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Gurner KH, Kelley RL, Lee LYS, Gardner DK. Temperature fluctuations during embryo transfer can be mitigated by optimizing transfer protocol. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 48:103847. [PMID: 38657328 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103847] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What impact do variations in embryo transfer catheter loading and movement procedures have on temperature and pH fluctuations during embryo transfer? DESIGN Mock embryo transfers were conducted to test the impact of air flow/movement, use of catheter coverings, and the type of workstation used for catheter loading on catheter temperature. A thermocouple probe inserted into the tip of the outer catheter or taped to the exterior of the inner catheter recorded temperature within the catheter every 5 s from time of mock embryo loading (TL) to 60 s (TL + 60 s) or from the start of transit (TT). Fluctuations in culture medium pH in embryo transfer dishes were monitored. RESULTS The rate of cooling during transit was faster (all P < 0.05) when catheters were uncovered compared with all covering methods tested. This resulted in a lower catheter temperature at TL + 20 s (28.43 ± 0.30 °C) compared with catheters covered by plastic tubing (31.4 ± 0.30 °C), paper (31.0 ± 0.26 °C) or paper + thumb (31.1 ± 0.78 °C; all P ≤ 0.05). Temperature was maintained more effectively when catheters were loaded in a crib compared with a heated stage, until initiation of transit, when the rate of temperature decrease was similar. Culture medium pH increased more rapidly when embryo transfer dishes remained on a heated stage during the procedure compared with in an open crib. CONCLUSIONS Temperature loss during the embryo transfer procedure can be mitigated by reducing the transit time and using catheter coverings. Use of a crib for catheter loading only improved temperature stability while the catheter remained in the crib, not during transit, and reduced pH fluctuations during the procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Lisa Y S Lee
- Melbourne IVF, East Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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2
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Mendola RJ, Biswas L, Schindler K, Walmsley RH, Russell H, Angle M, Garrisi GJ. Influx of zwitterionic buffer after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) membrane piercing alters the transcriptome of human oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1341-1356. [PMID: 38436798 PMCID: PMC11143126 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03064-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE/STUDY QUESTION Does piercing oocyte membranes during ICSI allow the influx of surrounding zwitterionic buffer into human oocytes and result in altered developmental competence? METHODS Human oocytes directed to IRB-approved research were used to determine the unrestricted influx of surrounding buffer into the oocyte after piercing of membranes via confocal fluorescence microscopy (n = 80 human MII oocytes) and the influence of the select buffer influx of HEPES, MOPS, and bicarbonate buffer on the oocyte transcriptome using ultra-low input RNA sequencing (n = 40 human MII oocytes). RESULTS Piercing membranes of human MII oocytes during sham-ICSI resulted in the unrestricted influx of surrounding culture buffer into the oocyte that was beyond technician control. Transcriptome analysis revealed statistically significant decreased cytoskeletal transcripts in the pierced buffer cohorts, higher levels of embryo competency transcripts (IGF2 and G6PD) in the bicarbonate buffer cohort, higher levels of stress-induced transcriptional repressor transcripts (MAF1) in the HEPES and MOPS cohorts, and decreased levels of numerous chromosomal maintenance transcripts (SMC3) in the HEPES buffer cohort. The HEPES buffer cohort also revealed higher levels of transcripts suggesting increased oxidative (GPX1) and lysosomal stress (LAMP1). CONCLUSION The influence of zwitterionic buffer on intrinsic cellular mechanisms provides numerous concerns for their use in IVF clinical applications. The primary concern is the ICSI procedure, in which the surrounding buffer is allowed influx into the oocytes after membrane piercing. Selecting a physiological bicarbonate buffer may reduce imposed stress on oocytes, resulting in improved embryo development and clinical results because intracellular MOPS, and especially HEPES, may negatively impact intrinsic biological mechanisms, as revealed by transcriptome changes. These findings further support the utilization of bicarbonate buffer as the oocyte-holding medium during ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Mendola
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA.
| | - Leelabati Biswas
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Karen Schindler
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Renee H Walmsley
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA
| | - Helena Russell
- Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Marlane Angle
- Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - G John Garrisi
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA
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3
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Lattin MT, Djandji AS, Kronfeld MT, Samsel T, Ling R, Ciskanik M, Sadowy S, Forman EJ, Williams Z. Development and validation of an automated robotic system for preparation of embryo culture dishes. Fertil Steril 2024:S0015-0282(24)00244-9. [PMID: 38631505 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.04.016] [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: 11/10/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/19/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the development and clinical validation of the ART Pipetting Robot for the IVF Laboratory (APRIL), a liquid-handling robot customized for the precise preparation of microdroplet culture dishes in the field of in vitro fertilization (IVF). DESIGN A prospective randomized study conducted at an academic IVF center comparing mouse and human embryo outcomes and quantitative measures of accuracy in embryo dishes prepared using APRIL compared with standard manual preparation. SETTING Academic IVF center. SUBJECTS The study involved the assessment of the automated culture dish preparation system, APRIL, compared with manual preparation methods in the context of IVF treatment. INTERVENTION ART Pipetting Robot for the IVF Laboratory is an enclosed liquid-handling robot equipped with custom three-dimensional-printed adapters and designed to dispense embryo culture media and mineral oil into microdroplet culture dishes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The study evaluated the precision and consistency of APRIL in culture dish preparation by looking at droplet mass, pH of prepared media droplets, and mouse and human embryo development rates. Clinical implementation was assessed by comparing embryo development and outcomes in dishes prepared by APRIL and human embryologists. RESULTS Compared with embryo culture dishes prepared using standard manual procedures, embryo culture dishes prepared using APRIL demonstrated a greater than 10-fold improvement in consistency (coefficient of variation, 0.46% vs. 6%-7%), maintained optimal pH levels (pH range, 7.281-7.33 vs. 7.275-7.311), and had a greater mouse embryo blastocyst rate (100% vs. 90%-91%). Human embryos cultured in dishes prepared by APRIL had a higher rate of development on days 3 (92.4% vs. 82.6%) and 5 (19.75% vs. 15.57%), and a total number of usable embryos (50.3% vs. 46.1%) compared with manually prepared dishes, although the last two outcomes did not reach statistical significance. CONCLUSION The results suggest that the use of an automated robotic system for preparation of embryo culture dishes may improve accuracy and outcome measures while reducing the need for trained laboratory personnel to prepare the dishes manually.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam T Lattin
- Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York; Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | | | - Matan T Kronfeld
- Department of Biological Sciences, Yeshiva University, New York, New York
| | - Tara Samsel
- Department of Biological Sciences, Columbia University, New York, New York; Department of Biological Sciences, University of Chicago, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ruifeng Ling
- Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York
| | | | - Sasha Sadowy
- Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York
| | - Eric J Forman
- Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York
| | - Zev Williams
- Columbia University Fertility Center, New York, New York.
