aizpurua J, Gómez-Torres MJ. Immunofluorescence and High-Resolution Microscopy Reveal New Insights in Human Globozoospermia. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23031729. [PMID: 35163651 PMCID: PMC8836125 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23031729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2021] [Revised: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Globozoospermia is a rare and severe type of teratozoospermia characterized by the presence of round-headed, acrosomeless spermatozoa with cytoskeleton defects. Current data support a negative relationship between globozoospermia and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes, revealing the need to perform exhaustive studies on this type of sperm disorder. The aim of this study was to evaluate different structural, functional and molecular sperm biomarkers in total globozoospermia with proper embryo development after ICSI. The combination of field-emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) allowed us to identify and correlate eight morphological patterns with both types of microscopy. Additionally, results reported a high percentage of coiled forms, with cytoplasmic retentions around the head and midpiece. By fluorescent microscopy, we detected that most of the sperm showed tubulin in the terminal piece of the flagellum and less than 1% displayed tyrosine phosphorylation in the flagellum. Moreover, we did not detect chaperone Heat shock-related 70 kDa protein 2 (HSPA2) in 85% of the cells. Overall, these findings provide new insights into globozoospermia, which could have potential implications in improving sperm selection methods for assisted reproductive techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula Sáez-Espinosa
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690001 Alicante, Spain; (P.S.-E.); (L.R.-G.)
| | - Laura Robles-Gómez
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690001 Alicante, Spain; (P.S.-E.); (L.R.-G.)
| | - Leonor Ortega-López
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, 03540001 Alicante, Spain; (L.O.-L.); (J.A.)
| | - Jon Aizpurua
- IVF Spain, Reproductive Medicine, 03540001 Alicante, Spain; (L.O.-L.); (J.A.)
| | - María José Gómez-Torres
- Departamento de Biotecnología, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690001 Alicante, Spain; (P.S.-E.); (L.R.-G.)
- Cátedra Human Fertility, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Alicante, 03690001 Alicante, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.:+34-965-903-878
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18
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Liang R, Fang F, Li S, Chen X, Zhang X, Lu Q. Is there any effect on imprinted genes H19, PEG3, and SNRPN during AOA? Open Med (Wars) 2022; 17:174-184. [PMID: 35071778 PMCID: PMC8760930 DOI: 10.1515/med-2022-0410] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2021] [Revised: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) has been proposed as an effective technique to overcome the problem of impaired fertilization after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) but the safety of AOA remains a concern. We aimed to investigate if AOA induces imprinting effects on embryos. We used 13 cleavage embryos, nine blastocysts, and eight placentas from 15 patients. The subjects were divided into six groups by tissue type and with or without AOA. The methylation levels of imprinted genes (H19, paternally expressed gene [PEG3] and small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N [SNRPN]) were tested by pyrosequencing. We observed different methylation levels among cleavage embryos. The variability was much more remarkable between cleavage embryos than blastocysts and placenta tissues. The methylation levels were especially higher in SNRPN and lower in the H19 gene in AOA embryos than those without AOA. No significant difference was found either among blastocysts or among placenta tissues regardless of AOA. The methylation levels of the three genes in blastocysts were very similar to those in the placenta. Compared to conventional ICSI, AOA changed imprinting methylation rates at H19 and SNRPN in cleavage embryos but not in the blastocyst stage and placenta. We recommend that blastocyst transfer should be considered for patients undergoing AOA during in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rong Liang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Fang Fang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Sen Li
- Reproductive Medical Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital of Guangdong Province , Guangzhou , 510317 , China
| | - Xi Chen
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Xiaohong Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
| | - Qun Lu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University People’s Hospital , Beijing , 100044 , China
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Kashir J, Ganesh D, Jones C, Coward K. OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Open 2022; 2022:hoac003. [PMID: 35261925 PMCID: PMC8894871 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoac003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte activation deficiency (OAD) is attributed to the majority of cases underlying failure of ICSI cycles, the standard treatment for male factor infertility. Oocyte activation encompasses a series of concerted events, triggered by sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ), which elicits increases in free cytoplasmic calcium (Ca2+) in spatially and temporally specific oscillations. Defects in this specific pattern of Ca2+ release are directly attributable to most cases of OAD. Ca2+ release can be clinically mediated via assisted oocyte activation (AOA), a combination of mechanical, electrical and/or chemical stimuli which artificially promote an increase in the levels of intra-cytoplasmic Ca2+. However, concerns regarding safety and efficacy underlie potential risks that must be addressed before such methods can be safely widely used. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Recent advances in current AOA techniques warrant a review of the safety and efficacy of these practices, to determine the extent to which AOA may be implemented in the clinic. Importantly, the primary challenges to obtaining data on the safety and efficacy of AOA must be determined. Such questions require urgent attention before widespread clinical utilization of such protocols can be advocated. SEARCH METHODS A literature review was performed using databases including PubMed, Web of Science, Medline, etc. using AOA, OAD, calcium ionophores, ICSI, PLCζ, oocyte activation, failed fertilization and fertilization failure as keywords. Relevant articles published until June 2019 were analysed and included in the review, with an emphasis on studies assessing large-scale efficacy and safety. OUTCOMES Contradictory studies on the safety and efficacy of AOA do not yet allow for the establishment of AOA as standard practice in the clinic. Heterogeneity in study methodology, inconsistent sample inclusion criteria, non-standardized outcome assessments, restricted sample size and animal model limitations render AOA strictly experimental. The main scientific concern impeding AOA utilization in the clinic is the non-physiological method of Ca2+ release mediated by most AOA agents, coupled with a lack of holistic understanding regarding the physiological mechanism(s) underlying Ca2+ release at oocyte activation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of studies with clinical relevance using AOA remains significantly low. A much wider range of studies examining outcomes using multiple AOA agents are required. WIDER IMPLICATIONS In addition to addressing the five main challenges of studies assessing AOA safety and efficacy, more standardized, large-scale, multi-centre studies of AOA, as well as long-term follow-up studies of children born from AOA, would provide evidence for establishing AOA as a treatment for infertility. The delivery of an activating agent that can more accurately recapitulate physiological fertilization, such as recombinant PLCζ, is a promising prospect for the future of AOA. Further to PLCζ, many other avenues of physiological oocyte activation also require urgent investigation to assess other potential physiological avenues of AOA. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS D.G. was supported by Stanford University’s Bing Overseas Study Program. J.K. was supported by a Healthcare Research Fellowship Award (HF-14-16) made by Health and Care Research Wales (HCRW), alongside a National Science, Technology, and Innovation plan (NSTIP) project grant (15-MED4186-20) awarded by the King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST). The authors have no competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Celine Jones
- Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Kevin Coward
- Correspondence address. Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women’s Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OS3 9DU, UK. E-mail: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3577-4041
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20
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Xue Y, Cheng X, Xiong Y, Li K. Gene mutations associated with fertilization failure after in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:1086883. [PMID: 36589837 PMCID: PMC9800785 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.1086883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization failure during assisted reproductive technologies (ART) is often unpredictable, as this failure is encountered only after in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) have been performed. The etiology of fertilization failure remains elusive. More and more mutations of genes are found to be involved in human fertilization failure in infertile patients as high throughput sequencing techniques are becoming widely applied. In this review, the mutations of nine important genes expressed in sperm or oocytes, PLCZ1, ACTL7A, ACTL9, DNAH17, WEE2, TUBB8, NLRP5, ZP2, and TLE6, were summarized and discussed. These abnormalities mainly have shown Mendelian patterns of inheritance, including dominant and recessive inheritance, although de novo mutations were present in some cases. The review revealed the crucial roles of each reported gene in the fertilization process and summarized all known mutations and their corresponding phenotypes. The review suggested the mutations might become promising targets for precision treatments in reproductive medicine. Moreover, our work will provide some helpful clues for genetic counseling, risk prediction, and optimizing clinical treatments for human infertility by supplying the useful and timely information on the genetic causes leading to fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yamei Xue
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital, School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaohong Cheng
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yuping Xiong
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Kun Li
- Institute for Reproductive Health, School of Pharmacy, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- Zhejiang Provincial Laboratory of Experimental Animal’s & Nonclinical Laboratory Studies, Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Kun Li,
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21
