1
|
Abdullah KAL, Atazhanova T, Chavez-Badiola A, Shivhare SB. Automation in ART: Paving the Way for the Future of Infertility Treatment. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:1006-1016. [PMID: 35922741 PMCID: PMC10160149 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00941-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
In vitro fertilisation (IVF) is estimated to account for the birth of more than nine million babies worldwide, perhaps making it one of the most intriguing as well as commoditised and industrialised modern medical interventions. Nevertheless, most IVF procedures are currently limited by accessibility, affordability and most importantly multistep, labour-intensive, technically challenging processes undertaken by skilled professionals. Therefore, in order to sustain the exponential demand for IVF on one hand, and streamline existing processes on the other, innovation is essential. This may not only effectively manage clinical time but also reduce cost, thereby increasing accessibility, affordability and efficiency. Recent years have seen a diverse range of technologies, some integrated with artificial intelligence, throughout the IVF pathway, which promise personalisation and, at least, partial automation in the not-so-distant future. This review aims to summarise the rapidly evolving state of these innovations in automation, with or without the integration of artificial intelligence, encompassing the patient treatment pathway, gamete/embryo selection, endometrial evaluation and cryopreservation of gametes/embryos. Additionally, it shall highlight the resulting prospective change in the role of IVF professionals and challenges of implementation of some of these technologies, thereby aiming to motivate continued research in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kadrina Abdul Latif Abdullah
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, England
| | - Tomiris Atazhanova
- Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health, University of Oxford, Level 3, Women's Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, OX3 9DU, England
| | | | - Sourima Biswas Shivhare
- TFP Simply Fertility, W Hanningfield Rd, Great Baddow, Chelmsford, CM2 8HN, England.
- The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, London, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Kieslinger DC, Vergouw CG, Ramos L, Arends B, Curfs MHJM, Slappendel E, Kostelijk EH, Pieters MHEC, Consten D, Verhoeven MO, Besselink DE, Broekmans F, Cohlen BJ, Smeenk JMJ, Mastenbroek S, de Koning CH, van Kasteren YM, Moll E, van Disseldorp J, Brinkhuis EA, Kuijper EAM, van Baal WM, van Weering HGI, van der Linden PJQ, Gerards MH, Bossuyt PM, van Wely M, Lambalk CB. Clinical outcomes of uninterrupted embryo culture with or without time-lapse-based embryo selection versus interrupted standard culture (SelecTIMO): a three-armed, multicentre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial. Lancet 2023; 401:1438-1446. [PMID: 37004670 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(23)00168-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/15/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Time-lapse monitoring is increasingly used in fertility laboratories to culture and select embryos for transfer. This method is offered to couples with the promise of improving pregnancy chances, even though there is currently insufficient evidence for superior clinical results. We aimed to evaluate whether a potential improvement by time-lapse monitoring is caused by the time-lapse-based embryo selection method itself or the uninterrupted culture environment that is part of the system. METHODS In this three-armed, multicentre, double-blind, randomised controlled trial, couples undergoing in-vitro fertilisation or intracytoplasmic sperm injection were recruited from 15 fertility clinics in the Netherlands and randomly assigned using a web-based, computerised randomisation service to one of three groups. Couples and physicians were masked to treatment group, but embryologists and laboratory technicians could not be. The time-lapse early embryo viability assessment (EEVA; TLE) group received embryo selection based on the EEVA time-lapse selection method and uninterrupted culture. The time-lapse routine (TLR) group received routine embryo selection and uninterrupted culture. The control group received routine embryo selection and interrupted culture. The co-primary endpoints were the cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate within 12 months in all women and the ongoing pregnancy rate after fresh single embryo transfer in a good prognosis population. Analysis was by intention to treat. This trial is registered on the ICTRP Search Portal, NTR5423, and is closed to new participants. FINDINGS 1731 couples were randomly assigned between June 15, 2017, and March 31, 2020 (577 to the TLE group, 579 to the TLR group, and 575 to the control group). The 12-month cumulative ongoing pregnancy rate did not differ significantly between the three groups: 50·8% (293 of 577) in the TLE group, 50·9% (295 of 579) in the TLR group, and 49·4% (284 of 575) in the control group (p=0·85). The ongoing pregnancy rates after fresh single embryo transfer in a good prognosis population were 38·2% (125 of 327) in the TLE group, 36·8% (119 of 323) in the TLR group, and 37·8% (123 of 325) in the control group (p=0·90). Ten serious adverse events were reported (five TLE, four TLR, and one in the control group), which were not related to study procedures. INTERPRETATION Neither time-lapse-based embryo selection using the EEVA test nor uninterrupted culture conditions in a time-lapse incubator improved clinical outcomes compared with routine methods. Widespread application of time-lapse monitoring for fertility treatments with the promise of improved results should be questioned. FUNDING Health Care Efficiency Research programme from Netherlands Organisation for Health Research and Development and Merck.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- D C Kieslinger
- IVF Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - C G Vergouw
- IVF Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - L Ramos
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - B Arends
- IVF Center, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | | | - E Slappendel
- Center for Fertility, Nij Geertgen, Elsendorp, Netherlands
| | - E H Kostelijk
- IVF Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | - D Consten
- IVF Center, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Ziekenhuis Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - M O Verhoeven
- IVF Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - D E Besselink
- Division of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - F Broekmans
- IVF Center, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - B J Cohlen
- Isala Fertility Center, Isala, Zwolle, Netherlands
| | - J M J Smeenk
- IVF Center, Elisabeth-TweeSteden Ziekenhuis Tilburg, Netherlands
| | - S Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands; Amsterdam Reproduction and Development, Preconception and Conception, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - C H de Koning
- Center for Fertility, Tergooi Medical Centre, Blaricum, Netherlands
| | - Y M van Kasteren
- Center for Fertility, Noordwest Ziekenhuisgroep, Alkmaar, Netherlands
| | - E Moll
- Center for Fertility, Onze Lieve Vrouwe Gasthuis, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J van Disseldorp
- Center for Fertility, Saint Antonius Ziekenhuis, Nieuwegein, Netherlands
| | - E A Brinkhuis
- Center for Fertility, Meander Medical Centre, Amersfoort, Netherlands
| | - E A M Kuijper
- Center for Fertility, Spaarne Gasthuis, Haarlem, Netherlands
| | - W M van Baal
- Center for Fertility, Flevo Hospital, Almere, Netherlands
| | | | - P J Q van der Linden
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Deventer Ziekenhuis, Deventer, Netherlands
| | - M H Gerards
- Center for Fertility, Diakonessenhuis, Utrecht, Netherlands
| | - P M Bossuyt
- Department of Epidemiology and Data Science, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - C B Lambalk
- IVF Center, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Sivanantham S, Saravanan M, Sharma N, Shrinivasan J, Raja R. Morphology of inner cell mass: a better predictive biomarker of blastocyst viability. PeerJ 2022; 10:e13935. [PMID: 36046502 PMCID: PMC9422976 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.13935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2022] [Accepted: 08/02/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Transfer of embryos at the blastocyst stage is one of the best approaches for achieving a higher success rate in In vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment as it demonstrates an improved uterine and embryonic synchrony at implantation. Despite novel biochemical and genetic markers proposed for the prediction of embryo viability in recent years, the conventional morphological grading of blastocysts remains the classical way of selection in routine practice. This study aims to investigate the association between the morphological features of blastocysts and pregnancy outcomes. Methods This prospective study included women undergoing single or double frozen blastocyst transfers following their autologous cycles in a period between October 2020 and September 2021. The morphological grades (A-good, B-average, and C-poor) of inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE) of blastocysts with known implantation were compared to assess their predictive potential of pregnancy outcome. It was further explored by measuring the relationship between the two variables using logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis. Results A total of 1,972 women underwent frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycles with a total of 3,786 blastocysts. Known implantation data (KID) from 2,060 blastocysts of 1,153 patients were subjected to statistical analysis, the rest were excluded. Implantation rates (IR) from transfer of ICM/TE grades AA, AB, BA, BB were observed as 48.5%, 39.4%, 23.4% and 25% respectively. There was a significantly higher IR observed in blastocysts with ICM grade A (p < 0.001) than those with B irrespective of their TE scores. The analysis of the interaction between the two characteristics confirmed the superiority of ICM over TE as a predictor of the outcome. The rank biserial correlation value for ICM was also greater compared to that of TE (0.11 vs 0.05). Conclusion This study confirms that the morphology of ICM of the blastocyst is a stronger predictor of implantation and clinical pregnancy than that of TE and can be utilized as a biomarker of viability.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sargunadevi Sivanantham
- Department of IVF, ARC International Fertility and Research Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mahalakshmi Saravanan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, ARC International Fertility and Research Centre, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Nidhi Sharma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Saveetha Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Jayashree Shrinivasan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Saveetha Medical College, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ramesh Raja