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Papamentzelopoulou MS, Prifti IN, Mavrogianni D, Tseva T, Soyhan N, Athanasiou A, Athanasiou A, Athanasiou A, Vogiatzi P, Konomos G, Loutradis D, Sakellariou M. Assessment of artificial intelligence model and manual morphokinetic annotation system as embryo grading methods for successful live birth prediction: a retrospective monocentric study. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2024; 22:27. [PMID: 38443941 PMCID: PMC10913268 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-024-01198-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/07/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The introduction of the time-lapse monitoring system (TMS) and the development of predictive algorithms could contribute to the optimal embryos selection for transfer. Therefore, the present study aims at investigating the efficiency of KIDScore and iDAScore systems for blastocyst stage embryos in predicting live birth events. METHODS The present retrospective study was conducted in a private IVF Unit setting throughout a 10-month period from October 2021 to July 2022, and included the analysis of 429 embryos deriving from 91 IVF/ICSI cycles conducted due to infertility of various etiologies. Embryos incubated at the Embryoscope+ timelapse incubator were analyzed through the established scoring systems: KIDScore and iDAScore®. The main outcome measure was the comparison of the two scoring systems in terms of live birth prediction. Embryos with the higher scores at day 5 (KID5 score/iDA5 score) were transferred or cryopreserved for later use. RESULTS Embryos with high KID5 and iDA5 scores positively correlated with the probability of successful live birth, with KID5 score yielding a higher efficiency in predicting a successful reproductive outcome compared to a proportionally high iDA5 score. KID5 demonstrated conservative performance in successfully predicting live birth compared to iDA5 score, indicating that an efficient prediction can be either provided by a relatively lower KID5 score or a relatively higher iDA5 score. CONCLUSION The developed artificial intelligence tools should be implemented in clinical practice in conjunction with the conventional morphological assessment for the conduction of optimized embryo transfer in terms of a successful live birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Myrto-Sotiria Papamentzelopoulou
- Molecular Biology Unit, Division of Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 80, Vasilissis Sofias Ave., Athens, 11528, Greece.
| | | | - Despoina Mavrogianni
- Molecular Biology Unit, Division of Human Reproduction, 1st Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 80, Vasilissis Sofias Ave., Athens, 11528, Greece
| | - Thomais Tseva
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
| | - Ntilay Soyhan
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
| | - Aikaterini Athanasiou
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
- HUG (Hôpitaux universitaires de Genève), Rue Gabrielle-Perret-Gentil 4, Genève 14, Genève, 1211, Switzerland
| | - Antonia Athanasiou
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
- RHNe (Réseau hospitalier neuchâtelois), Chasseral 20, La Chaux-de-Fonds, 2303, Switzerland
| | - Adamantios Athanasiou
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
- Department of Gynecology Oncology, Agios Savvas, General Anti-Cancer Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Paraskevi Vogiatzi
- IVF Athens Reproduction Center V. Athanassiou, Maroussi, Greece
- Andromed Health & Reproduction, Fertility Diagnostics Laboratory, Maroussi, Greece
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Chansel-Debordeaux L, Carles M, Moreau J, Depuydt C, Gallo S, Genvrin E, Léandri R, Gatimel N. How and when to measure pH in IVF culture media: validation of a portable blood gas analyzer in two IVF culture dishes for time lapse and conventional incubators. J Assist Reprod Genet 2023; 40:1677-1687. [PMID: 37314570 PMCID: PMC10352227 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02828-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Maintaining a stable pH at optimal level in human embryo culture media is crucial for embryo development but poses a challenge for all IVF laboratories. We validate analytically reliable conditions for pH measurement that are as close as possible to the embryo microenvironment during IVF. METHODS This was a multicentric study. A Siemens EPOC portable blood gas analyzer was used. The analytical validation was carried out under the culture medium (Global Total HSA®) conditions of use (microdroplets, under oil overlay, in a IVF incubator with (EmbryoScope®) or without a time lapse system (K system G210+®) and using IVF dishes. The validation included repeatability ("within-run" precision), total precision (between-day precision), trueness based on inter-laboratory comparison, inaccuracy based on external quality assessment and comparison to the reference technique. We also assessed the pre-analytical medium incubation time required to obtain a target value. RESULTS A measurement after an incubation period of 24 to 48 h is more representative of the pH to which the embryo will be exposed throughout the culture. The "within-run" and "between-day" precision show very low coefficients of variation (CV%): 0.17 to 0.22% and 0.13 to 0.34%, respectively, with IVF culture media. Trueness (% bias) range from - 0.07 to - 0.03%. We demonstrate good correlation between EPOC and reference pH electrode with an overestimation of 0.03 pH units of EPOC. CONCLUSION Our method demonstrates good analytical performance for IVF laboratories wishing to implement a robust quality assurance system to monitor pH in embryo culture media. Compliance with stringent pre-analytical and analytical conditions is essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucie Chansel-Debordeaux
- Service de Biologie De la Reproduction-CECOS, Centre Aliénor d'Aquitaine, CHU de Bordeaux, Place Amélie Raba Léon, 33076, Boreaux Cedex, France
| | - Manon Carles