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Uh K, Hay A, Chen P, Reese E, Lee K. Design of novel oocyte activation methods: The role of zinc. Biol Reprod 2021; 106:264-273. [PMID: 34935887 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioab235] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Revised: 12/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/15/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte activation occurs at the time of fertilization and is a series of cellular events initiated by intracellular Ca2+ increases. Consequently, oocytes are alleviated from their arrested state in meiotic metaphase II (MII), allowing for the completion of meiosis. Oocyte activation is also an essential step for somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) and an important tool to overcome clinical infertility. Traditional artificial activation methods aim to mimic the intracellular Ca2+ changes which occur during fertilization. Recent studies emphasize the importance of cytoplasmic Zn2+ on oocyte maturation and the completion of meiosis, thus suggesting artificial oocyte activation approaches that are centered around the concentration of available Zn2+in oocytes. Depletion of intracellular Zn2+ in oocytes with heavy metal chelators leads to successful oocyte activation in the absence of cellular Ca2+ changes, indicating that successful oocyte activation does not always depends on intracellular Ca2+ increases. Current findings lead to new approaches to artificially activate mammalian oocytes by reducing available Zn2+ contents, and the approaches improve the outcome of oocyte activation when combined with existing Ca2+ based oocyte activation methods. Here, we review the important role of Ca2+ and Zn2+ in mammalian oocyte activation and development of novel oocyte activation approaches based on Zn2+ availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kyungjun Uh
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Alayna Hay
- Department of Animal and Poultry Sciences, Virginia Tech, Blacksburg, VA, 24061, USA
| | - Paula Chen
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Emily Reese
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
| | - Kiho Lee
- Division of Animal Sciences, University of Missouri, Columbia, MO, 65201, USA
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22
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5-Methyltetrahydrofolate and Vitamin B12 Supplementation Is Associated with Clinical Pregnancy and Live Birth in Women Undergoing Assisted Reproductive Technology. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph182312280. [PMID: 34886014 PMCID: PMC8657301 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph182312280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2021] [Revised: 11/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/21/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The homocysteine pathway in the preconception period should be evaluated to highlight micronutrient deficiencies and warrants optimal multivitamin supplementation, before Assisted Reproduction, as preconception care. We conducted a retrospective study aimed at investigating the role of vitamin B complex (5-methyltetrahydrofolate, vitamin B12, vitamin B6) supplement use compared with the role of only folic acid supplement use, in relation to clinical pregnancy and live birth in infertile women undergoing homologous ART. We investigated 269 Caucasian women referred to the Centre for Assisted Reproductive Technology for homologous ART. In these women, 111 (Group A) were daily supplemented with vitamin B complex and 158 (Group B) with only folic acid. In group A the mean number of Metaphase II oocytes and the 2PN Fertilization Rate were higher in comparison to group A (p = 0.04; p = 0.05, respectively). A higher percentage of women in group A had a clinical pregnancy and live birth in comparison to group B (p = 0.01; p = 0.02, respectively). Vitamin B complex supplementation remained independently associated, after multivariable adjustment, with clinical pregnancy (OR 2.03, p = 0.008) and live birth (OR 1.83, p = 0.03). Women supplemented with 5-MTHF and vitamin B12, have a higher chance of clinical pregnancy and live birth in comparison to those supplemented with only folic acid.
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23
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Double ionophore application in cases with previous failed/low fertilization or poor embryo development. Reprod Biomed Online 2021; 44:829-837. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2021.11.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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24
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Tsai TC, Chiung HK, Chen LH, Wu HM. The potential role of assisted oocyte activation in the management of a POSEIDON group 3 patient with fertilization failure: A case report and literature review. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol 2021; 60:567-569. [PMID: 33966751 DOI: 10.1016/j.tjog.2021.03.034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assisted oocyte activation combined with ICSI (ICSI-AOA) has been reported to improve fertilization outcomes of couples with oocyte activation deficiency (OAD). Although there's no sufficient evidence to support ICSI-AOA as routine use, it might be beneficial for POSEIDON group 3 patients with suspected oocyte-related OAD. CASE REPORT A 29-year-old female presented with a history of primary infertility for two years. She was classified as a POSEIDON group 3 patient and had a total fertilization failure history. With the help of ICSI-AOA, six oocytes were successfully fertilized. Pregnancy was later confirmed after embryo transfer. A living infant was born after 34 weeks of pregnancy. CONCLUSION OAD should be taken into consideration for POSEIDON group 3 patients since low Antimüllerian hormone is associated decreased quality. Further research needs to be done to understand the mechanism underlying oocyte-related OAD and the potential role of ICSI-AOA in young patients with suboptimal ovarian response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tian-Chi Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Huan-Ka Chiung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Liang-Hsuan Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-Ming Wu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, Chang Gung University, Taipei, Taiwan.
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25
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Yan Z, Fan Y, Wang F, Yan Z, Li M, Ouyang J, Wu L, Yin M, Zhao J, Kuang Y, Li B, Lyu Q. Novel mutations in PLCZ1 cause male infertility due to fertilization failure or poor fertilization. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:472-481. [PMID: 32048714 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2019] [Revised: 12/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do sperm-specific phospholipase C zeta (PLCZ1) mutations account for male infertility due to fertilization failure? SUMMARY ANSWER Six novel mutations and one reported mutation in PLCZ1 were identified in five of 14 independent families characterized by fertilization failure or poor fertilization, suggesting that these mutations may be responsible for fertilization failure in men exhibiting primary infertility. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY PLCZ1 is essential for the induction of intracellular calcium (Ca2+) oscillations and the initiation of oocyte activation during mammalian fertilization. However, genetic evidence linking PLCZ1 mutations with male infertility remains limited. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Fourteen unrelated primary infertility patients were recruited into this study from January 2016 to December 2018; the patients exhibited total fertilization failure or poor fertilization, as evidenced by ICSI and sperm-related oocyte activation deficiencies identified in mouse oocyte activation assays. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Genomic DNA samples were extracted from the peripheral blood of patients. The whole exons of PLCZ1 were sequenced by Sanger sequencing. The PLCZ1 sequences were aligned by CodonCode software to identify rare variants. The ExAC database was used to search for the frequency of corresponding mutations. The pathogenicity of identified variants and their possible effects on the protein were assessed in silico. PLCZ1 protein levels in semen samples were evaluated by western blotting. Oocyte activation ability was assessed by the injection of wild-type and mutant PLCZ1 cRNAs into human mature metaphase II (MII) oocytes in vitro. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We identified six novel mutations and one reported mutation in PLCZ1 among five affected individuals. In addition to four novel missense mutations, two new types of genetic variants were identified, including one in-frame deletion and one splicing mutation. Western blot analysis revealed that PLCZ1 protein expression was not observed in the semen samples from the five affected patients. Microinjection with the PLCZ1 cRNA variants was performed, and a significant decrease in the percentage of pronuclei was observed for four novel missense mutations and one novel in-frame deletion mutation, suggesting that these mutations have a deleterious influence on protein function. By artificial oocyte activation treatment, the fertilization failure phenotypes of four affected patients were successfully rescued and three healthy babies were delivered. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION We screened only the whole exons of PLCZ1. Additional possible mutations in the non-coding region of PLCZ1 should be further studied. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our study not only further confirms the important role of PLCZ1 in human fertilization but also expands the mutational spectrum of PLCZ1 associated with male infertility, which provides a basis for assessing genetic variation in PLCZ1 as a potential diagnostic marker for infertile men suffering from fertilization failure. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This research was supported by the National Natural Foundation of China (81 571 486 and 81 771 649). All authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yong Fan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Fei Wang
- College of Medicine, Anhui University of Science and Technology, Huainan 232000, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhiguang Yan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Menghui Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jie Ouyang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Ling Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Mingru Yin
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Jilang Zhao
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Bin Li
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
| | - Qifeng Lyu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Ninth People's Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai 200011, People's Republic of China
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26
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Dai J, Zhang T, Guo J, Zhou Q, Gu Y, Zhang J, Hu L, Zong Y, Song J, Zhang S, Dai C, Gong F, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. Homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 cause fertilization failure and male infertility in humans and mice. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:469-481. [PMID: 33626338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) can occur during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, even following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Various male or female factors could contribute to TFF. Increasing evidence suggested that genetic variations in PLCZ1, which encodes 1-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase zeta-1 (PLCζ), is involved in oocyte activation and is a key male factor in TFF. In the present study, we explored the genetic variants in male individuals that led to TFF. A total of 54 couples with TFF or poor fertilization (fertilization rate < 20%) were screened, and 21 couples were determined to have a male infertility factor by the mouse oocyte activation test. Whole-exome sequencing of these 21 male individuals identified three homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 (actin like 9) in three individuals. ACTL9 variations led to abnormal ultrastructure of the perinuclear theca (PT), and PLCζ was absent in the head and present in the neck of the mutant sperm, which contributed to failed normal calcium oscillations in oocytes and subsequent TFF. The key roles of ACTL9 in the PT structure and TFF after ICSI were further confirmed in an Actl9-mutated mouse model. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF and achieved live births in a couple with an ACTL9 variant. These findings identified the role of ACTL9 in the PT structure and the correct localization of PLCζ. The results also provide a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for individuals who have undergone ICSI without successful fertilization.