- Department of Andrology and Reproductive Medicine, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Meng Q, Xu Y, Zheng A, Li H, Ding J, Xu Y, Pu Y, Wang W, Wu H. Noninvasive embryo evaluation and selection by time-lapse monitoring vs. conventional morphologic assessment in women undergoing in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a single-center randomized controlled study. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1203-1212. [PMID: 35367059 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2021] [Revised: 02/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether time-lapse monitoring (TLM) for cleavage-stage embryo selection improves reproductive outcomes in comparison with conventional morphological assessment (CMA) selection. DESIGN Prospective randomized controlled trial. SETTING Single academic center. PATIENTS We randomly assigned 139 women who were undergoing their first in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle to undergo either fresh embryo transfer or first frozen embryo transfer (FET). Only 1 cleavage-stage embryo was transferred to each participant. INTERVENTIONS The patients were randomly assigned to either the CMA or the TLM group. In the CMA group, day 2 and day 3 embryos were observed. A good-quality cleavage-stage embryo was selected for transfer or freezing in both groups. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The primary and secondary outcomes were the clinical pregnancy rate (CPR) and the live birth rate (LBR), respectively, after the first embryo transfer (fresh embryo transfer or FET). RESULTS The CPR and LBR were significantly lower in the TLM group than in the CMA group (CPR: 49.18% vs. 70.42%; relative risk, 0.70; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.52-0.94; LBR: 45.90% vs. 64.79%; relative risk, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.51-0.98). The CPR with fresh embryo transfer or FET did not significantly differ between the TLM and the CMA groups (fresh embryo transfer: 44.44% vs. 70.0%, relative risk, 0.63, 95% CI, 0.39-1.03; FET: 52.94% vs. 70.73%, relative risk, 0.75, 95% CI, 0.52-1.09). There was a significant difference in the LBR with fresh embryo transfer between the TLM and the CMA groups (40.74% vs. 66.67%; relative risk, 0.61; 95% CI, 0.36-1.03). The LBRs with FET were similar in the TLM and the CMA groups (50.0% vs. 63.41%; relative risk, 0.79; 95% CI, 0.52-1.19). The rates of early spontaneous abortion and ectopic pregnancy did not differ between the TLM and the CMA groups. CONCLUSIONS Elective single cleavage-stage embryo transfer with TLM-based selection did not have any advantages over CMA when day 2 and day 3 embryo morphology was combined in young women with a good ovarian reserve. Because of these results, we conclude that TLM remains an investigational procedure for in vitro fertilization practice. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ChiCTR1900021981.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingxia Meng
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yunyu Xu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Aiyan Zheng
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Hong Li
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jie Ding
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yongle Xu
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Pu
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Wei Wang
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| | - Huihua Wu
- Center of Reproduction and Genetics, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Chen C, Li W, Yin M, Li M, Wu L, Si J, Zhao L, Li B, Yan Z, Lyu Q. Does the cell number of 0PN embryos on day 3 affect pregnancy and neonatal outcomes following single blastocyst transfer? BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2022; 22:200. [PMID: 35279109 PMCID: PMC8918324 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-022-04492-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background 0PN zygotes have a low cleavage rate, and the clinical outcomes of cleavage-stage embryo transfers are unsatisfactory. Blastocyst culturing is used to screen 0PN embryos, but whether the cell number of 0PN embryos on day 3 affects the clinical outcomes following single blastocyst transfer is unknown and would be helpful in evaluating the clinical value of these embryos. Methods This retrospective study compared 46,804 0PN zygotes, 242 0PN frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfers, and 92 corresponding 0PN singletons with 232,441 2PN zygotes, 3563 2PN frozen-thawed single blastocyst transfers, and 1250 2PN singletons from January 2015 to October 2019 at a tertiary-care academic medical centre. The 0PN and 2PN embryos were divided into two groups: the group with < 6 cells on day 3 and that with ≥ 6 cells. Embryo development, subsequent pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results The cleavage and available blastocyst rates of the 0PN zygotes were much lower than those of the 2PN zygotes (25.9% vs. 97.4%, P < 0.001; 13.9% vs. 23.4%, P < 0.001). In the < 6 cells group, the available blastocyst rate of the cleaved 0PN embryos was significantly lower than that of the 2PN embryos (2.5% vs. 12.7%, P < 0.001). However, in the ≥ 6 cells group, the available blastocyst rate of the 0PN cleaved embryos significantly improved, although it was slightly lower than that of the 2PN embryos (33.9% vs. 35.7%, P = 0.014). Importantly, compared to those of the 2PN single blastocyst transfers, the clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate, Z-score and malformation rate of the 0PN single blastocyst transfers were not significantly different in either the < 6 cells group (30.4% vs. 39.8%, P = 0.362; 30.4% vs. 31.3%, P = 0.932; 0.89 ± 0.90 vs. 0.42 ± 1.02, P = 0.161; 0% vs. 2.6%, P = 1.000) or the ≥ 6 cells group (50.7% vs. 46.6%, P = 0.246; 39.7% vs. 38.3%, P = 0.677; 0.50 ± 1.23 vs. 0.47 ± 1.11, P = 0.861; 2.4% vs. 1.8%, P = 1.000). Conclusions The cell number on day 3 of 0PN embryos affected the subsequent formation of blastocysts but did not influence the subsequent pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of 0PN single blastocyst transfers, which may be beneficial to clinicians counselling patients on the clinical value of 0PN embryos. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12884-022-04492-7.
Collapse
|
6
|
|
7
|
Chera-Aree P, Thanaboonyawat I, Thokha B, Laokirkkiat P. Comparison of pregnancy outcomes using a time-lapse monitoring system for embryo incubation versus a conventional incubator in in vitro fertilization: An age-stratification analysis. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2021; 48:174-183. [PMID: 34024081 PMCID: PMC8176153 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2020.04091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to compare the pregnancy outcomes of in vitro fertilization with embryo transfer between embryos cultured in a time-lapse monitoring system (TLS) and those cultured in a conventional incubator (CI). METHODS The medical records of 250 fertilized embryos from 141 patients undergoing infertility treatment with assisted reproductive technology at a tertiary hospital from June 2018 to May 2020 were reviewed. The study population was divided into TLS and CI groups at a 1 to 1 ratio (125 embryos per group). The primary outcome was the live birth rate. RESULTS The TLS group had a significantly higher clinical pregnancy rate (46.4% vs. 27.2%, p=0.002), implantation rate (27.1% vs. 12.0%, p=0.004), and live birth rate (32.0% vs. 18.4%, p=0.013) than the CI group. Furthermore, subgroup analyses of the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate in the different age groups favored the TLS group. However, this difference only reached statistical significance in the live birth rate in women aged over 40 years and the clinical pregnancy rate in women aged 35-40 years (p=0.048 and p=0.031, respectively). The miscarriage rate, cleavage rate, and blastocyst rate were comparable. CONCLUSION TLS application improved the live birth rate, implantation rate, and clinical pregnancy rate, particularly in the advanced age group in this study, while the other reproductive outcomes were comparable. Large randomized controlled trials are needed to further explore the ramifications of these findings, especially in different age groups.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pattraporn Chera-Aree
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Isarin Thanaboonyawat
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Benjawan Thokha
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Pitak Laokirkkiat
- Infertility and Reproductive Biology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Zhao M, Xu M, Li H, Alqawasmeh O, Chung JPW, Li TC, Lee TL, Tang PMK, Chan DYL. Application of convolutional neural network on early human embryo segmentation during in vitro fertilization. J Cell Mol Med 2021; 25:2633-2644. [PMID: 33486848 PMCID: PMC7933952 DOI: 10.1111/jcmm.16288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Selection of the best quality embryo is the key for a faithful implantation in in vitro fertilization (IVF) practice. However, the process of evaluating numerous images captured by time-lapse imaging (TLI) system is time-consuming and some important features cannot be recognized by naked eyes. Convolutional neural network (CNN) is used in medical imaging yet in IVF. The study aims to apply CNN on day-one human embryo TLI. We first presented CNN algorithm for day-one human embryo segmentation on three distinct features: zona pellucida (ZP), cytoplasm and pronucleus (PN). We tested the CNN performance compared side-by-side with manual labelling by clinical embryologist, then measured the segmented day-one human embryo parameters and compared them with literature reported values. The precisions of segmentation were that cytoplasm over 97%, PN over 84% and ZP around 80%. For the morphometrics data of cytoplasm, ZP and PN, the results were comparable with those reported in literatures, which showed high reproducibility and consistency. The CNN system provides fast and stable analytical outcome to improve work efficiency in IVF setting. To conclude, our CNN system is potential to be applied in practice for day-one human embryo segmentation as a robust tool with high precision, reproducibility and speed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mingpeng Zhao
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Murong Xu
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China.,School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Hanhui Li
- School of Computer Science and Information Security, Guilin University of Electronic and Technology, Guilin, China
| | - Odai Alqawasmeh
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Jacqueline Pui Wah Chung
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tin Chiu Li
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Tin-Lap Lee
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Patrick Ming-Kuen Tang
- Department of Anatomical and Cellular Pathology, State Key Laboratory of Translational Oncology, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - David Yiu Leung Chan
- Assisted Reproductive Technology Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Li J, Huang J, Han W, Shen X, Gao Y, Huang G. Comparing transcriptome profiles of human embryo cultured in closed and standard incubators. PeerJ 2020; 8:e9738. [PMID: 32864223 PMCID: PMC7427541 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.9738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