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
- DEFE (Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité, Environnement), UMR1203, INSERM-Universités Toulouse et Montpellier, Paule de Viguier Hospital, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Jessika Moreau
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
- Toxalim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Chloé Depuydt
- Service de Biologie De la Reproduction-CECOS, Centre Aliénor d'Aquitaine, CHU de Bordeaux, Place Amélie Raba Léon, 33076, Boreaux Cedex, France
| | - Sylvie Gallo
- Service de Biologie De la Reproduction-CECOS, Centre Aliénor d'Aquitaine, CHU de Bordeaux, Place Amélie Raba Léon, 33076, Boreaux Cedex, France
| | - Edwige Genvrin
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Roger Léandri
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
- Toxalim (Research Center in Food Toxicology), Université de Toulouse, INRAE, ENVT, INP-Purpan, UPS, Toulouse, France
| | - Nicolas Gatimel
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse Teaching Hospital Group, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.
- DEFE (Développement Embryonnaire, Fertilité, Environnement), UMR1203, INSERM-Universités Toulouse et Montpellier, Paule de Viguier Hospital, 330 Avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.
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Dvoran M, Nemcova L, Kalous J. An Interplay between Epigenetics and Translation in Oocyte Maturation and Embryo Development: Assisted Reproduction Perspective. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071689. [PMID: 35884994 PMCID: PMC9313063 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell quality is a key prerequisite for successful fertilization and early embryo development. The quality is determined by the fine regulation of transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, which are prone to alteration by assisted reproduction technology (ART)-introduced in vitro methods. Gaining evidence shows the ART can influence preset epigenetic modifications within cultured oocytes or early embryos and affect their developmental competency. The aim of this review is to describe ART-determined epigenetic changes related to the oogenesis, early embryogenesis, and further in utero development. We confront the latest epigenetic, related epitranscriptomic, and translational regulation findings with the processes of meiotic maturation, fertilization, and early embryogenesis that impact the developmental competency and embryo quality. Post-ART embryo transfer, in utero implantation, and development (placentation, fetal development) are influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. The review is emphasizing their epigenetic and ART contribution to fetal development. An epigenetic parallel among mouse, porcine, and bovine animal models and human ART is drawn to illustrate possible future mechanisms of infertility management as well as increase the awareness of the underlying mechanisms governing oocyte and embryo developmental complexity under ART conditions.
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7
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Agarwal A, Maldonado Rosas I, Anagnostopoulou C, Cannarella R, Boitrelle F, Munoz LV, Finelli R, Durairajanayagam D, Henkel R, Saleh R. Oxidative Stress and Assisted Reproduction: A Comprehensive Review of Its Pathophysiological Role and Strategies for Optimizing Embryo Culture Environment. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11030477. [PMID: 35326126 PMCID: PMC8944628 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11030477] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Oxidative stress (OS) due to an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidants has been established as an important factor that can negatively affect the outcomes of assisted reproductive techniques (ARTs). Excess ROS exert their pathological effects through damage to cellular lipids, organelles, and DNA, alteration of enzymatic function, and apoptosis. ROS can be produced intracellularly, from immature sperm, oocytes, and embryos. Additionally, several external factors may induce high ROS production in the ART setup, including atmospheric oxygen, CO2 incubators, consumables, visible light, temperature, humidity, volatile organic compounds, and culture media additives. Pathological amounts of ROS can also be generated during the cryopreservation-thawing process of gametes or embryos. Generally, these factors can act at any stage during ART, from gamete preparation to embryo development, till the blastocyst stage. In this review, we discuss the in vitro conditions and environmental factors responsible for the induction of OS in an ART setting. In addition, we describe the effects of OS on gametes and embryos. Furthermore, we highlight strategies to ameliorate the impact of OS during the whole human embryo culture period, from gametes to blastocyst stage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashok Agarwal
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
- Correspondence:
| | | | | | - Rossella Cannarella
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy;
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biotechnology, University of Massachusetts Medical School, Worcester, MA 01605, USA
| | - Florence Boitrelle
- Reproductive Biology, Fertility Preservation, Andrology, CECOS, Poissy Hospital, 78300 Poissy, France;
- Department BREED, UVSQ, INRAE, Paris Saclay University, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France
| | - Lina Villar Munoz
- Citmer Reproductive Medicine, IVF LAB, Mexico City 11520, Mexico; (I.M.R.); (L.V.M.)
| | - Renata Finelli
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
| | - Damayanthi Durairajanayagam
- Faculty of Medicine, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM), Sungai Buloh Campus, Jalan Hospital, Sungai Buloh 47000, Selangor, Malaysia;
| | - Ralf Henkel
- American Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH 44195, USA; (R.F.); (R.H.)
- Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Imperial College London, London W2 1NY, UK
- Department of Medical Bioscience, University of the Western Cape, Bellville, Cape Town 7530, South Africa
- LogixX Pharma, Theale RG7 4AB, UK
| | - Ramadan Saleh
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag University, Sohag 82524, Egypt;
- Ajyal IVF Center, Ajyal Hospital, Sohag 82524, Egypt
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8
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Chen S, Huang P, Sun Y, Du S, Lin Y, Zheng B, Lin D. Tripronuclear Zygotes in IVF Laboratory Quality Control: Experimental Evaluation and Potential Applications. Int J Gen Med 2022; 15:949-954. [PMID: 35115820 PMCID: PMC8805836 DOI: 10.2147/ijgm.s345818] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study set out to evaluate quality control within a new in vitro fertilization (IVF) laboratory environment and of new incubators based on the culture results of tripronuclear zygotes. The representative environmental indicators within new and old IVF laboratories were monitored, and tripronuclear zygotes were cultured in the two laboratories; the results were analyzed and compared. Subsequently, tripronuclear (3PN) zygotes were cultured in both new and old incubators and the culture results were compared. No differences were found in embryo development between 3PN zygotes in the old and new laboratories. However, in the quality control test, the degeneration rate and developmental arrest rate in the new incubator early phase group were significantly increased when compared with the old incubators. Moreover, the grade I embryo rate also decreased significantly. Nevertheless, all the above comparisons in the new incubator later phase group showed no statistical significance as compared to those observed in old incubators. Tripronuclear zygotes are sensitive to the environment in IVF laboratories and can be considered useful during quality control trials of new IVF laboratories and new equipment including incubators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suzhu Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Pengyu Huang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yan Sun
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Shengrong Du
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yunhong Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
| | - Beihong Zheng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
- Correspondence: Beihong Zheng; Dianliang Lin, Tel +86-13763821254, Email ;
| | - Dianliang Lin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Fujian Maternity and Child Health Hospital, Affiliated Hospital of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350001, People’s Republic of China
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9
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Current Applications of Machine Learning in Medicine: ART. Artif Intell Med 2022. [DOI: 10.1007/978-981-19-1223-8_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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10
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Canha-Gouveia A, Prieto-Sánchez MT, Sánchez-Ferrer ML, Mollá M, Martínez-Soto JC, París-Oller E, Soriano-Úbeda C, Landeras J, Coy P. Physicochemical and Functional Characterization of Female Reproductive Fluids: A Report of the First Two Infants Born Following Addition of Their Mother's Fluids to the Embryo Culture Media. Front Physiol 2021; 12:710887. [PMID: 34552502 PMCID: PMC8451538 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.710887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Culture media supplemented with reproductive fluids (RF) have been used in livestock species, improving the efficiency and quality of in vitro produced embryos. However, usefulness in humans is still unknown. In this study, we collected human reproductive fluids (HRFs) ex vivo (from 25 patients undergoing abdominal hysterectomy plus bilateral salpingectomy) and in vivo (from 31 oocyte donors). Afterward, protocols to evaluate their osmolality, pH, total protein concentration, endotoxin level, and sterility were optimized, establishing security ranges for their use as natural additives. In addition, a functional assay was developed with bovine embryos grown in vitro in a medium supplemented with 1% of collected HRFs. Finally, a proof of concept was performed with six patients on post ovulation day 2 to evaluate the full-term viability of embryos grown in media supplemented with autologous uterine fluid, collected under in vivo conditions. Two of the embryos resulted in successful pregnancy and delivery of healthy babies. In conclusion, this study establishes a complete quality control sheet of HRFs as additives for embryo culture media and shows first preliminary data on obtaining healthy offspring derived from embryos grown in media supplemented with HRFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Analuce Canha-Gouveia
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Teresa Prieto-Sánchez
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Virgen de la Arrixaca" University Clinical Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Maria Luisa Sánchez-Ferrer
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, "Virgen de la Arrixaca" University Clinical Hospital, Murcia, Spain
| | - Marta Mollá
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,IVI Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | | | - Evelyne París-Oller
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
| | - José Landeras
- Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain.,IVI Murcia, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Coy
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary, University of Murcia, Murcia, Spain.,Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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11
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Different CO 2 settings (6.0% vs 7.0%) do have an impact on extracellular pH of culture medium (pHe) and euploidy rates rather than on blastocyst development: a sibling oocyte study. J Assist Reprod Genet 2021; 38:2915-2923. [PMID: 34435303 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-021-02303-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2021] [Accepted: 08/16/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether euploidy rates and blastocyst development differ in a continuous culture medium under different CO2 concentrations. DESIGN AND METHOD A single-center retrospective study was performed from July 2018 to October 2019 including 44 fresh cycles with at least four fresh mature oocytes (MII) without severe male factor infertility. Sibling MII were injected and cultured in Global®Total®LP under 6.0% (pHe = 7.374 ± 0.014) or 7.0% (pHe = 7.300 ± 0.013) CO2, 5.0% O2, and 89.0% or 88.0% N2. Analyzed variables were normally fertilized oocytes (2PN), cleavage rate, blastulation rate on day 5/2PN, usable blastocyst (blastocysts biopsied/2PN), and euploidy rates. Blastocyst's trophectoderm biopsy was performed on day 5, 6, or 7 for genetic testing and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) quantification by next-generation sequencing. RESULTS Women's mean age was 33.0 ± 6.6 years old. From a total of 604 MII, no differences were found in normal fertilization and cleavage rates on day 3 between 6.0 and 7.0% CO2 (72.3% vs 67.1%, p = 0.169 and 96.6% vs 96.3%, p = 0.897, respectively). Blastulation rate on day 5/2PN was comparable between 6.0 and 7.0% CO2 (68.1% vs 64.2%, p = 0.409). Although usable blastocyst rate was not different (54.3% vs 55.3%, p = 0.922), total euploidy rates differed significantly (58.7% vs 42.8%, p = 0.016) between 6.0% and 7.0% CO2, respectively. The mean blastocyst mtDNA content was significantly lower in 6.0% CO2 (30.4 ± 9.1 vs 32.9 ± 10.3, p = 0.037). CONCLUSION Blastocyst development is not affected when embryos are cultured in vitro at 6.0% or 7.0% CO2, while euploidy rates are significantly decreased at a higher CO2 concentration, therefore at a lower pHe.