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27
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Mu J, Zhang Z, Wu L, Fu J, Chen B, Yan Z, Li B, Zhou Z, Wang W, Zhao L, Dong J, Kuang Y, Sun X, He L, Wang L, Sang Q. The identification of novel mutations in PLCZ1 responsible for human fertilization failure and a therapeutic intervention by artificial oocyte activation. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:80-87. [PMID: 31953539 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2019] [Revised: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization involves a series of molecular events immediately following egg-sperm fusion; Ca2+ oscillations are the earliest signaling event, and they initiate the downstream reactions including pronucleus formation. Successful human reproduction requires normal fertilization. In clinical IVF or ICSI attempts, some infertile couples suffer from recurrent fertilization failure. However, the genetic reasons for fertilization failure are largely unknown. Here, we recruited several couples diagnosed with fertilization failure even though their gametes are morphologically normal. Through whole-exome sequencing and Sanger sequencing, we identified biallelic mutations in gene-encoding phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCZ1) in four independent males in couples diagnosed with fertilization failure. Western blotting showed that missense mutations decreased the level of PLCZ1 and that nonsense or frameshift mutations resulted in undetectable or truncated proteins. Expression of these mutations in mice significantly reduced the levels of oocyte activation. Artificial oocyte activation in patient oocytes could rescue the phenotype of fertilization failure and help establish pregnancy and lead to live birth. Our findings expand the spectrum of PLCZ1 mutations that are responsible for human fertilization failure and provide a potentially feasible therapeutic treatment for these patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jian Mu
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Zhihua Zhang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Ling Wu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Biaobang Chen
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Zheng Yan
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Bin Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Zhou Zhou
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Wenjing Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Lin Zhao
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Jie Dong
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032
| | - Yanping Kuang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Shanghai Ninth Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Lin He
- Bio-X Center, Key Laboratory for the Genetics of Developmental and Neuropsychiatric Disorders, Ministry of Education, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Lei Wang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032.,Zhuhai Fudan Innovation Institute, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China.,Shanghai Center for Women and Children's Health, Shanghai, 200062, China
| | - Qing Sang
- Institute of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Fudan University; Institutes of Biomedical Sciences, State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai, 200032.,Zhuhai Fudan Innovation Institute, Zhuhai, Guangdong 519000, China
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Martínez M, Durban M, Santaló J, Rodríguez A, Vassena R. Assisted oocyte activation effects on the morphokinetic pattern of derived embryos. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:531-537. [PMID: 33405007 PMCID: PMC7884506 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-02025-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) can restore fertilization rates after IVF/ICSI cycles with fertilization failure. AOA is an experimental technique, and its downstream effects remain poorly characterized. Clarifying the relationship between AOA and embryo, morphokinetics could offer complementary insights into the quality and viability of the embryos obtained with this technique. The aim of this study is to compare the preimplantation morphokinetic development of embryos derived from ICSI-AOA (experimental group) vs. ICSI cycles (control group). METHODS A retrospective cohort study was carried out with 141 embryos from fresh oocyte donation cycles performed between 2013 and 2017; 41 embryos were derived from 7 ICSI-AOA cycles and 100 embryos from 18 ICSI cycles. Morphokinetic development of all embryos was followed using a time-lapse system. RESULTS We show that embryos from both groups develop similarly for most milestones, with the exception of the time of second polar body extrusion (tPB2) and the time to second cell division (t3). CONCLUSIONS We conclude that ionomycin mediated AOA does not seem to affect the morphokinetic pattern of preimplantation embryo development, despite the alterations found in tPB2 and t3, which could directly reflect the use of a Ca2+ ionophore as a transient and quick non-physiologic increase of free intracytoplasmic Ca2+.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Martínez
- Eugin, Calle Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | - M Durban
- Eugin, Calle Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Santaló
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología en Inmunología, Facultad de Biociencias, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, 08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona, Spain
| | - A Rodríguez
- Eugin, Calle Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain
| | - R Vassena
- Eugin, Calle Balmes 236, 08006, Barcelona, Spain.
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Xu Z, Yao G, Niu W, Fan H, Ma X, Shi S, Jin H, Song W, Sun Y. Calcium Ionophore (A23187) Rescues the Activation of Unfertilized Oocytes After Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection and Chromosome Analysis of Blastocyst After Activation. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:692082. [PMID: 34335469 PMCID: PMC8320372 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.692082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Calcium is a crucial factor in regulating the biological behavior of cells. The imbalance of calcium homeostasis in cytoplasm will cause abnormal behavior of cells and the occurrence of diseases. In intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle, the dysfunction of oocyte activation caused by insufficient release of Ca2+ from endoplasmic reticulum is one of the main reasons for repeated fertilization failure. Calcium ionophore (A23187) is a highly selective calcium ionophore, which can form stable complex with Ca2+ and pass through the cell membrane at will, effectively increasing intracellular Ca2+ levels. It has been reported that calcium ionophore (A23187) can activate oocytes and obtain normal embryos. However, there are few studies on unfertilized oocytes after calcium ionophore (A23187) rescue activation in ICSI cycle. The purpose of this study was to analyze the effects of calcium ionophore (A23187) rescue activation on the activation of unfertilized oocytes, embryonic development potential, embryonic development timing and chromosomal aneuploidy, and to compare and analyze the clinical data of patients with calcium ionophore (A23187) activation in clinical application. The results showed that a certain proportion of high-quality blastocysts with normal karyotype could be obtained after calcium ionophore (A23187) rescue activation of unfertilized oocytes, and it did not have a significant effect on the timing of embryo development. In clinical practice, direct activation with calcium ionophore (A23187) after ICSI was better than rescue activation the next day. In conclusions, the studies on the effectiveness and safety of calcium ionophore (A23187) rescue activation for oocytes with ICSI fertilization failure can enable some patients to obtain usable, high-quality embryos during the first ICSI cycle.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwen Xu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Guidong Yao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guidong Yao, ; Yingpu Sun,
| | - Wenbin Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Huiying Fan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xueshan Ma
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Senlin Shi
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haixia Jin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Wenyan Song
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yingpu Sun
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- Henan Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Genetics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Guidong Yao, ; Yingpu Sun,
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Long R, Wang M, Yang QY, Hu SQ, Zhu LX, Jin L. Risk of birth defects in children conceived by artificial oocyte activation and intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a meta-analysis. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2020; 18:123. [PMID: 33308238 PMCID: PMC7731535 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-020-00680-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2020] [Accepted: 12/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Whether artificial oocyte activation (ICSI-AOA) will increase the risk of birth defects remains controversial. Thus, we performed this study to evaluate the risk of birth defects and further compare the incidence of different birth defects types (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) in children conceived by ICSI-AOA and conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) in an enlarged sample size. METHOD A comprehensive review of the literatures comparing birth defects in children conceived by ICSI-AOA and conventional ICSI by October 2020 was performed in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Libraries, Web of Science, and Chinese databases including China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biology Medicine disc and Wan Fang. Risk ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. RESULTS Five studies were included in the final analysis. Compared with conventional ICSI, ICSI-AOA did not increase the birth defects rate (RR = 1.27, 95%CI 0.70-2.28) of children. Furthermore, in a subgroup analysis, birth defects were classified into two types (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) in four studies and no statistical difference were revealed. CONCLUSION Our analysis indicates that ICSI-AOA represents no significant difference in the prevalence of major birth defects or types of birth defects (chromosomal aberrations and non-chromosomal aberrations) comparing with conventional ICSI. This conclusion may provide clinicians evidence-based support in patient counseling and instruction of the application and safety concern about ICSI-AOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rui Long
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Qi Yu Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Shi Qiao Hu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China
| | - Li Xia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, 1095 Jiefang Ave, Wuhan, 430030, China.