It is necessary to compare the transcriptomic profiles of human embryos cultured in time-lapse imaging (TLI) incubators and standard incubators (SI) in order to determine whether a closed culture system has a positive impact on embryos. In this study, we used RNA-sequencing (RNA-Seq) to characterize and compare the gene expression profiles of eight-cell embryos of the same quality grade cultured in TLI and SI. We sequenced a total of 580,952,620 reads for zygotes, TLI-cultured, and SI-cultured eight-cell embryos. The global transcriptomic profiles of the TLI embryos were similar to those of the SI embryos and were highly distinct from the zygotes. We also detected 539 genes showing differential expression between the TLI and SI groups with a false discovery rate (FDR) < 0.05. Using gene ontology enrichment analysis, we found that the highly expressed SI genes tended to execute functions such as transcription, RNA splicing, and DNA repair, and that the highly expressed TLI genes were enriched in the cell differentiation and methyltransferase activity pathways. This study, the first to use transcriptome analysis to compare SI and TLI, will serve as a basis for assessing the safety of TLI application in assisted reproductive technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jingyu Li
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing Reproductive and Genetics Institute, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Jiayu Huang
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Wei Han
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing Reproductive and Genetics Institute, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Xiaoli Shen
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing Reproductive and Genetics Institute, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| | - Ying Gao
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Union Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Guoning Huang
- Chongqing Key Laboratory of Human Embryo Engineering, Chongqing Reproductive and Genetics Institute, Chongqing Health Center for Women and Children, Chongqing, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Morphokinetic analysis of cleavage stage embryos and assessment of specific gene expression in cumulus cells independently predict human embryo development to expanded blastocyst: a preliminary study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1409-1420. [PMID: 32436046 PMCID: PMC7311629 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01806-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
To assess whether morphokinetic features at the cleavage stage together with specific gene expression in cumulus cells (CCs) may be used to predict whether human embryos are able to achieve the expanded blastocyst stage on day 5. Eighty-one embryos were cultured using the Geri plus® time-lapse system. Twenty-seven embryos progressing to the expanded blastocyst stage (BL group) were compared with thirty-five embryos showing developmental arrest (AR group) and nineteen reaching the stage of early or not fully expanded blastocyst (nBL group). The analyzed morphokinetic variables were pronuclear appearance (tPNa), pronuclear fading (tPNf), and completion of cleavage to two, three, four, and eight cells (t2, t3, t4, and t8). CCs were analyzed by RT-qPCR for bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), cytochrome c oxidase subunit II (COXII), ATP synthase subunit 6 (MT-ATP6), connexin 43 (Cx43), and heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Embryos of BL group showed a significantly faster kinetic. BMP15, COXII, and MT-ATP6 mRNA expression was significantly higher in CCs of BL group embryos, whereas Cx43 and HO-1 mRNA levels were higher in AR group. Kinetic parameters and gene expression were not significantly different between either the BL and nBL groups or the AR and nBL groups. ROC curves showed that the most predictive cut-offs were t2 < 26.25 for morphokinetics and COXII > 0.3 for gene expression. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that morphokinetic variables and gene expression were both valuable, independent predictors of embryo development to expanded blastocyst. Our results suggest the possibility of developing integrated prediction models for early embryo selection at the cleavage stage.
Collapse
|
11
|
Apter S, Ebner T, Freour T, Guns Y, Kovacic B, Le Clef N, Marques M, Meseguer M, Montjean D, Sfontouris I, Sturmey R, Coticchio G. Good practice recommendations for the use of time-lapse technology †. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa008. [PMID: 32206731 PMCID: PMC7081060 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Ebner
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Gynecological Endocrinology, Kepler Universitätsklinikum, Linz, Austria
| | - Thomas Freour
- Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Yves Guns
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Borut Kovacic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecologic Endocrinology, Univerzitetni klinicni center Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Nathalie Le Clef
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, Grimbergen, Belgium
| | | | - Marcos Meseguer
- IVF Laboratory, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
| | - Debbie Montjean
- Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hopital Saint Joseph, Marseille, France
| | | | - Roger Sturmey
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
12
|
Fishel S, Campbell A, Foad F, Davies L, Best L, Davis N, Smith R, Duffy S, Wheat S, Montgomery S, Wachter A, Beccles A. Evolution of embryo selection for IVF from subjective morphology assessment to objective time-lapse algorithms improves chance of live birth. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:61-70. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2019] [Revised: 08/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
|
13
|
Armstrong S, Atkinson M, MacKenzie J, Pacey A, Farquhar C. Add-ons in the laboratory: hopeful, but not always helpful. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:994-999. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.10.031] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
|
14
|
Weghofer A, Kushnir VA, Darmon SK, Jafri H, Lazzaroni-Tealdi E, Zhang L, Albertini DF, Barad DH, Gleicher N. Age, body weight and ovarian function affect oocyte size and morphology in non-PCOS patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). PLoS One 2019; 14:e0222390. [PMID: 31647816 PMCID: PMC6812759 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0222390] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The size of oocytes was previously reported to be smaller in obese women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). In the present prospective cohort study, we sought to determine whether oocyte size and morphology are associated with patient characteristics in non-PCOS women. Oocyte and oolemmal diameter were measured, enlarged perivitelline space (PVS) and ooplasmic granulation were assessed in 308 MII oocytes from 77 IVF/ICSI couples. Statistical analysis was undertaken using SAS version 9.4 (SAS institute Inc., USA). Continuous values are presented as mean ± SD and compared using a two-sample t-test or Mann-Whitney U test as appropriate. Categorical parameters are presented as proportions and compared using a Fisher exact test. Logistic and linear regression models were used to control for the effect of age for categorical and continuous variables respectively. P-value < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Patients presented with a mean age of 40.3±5.0 years, had a BMI of 25.1±6.1 kg/m2, median AMH levels of 0.6 ng/ml and produced a median of 4 oocytes. Mean total oocyte diameter was 163.2±7.4 μm (range 145.8–182.1 μm), while oolemmal diameter was 109.4±4.1 μm (range 98.5–122.3 μm). After adjusting for age and ovarian reserve increasing BMI was associated with decreased total oocyte diameter (p<0.05). Total oocyte diameter was also inversely associated with AMH levels (p = 0.03) and oocyte yield (p = 0.04). In contrast to total oocyte diameter, oolemmal diameter was not related to patient characteristics. Younger women and those with large oocyte yields demonstrated fewer oocytes with ooplasmic granulation (p<0.05 and p = 0.01). After adjustments for age, ooplasmic granulation was also less frequently observed in oocytes from women with higher AMH (p = 0.03) and increasing BMI (p<0.01). Fertilization was more likely in oocytes with larger oolemmal diameter (p = 0.008). Embryos from oocytes with larger total and ooplasmic diameters were more likely to be transferred or frozen (p = 0.004 and p = 0.01). In non-PCOS infertile women, BMI and ovarian function relate to total oocyte diameter. These results expand on previously observed associations between oocyte size and BMI in women with PCOS. They indicate the importance of detailed oocyte assessments, which may aid the currently used criteria for embryo selection and help to better understand how oocyte status is associated with later embryo development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A. Weghofer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer, Guertel, Vienna, Austria
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
- * E-mail:
| | - V. A. Kushnir
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, North Carolina, United States of America
| | - S. K. Darmon
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - H. Jafri
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - E. Lazzaroni-Tealdi
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - L. Zhang
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - D. F. Albertini
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
- Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
| | - D. H. Barad
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
- The Foundation for Reproductive Medicine, New York, N.Y., United States of America
| | - N. Gleicher
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer, Guertel, Vienna, Austria
- The Center for Human Reproduction, New York, New York, United States of America
- Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York, United States of America
- The Foundation for Reproductive Medicine, New York, N.Y., United States of America
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
van de Wiel L. The datafication of reproduction: time-lapse embryo imaging and the commercialisation of IVF. SOCIOLOGY OF HEALTH & ILLNESS 2019; 41 Suppl 1:193-209. [PMID: 31599989 PMCID: PMC6856688 DOI: 10.1111/1467-9566.12881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
The 21st century has witnessed the emergence of in silico reproduction alongside the familiar in vitro reproduction (e.g. IVF), as increasingly large and automatically-generated data sets have come to play an instrumental role in assisted reproduction. The article addresses this datafication of reproduction by analysing time-lapse embryo imaging, a key data-driven technology for embryo selection in IVF cycles. It discusses the new forms of knowledge and value creation enabled by data-driven embryo selection and positions this technology as a harbinger of a wider datafication of (reproductive) health. By analysing the new ways of seeing embryos with 'in silico vision,' the 'data generativity' of developing embryos and the patenting of embryo selection algorithms, I argue that this datafied method of embryo selection may not just result in more or less 'IVF success,' but also affects the conceptualisation and commercialisation of the assisted reproductive process. In doing so, I highlight how the datafication of reproduction both reflects and reinforces a consolidating trend in the fertility sector-characterised by mergers resulting in larger fertility chains, online platforms organising fertility care and expanded portfolios of companies aiming to cover each step of the IVF cycle.