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Rendón Abad M, Serra V, Gámiz P, de Los Santos JM, Remohí J, Navarro AT, de Los Santos MJ. The influence of oxygen concentration during embryo culture on obstetric and neonatal outcomes: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2017-2025. [PMID: 32772073 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2019] [Revised: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does oxygen concentration during 3-day embryo culture affect obstetric and neonatal outcomes? SUMMARY ANSWER Oxygen concentration during 3-day embryo culture does not seem to affect the obstetric and neonatal outcomes measured. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Atmospheric oxygen appears to be harmful during extended embryo culture. Embryo culture conditions might therefore be a potential risk factor for subsequent fetal development and the health of future children. No data are available concerning the obstetrics and neonatal outcomes after Day 3 transfer of embryos cultured under reduced and atmospheric oxygen tensions. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A secondary analysis of a previous randomized controlled trial assessing clinical pregnancy outcomes was carried out. This analysis included 1125 consecutive oocyte donation cycles utilizing ICSI or IVF and Day 3 embryo transfers between November 2009 and April 2012. The whole cohort of donated oocytes from patients who agreed to participate in the study were randomly allocated (1:1 ratio) to a reduced O2 tension group (6% O2) or an air-exposed group (20% O2) based on a computer-generated randomization list. Fresh and vitrified oocytes were used for oocyte donation. Only those pregnancies with a live birth at or beyond 24 weeks of gestation were included. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Day 3 embryos were cultured in an atmosphere of 5.5% CO2, 6% O2, 88.5% N2 versus a dual gas system in air. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE From the eligible 1125 cycles, 564 were allocated to the 6% O2 group and 561 cycles to the 20% O2 group. However, 50 and 62 cycles did not reach embryo transfer in the 6% and 20% O2 groups, respectively. No differences were found between 6% O2 and atmospheric O2 tension in the number of livebirths per embryo transfer (mean ± SD, 0.5 ± 0.7 versus 0.5 ± 0.7), pregnancy complications or neonatal outcomes. Both groups (6% and atmospheric O2) had similar single and twin delivery rates (40.8% versus 38.1% and 10.7% versus 12.3%, respectively). Preterm delivery rates and very preterm delivery rates (10.80% versus 13.24% and 1.25% versus 2.94%, respectively), birthweight (3229 ± 561 g versus 3154 ± 731 g), low birthweight (2.92% versus 2.45%), birth height (50.18 ± 2.41 cm versus 49.7 ± 3.59 cm), head circumference (34.16 ± 1.87 cm versus 33.09 ± 1.85 cm) and 1 min Apgar scores (8.96 ± 0.87 versus 8.89 ± 0.96) were also similar between 6% and atmospheric O2 groups, respectively. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The number of liveborns finally analyzed is still small and not all obstetric and neonatal variables could be evaluated. Furthermore, a small proportion of the obstetric and neonatal data was obtained through a questionnaire filled out by the patients themselves. One reason for the lack of effect of oxygen concentration on pregnancy outcome could be the absence of trophectoderm cells at cleavage stage, which may make Day 3 embryos less susceptible to hypoxic conditions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Nowadays many IVF laboratories use a more physiological oxygen concentration for embryo culture. However, the benefits of using low oxygen concentration on both laboratory and clinical outcomes during embryo culture are still under debate. Furthermore, long-term studies investigating the effect of using atmospheric O2 are also needed. Gathering these type of clinical data is indeed, quite relevant from the safety perspective. The present data show that, at least in egg donation cycles undergoing Day 3 embryo transfers, culturing embryos under atmospheric oxygen concentration seems not to affect perinatal outcomes. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) The present project was supported by the R + D program of the Regional Valencian Government, Spain (IMPIVA IMDTF/2011/214). The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest with respect to the content of this manuscript. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01532193.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Rendón Abad
- OBGYN Department, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Serra
- OBGYN Department, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.,In Vitro Fertilization Laboratory, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Pilar Gámiz
- In Vitro Fertilization Laboratory, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - José Maria de Los Santos
- OBGYN Department, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.,In Vitro Fertilization Laboratory, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Josè Remohí
- OBGYN Department, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.,In Vitro Fertilization Laboratory, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Alfredo T Navarro
- IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Maria José de Los Santos
- OBGYN Department, School of Medicine, Valencia University, Valencia, Spain.,In Vitro Fertilization Laboratory, IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain.,IVI Foundation, Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria la Fe, Valencia, Spain