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31
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Diagnosis and Treatment of Male Infertility-Related Fertilization Failure. J Clin Med 2020; 9:jcm9123899. [PMID: 33271815 PMCID: PMC7761017 DOI: 10.3390/jcm9123899] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2020] [Revised: 11/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Infertility affects approximately 15% of reproductive-aged couples worldwide, of which up to 30% of the cases are caused by male factors alone. The origin of male infertility is mostly attributed to sperm abnormalities, of which many are caused by genetic defects. The development of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has helped to circumvent most male infertility conditions. However, there is still a challenging group of infertile males whose sperm, although having normal sperm parameters, are unable to activate the oocyte, even after ICSI treatment. While ICSI generally allows fertilization rates of 70 to 80%, total fertilization failure (FF) still occurs in 1 to 3% of ICSI cycles. Phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ) has been demonstrated to be a critical sperm oocyte activating factor (SOAF) and the absence, reduced, or altered forms of PLCζ have been shown to cause male infertility-related FF. The purpose of this review is to (i) summarize the current knowledge on PLCζ as the critical sperm factor for successful fertilization, as well as to discuss the existence of alternative sperm-induced oocyte activation mechanisms, (ii) describe the diagnostic tests available to determine the cause of FF, and (iii) summarize the beneficial effect of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome FF.
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32
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Haddad M, Stewart J, Xie P, Cheung S, Trout A, Keating D, Parrella A, Lawrence S, Rosenwaks Z, Palermo GD. Thoughts on the popularity of ICSI. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 38:101-123. [PMID: 33155089 PMCID: PMC7823003 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01987-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2020] [Accepted: 10/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is the most widely utilized assisted reproductive technique (ART) worldwide. In this feature, we review the early assisted fertilization attempts that eventually led to the development of ICSI, and discuss its current utilization in cases of male and non-male factor infertility. Methods We researched the literature related to the development, indications, and current use of ICSI, such as sperm structural abnormalities, male genetic indications, surgically retrieved sperm, high sperm chromatin fragmentation, oocyte dysmorphism, and preimplantation genetic testing (PGT). We also describe the potential future applications of ICSI. Results This review summarizes the early micromanipulation techniques that led to the inception of ICSI. We also explore its current indications, including non-male factor infertility, where its use is more controversial. Finally, we consider the benefits of future advancements in reproductive biology that may incorporate ICSI, such as in vitro spermatogenesis, neogametogenesis, and heritable genome editing. Conclusion The versatility, consistency, and reliability of ICSI have made it the most prevalently utilized ART procedure worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mounia Haddad
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Joshua Stewart
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Philip Xie
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Stephanie Cheung
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Aysha Trout
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Derek Keating
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Alessandra Parrella
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Sherina Lawrence
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA
| | - Gianpiero D Palermo
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive Medicine, Weill Cornell Medicine, New York, NY, USA.
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Bosch E, Espinós JJ, Fabregues F, Fontes J, García-Velasco J, Llácer J, Requena A, Checa MA, Bellver J. ALWAYS ICSI? A SWOT analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2081-2092. [PMID: 32578032 PMCID: PMC7492350 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01836-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 05/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Intracytroplasmatic sperm injection (ICSI) is a common procedure used to improve reproductive results, even among couples without male factor infertility. However, the evidence available is still uncertain on the possible advantages and deficiencies that this procedure may have in patients with no formal indication for ICSI. METHODS A SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, threats) analysis examines the possible advantages and deficiencies of performing ICSI in these patients with no formal indication. RESULTS The evidence suggests that ICSI is not justified for non-male factor infertile couples requiring in vitro conception. One of the major strengths associated to the procedure is the virtual elimination of cases further complicated by total fertilization failure and a combination between IVF and ICSI on sibling oocytes has been advised in the literature. Greater technical difficulties, higher costs and performing an unnecessary invasive technique in some cases represent some of the weaknesses of the procedure, and questions regarding safety issues should not be ruled out. CONCLUSION Despite the widespread use of ICSI in patients without a formal diagnosis of male factor infertility, evidence demonstrating its effectiveness in this population is still lacking. Additional large and well-designed randomized controlled trials are needed to clarify definitive indications for ICSI in non-male factor infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Bosch
- IVI RMA Valencia, Plaza de la Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain.
| | - J J Espinós
- Fertty, Ausiàs March 25, 08010, Barcelona, Spain
- Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Campus de la UAB, Plaza Cívica, s/n, 08193, Bellaterra (Barcelona), Spain
| | - F Fabregues
- Institut Clinic Gynecology, Obstetrics and Neonatology (ICGON), Hospital Clinic, C/Villarroel 160, 08036, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Fontes
- Hospital Universitario Virgen de las Nieves, Avd Fuerzas Armadas s/n, 18014, Granada, Spain
| | | | - J Llácer
- Instituto Bernabeu Alicante, Av. Albufereta, 31, 03540, Alacant (Alicante), Spain
| | - A Requena
- IVI RMA Madrid, Avda. del Talgo 68, 28023, Madrid, Spain
| | - M A Checa
- Hospital del Mar-Parc de Salut Mar, Paseo Maritimo 25-29, 08005, Barcelona, Spain
| | - J Bellver
- IVI RMA Valencia, Plaza de la Policía Local, 3, 46015, Valencia, Spain
- Departamento de Pediatría, Obstetricia y Ginecología. Facultad de Medicina, Universidad de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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Xin A, Qu R, Chen G, Zhang L, Chen J, Tao C, Fu J, Tang J, Ru Y, Chen Y, Peng X, Shi H, Zhang F, Sun X. Disruption in ACTL7A causes acrosomal ultrastructural defects in human and mouse sperm as a novel male factor inducing early embryonic arrest. SCIENCE ADVANCES 2020; 6:eaaz4796. [PMID: 32923619 PMCID: PMC7455188 DOI: 10.1126/sciadv.aaz4796] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/15/2020] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Early embryonic arrest is a challenge for in vitro fertilization (IVF). No genetic factors were previously revealed in the sperm-derived arrest of embryonic development. Here, we reported two infertile brothers presenting normal in conventional semen analysis, but both couples had no embryos for transfer after several IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Whole-exome sequencing identified a homozygous missense mutation of ACTL7A in both brothers. This mutation is deleterious and causes sperm acrosomal ultrastructural defects. The Actl7a knock-in mouse model was generated, and male mutated mice showed sperm acrosomal defects, which were completely consistent with the observations in patients. Furthermore, the sperm from ACTL7A/Actl7a-mutated men and mice showed reduced expression and abnormal localization of PLCζ as a potential cause of embryonic arrest and failure of fertilization. Artificial oocyte activation could successfully overcome the Actl7a-mutated sperm-derived infertility, which is meaningful in the future practice of IVF/ICSI for the ACTL7A-associated male infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aijie Xin
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ronggui Qu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Guowu Chen
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
| | - Junling Chen
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Chengqiu Tao
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jing Fu
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jianan Tang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yanfei Ru
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ying Chen
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiandong Peng
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Huijuan Shi
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Feng Zhang
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Reproduction Regulation (Shanghai Institute of Planned Parenthood Research), School of Pharmacy, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Genetic Engineering, School of Life Sciences, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xiaoxi Sun
- Shanghai Ji Ai Genetics and IVF Institute, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Female Reproductive Endocrine Related Diseases, Shanghai, China
- Department of Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
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Abbas AM, Hussein RS, Elsenity MA, Samaha II, El Etriby KA, Abd El-Ghany MF, Khalifa MA, Abdelrheem SS, Ahmed AA, Khodry MM. Higher clinical pregnancy rate with in-vitro fertilization versus intracytoplasmic sperm injection in treatment of non-male factor infertility: Systematic review and meta-analysis. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 49:101706. [PMID: 32018045 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101706] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the evidence about in-vitro fertilization (IVF) versus intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) for the treatment of non-male factor infertility. DATA SOURCES Electronic databases searched using the following MeSH terms (Sperm Injection, Intracytoplasmic) AND (in Vitro Fertilisation) AND (Infertility). METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION All RCTs included infertile patients due to non-male factors underwent IVF or ICSI were considered for this meta-analysis. One-thousand twenty-two studies were identified of which 20 studies deemed eligible for this review. DATA EXTRACTION Three independent authors extracted the relevant data from included studies. The study outcomes were pooled in the form of relative risk (RR) and 95 % confidence interval (CI) using Mantel-Hansel method. The main outcome measures are the fertilization rate, the implantation rate, the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR), the total fertilization failure and the live birth rate. RESULTS Regarding the fertilization rate, the pooled estimate did not favour either IVF or ICSI group (RR = 0.94; 95 %CI [0.82, 1.07]; p = 0.34). However, IVF significantly increased the CPR than ICSI (RR = 1.28, 95 %CI [1.11, 1.49]; p = 0.001). The overall effect estimate did not favor either of two groups regarding the implantation rate (RR = 1.25, 95 % CI [0.92, 1.68], p = 0.15). Similarly, no difference between both groups regarding the live birth rate (RR = 1.08, 95 % CI [0.79, 1.49]; p = 0.62). CONCLUSIONS No difference between ICSI and IVF regarding fertilization rate per oocytes, implantation rate and live birth rate in the treatment of non-male factor infertility, while IVF has significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate and higher risk of total fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmed M Abbas
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt.