Collapse
|
16
|
Ntostis P, Kokkali G, Iles D, Huntriss J, Tzetis M, Picton H, Pantos K, Miller D. Can trophectoderm RNA analysis predict human blastocyst competency? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2019; 65:312-325. [PMID: 31244343 PMCID: PMC6816490 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2019.1625085] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2018] [Revised: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 05/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
A systematic review of the literature showed that trophectoderm biopsy could assist in the selection of healthy embryos for uterine transfer without affecting implantation rates. However, previous studies attempting to establish the relationship between trophectoderm gene expression profiles and implantation competency using either microarrays or RNA sequencing strategies, were not sufficiently optimized to handle the exceptionally low RNA inputs available from biopsied material. In this pilot study, we report that differential gene expression in human trophectoderm biopsies assayed by an ultra-sensitive next generation RNA sequencing strategy could predict blastocyst implantation competence. RNA expression profiles from isolated human trophectoderm cells were analysed with established clinical pregnancy being the primary endpoint. Following RNA sequencing, a total of 47 transcripts were found to be significantly differentially expressed between the trophectoderm cells from successfully implanted (competent) versus unsuccessful (incompetent) blastocysts. Of these, 36 transcripts were significantly down-regulated in the incompetent blastocysts, including Hydroxysteroid 17-Beta Dehydrogenase 1 (HSD17B1) and Cytochrome P450 Family 11 Subfamily A Member 1 (CYP11A1), while the remaining 11 transcripts were significantly up-regulated, including BCL2 Antagonist/Killer 1 (BAK1) and KH Domain Containing 1 Pseudogene 1 (KHDC1P1) of which the latter was always detected in the incompetent and absent in all competent blastocysts. Ontological analysis of differentially expressed RNAs revealed pathways involved in steroidogenic processes with high confidence. Novel differentially expressed transcripts were also noted by reference to a de novo sequence assembly. The selection of the blastocyst with the best potential to support full-term pregnancy following single embryo transfer could reduce the need for multiple treatment cycles and embryo transfers. The main limitation was the low sample size (N = 8). Despite this shortcoming, the pilot suggests that trophectoderm biopsy could assist with the selection of healthy embryos for embryo transfer. A larger cohort of samples is needed to confirm these findings. Abbreviations: AMA: advanced maternal age; ART: assisted reproductive technology; CP: clinical pregnancy; DE: differential expression; FDR: false discovery rate; IVF: in vitro fertilization; LD PCR: long distance PCR; qRT-PCR: quantitative real-time PCR; SET: single embryo transfer; TE: trophectoderm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Panagiotis Ntostis
- Department of Discovery and Translational Science, LICAMM, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Georgia Kokkali
- Genesis Athens hospital, Reproductive medicine Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - David Iles
- Department of Discovery and Translational Science, LICAMM, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - John Huntriss
- Department of Discovery and Translational Science, LICAMM, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | - Maria Tzetis
- Department of Medical Genetics, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Helen Picton
- Department of Discovery and Translational Science, LICAMM, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| | | | - David Miller
- Department of Discovery and Translational Science, LICAMM, University of Leeds, Leeds, UK
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sanchez T, Zhang M, Needleman D, Seli E. Metabolic imaging via fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy for egg and embryo assessment. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:212-218. [PMID: 30691624 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.12.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2018] [Accepted: 12/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Current strategies for embryo assessment in the assisted reproductive technology laboratories rely primarily on morphologic parameters that have limited accuracy for determining embryo viability. Even with the addition of invasive diagnostic interventions such as preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy alone or in combination with mitochondrial DNA copy number assessment, at least one third of embryos fail to implant. Therefore, at a time when the clinical benefits of single ET are widely accepted, improving viability assessment of embryos is ever more important. Building on the previous work demonstrating the importance of metabolic state in oocytes and embryos, metabolic imaging via fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy offers new and potentially useful diagnostic method by detecting natural fluorescence of FAD and NADH, the two electron transporters that play a central role in oxidative phosphorylation. Recent studies demonstrate that fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy can detect oocyte and embryo metabolic function and dysfunction in a multitude of experimental models and provide encouraging evidence for use in scientific investigation and possibly for clinical application.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tim Sanchez
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Faculty of Arts and Sciences Center for Systems Biology and John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Dan Needleman
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology and Faculty of Arts and Sciences Center for Systems Biology and John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Beriain IDM, Sanz B. Patentability of time-lapse monitoring has nothing to do with human dignity: A response to Alain Pottage. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:390-392. [PMID: 30241770 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.08.010] [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: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/03/2018] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
In December 2017, Alain Pottage published an article denying the patentability of a technique called Time-Lapse Monitoring (TLM). His argument was that this procedure, like all other embryo selection procedures, fails to respect human dignity. Here, we argue that this statement is mistaken because assisted reproductive technologies (ART) require a scarce resource, namely a woman's uterus in the right physiological condition. Therefore, embryo selection using TLM is entirely appropriate, as it is not possible to guarantee that all of them will have access to the environment they need to develop. Hence, the use of techniques designed to maximize the number of live births and minimize the suffering of women who undergo failed embryo transfers is a moral obligation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Iñigo de Miguel Beriain
- Chair in Law and the Human Genome Research Group, Department of Public Law, University of the Basque Country, UPV/EHU, Barrio Sarriena s/n, 48040, Leioa, Bizkaia, Spain; IKERBASQUE, Basque Foundation for Science, Bilbao, Spain.
| | - Begoña Sanz
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of the Basque Country (UPV/EHU), Barrio Sarriena s/n, 48080, Bilbao, Bizkaia, Spain; BioCruces Health Research Institute, Plaza de Cruces, 48903, Barakaldo, Bizkaia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 32:451-460. [PMID: 29695546 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
There are numerous reports on embryo culture media and conditions in the laboratory, as the subject is multifaceted and complex, reflecting the variation in practice. In this scoping review, we attempt to approach the topic of culture media and conditions from the practitioners' perspective aiming to highlight, in a comprehensive fashion, important aspects regarding the options available, introduce points of debate and controversy, while maintaining the viewpoint of the practicing embryologist's concerns.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Deligeoroglou
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Martínez M, Santaló J, Rodríguez A, Vassena R. High reliability of morphokinetic annotations among embryologists. Hum Reprod Open 2018; 2018:hoy009. [PMID: 30895250 PMCID: PMC6276644 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoy009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2017] [Revised: 04/10/2018] [Accepted: 05/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are morphokinetic measurements of time lapse-videos of human embryos comparable among operators? SUMMARY ANSWER There is little variation among morphokinetic measurements taken by different operators when analyzing the same time lapse-videos of human embryos. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Morphokinetic analysis of preimplantation embryo development is a complementary method of embryo assessment increasingly used in IVF laboratories. Time-lapse videos of embryo development are normally viewed by trained embryologists and annotated with the times when specific developmental events occur. Such annotations form the basis of embryo selection algorithms, used to rank the embryos for transfer. It is unknown whether the reliability of morphokinetic annotations is related to the morphological characteristics of the analyzed embryo or to the ability of the embryologists performing the annotation. One study so far reported the reliability of morphokinetic annotations among three embryologists using the time-lapse system (TLS), but larger studies with different setups are needed to address this issue further. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION A prospective study was carried out between October 2015 and June 2016. Six embryologists with various degrees of experience in static, morphology-based evaluation, individually annotated the same 93 videos of preimplantation development, corresponding to 18 IVF/ICSI cycles, recorded with a TLS. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS Times of second polar body extrusion, appearance and disappearance of pronuclei, and embryo cleavages (times from 2-cell to 5-cell stage: t2, t3, t4, t5) were annotated. Each embryologist was blinded to the annotations of the others. Intra- and inter-observer agreement was evaluated by computing intra-class correlation coefficients (ICCs). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In the inter-observer analysis, most ICCs obtained were higher than 0.80, indicating a high level of agreement: t2: 0.93; t3: 0.80; t4: 0.89; t5: 0.89; disappearance of two pronuclei: 0.98. However, the ICCs obtained for second polar body extrusion and the appearance of two pronuclei annotations was lower: 0.51 and 0.63, respectively, indicating an average level of agreement. The ICCs obtained from the intra-observer analysis were also higher than 0.80 (t2: 0.96; t3: 0.89; t4: 0.88; t5: 0.86; disappearance of two pronuclei: 0.96). The ICCs obtained from second polar body extrusion and the appearance of two pronuclei annotations were 0.77 and 0.66, respectively. These results indicate that developmental timings, annotated in time-lapse videos, are highly reliable both within and among observers. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The events at the developmental stages from 6-cells to blastocyst were not evaluated; since some morphokinetic algorithms use times past the 6-cell stage in their calculations, further studies should be carried out to understand the variations among observers in these cases. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Time-lapse measurement should be as objective as possible, especially for the first embryo cleavages, because they are often measured to define algorithms to assess the embryonic implantation potential. Our results show that measurements using this particular TLS are consistent and reliable both within and among operators. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Martínez