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López-Albors O, Llamas-López PJ, Ortuño JÁ, Latorre R, García-Vázquez FA. In vivo measurement of pH and CO 2 levels in the uterus of sows through the estrous cycle and after insemination. Sci Rep 2021; 11:3194. [PMID: 33542361 PMCID: PMC7862298 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-82620-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 01/19/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The pH-CO2-HCO3- system is a ubiquitous biological regulator with important functional implications for reproduction. Knowledge of the physiological values of its components is relevant for reproductive biology and the optimization of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ARTs). However, in situ measurements of these parameters in the uterus are scarce or null. This study describes a non-invasive method for in situ time-lapse recording of pH and CO2 within the uterus of non-anesthetized sows. Animals were at three different reproductive conditions, estrous with no insemination and two hours after insemination, and diestrous. From pH and CO2 data, HCO3- concentration was estimated. The non-invasive approach to the porcine uterus with novel optical probes allowed the obtaining of in situ physiological values of pH, CO2, and HCO3-. Variable oscillatory patterns of pH, CO2 and HCO3- were found independently of the estrous condition. Insemination did not immediately change the levels of uterine pH, CO2 (%) and HCO3- concentration, but all the values were affected by the estrous cycle decreasing significantly at diestrous condition. This study contributes to a better understanding of the in vivo regulation of the pH-CO2-HCO3- system in the uterus and may help to optimize the protocols of sperm treatment for in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Octavio López-Albors
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Pedro José Llamas-López
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Joaquín Ángel Ortuño
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain
| | - Rafael Latorre
- grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Anatomy and Comparative Pathology, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco Alberto García-Vázquez
- International Excellence Campus for Higher Education and Research (Campus Mare Nostrum), Murcia, Spain ,grid.10586.3a0000 0001 2287 8496Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Science, University of Murcia, 30100 Murcia, Spain ,grid.452553.0Institute for Biomedical Research of Murcia, IMIB-Arrixaca, Murcia, Spain
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Brom-de-Luna JG, Salgado RM, Canesin HS, Diaw M, Hinrichs K. Equine blastocyst production under different incubation temperatures and different CO 2 concentrations during early cleavage. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 31:1823-1829. [PMID: 31640846 DOI: 10.1071/rd19211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2019] [Accepted: 09/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Some basic parameters for equine invitro embryo production have not yet been established, including the optimum temperature for maturation and embryo culture, and the optimum CO2 concentration and pH during early embryo development. To explore this, we first performed cultures in incubators set at 37.2°C, 37.7°C or 38.2°C. At these temperatures, the corresponding maturation rates were 33%, 38% and 42%; cleavage rates were 84%, 86% and 88%; and blastocyst rates were 35%, 44% and 44% per injected oocyte. These rates did not differ significantly (P>0.2). We then evaluated three different CO2 concentrations (6%, 6.5% or 7% CO2) in 5% O2 for culture over Days 0-5 after intracytoplasmic sperm injection, using a commercial human embryo medium with added serum, at 38.2°C. The pH values of these media were 7.36, 7.33 and 7.29 respectively. In the presence of 6%, 6.5% or 7% CO2, cleavage rates were 68%, 80% and 70% respectively, and blastocyst rates per injected oocyte were 42%, 54% and 27% respectively. The blastocyst rate for the 7% CO2 treatment was significantly lower than that for the 6.5% CO2 treatment (P<0.05). We conclude that equine invitro embryo production is equally effective within the range of 37.2-38.2°C, but that equine early cleavage stage development is sensitive to small changes in CO2 atmosphere and/or medium pH.
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Affiliation(s)
- J G Brom-de-Luna
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA
| | - R M Salgado
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA
| | - H S Canesin
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA
| | - M Diaw
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Montreal, 3200 rue Sicotte, Saint Hyacinthe, QC, J2S 2M2, Canada
| | - K Hinrichs
- Department of Veterinary Physiology and Pharmacology, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M University, 4466 TAMU, College Station, TX, 77843-4466, USA; and Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine & Biomedical Sciences, 4475 TAMU, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843-4475, USA; and Corresponding author.
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15
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Sciorio R, Dattilo M. PGT‐A preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies and embryo selection in routine ART cycles: Time to step back? Clin Genet 2020; 98:107-115. [DOI: 10.1111/cge.13732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2020] [Revised: 02/24/2020] [Accepted: 03/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFRECRoyal Infirmary of Edinburgh Edinburgh UK
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16
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Gonadotrophin-releasing hormone agonist triggering may improve central oocyte granularity and embryo quality. ZYGOTE 2020; 28:337-343. [PMID: 32241315 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199420000106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to describe outcomes in four women aged 28-34 years with central cytoplasmic granulation (CCG) of the oocytes who underwent in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) using gonadotrophin-releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist to replace human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) as a trigger of final oocyte maturation. The initial ICSI procedure showed that all four women had CCG of the ooplasm and poor quality embryos. Subsequent ICSI used an antagonist protocol with a GnRH agonist trigger replacing the agonist protocol, plus hCG triggered ovulation. Ooplasm and embryo quality were improved in all four patients. All four became pregnant and gave birth to live infants. This study provides GnRH agonist triggering that may improve ooplasm granularity and embryo quality.