| | - Reda S Hussein
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Mohamed A Elsenity
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ihab I Samaha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Karim A El Etriby
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Mohamed F Abd El-Ghany
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
| | - Mansour A Khalifa
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Shaimaa S Abdelrheem
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Aswan University, Aswan, Egypt
| | - Amal Abdrabbo Ahmed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, Suez Canal University, Ismailia, Egypt
| | - Mostafa M Khodry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, Egypt
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Shcherbyna VY. BIOETHICS AND TECHNOLOGIES OF REPRODUCTIVE MEDICINE. BIOTECHNOLOGIA ACTA 2020. [DOI: 10.15407/biotech13.01.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Trebichalská Z, Holubcová Z. Perfect date-the review of current research into molecular bases of mammalian fertilization. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:243-256. [PMID: 31909446 PMCID: PMC7056734 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01679-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilization is a multistep process during which two terminally differentiated haploid cells, an egg and a sperm, combine to produce a totipotent diploid zygote. In the early 1950s, it became possible to fertilize mammalian eggs in vitro and study the sequence of cellular and molecular events leading to embryo development. Despite all the achievements of assisted reproduction in the last four decades, remarkably little is known about the molecular aspects of human conception. Current fertility research in animal models is casting more light on the complexity of the process all our lives start with. This review article provides an update on the investigation of mammalian fertilization and highlights the practical implications of scientific discoveries in the context of human reproduction and reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuzana Trebichalská
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Holubcová
- Faculty of Medicine, Department of Histology and Embryology, Masaryk University, Kamenice 5, Brno, Czech Republic. .,Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic.
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38
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Fesahat F, Henkel R, Agarwal A. Globozoospermia syndrome: An update. Andrologia 2019; 52:e13459. [PMID: 31724759 DOI: 10.1111/and.13459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2019] [Revised: 09/17/2019] [Accepted: 09/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Among the factors involved in male infertility, there is a rare morphology disorder called "globozoospermia" that is classified into total globozoospermia and partial globozoospermia (type I and type II, respectively). This syndrome is primarily characterised by the presence of round-headed spermatozoa with cytoskeleton defects around the nucleus and no acrosome. Current data support the negative correlation between globozoospermia and conventional intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) outcomes, revealing the need for the management of patients undergoing assisted reproduction technology (ART) through more effective treatment techniques. This review highlights the most important characteristics of globozoospermia such as sperm parameters, DNA/chromatin integrity and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF), as well as genetic features based on the latest knowledge. Additionally, we looked into current progress on fertilisation potential and possible treatment strategies for patients presenting with globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Ralf Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa.,American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Fawzy M, Emad M, Mahran A, Sabry M, Fetih AN, Abdelghafar H, Rasheed S. Artificial oocyte activation with SrCl2 or calcimycin after ICSI improves clinical and embryological outcomes compared with ICSI alone: results of a randomized clinical trial. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1636-1644. [PMID: 30099496 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey258] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2018] [Accepted: 07/09/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are pregnancy and birth rates affected by artificial oocyte activation (AOA) with SrCl2 or calcimycin after ICSI for couples with male-factor infertility linked to abnormal sperm morphology or for couples with previous ICSI cycles of unexplained low fertilization or inadequate fertilization associated with impaired oocyte morphology? SUMMARY ANSWER AOA with either SrCl2 or calcimycin can improve the rates of clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy and live birth compared with ICSI alone, and the two agents have diverse effects for different subgroups of patients. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY ICSI is a successful treatment for infertility, but not in all individuals. AOA has potential to overcome inadequate fertilization in ICSI. Calcimycin and SrCl2 are candidate agents for AOA, but their effectiveness remains to be compared. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study was a randomized, open-label, three-arm, parallel-group, double-centre, superiority trial conducted between April 2015 and January 2016. The study evaluated the effects of AOA with calcimycin or SrCl2 for clinical pregnancy rates after ICSI and included 343 couples divided into three groups. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Couples were included if they had two previous ICSI cycles of no or low fertilization (0-30%) with unknown causes or impaired oocyte morphology. Male-factor infertility cycles (frozen-thawed sperm, surgically retrieved sperm or ejaculates contained <10 millions spermatozoa/ml) undergoing their first ICSI attempt were also included if they had 100% abnormal sperm morphology (including globozoospermia and tapered-head). Couples were randomized to undergo ICSI with SrCl2 AOA, ICSI with calcimycin AOA or ICSI alone, with clinical pregnancy as the primary endpoint. Effect sizes were summarized as absolute rate differences (ARDs) and odds ratios (ORs), with precision evaluated by 95% CIs. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Both SrCl2 and calcimycin AOA improved clinical pregnancy rates compared to ICSI alone (49, 42 and 27%; ARD 22, 95% CI: 9-33; P = 0.0007 and ARD 16, 95% CI: 3-27; P = 0.014). SrCl2 and calcimycin AOA were also superior to ICSI alone on the rates of ongoing pregnancy (42, 36 and 23%; P = 0.0019 and P = 0.023) and live birth (40, 33 and 18%; P = 0.0002 and P = 0.012). Among couples with previous ICSI cycles of low fertilization, AOA with SrCl2 (but not with calcimycin) was superior to ICSI alone for rates of clinical pregnancy (ARD 35 percentage points (pp), P = 0.0007), ongoing pregnancy (ARD 27 pp, P = 0.009) and live birth (ARD 37 pp, P = 0.002). Among couples affected by male-factor infertility, AOA with calcimycin (but not with SrCl2) was superior to ICSI alone for rates of clinical pregnancy (ARD 22 pp, P = 0.006), ongoing pregnancy (ARD 19 pp, P = 0.013) and live birth (ARD 17 pp, P = 0.02). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was an open-label trial, and this design might have introduced bias, although randomization methods were used. The study did not include a longitudinal follow-up, so further evidence is required to demonstrate the safety of AOA. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The decision to use SrCl2 or calcimycin for AOA after ICSI may depend on whether the activation failure originates in the oocyte or the sperm. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The study received no funding and the authors have no conflicts of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02424214. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 22 April 2015. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT’S ENROLMENT 27 April 2015.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mai Emad
- IbnSina IVF Centre, IbnSina Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ali Mahran
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, AG, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Sabry
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Ahmed N Fetih
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut University, AG, Egypt
| | - Hazem Abdelghafar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Salah Rasheed
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Sohag, Egypt
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Homozygous missense mutation Arg207Cys in the WEE2 gene causes female infertility and fertilization failure. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:965-971. [PMID: 30826994 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01418-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2018] [Accepted: 02/01/2019] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To investigate a novel mutation in the WEE2 gene in a female patient with primary infertility and fertilization failure. METHODS Sanger sequencing was used to detect mutations in WEE2. The pathogenicity of the identified variant and its possible effects on the WEE2 protein were evaluated with in silico tools and molecular modeling. We used the calcium ionophore A23187 as a chemical activator of oocytes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). RESULTS We identified a consanguineous family with a novel homozygous missense mutation in WEE2 (c.619C>T [p.R207C]). Based on preliminary bioinformatics analysis, we speculate that the novel homozygous missense mutation is pathogenic. ICSI combined with assisted oocyte activation (ICSI-AOA) did not overcome fertilization failure in this patient with WEE2 mutation. CONCLUSIONS We identified a novel mutation in WEE2 (c.619C>T [p.R207C]) in a female patient with fertilization failure after ICSI, and we provide evidence that this novel homozygous missense mutation can cause fertilization failure.