- Clínica Eugin, Travessera de les Corts 322, Barcelona 08029, Spain
| | - J Santaló
- Departamento de Biología Celular, Fisiología en Inmunología, Facultad de Biociencias, Universidad Autónoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Barcelona
| | - A Rodríguez
- Clínica Eugin, Travessera de les Corts 322, Barcelona 08029, Spain
| | - R Vassena
- Clínica Eugin, Travessera de les Corts 322, Barcelona 08029, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Cornelisse S, Fleischer K, Repping S, Mastenbroek S. An informed decision between cleavage-stage and blastocyst-stage transfer in IVF requires data on the transfers of frozen–thawed embryos. Hum Reprod 2018; 33:1370. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Simone Cornelisse
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Radboudumc, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Kathrin Fleischer
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Radboudumc, Geert Grooteplein Zuid 10, GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, AZ, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Mascarenhas M, Fox SJ, Thompson K, Balen AH. Cumulative live birth rates and perinatal outcomes with the use of time-lapse imaging incubators for embryo culture: a retrospective cohort study of 1882 ART cycles. BJOG 2018; 126:280-286. [PMID: 29443441 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Comparison of live birth rates and the perinatal outcomes after fresh and frozen embryo transfer between time-lapse imaging (TLI) and standard culture (SC) incubators. DESIGN Retrospective cohort study. SETTING A single tertiary level IVF unit. POPULATION Women undergoing IVF between January 2014 and October 2015. METHODS Comparison was done between 1064 IVF cycles using TLI (TLI cycles) and 818 IVF cycles using SC (SC cycles). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Cumulative live birth rate per oocyte retrieval and perinatal outcomes including birthweight, gestational age, preterm birth (PTB) (<37 weeks), early preterm birth (PTB; <32 weeks), low birthweight (LBW; <2500 g), very LBW (<1500 g) and macrosomia (>4500 g). RESULTS The fresh embryo transfer live birth rate was noted to be higher for TLI cycles [TLI 36.8 versus SC 33.9%, adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.28, 95% CI 1.05-1.57], but the frozen embryo transfer live birth rates were not significantly different. The mean birthweight was higher in the TLI group after both fresh [adjusted mean difference (aMD) 174.78 g, 95% CI 64.80-284.77] and frozen embryo transfers (aMD 175.91 g, 95% CI 16.98-334.84). After a fresh embryo transfer, there was a lower risk of early PTB and very LBW in the TLI group. Among frozen embryo transfers, there was a lower risk of early PTB and LBW in the TLI group. CONCLUSIONS TLI incubators are associated with improved perinatal outcomes and higher mean birthweight after fresh and frozen embryo transfer. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT Time-lapse imaging incubators in IVF improve perinatal outcomes after both fresh and frozen embryo transfers.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Mascarenhas
- Leeds Fertility, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - S J Fox
- Leeds Fertility, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - K Thompson
- Leeds Fertility, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| | - A H Balen
- Leeds Fertility, Leeds Teaching Hospital NHS Trust, Leeds, UK
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Barberet J, Chammas J, Bruno C, Valot E, Vuillemin C, Jonval L, Choux C, Sagot P, Soudry A, Fauque P. Randomized controlled trial comparing embryo culture in two incubator systems: G185 K-System versus EmbryoScope. Fertil Steril 2018; 109:302-309.e1. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2017] [Revised: 09/22/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
|
24
|
Abstract
Two recent contributions to this journal discuss a challenge to Stanford's time-lapse embryo monitoring patent, currently before the European Patent Office (EPO). Sterckx, Cockbain and Pennings (2017) would like to keep the morphokinetics of embryo division in the public domain; they argue that time-lapse monitoring (TLM) is a diagnostic method in the sense of European patent law and therefore unpatentable. In response, Pearce (2017) suggests that the jurisprudence of the EPO unambiguously says that TLM is not a diagnostic method. This commentary proposes an alternative legal ground for challenging patents relating to the principle of TLM, a ground that could be invoked before national courts and, ultimately, the Court of Justice of the European Union: TLM is not a diagnostic procedure but a process of selection that breaches the criterion of dignity in European patent law.
Collapse
|
25
|
Armstrong S, Bhide P, Jordan V, Pacey A, Farquhar C. Time-lapse systems for ART. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 36:288-289. [PMID: 29398417 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.12.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Armstrong
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK.
| | - Priya Bhide
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| | - Vanessa Jordan
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| | - Allan Pacey
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| | - Cynthia Farquhar
- Department of Oncology and Metabolism, University of Sheffield Medical School, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, UK
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Pribenszky C, Nilselid AM, Montag M. Time-lapse culture with morphokinetic embryo selection improves pregnancy and live birth chances and reduces early pregnancy loss: a meta-analysis. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 35:511-520. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2017] [Revised: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 06/30/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
|
27
|
Milewski R, Szpila M, Ajduk A. Dynamics of cytoplasm and cleavage divisions correlates with preimplantation embryo development. Reproduction 2017; 155:1-14. [PMID: 28993454 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0230] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Revised: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization has become increasingly popular as an infertility treatment. In order to improve efficiency of this procedure, there is a strong need for a refinement of existing embryo assessment methods and development of novel, robust and non-invasive selection protocols. Studies conducted on animal models can be extremely helpful here, as they allow for more extensive research on the potential biomarkers of embryo quality. In the present paper, we subjected mouse embryos to non-invasive time-lapse imaging and combined the Particle Image Velocimetry analysis of cytoplasmic dynamics in freshly fertilized oocytes with the morphokinetic analysis of recordings covering 5 days of preimplantation development. Our results indicate that parameters describing cytoplasmic dynamics and cleavage divisions independently correspond to mouse embryo's capacity to form a high-quality blastocyst. We also showed for the first time that these parameters are associated with the percentage of abnormal embryonic cells with fragmented nuclei and with embryo's ability to form primitive endoderm, one of the cell lineages differentiated during preimplantation development. Finally, we present a model that links selected cytoplasmic and morphokinetic parameters reflecting frequency of fertilization-induced Ca2+-oscillations and timing of 4-cell stage and compaction with viability of the embryo assessed as the total number of cells at the end of its preimplantation development. Our results indicate that a combined analysis of cytoplasmic dynamics and morphokinetics may facilitate the assessment of embryo's ability to form high-quality blastocysts.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Milewski
- Department of Statistics and Medical InformaticsMedical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Marcin Szpila
- Department of EmbryologyFaculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of EmbryologyFaculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Ruane PT, Berneau SC, Koeck R, Watts J, Kimber SJ, Brison DR, Westwood M, Aplin JD. Apposition to endometrial epithelial cells activates mouse blastocysts for implantation. Mol Hum Reprod 2017; 23:617-627. [PMID: 28911212 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION How do interactions between blastocyst-stage embryos and endometrial epithelial cells regulate the early stages of implantation in an in vitro model? SUMMARY ANSWER Mouse blastocyst apposition with human endometrial epithelial cells initiates trophectoderm differentiation to trophoblast, which goes on to breach the endometrial epithelium. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY In vitro models using mouse blastocysts and human endometrial cell lines have proven invaluable in the molecular characterisation of embryo attachment to endometrial epithelium at the onset of implantation. Genes involved in embryonic breaching of the endometrial epithelium have not been investigated in such in vitro models. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This study used an established in vitro model of implantation to examine cellular and molecular interactions during blastocyst attachment to endometrial epithelial cells. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Mouse blastocysts developed from embryonic day (E) 1.5 in vitro were hatched and co-cultured with confluent human endometrial adenocarcinoma-derived Ishikawa cells in serum-free medium. A scale of attachment stability based on blastocyst oscillation upon agitation was devised. Blastocysts were monitored for 48 h to establish the kinetics of implantation, and optical sectioning using fluorescence microscopy revealed attachment and invasion interfaces. Quantitative PCR was used to determine blastocyst gene expression. Data from a total of 680 mouse blastocysts are reported, with 3-6 experimental replicates. T-test and ANOVA analyses established statistical significance at P < 0.05, P < 0.01 and P < 0.001. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Hatched E4.5 mouse blastocysts exhibited weak attachment to confluent Ishikawa cells over the first 24 h of co-culture, with intermediate and stable attachment occurring from 28 h (E5.5 + 4 h) in a hormone-independent manner. Attached embryos fixed after 48 h (E6.5) frequently exhibited outgrowths, characterised morphologically and with antibody markers as trophoblast giant cells (TGCs), which had breached the Ishikawa cell layer. Beginning co-culture at E5.5 also resulted in intermediate and stable attachment from E5.5 + 4 h; however, these embryos did not go on to breach the Ishikawa cell layer, even when co-culture was extended to E7.5 (P < 0.01). Blastocysts cultured from E4.5 in permeable transwell inserts above Ishikawa cells before transfer to direct co-culture at E5.5 went on to attach but failed to breach the Ishikawa cell layer by E6.5 (P < 0.01). Gene expression analysis at E5.5 demonstrated that direct co-culture with Ishikawa cells from E4.5 resulted in downregulation of trophectoderm transcription factors Cdx2 (P < 0.05) and Gata3 (P < 0.05) and upregulation of the TGC transcription factor Hand1 (P < 0.05). Co-culture with non-endometrial human fibroblasts did not alter the expression of these genes. LARGE SCALE DATA None. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The in vitro model used here combines human carcinoma-derived endometrial cells with mouse embryos, in which the cellular interactions observed may not fully recapitulate those in vivo. The data gleaned from such models can be regarded as hypothesis-generating, and research is now needed to develop more sophisticated models of human implantation combining multiple primary endometrial cell types with surrogate and real human embryos. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study implicates blastocyst apposition to endometrial epithelial cells as a critical step in trophoblast differentiation required for implantation. Understanding this maternal regulation of the embryonic developmental programme may lead to novel treatments for infertility. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by funds from the charities Wellbeing of Women (RG1442) and Diabetes UK (15/0005207), and studentship support for SCB from the Anatomical Society. No conflict of interest is declared.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peter T Ruane