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17
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Gatimel N, Moreau J, Parinaud J, Léandri RD. Need for choosing the ideal pH value for IVF culture media. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1019-1028. [PMID: 32124192 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01726-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Monitoring the pH of IVF culture media is a good practice, but the required pH levels have been "arbitrarily" set. Assisted reproductive technology centers around the world are spending time and money on pH monitoring without any consensus to date. The objective of this narrative review was to evaluate the importance of pH monitoring during IVF, discover how the oocyte and embryo regulate their intracellular pH and try to determine the optimal pH to be applied. METHODS A narrative literature review was performed on publications in the PubMed database reporting on the impact of pH on cellular function, oocyte and embryo development, IVF outcomes and pathophysiology, or on physiological pH in the female reproductive tract. RESULTS Intracellular pH regulates many cellular processes such as meiotic spindle stability of the oocyte, cell division and differentiation, embryo enzymatic activities, and blastocoel formation. The internal pH of the human embryo is maintained by regulatory mechanisms (mainly Na+/H+ and HCO3-/Cl- exchangers) that can be exceeded, particularly in the oocyte and early-stage embryos. The opinion that the optimal pH for embryo culture is physiological pH is not correct since several physicochemical parameters specific to IVF culture conditions (temperature, medium composition, duration of culture, or implication of CO2) can modify the intracellular pH of the embryo and change its needs and adaptability. CONCLUSIONS Because correct and stable extracellular pH is essential to embryo health and development, monitoring pH is imperative. However, there is a lack of clinical data on choosing the ideal pH for human IVF culture media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicolas Gatimel
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France. .,EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.
| | - Jessika Moreau
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.,EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean Parinaud
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.,EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
| | - Roger D Léandri
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France.,EA 3694 Human Fertility Research Group, Paule de Viguier Hospital, Toulouse University Hospitals, 330 avenue de Grande Bretagne, 31059, Toulouse, France
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18
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Fawzy M, Emad M, Wilkinson J, Mansour R, Mahran A, Fetih A, Abdelrahman M, AbdelGhafar H. Triple-arm trial of pH (Tri-pH) effect on live birth after ICSI in Egyptian IVF facilities: protocol of a randomised controlled trial. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e034194. [PMID: 32024790 PMCID: PMC7044928 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-034194] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION One potential stressor that can affect preimplantation and postimplantation embryonic growth after in vitro fertilisation (IVF) is the pH of the human embryo culture medium, but no evidence exists to indicate which pH level is optimal for IVF. Based on anecdotal evidence or mouse models, culture media manufacturers recommend a pH range of 7.2 to 7.4, and IVF laboratories routinely use a pH range of 7.25 to 7.3. Given the lack of randomised trials evaluating the effect of pH on live birth rate after IVF, this trial examines the effect of three different pH levels on the live birth rate. METHODS AND ANALYSIS This multicentre randomised trial will involve centres specialised in IVF in Egypt. Eligible couples for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) will be randomised for embryo culture at pH 7.2, 7.3 or 7.4. The study is designed to detect 10 percentage points difference in live birth rate between the best and worst performing media with 93% power at a 1% significance level. The primary outcome is the rate of live birth (delivery of one or more viable infants beyond the 20th week of gestation) after ICSI. Secondary clinical outcomes include biochemical pregnancy, clinical pregnancy, ongoing pregnancy, miscarriage, preterm births, birth weight, stillbirth, congenital malformation and cumulative live birth (within 1 year from randomisation). Embryo development outcomes include fertilisation, blastocyst formation and quality, and embryo cryopreservation and utilisation. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The study was reviewed and approved by the Ethics Review Boards of the participating centres. Eligible women will sign a written informed consent before enrolment. This study has an independent data monitoring and safety committee comprised international experts in trial design and in vitro culture. No plan exists to disseminate results to participants or health communities, except for the independent monitoring and safety committee of the trial. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT02896777.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Fawzy
- Ibnsina IVF Centre, IbnSina Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
- Banon IVF Centre, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mai Emad
- Ibnsina IVF Centre, IbnSina Hospital, Sohag, Egypt
- Banon IVF Centre, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Jack Wilkinson
- Centre for Biostatistics, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | | | - Ali Mahran
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Andrology, Assiut University, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Ahmed Fetih
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assiut University, Faculty of Medicine, Assiut, Egypt
| | - Mohamed Abdelrahman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag, Egypt
| | - Hazem AbdelGhafar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sohag University, Faculty of Medicine, Sohag, Egypt
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‘There is only one thing that is truly important in an IVF laboratory: everything’ Cairo Consensus Guidelines on IVF Culture Conditions. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 40:33-60. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Revised: 09/22/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
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Tsai NC, Su YT, Lin YJ, Chiang HJ, Huang FJ, Kung FT, Lan KC. Developmental potential of surplus morulas with delayed and/or incomplete compaction after freezing-thawing procedures. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:87. [PMID: 31666062 PMCID: PMC6821030 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0535-2] [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: 07/15/2019] [Accepted: 10/15/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Morulas with delayed growth sometimes coexist with blastocysts. There is still limited evidence regarding the optimal disposal of surplus morulas. With the advancement of vitrification, the freezing-thawing technique has been widely applied to zygotes with 2 pronuclei, as well as embryos at the cleavage and blastocyst stages. The freezing of morulas, however, has rarely been discussed. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether these poor-quality and slow-growing morulas are worthy of cryopreservation. METHODS This is a retrospective, observational, proof-of-concept study. A total of 1033 day 5/6 surplus morulas were cryopreserved from January 2015 to December 2018. The study included 167 women undergoing 180 frozen embryo transfer cycles. After the morulas underwent freezing-thawing procedures, their development was monitored for an additional day. The primary outcome was the blastocyst formation rate. Secondary outcomes were clinical pregnancy rate, live birth rate and abortion rate. RESULTS A total of 347 surplus morulas were thawed. All studied morulas showed delayed compaction (day 5, n = 329; day 6, n = 18) and were graded as having low (M1, n = 54), medium (M2, n = 138) or high (M3, n = 155) fragmentation. The post-thaw survival rate was 79.3%. After 1 day in extended culture, the blastocyst formation rate was 66.6%, and the top-quality blastocyst formation rate was 23.6%. The day 5 morulas graded as M1, M2, and M3 had blastocyst formation rates of 88.9, 74.0, and 52.8% (p < 0.001), respectively, and the top-quality blastocyst formation rates were 64.8, 25.2, and 9.0% (p < 0.001), respectively. The clinical pregnancy rate was 33.6%. CONCLUSIONS The post-thaw blastocyst formation rate was satisfactory, with approximately one-half of heavily fragmented morulas (M3) developing into blastocysts. Most of the poor-quality morulas were worth to freeze, with the reasonable goal of obtaining pregnancy and live birth. This alternative strategy may be a feasible approach for coping with poor-quality surplus morulas in non-PGS (preimplantation genetic screening) cycles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ni-Chin Tsai
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
- Graduate Institute of Clinical Medicine, College of Medicine, Kaohsiung Medical University, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ting Su
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
| | - Yu-Ju Lin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
| | - Hsin-Ju Chiang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Jen Huang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
| | - Fu-Tsai Kung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital, Xiamen, Fujian, China
| | - Kuo-Chung Lan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, 123 Ta-Pei Road, Niao-Sung District, Kaohsiung city, Taiwan.