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Ferrer-Buitrago M, Dhaenens L, Lu Y, Bonte D, Vanden Meerschaut F, De Sutter P, Leybaert L, Heindryckx B. Human oocyte calcium analysis predicts the response to assisted oocyte activation in patients experiencing fertilization failure after ICSI. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:416-425. [PMID: 29329390 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/12/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can human oocyte calcium analysis predict fertilization success after assisted oocyte activation (AOA) in patients experiencing fertilization failure after ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER ICSI-AOA restores the fertilization rate only in patients displaying abnormal Ca2+ oscillations during human oocyte activation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Patients capable of activating mouse oocytes and who showed abnormal Ca2+ profiles after mouse oocyte Ca2+ analysis (M-OCA), have variable responses to ICSI-AOA. It remains unsettled whether human oocyte Ca2+ analysis (H-OCA) would yield an improved accuracy to predict fertilization success after ICSI-AOA. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Sperm activation potential was first evaluated by MOAT. Subsequently, Ca2+ oscillatory patterns were determined with sperm from patients showing moderate to normal activation potential based on the capacity of human sperm to generate Ca2+ responses upon microinjection in mouse and human oocytes. Altogether, this study includes a total of 255 mouse and 122 human oocytes. M-OCA was performed with 16 different sperm samples before undergoing ICSI-AOA treatment. H-OCA was performed for 11 patients who finally underwent ICSI-AOA treatment. The diagnostic accuracy to predict fertilization success was calculated based on the response to ICSI-AOA. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients experiencing low or total failed fertilization after conventional ICSI were included in the study. All participants showed moderate to high rates of activation after MOAT. Metaphase II (MII) oocytes from B6D2F1 mice were used for M-OCA. Control fertile sperm samples were used to obtain a reference Ca2+ oscillation profile elicited in human oocytes. Donated human oocytes, non-suitable for IVF treatments, were collected and vitrified at MII stage for further analysis by H-OCA. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE M-OCA and H-OCA predicted the response to ICSI-AOA in 8 out of 11 (73%) patients. Compared to M-OCA, H-OCA detected the presence of sperm activation deficiencies with greater sensitivity (75 vs 100%, respectively). ICSI-AOA never showed benefit to overcome fertilization failure in patients showing normal capacity to generate Ca2+ oscillations in H-OCA and was likely to be beneficial in cases displaying abnormal H-OCA Ca2+ oscillations patterns. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The scarce availability of human oocytes donated for research purposes is a limiting factor to perform H-OCA. Ca2+ imaging requires specific equipment to monitor fluorescence changes over time. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS H-OCA is a sensitive test to diagnose gamete-linked fertilization failure. H-OCA allows treatment counseling for couples experiencing ICSI failures to either undergo ICSI-AOA or to participate in gamete donation programs. The present data provide an important template of the Ca2+ signature observed during human fertilization in cases with normal, low and failed fertilization after conventional ICSI. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the Flemish fund for scientific research (FWO-Vlaanderen, G060615N). The authors have no conflict of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Dhaenens
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Y Lu
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - D Bonte
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Vanden Meerschaut
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Ferrer-Buitrago M, Bonte D, Dhaenens L, Vermorgen S, Lu Y, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Assessment of the calcium releasing machinery in oocytes that failed to fertilize after conventional ICSI and assisted oocyte activation. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 38:497-507. [PMID: 30745236 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 09/20/2018] [Accepted: 12/10/2018] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Can oocyte-related activation deficiencies be evaluated in oocytes that failed to fertilize after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) combined with assisted oocyte activation (AOA)? DESIGN Evaluation of the spindle-chromosome complexes and intracellular distribution of inositol trisphosphate type 1 receptors (IP3R1) in in-vitro matured (IVM) and failed-to-fertilize oocytes from patients undergoing AOA. Assessment of the oocyte-related Ca2+ releasing capacity in response to Ca2+ ionophores and sperm microinjection in oocytes that failed to fertilize after ICSI or ICSI-AOA. RESULTS IVM oocytes from patients undergoing conventional ICSI (control) and ICSI-AOA (study group) revealed a similar normalcy of spindle-chromosome complexes and distribution patterns of IP3R1. Failed-to-fertilize oocytes from both groups showed significant differences in proportion of normal or abnormal spindle-chromosome complex conformations. However, migration of IP3R1 was identified in a higher proportion of failed-to-fertilize oocytes after ICSI-AOA than after conventional ICSI. It was further observed that oocytes which failed to fertilize, either after ICSI or ICSI-AOA, mostly retain their capacity to respond to stimuli such as exposure to Ca2+ ionophores or to sperm microinjection. CONCLUSIONS Evaluation of spindle-chromosome normalcy and distribution of IP3R1 does not help identify the presence of Ca2+ releasing deficiencies in these oocytes. However, oocyte Ca2+ analysis adds value in identifying Ca2+ releasing incapacity of oocytes that failed to fertilize after ICSI or ICSI-AOA. Some patients experiencing fertilization failure after ICSI-AOA present with a suspected activation deficiency downstream of the Ca2+ machinery, which cannot be overcome by ICSI-AOA based on the use of Ca2+ ionophores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minerva Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Davina Bonte
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lien Dhaenens
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Sanne Vermorgen
- Ghent University (UGent Honours Programme in Life Sciences), Ghent, Belgium
| | - Yuechao Lu
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
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Zhu J, Cui W, Dai YF. Production of inbred offspring by intracytoplasmic sperm injection of oocytes from juvenile female mice. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:451-458. [PMID: 28837782 DOI: 10.1071/rd16399] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/12/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The aim of the present study was to determine whether the use of oocytes from juvenile female mice would improve the efficiency of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). In the present study, 15 adult and 14 juvenile C57BL6/J female mice were superovulated, with 17.8 oocytes per mouse harvested from adults, significantly lower than the 40.2 harvested from juveniles (P<0.01). Sixty and 233 oocytes were harvested from C57BL/6J adult and juvenile mice respectively, activated in 10mM SrCl2+5μgmL-1 cytochalasin B for 5-6h and cultured in potassium simplex optimisation medium (KSOM) for 3.5 days, with no differences in morula and blastocyst rates between groups (91.7% vs 96.6%; P>0.05). Twelve hours after injection of human chorionic gonadotrophin, oocytes were harvested from C57BL/6J juvenile mice into KSOM, randomly divided into groups and activated with the same method mentioned above at 0, 2, 4 or 6h and then cultured in KSOM for 3.5 days. There was no significant difference in morula and blastocyst rates among the different groups (P>0.05). Oocytes from juvenile mice activated in 10mM SrCl2 for 2h were subjected to ICSI and the rates of pronuclear formation and Day 1 cleavage were significantly improved compared with the control group (P<0.01). ICSI combined with activation of oocytes from inbred mouse strains (C57BL/6J, C57BL/6N and 129Svev) successfully produced pups. The fertility of some these mice resulting from ICSI was tested, and the animals proved fertile. In conclusion, superovulated juvenile mice can yield more useable oocytes than adult mice, but additional activation is essential for full development of ICSI oocytes harvested from juvenile inbred mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhu
- College of Life Sciences, The University of Inner Mongolia, University West Road, Huhehot, 010021, China
| | - Wei Cui
- Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, W12 0NN, UK
| | - Yan-Feng Dai
- College of Life Sciences, The University of Inner Mongolia, University West Road, Huhehot, 010021, China
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Swann K. The role of Ca 2+ in oocyte activation during In Vitro fertilization: Insights into potential therapies for rescuing failed fertilization. BIOCHIMICA ET BIOPHYSICA ACTA-MOLECULAR CELL RESEARCH 2018; 1865:1830-1837. [PMID: 29746897 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbamcr.2018.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2018] [Revised: 04/30/2018] [Accepted: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
At fertilization the mature mammalian oocyte is activated to begin development by a sperm-induced series of increases in the cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration. These so called Ca2+ oscillations, or repetitive Ca2+ spikes, are also seen after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and are primarily triggered by a sperm protein called phospholipase Czeta (PLCζ). Whilst ICSI is generally an effective way to fertilizing human oocytes, there are cases where oocyte activation fails to occur after sperm injection. Many such cases appear to be associated with a PLCζ deficiency. Some IVF clinics are now attempting to rescue such cases of failed fertilization by using artificial means of oocyte activation such as the application of Ca2+ ionophores. This review presents the scientific background for these therapies and also considers ways to improve artificial oocyte activation after failed fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karl Swann
- School of Biosciences, Cardiff University, Sir Martin Evans Building, Museum Avenue, Cardiff CF10 3AX, UK.