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Stéphane C Berneau
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Rebekka Koeck
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Jessica Watts
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Susan J Kimber
- Division of Cell Matrix Biology and Regenerative Medicine, School of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Michael Smith Building, ManchesterM13 9PT, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Road, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| | - John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester M13 9WL, UK
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Milewski R, Ajduk A. Time-lapse imaging of cleavage divisions in embryo quality assessment. Reproduction 2017; 154:R37-R53. [PMID: 28408705 DOI: 10.1530/rep-17-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
In vitro fertilization (IVF) is one of the most important procedures for treating infertility. As several embryos are usually produced in a single IVF cycle, it is crucial to select only the most viable ones for transfer to the patient. Morphokinetics, i.e. analysis of the dynamics of cleavage divisions and processes such as compaction and cavitation, has provided both biologists and clinicians with a new set of data regarding embryonic behaviour during preimplantation development and its association with embryo quality. In the current review, we focus on biological significance of morphokinetic parameters and show how they can be used to predict a reproductive outcome. We also explain the statistics behind the predictive algorithms and discuss the future perspectives of morphokinetics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Robert Milewski
- Department of Statistics and Medical InformaticsMedical University of Bialystok, Bialystok, Poland
| | - Anna Ajduk
- Department of EmbryologyFaculty of Biology, University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Munevver S, Findikli N, Bahceci M. New Horizons/Developments in Time-Lapse Morphokinetic Analysis of Mammalian Embryos. Hum Reprod 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118849613.ch8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
|
31
|
Tjon-Kon-Fat RI, Bensdorp AJ, Scholten I, Repping S, van Wely M, Mol BWJ, van der Veen F. IUI and IVF for unexplained subfertility: where did we go wrong? Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2665-2667. [PMID: 27664205 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2016] [Revised: 08/21/2016] [Accepted: 08/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
IUI is a first-line treatment for couples with unexplained or mild male subfertility and has become one of the most widely used fertility-enhancing treatments. The results of a recent trial comparing IVF to IUI, demonstrating similar live birth rates, have been used to build a case supporting the effectiveness of IUI. Yet, this conclusion might be somewhat premature, as the superiority of neither IUI nor IVF over no treatment has ever been proven. The evidence on the effectiveness and safety of IUI and IVF has been evaluated in two Cochrane reviews which both suggested that there is insufficient evidence to conclude that IUI or IVF is effective compared to sexual intercourse in couples with unexplained subfertility. Recommendations for clinical practice have been given in the most recent National Institute for Health and Care Excellence fertility guideline that advises not to offer IUI any longer and suggests 2 years of sexual intercourse followed by IVF. This recommendation has generated an ongoing debate, with only 4% of all gynecologists in the UK discontinuing the use of IUI. We feel that it is high time to provide proper scientific evidence for the effectiveness of IUI, or lack thereof, and invite the medical community to start RCTs comparing IUI to sexual intercourse.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- R I Tjon-Kon-Fat
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - A J Bensdorp
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - I Scholten
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - B W J Mol
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Medicine, University of Adelaide, SA 5000, Adelaide, Australia
- The South Australian Health and Medical Research Unit, SA 5000, Adelaide, Australia
| | - F van der Veen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Centre, University of Amsterdam, 1100 DD Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Petersen BM, Boel M, Montag M, Gardner DK. Development of a generally applicable morphokinetic algorithm capable of predicting the implantation potential of embryos transferred on Day 3. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2231-44. [PMID: 27609980 PMCID: PMC5027927 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 149] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2016] [Accepted: 06/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can a generally applicable morphokinetic algorithm suitable for Day 3 transfers of time-lapse monitored embryos originating from different culture conditions and fertilization methods be developed for the purpose of supporting the embryologist's decision on which embryo to transfer back to the patient in assisted reproduction? SUMMARY ANSWER The algorithm presented here can be used independently of culture conditions and fertilization method and provides predictive power not surpassed by other published algorithms for ranking embryos according to their blastocyst formation potential. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Generally applicable algorithms have so far been developed only for predicting blastocyst formation. A number of clinics have reported validated implantation prediction algorithms, which have been developed based on clinic-specific culture conditions and clinical environment. However, a generally applicable embryo evaluation algorithm based on actual implantation outcome has not yet been reported. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Retrospective evaluation of data extracted from a database of known implantation data (KID) originating from 3275 embryos transferred on Day 3 conducted in 24 clinics between 2009 and 2014. The data represented different culture conditions (reduced and ambient oxygen with various culture medium strategies) and fertilization methods (IVF, ICSI). The capability to predict blastocyst formation was evaluated on an independent set of morphokinetic data from 11 218 embryos which had been cultured to Day 5. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS The algorithm was developed by applying automated recursive partitioning to a large number of annotation types and derived equations, progressing to a five-fold cross-validation test of the complete data set and a validation test of different incubation conditions and fertilization methods. The results were expressed as receiver operating characteristics curves using the area under the curve (AUC) to establish the predictive strength of the algorithm. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE By applying the here developed algorithm (KIDScore), which was based on six annotations (the number of pronuclei equals 2 at the 1-cell stage, time from insemination to pronuclei fading at the 1-cell stage, time from insemination to the 2-cell stage, time from insemination to the 3-cell stage, time from insemination to the 5-cell stage and time from insemination to the 8-cell stage) and ranking the embryos in five groups, the implantation potential of the embryos was predicted with an AUC of 0.650. On Day 3 the KIDScore algorithm was capable of predicting blastocyst development with an AUC of 0.745 and blastocyst quality with an AUC of 0.679. In a comparison of blastocyst prediction including six other published algorithms and KIDScore, only KIDScore and one more algorithm surpassed an algorithm constructed on conventional Alpha/ESHRE consensus timings in terms of predictive power. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Some morphological assessments were not available and consequently three of the algorithms in the comparison were not used in full and may therefore have been put at a disadvantage. Algorithms based on implantation data from Day 3 embryo transfers require adjustments to be capable of predicting the implantation potential of Day 5 embryo transfers. The current study is restricted by its retrospective nature and absence of live birth information. Prospective Randomized Controlled Trials should be used in future studies to establish the value of time-lapse technology and morphokinetic evaluation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Algorithms applicable to different culture conditions can be developed if based on large data sets of heterogeneous origin. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by Vitrolife A/S, Denmark and Vitrolife AB, Sweden. B.M.P.’s company BMP Analytics is performing consultancy for Vitrolife A/S. M.B. is employed at Vitrolife A/S. M.M.’s company ilabcomm GmbH received honorarium for consultancy from Vitrolife AB. D.K.G. received research support from Vitrolife AB.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Bjørn Molt Petersen
- Bjørn Molt Petersen BMP Analytics, Vilhelm Becks Vej 20, 8260 Viby J, Denmark
| | - Mikkel Boel
- Vitrolife A/S, Jens Juuls Vej 20, 8260 Viby J, Denmark
| | - Markus Montag
- ilabcomm GmbH, Eisenachstr. 34, 53757 St. Augustin, Germany
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Minasi MG, Colasante A, Riccio T, Ruberti A, Casciani V, Scarselli F, Spinella F, Fiorentino F, Varricchio MT, Greco E. Correlation between aneuploidy, standard morphology evaluation and morphokinetic development in 1730 biopsied blastocysts: a consecutive case series study. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2245-54. [PMID: 27591227 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 222] [Impact Index Per Article: 27.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/24/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are there correlations among human blastocyst ploidy status, standard morphology evaluation and time-lapse kinetics? SUMMARY ANSWER Correlations were observed, in that euploid human blastocysts showed a higher percentage with top quality inner cell mass (ICM) and trophectoderm (TE), higher expansion grades and shorter time to start of blastulation, expansion and hatching, compared to aneuploid ones. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Embryo quality has always been considered an important predictor of successful implantation and pregnancy. Nevertheless, knowledge of the relative impact of each morphological parameter at the blastocyst stage needs to be increased. Recently, with the introduction of time-lapse technology, morphokinetic parameters can also be evaluated. However, a large number of studies has reported conflicting outcomes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This was a consecutive case series study. The morphology of 1730 blastocysts obtained in 530 PGS cycles performed from September 2012 to April 2014 that underwent TE biopsy and array comparative genomic hybridization was analyzed retrospectively. A total of 928 blastocysts were cultured in a time-lapse incubator allowing morphokinetic parameters to be analyzed. PARTCIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHOD Mean female age was 36.8 ± 4.24 years. Four hunderd fifty-four couples were enrolled in the study: 384, 64 and 6 of them performed single, double or triple PGS cycles, respectively. In standard morphology evaluation, the expansion grade, and quality of the ICM and TE were analyzed. The morphokinetic parameters observed were second polar body extrusion, appearance of two pronuclei, pronuclear fading, onset of two- to eight-cell divisions, time between the two- and three-cell (cc2) and three- and four-cell (s2) stages, morulae formation time, starting blastulation, full blastocyst stage, expansion and hatching timing. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 1730 biopsied blastocysts, 603 were euploid and 1127 aneuploid. We observed that 47.2% of euploid and 32.8% of aneuploid blastocysts showed top quality ICM (P < 0.001), and 17.1% of euploid and 28.5% of aneuploid blastocysts showed poor quality ICM (P < 0.001). Top quality TE was present in 46.5% of euploid and 31.1% of aneuploid blastocysts (P < 0.001), while 26.6% of euploid and 38.1% of aneuploid blastocysts showed poor quality TE (P < 0.001). Regarding expansion grade, 81.1% of euploid and 72.4% of aneuploid blastocysts were fully expanded (Grade 5-6; P < 0.001). The timing of cleavage from the three- to four-cell stage, of reaching four-cell stage, of starting blastulation, reaching full blastocyst stage, blastocyst expansion and hatching were 2.6 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.7-3.5), 40.0 (95% CI: 39.3-40.6), 103.4 (95% CI: 102.2-104.6), 110.2 (95% CI: 108.8-111.5), 118.7 (95% CI: 117.0-120.5) and 133.2 (95% CI: 131.2-135.2) hours in euploid blastocysts, and 4.2 (95% CI: 3.6-4.8), 41.1 (95% CI: 40.6-41.6), 105.0 (95% CI: 104.0-106.0), 112.8 (95% CI: 111.7-113.9), 122.1 (95% CI: 120.7-123.4) and 137.4 (95% CI: 135.7-139.1) hours in aneuploid blastocysts (P < 0.05 for early and P < 0.0001 for later stages of development), respectively. No statistically significant differences were found between euploid and aneuploid blastocysts for the remaining morphokinetic parameters.A total of 407 embryo transfers were performed (155 fresh, 252 frozen-thawed blastocysts). Higher clinical pregnancy, implantation and live birth rates were obtained in frozen-thawed compared to fresh embryo transfers (P = 0.0104, 0.0091 and 0.0148, respectively). The miscarriage rate was 16.1% and 19.6% in cryopreserved and fresh embryo transfer, respectively. The mean female age was lower in the euploid compared to aneuploid groups (35.0 ± 3.78 versus 36.7 ± 4.13 years, respectively), We found an increasing probability for aneuploidy with female age of 10% per year (odds ratio (OR) = 1.1, 95% CI: 1.1-1.2, P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The main limitation of morphology assessment is that it is a static system and can be operator-dependent. In this study, eight embryologists performed morphology assessments. The main limitation of the time-lapse technology is that it is impossible to rotate the embryos making it very difficult to observe them in case of blastomere overlapping or increased cytoplasmic fragmentation. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Although there seems to be a relationship between the ploidy status and blastocyst morphology/development dynamics, the evaluation of morphological and morphokinetic parameters cannot currently be improved upon, and therefore replace, PGS. Our results on ongoing pregnancy and miscarriage rates suggest that embryo evaluation by PGS or time-lapse imaging may not improve IVF outcome. However, time-lapse monitoring could be used in conjunction with PGS to choose, within a cohort, the blastocysts to analyze or, when more than one euploid blastocyst is available, to select which one should be transferred. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS No specific funding was obtained for this study. None of the authors have any competing interests to declare.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Maria Giulia Minasi
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Alessandro Colasante
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Teresa Riccio
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Alessandra Ruberti
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Valentina Casciani
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Filomena Scarselli
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| | - Francesca Spinella
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, "GENOMA", Via di Castel Giubileo 11, Rome 00138, Italy
| | - Francesco Fiorentino
- Molecular Genetics Laboratory, "GENOMA", Via di Castel Giubileo 11, Rome 00138, Italy
| | | | - Ermanno Greco
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, European Hospital, Via Portuense 700, Rome 00149, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Wu YG, Lazzaroni-Tealdi E, Wang Q, Zhang L, Barad DH, Kushnir VA, Darmon SK, Albertini DF, Gleicher N. Different effectiveness of closed embryo culture system with time-lapse imaging (EmbryoScope(TM)) in comparison to standard manual embryology in good and poor prognosis patients: a prospectively randomized pilot study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:49. [PMID: 27553622 PMCID: PMC4995783 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0181-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Accepted: 08/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Previously manual human embryology in many in vitro fertilization (IVF) centers is rapidly being replaced by closed embryo incubation systems with time-lapse imaging. Whether such systems perform comparably to manual embryology in different IVF patient populations has, however, never before been investigated. We, therefore, prospectively compared embryo quality following closed system culture with time-lapse photography (EmbryoScope™) and standard embryology. We performed a two-part prospectively randomized study in IVF (clinical trial # NCT92256309). Part A involved 31 infertile poor prognosis patients prospectively randomized to EmbryoScope™ and standard embryology. Part B involved embryos from 17 egg donor-recipient cycles resulting in large egg/embryo numbers, thus permitting prospectively alternative embryo assignments to EmbryoScope™ and standard embryology. We then compared pregnancy rates and embryo quality on day-3 after fertilization and embryologist time utilized per processed embryo. RESULTS Part A revealed in poor prognosis patients no differences in day-3 embryo scores, implantation and clinical pregnancy rates between EmbryoScope™ and standard embryology. The EmbryoScope™, however, more than doubled embryology staff time (P < 0.0001). In Part B, embryos grown in the EmbyoScope™ demonstrated significantly poorer day-3 quality (depending on embryo parameter between P = 0.005 and P = 0.01). Suspicion that conical culture dishes of the EmbryoScope™ (EmbryoSlide™) may be the cause was disproven when standard culture dishes demonstrated no outcome difference in standard incubation. CONCLUSIONS Though due to small patient numbers preliminary, this study raises concerns about the mostly uncontrolled introduction of closed incubation systems with time lapse imaging into routine clinical embryology. Appropriately designed and powered prospectively randomized studies appear urgently needed in well-defined patient populations before the uncontrolled utilization of these instruments further expands. TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT02246309 Registered September 18, 2014.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan-Guang Wu
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | | | - Qi Wang
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - Lin Zhang
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - David H. Barad
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
- The Foundation for Reproductive Medicine, New York, NY 10021 USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY 10461 USA
| | - Vitaly A. Kushnir
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wake Forest University, Winston Salem, NC 27106 USA
| | - Sarah K. Darmon
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
| | - David F. Albertini
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Wichita, KS 64109 USA
| | - Norbert Gleicher
- The Center for Human Reproduction, 21 East 69th Street, New York, NY 10021 USA
- The Foundation for Reproductive Medicine, New York, NY 10021 USA
- Stem Cell Biology and Molecular Embryology Laboratory, The Rockefeller University, New York, NY 10065 USA
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kirkegaard K, Sundvall L, Erlandsen M, Hindkjær JJ, Knudsen UB, Ingerslev HJ. Timing of human preimplantation embryonic development is confounded by embryo origin. Hum Reprod 2015; 31:324-31. [PMID: 26637491 PMCID: PMC4716807 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev296] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2015] [Accepted: 11/04/2015] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION To what extent do patient- and treatment-related factors explain the variation in morphokinetic parameters proposed as embryo viability markers? SUMMARY ANSWER Up to 31% of the observed variation in timing of embryo development can be explained by embryo origin, but no single factor elicits a systematic influence. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Several studies report that culture conditions, patient characteristics and treatment influence timing of embryo development, which have promoted the perception that each clinic must develop individual models. Most of the studies have, however, treated embryos from one patient as independent observations, and only very few studies that evaluate the influence from patient- and treatment-related factors on timing of development or time-lapse parameters as predictors of viability have controlled for confounding, which implies a high risk of overestimating the statistical significance of potential correlations. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Infertile patients were prospectively recruited to a cohort study at a hospital fertility clinic from February 2011 to May 2013. Patients aged <38 years without endometriosis were eligible if ≥8 oocytes were retrieved. Patients were included only once. All embryos were monitored for 6 days in a time-lapse incubator. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS A total of 1507 embryos from 243 patients were included. The influence of fertilization method, BMI, maternal age, FSH dose and number of previous cycles on timing of t2-t5, duration of the 2- and 3-cell stage, and development of a blastocoel (tEB) and full blastocoel (tFB) was tested in multivariate, multilevel linear regression analysis. Predictive parameters for live birth were tested in a logistic regression analysis for 223 single transferred blastocysts, where time-lapse parameters were investigated along with patient and embryo characteristics. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Moderate intra-class correlation coefficients (0.16-0.31) were observed for all parameters except duration of the 3-cell stage, which demonstrates that embryos from one patient elicit clustering at a patient level. No single patient- and treatment-related factor was found to systematically influence the timing from cleavage to blastocyst stage, which indicates that no individual patient-related factor can be identified that separately explains the clustering throughout the entire developmental stages. The blastocyst parameters were more affected by patient-related factors than cleavage stage parameters, as tEB occurred significantly later with older age (0.29 h/year (95% confidence interval: CI 0.03; 0.56)), while both tEB and tFB occurred significantly later with increasing dose of FSH (tEB: 0.12 h/100 IU FSH (95% CI 0.01;0.24); tFB 0.14 h/100 IU FSH (95% CI 0.03;0.27)) and with more previous attempts (tEB: 1.2 h/attempt (95% CI 0.01;2.5); tFB 1.4 h/attempt (0.10;2.7)). Fertilization method affected timing of the first division, with ICSI embryos cleaving significantly faster than IVF embryos (-3.6% (95% CI -6.4; -0.77)), whereas no difference was found in the subsequent divisions. The univariable regression analysis identified female age, cumulative FSH dose, degree of blastocyst expansion, score of the inner cell mass and timing of full blastocyst formation as predictors of live birth. The timing of full blastocyst formation (tFB) did not remain significant when adjusting for age, number of previous cycles and cumulative FSH dose, which were the parameters shown to influence tFB in the mixed regression model. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Only good prognosis patients were enrolled, so these results may not be generalized to all infertile women. Not all patient-related factors were investigated. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our findings underline the importance of treating embryos as dependent observations and suggest a high risk of patient-based confounding in retrospective studies. The impact of confounders and the embryo origin needs to be addressed in order to apply appropriate statistical models in observational studies. Furthermore, this observation emphasizes the need for RCTs for evaluating use of time-lapse parameters for embryo selection. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS Funding for the cohort study was provided by the Lippert Foundation, the Toyota Foundation, the Aase og Einar Danielsen foundation and NordicInfu Care research grant. Research at the Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital is supported by an unrestricted grant from MSD and Ferring. K.K. is funded by a grant from the Danish Council for Independent Research Medical Sciences. The authors declare no competing interest.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- K Kirkegaard