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Lu Y, Reddy R, Ferrer Buitrago M, Vander Jeught M, Neupane J, De Vos WH, Van den Abbeel E, Lierman S, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Strontium fails to induce Ca 2+ release and activation in human oocytes despite the presence of functional TRPV3 channels. Hum Reprod Open 2018; 2018:hoy005. [PMID: 30895246 PMCID: PMC6276696 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoy005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the transient receptor potential cation channels vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) present and able to mediate strontium (Sr2+) induced artificial activation in human oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER Sr2+ did not induce Ca2+ rises or provoke activation in human oocytes, however, mRNA for the TRPV3 channel was present in metaphase II (MII) human oocytes after IVM and TRPV3 agonists induced Ca2+ rises and oocyte activation, demonstrating the channels were functional. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Selective activation of TRPV3 by agonists induces Ca2+ entry and promotes mouse oocyte activation, and the absence of TRPV3 channels in mouse oocytes prevents Sr2+ mediated artificial activation. Sr2+ is sometimes used to overcome fertilization failure after ICSI in the clinic, but its efficiency is still controversial and the mechanism(s) of how it mediates the Ca2+ flux has not been studied yet in human. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The protein distribution (n = 10) and mRNA expression level (n = 19) of the TRPV3 channels was investigated in human MII oocytes after IVM. The Sr2+ (10 mM) and TRPV3 agonists (200 μM 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate [2-APB] and 200 μM carvacrol)-induced Ca2+ response was analyzed in human (n = 15, n = 16 and n = 16, respectively) and mouse oocytes (n = 15, n = 19 and n = 26, respectively). The subsequent embryonic developmental potential following the parthenogenetic activation using these three agents was recorded in human (n = 10, n = 9 and n = 9, respectively) and mouse (n = 20 per agent) oocytes, by determining pronucleus, or 2-cell and blastocyst formation rates. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS MII oocytes from B6D2F1 mice (6–10 weeks old) as well as human IVM oocytes and IVO oocytes (from patients aged 25–38 years old) with aggregates of smooth endoplasmic reticulum clusters were used. The expression of TRPV3 channels was determined by immunofluorescence staining with confocal microscopy and RT-PCR, and the temporal evolution of intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured by time-lapse imaging after exposure to Sr2+ and TRPV3 agonists (2-APB and carvacrol). Artificial activation efficiency was assessed using these agents. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Sr2+ did not promote Ca2+ oscillations or provoke activation in human oocytes. Transcripts of TRPV3 channels were present in IVM MII human oocytes. TRPV3 protein was expressed and distributed throughout the ooplasm of human oocytes, rather than particularly concentrated in plasma membrane as observed in mouse MII oocytes. Both agonists of TRPV3 (2-APB and carvacrol), promoted a single Ca2+ transient and activated a comparable percentage of more than half of the exposed human oocytes (P > 0.05). The agonist 2-APB was also efficient in activating mouse oocytes, however, significantly fewer mouse oocytes responded to carvacrol than 2-APB in both the Ca2+ analysis and activation test (P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The availability of fresh IVO matured oocytes in human was limited. Data from TRPV3 knockout model are not included. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The benefit of clinical application using Sr2+ to overcome fertilization failure after ICSI requires further validation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by FWO-Vlaanderen, China Scholarship Council and Special Research Fund from Ghent University (Bijzonder Onderzoeksfonds, BOF). No competing interests are declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Lu
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Renmin South Road 20, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - R Reddy
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Ferrer Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Vander Jeught
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Neupane
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - W H De Vos
- Cell Systems and Imaging research Group (CSI), Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.,Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - E Van den Abbeel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Lierman
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Karabulut S, Aksünger Ö, Ata C, Sağıroglu Y, Keskin İ. Artificial oocyte activation with calcium ionophore for frozen sperm cycles. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 64:381-388. [PMID: 29620419 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1452311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
Fertilization problems are the major problems that may be faced in 30-55% of the patients during an intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycle. A successful oocyte activation depends on factors related to both sperm and oocyte, and one of the important factors that mediates the process is Ca2+ concentration within the oocyte. Artificial oocyte activation (AOA) is a method used for fertilization problems that commonly involve the usage of Ca2+ ionophores and is usually used in problems such as total fertilization failure (TFF) and globozoospermia. The aim of the present study was to investigate possible effects of AOA for different groups of patients with fertilization failure. Four groups of patients (previous TFF, low oocyte number, severe sperm quality, and frozen sperm (FS) group) that underwent ICSI with AOA were included in the study. All groups had similar control groups with same indications except TFF, where AOA was not performed. Fertilization rates were significantly higher in the TFF group than those observed in other AOA groups. Fertilization rates and quality of embryos observed in the remaining AOA groups were higher than those of the controls, which were statistically insignificant. Prgenancy rates were higher in all AOA groups compared to the controls, although the differences were significant in FS group only. Quality of embryos and pregnancy rates were lower in the TFF group compared to the remaining AOA groups indicating possible concomitant problems. Fertilization rates, quality of embryos and pregnancy rates seemed to be increased in all indication groups suggesting that not only TFF patients but also a wide variety of patients with different indications may benefit from AOA. ABBREVIATIONS ICSI: Intracytoplasmic sperm injection; ARTs: Assisted reproductive techniques; Ca: Calcium; AOA: Artificial oocyte activation; TFF: Total fertilization failures; OAT: Oligoasthenoteratozoospemia; IVF: In vitro fertilization; SOAT: Severe OAT; LON: Low ooctye number; FS: Frozen sperm; hCG: human chorionic gonadotrophin; PVP: polyvinylpyrrolidone; HSA: human serum albumin.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seda Karabulut
- a School of Medicine , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul.,b REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center) , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul , Turkey
| | - Özlem Aksünger
- c Memorial Antalya Hastanesi/Tüp Bebek Merkezi , Antalya , Turkey
| | - Can Ata
- c Memorial Antalya Hastanesi/Tüp Bebek Merkezi , Antalya , Turkey
| | - Yusuf Sağıroglu
- d IVF Unit , Florence Nightingale Hospital Kadıkoy , İstanbul , Turkey
| | - İlknur Keskin
- a School of Medicine , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul.,b REMER (Regenerative and Restorative Medicine Research Center) , İstanbul Medipol University , İstanbul , Turkey
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Craven L, Tang MX, Gorman GS, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Novel reproductive technologies to prevent mitochondrial disease. Hum Reprod Update 2018. [PMID: 28651360 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of nuclear transfer (NT) has been proposed as a novel reproductive treatment to overcome the transmission of maternally-inherited mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutations. Pathogenic mutations in mtDNA can cause a wide-spectrum of life-limiting disorders, collectively known as mtDNA disease, for which there are currently few effective treatments and no known cures. The many unique features of mtDNA make genetic counselling challenging for women harbouring pathogenic mtDNA mutations but reproductive options that involve medical intervention are available that will minimize the risk of mtDNA disease in their offspring. This includes PGD, which is currently offered as a clinical treatment but will not be suitable for all. The potential for NT to reduce transmission of mtDNA mutations has been demonstrated in both animal and human models, and has recently been clinically applied not only to prevent mtDNA disease but also for some infertility cases. In this review, we will interrogate the different NT techniques, including a discussion on the available safety and efficacy data of these technologies for mtDNA disease prevention. In addition, we appraise the evidence for the translational use of NT technologies in infertility. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE We propose to review the current scientific evidence regarding the clinical use of NT to prevent mitochondrial disease. SEARCH METHODS The scientific literature was investigated by searching PubMed database until Jan 2017. Relevant documents from Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority as well as reports from both the scientific and popular media were also implemented. The above searches were based on the following key words: 'mitochondria', 'mitochondrial DNA'; 'mitochondrial DNA disease', 'fertility'; 'preimplantation genetic diagnosis', 'nuclear transfer', 'mitochondrial replacement' and 'mitochondrial donation'. OUTCOMES While NT techniques have been shown to effectively reduce the transmission of heteroplasmic mtDNA variants in animal models, and increasing evidence supports their use to prevent the transmission of human mtDNA disease, the need for robust, long-term evaluation is still warranted. Moreover, prenatal screening would still be strongly advocated in combination with the use of these IVF-based technologies. Scientific evidence to support the use of NT and other novel reproductive techniques for infertility is currently lacking. WIDER IMPLICATIONS It is mandatory that any new ART treatments are first adequately assessed in both animal and human models before the cautious implementation of these new therapeutic approaches is clinically undertaken. There is growing evidence to suggest that the translation of these innovative technologies into clinical practice should be cautiously adopted only in highly selected patients. Indeed, given the limited safety and efficacy data, close monitoring of any offspring remains paramount.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lyndsey Craven
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Mao-Xing Tang
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Gráinne S Gorman
- Wellcome Centre for Mitochondrial Research, Institute of Neuroscience, The Medical School, Framlington Place, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE2 4HH, UK
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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Roychoudhury S, Maldonado-Rosas I, Agarwal A, Esteves SC, Henkel R, Sharma R. Human sperm handling in intracytoplasmic sperm injection processes: In vitro studies on mouse oocyte activation, embryo development competence and sperm oxidation-reduction potential. Andrologia 2018; 50:e12943. [PMID: 29315724 DOI: 10.1111/and.12943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 02/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) and hyaluronic acid (HA) are routinely used in handling spermatozoa for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). As there are still concerns about possible adverse effects on the embryo, this study investigated sperm handling in a mouse ICSI model to (i) evaluate oocyte activation after injection of spermatozoa selected for rotational or linear motion in PVP; (ii) assess the effect of sperm selection in PVP, HA and medium on oocyte activation; (iii) examine the effects of PVP and HA on parthenogenetic oocyte activation and embryo development; and (iv) assess the oxidation-reduction potential (ORP) of spermatozoa exposed to PVP, HA or medium. Oocyte activation was higher when spermatozoa exhibited rotational motion rather than linear motion (79% vs. 52%; p = .05). There was no difference in oocyte activation and embryo development after parthenogenetic oocyte activation after sperm injection using PVP, HA or medium-incubated spermatozoa. PVP-selected spermatozoa exhibited lower (p < .0001) ORP levels than using HA. Thus, results indicate that the sperm handling method and the type of medium used impact ICSI outcomes. Overall, sperm incubation in PVP, HA and medium yields similar outcomes with regard to oocyte activation and embryo development. However, PVP provides more antioxidative protection than HA and should therefore be preferred for sperm manipulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Roychoudhury
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
- Department of Life Science and Bioinformatics, Assam University, Silchar, India
| | | | - A Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - S C Esteves
- ANDROFERT, Center for Male Reproduction, Campinas, Brazil
| | - R Henkel
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, South Africa
| | - R Sharma
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
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Lu Y, Bonte D, Ferrer-Buitrago M, Popovic M, Neupane J, Van der Jeught M, Leybaert L, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Culture conditions affect Ca2+ release in artificially activated mouse and human oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 30:991-1001. [DOI: 10.1071/rd17145] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2017] [Accepted: 11/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Inconsistent fertilisation and pregnancy rates have been reported by different laboratories after application of ionomycin as a clinical method of assisted oocyte activation (AOA) to overcome fertilisation failure. Using both mouse and human oocytes, in the present study we investigated the effects of ionomycin and Ca2+ concentrations on the pattern of Ca2+ release and embryonic developmental potential. In the mouse, application of 5 μM ionomycin in potassium simplex optimisation medium (KSOM) or 10 µM ionomycin in Ca2+-free KSOM significantly reduced the Ca2+ flux and resulted in failure of blastocyst formation compared with 10 μM ionomycin in KSOM. Increasing the Ca2+ concentration up to three- or sixfold did not benefit mouse embryonic developmental potential. Similarly, 10 μM ionomycin-induced rise in Ca2+ in human oocytes increased with increasing total calcium concentrations in the commercial medium. Remarkably, we observed significantly reduced mouse embryo development when performing AOA over a period of 10 min in Quinn’s AdvantageTM Fertilisation medium (Cooper Surgical) and IVFTM medium (Vitrolife) compared with Sydney IVF COOK cleavage medium (Cook Ireland), using the same sequential culture system from the post-activation stage to blastocyst formation stage in different AOA groups. In conclusion, concentrations of both ionomycin and Ca2+ in culture media used during AOA can have significant effects on Ca2+ release and further embryonic developmental potential.
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Ferrer-Buitrago M, Bonte D, De Sutter P, Leybaert L, Heindryckx B. Single Ca 2+ transients vs oscillatory Ca 2+ signaling for assisted oocyte activation: limitations and benefits. Reproduction 2017; 155:R105-R119. [PMID: 29122969 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/20/2017] [Revised: 11/06/2017] [Accepted: 11/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
Oocyte activation is a calcium (Ca2+)-dependent process that has been investigated in depth, in particular, regarding its impact on assisted reproduction technology (ART). Following a standard model of signal transduction, Ca2+ drives the meiotic progression upon fertilization in all species studied to date. However, Ca2+ changes during oocyte activation are species specific, and they can be classified in two modalities based on the pattern defined by the Ca2+ signature: a single Ca2+ transient (e.g. amphibians) or repetitive Ca2+ transients called Ca2+ oscillations (e.g. mammals). Interestingly, assisted oocyte activation (AOA) methods have highlighted the ability of mammalian oocytes to respond to single Ca2+ transients with normal embryonic development. In this regard, there is evidence supporting that cellular events during the process of oocyte activation are initiated by different number of Ca2+ oscillations. Moreover, it was proposed that oocyte activation and subsequent embryonic development are dependent on the total summation of the Ca2+ peaks, rather than to a specific frequency pattern of Ca2+ oscillations. The present review aims to demonstrate the complexity of mammalian oocyte activation by describing the series of Ca2+-linked physiological events involved in mediating the egg-to-embryo transition. Furthermore, mechanisms of AOA and the limitations and benefits associated with the application of different activation agents are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minerva Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Davina Bonte
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Luc Leybaert
- Physiology GroupDepartment of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST)Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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