- Department of Clinical Biochemistry, Aarhus University Hospital, Nørrebrogade 44, DK-8000 Aarhus C, Denmark Clinical institute, Health, Aarhus University, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - L Sundvall
- Clinical institute, Health, Aarhus University, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark Centre for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - M Erlandsen
- Department of Public Health, Section for Biostatistics, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - J J Hindkjær
- Centre for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - U B Knudsen
- Clinical institute, Health, Aarhus University, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark Centre for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| | - H J Ingerslev
- Clinical institute, Health, Aarhus University, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark Centre for Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis/The Fertility Clinic, Aarhus University Hospital, Palle Juul Jensens Boulevard, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Harbottle S, Hughes CI, Cutting R, Roberts S, Brison D. Elective Single Embryo Transfer: an update to UK Best Practice Guidelines. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:165-83. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2015.1083144] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
37
|
Case reports to suggest an algorithm for management of total fertilisation failure prior to use of donor gametes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1679-84. [PMID: 26347343 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0564-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/26/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Total fertilisation failure (TFF), even with intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), occurs in approximately 3 % of cycles, can be recurrent and the exact cause is difficult to elucidate. Differentiation between oocyte and sperm-related cause of TFF is possible using mouse oocyte-activation techniques, but is not an option within most clinical settings. Therefore, the management of these couples is clinically driven, and the endpoint, if recurrent, is often the use of donor gametes. However, with the invariable lack of a definitive cause of TFF, any decision between the use of donor sperm or oocytes remains an emotive one. We present two case reports demonstrating the importance of appropriate investigation, activation techniques (mechanical and chemical) and clinical management options to develop a clinical algorithm prior to the use of donor gametes. METHODS This study is composed of two case reports of assisted reproduction investigation and treatment within an assisted conception unit for couples with recurrent total fertilisation failure. RESULTS Using appropriate investigation (endocrine, urological and embryological) and treatments (ICSI, IMSI, oocyte-activation techniques), a fertilisation rate of 48 % was achieved in two cycles in couples following a total of nine previous cycles (and 200 previously collected eggs) with TFF. CONCLUSIONS Oocyte activation requires the triggering of intracellular calcium oscillations by the release of a sperm-specific factor (phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ)) into the oocyte cytoplasm. Although, PLCζ deficiencies have been demonstrated as putative causes of failed activation, impaired oocyte responsiveness may also be a factor. The use of donor gametes is often recommended and is often the required endpoint of treatment. However, these reports outline a clinical algorithm that potentially offers success without donation, and also offers a systematic approach to help decide whether donor oocytes or sperm should be recommended.
Collapse
|
38
|
Bolton VN, Leary C, Harbottle S, Cutting R, Harper JC. How should we choose the ‘best’ embryo? A commentary on behalf of the British Fertility Society and the Association of Clinical Embryologists. HUM FERTIL 2015; 18:156-64. [DOI: 10.3109/14647273.2015.1072646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
|
39
|
Neyer A, Zintz M, Stecher A, Bach M, Wirleitner B, Zech NH, Vanderzwalmen P. The impact of paternal factors on cleavage stage and blastocyst development analyzed by time-lapse imaging-a retrospective observational study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1607-14. [PMID: 26286759 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0558-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2015] [Accepted: 08/06/2015] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Various time-lapse studies have postulated embryo selection criteria based on early morphokinetic markers. However, late paternal effects are mostly not visible before embryonic genome activation. The primary objective of this retrospective study was to investigate whether those early morphokinetic algorithms investigated by time-lapse imaging are reliable enough to allow for the accurate selection of those embryos that develop into blastocysts, while of course taking into account the correlation with the type of injected spermatozoa. METHODS During a period of 18 months, a total of 461 MII oocytes from 43 couples with severe male factor infertility and previous "external" IVF failures after cleavage-stage embryo transfer (ET) were fertilized by intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI). Thereof, 373 embryos were monitored in a time-lapse incubator until ET on day 5. Blastocyst outcome in combination with three previously postulated MKc (cc2: t3-t2, 5-12 h; t3, 35-40 h; t5, 48-56 h) and the morphology of the selected sperm were analyzed. RESULTS A significant increase in the rate of blastocysts (54.0 vs. 36.3 %; P < 0.01) and top blastocysts (25.3 vs. 10.8 %; P < 0.001) was observed in the group of those meeting all three morphokinetic criteria (MKc3). However, MKc3 were only met in 23.3 % of all embryos. Moreover, TBR was influenced by the type of injected spermatozoa. In both groups, TBR decreased dramatically (MKc3, 35.0 vs. 17.0 %; MKc < 3, 14.2 vs. 8.4 %) when class II/III sperm instead of class I were injected. CONCLUSION Early morphokinetic parameters might give some predictive information but fail to serve as a feasible selective tool for the prediction of blastocyst development given the influence of the type of spermatozoa injected.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anton Neyer
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria.
| | - Martin Zintz
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Astrid Stecher
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Magnus Bach
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria
| | | | - Nicolas H Zech
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria
| | - Pierre Vanderzwalmen
- IVF Centers Prof. Zech-Bregenz, Römerstrasse 2, 6900, Bregenz, Austria
- Centre Hospitalier Interrégional Edith Cavell (CHIREC), Braine-l'Alleud, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Racowsky C, Kovacs P, Martins WP. A critical appraisal of time-lapse imaging for embryo selection: where are we and where do we need to go? J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1025-30. [PMID: 26126876 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0510-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 06/03/2015] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to undertake a critical appraisal of the available evidence for the use of time-lapse imaging for embryo selection in clinical IVF. METHODS A literature search in PubMed, Scopus, Cochrane Central, ClinicalTrials.gov, Current Controlled Trials, and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that investigated the effect of time-lapse embryo selection and/or the time-lapse incubation system on ongoing pregnancy rate. We then performed a systematic review and assessed the relative risks (RRs) and 95 % confidence intervals (CIs) for ongoing pregnancy rates and the risk of bias of the eligible studies. RESULTS We identified four eligible randomized studies, three of which investigated the effect of both time-lapse incubation system and selection on ongoing pregnancy rate; the pooled result revealed a benefit of this intervention (relative risk (RR) 1.20; 95 % CI 1.05-1.37). However, the evidence was judged to be of low quality due to study limitations; a beneficial effect was observed in only one study deemed to be at high risk of bias. The single study assessing the effect of only the time-lapse incubation system revealed a non-significant negative effect (RR 0.71; 95 % CI 0.49-1.03). CONCLUSIONS The findings from this systematic review of the current evidence do not support routine use of time-lapse technology in clinical IVF. We therefore believe that the use of time-lapse imaging for embryo selection should remain experimental and that couples should not be subject to a surcharge for having their embryos cultured in a time-lapse imaging system. Future studies evaluating this technology in well-designed trials should be performed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, ASB 1+3, Rm 082, Boston, MA, 02115, USA,
| | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Armstrong S, Vail A, Mastenbroek S, Jordan V, Farquhar C. Reply: time-lapse in the IVF lab: how should we assess potential benefit? Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1277. [PMID: 25750206 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Armstrong
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Andy Vail
- Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Salford Royal Hospital, Centre for Biostatistics, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, University of Amsterdam, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Vanessa Jordan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Cindy Farquhar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Basile N, Barrière P, Meseguer M, Fréour T. Time-lapse in the IVF lab: how should we assess potential benefit? Hum Reprod 2015; 30:1276. [PMID: 25750207 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Paul Barrière
- Service de médecine et biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes 44093, France
| | - Marcos Meseguer
- IVI Valencia, Plaza de la Policıa Local, 3, Valencia 46015, Spain
| | - Thomas Fréour
- Service de médecine et biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, INSERM, UMR 1064, Nantes 44093, France
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
|
44
|
|