- Center for Menopause and Reproductive Medicine Research, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital and Chang Gung University College of Medicine, Kaohsiung, Taiwan.
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Swain JE. Controversies in ART: can the IVF laboratory influence preimplantation embryo aneuploidy? Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:599-607. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.06.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2019] [Revised: 05/17/2019] [Accepted: 06/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
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Ueno S, Ito M, Uchiyama K, Okimura T, Yabuuchi A, Kobayashi T, Kato K. Closed embryo culture system improved embryological and clinical outcome for single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer: A single-center large cohort study. Reprod Biol 2019; 19:139-144. [PMID: 30948345 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2019.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 03/11/2019] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
While some studies have shown that the closed embryo culture system (CCS) is a possible improvement over standard embryo culture systems (STS) in terms of early embryonic development, information on clinical outcomes of culturing blastocysts following single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer (SVBT) in the CCS and STS remains limited. Therefore, the objective of this single-center, large-cohort, retrospective study was to compare embryonic development until the blastocyst stage and clinical outcomes following SVBT between CCS and STS. From May 2017 to October 2018, 2420 oocytes from 1402 patients who underwent in vitro fertilization and blastocyst culture after minimal stimulation were divided into two groups (CCS and STS). The main outcome measures in the two groups were embryological (blastocyst formation rates and utilized blastocyst rates) and clinical outcomes (ongoing pregnancy rates) after a single vitrified-warmed blastocyst transfer (SVBT). There were no significant differences in the blastocyst formation rates between the CCS and STS groups (59.6% versus 59.1%, p = 0.81). However, there were significant differences in utilized blastocyst rates (51.0% versus 46.6%, p < 0.05). Ongoing pregnancy rates per SVBT cycle were significantly higher in the CCS group than in the STS group (41.4% versus 34.4%, p < 0.05). Moreover, after applying multivariable logistic regression analysis, the type of embryo culture system (CCS to STS, adjusted odds ratios: 1.41, 95% CI: 1.04-1.91) was correlated with ongoing pregnancy. Our study suggests that compared to STS, CCS could improve utilized blastocyst rates and ongoing pregnancy rates to a greater extent, following SVBT.
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Affiliation(s)
- Satoshi Ueno
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Motoki Ito
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Kazuo Uchiyama
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Tadashi Okimura
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Akiko Yabuuchi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Tamotsu Kobayashi
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan
| | - Keiichi Kato
- Kato Ladies Clinic, 7-20-3, Nishi-shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo 160-0023, Japan.
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Ramos-Ibeas P, Heras S, Gómez-Redondo I, Planells B, Fernández-González R, Pericuesta E, Laguna-Barraza R, Pérez-Cerezales S, Gutiérrez-Adán A. Embryo responses to stress induced by assisted reproductive technologies. Mol Reprod Dev 2019; 86:1292-1306. [PMID: 30719806 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 01/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has led to the birth of millions of babies. In cattle, thousands of embryos are produced annually. However, since the introduction and widespread use of ART, negative effects on embryos and offspring are starting to emerge. Knowledge so far, mostly provided by animal models, indicates that suboptimal conditions during ART can affect embryo viability and quality, and may induce embryonic stress responses. These stress responses take the form of severe gene expression alterations or modifications in critical epigenetic marks established during early developmental stages that can persist after birth. Unfortunately, while developmental plasticity allows the embryo to survive these stressful conditions, such insult may lead to adult health problems and to long-term effects on offspring that could be transmitted to subsequent generations. In this review, we describe how in mice, livestock, and humans, besides affecting the development of the embryo itself, ART stressors may also have significant repercussions on offspring health and physiology. Finally, we argue the case that better control of stressors during ART will help improve embryo quality and offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscila Ramos-Ibeas
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Sonia Heras
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Isabel Gómez-Redondo
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Benjamín Planells
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raúl Fernández-González
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Eva Pericuesta
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ricardo Laguna-Barraza
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Serafín Pérez-Cerezales
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
| | - Alfonso Gutiérrez-Adán
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, Instituto Nacional de Investigación y Tecnología Agraria y Alimentaria, Madrid, Spain
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Randomized controlled trial of low (5%) versus ultralow (2%) oxygen for extended culture using bipronucleate and tripronucleate human preimplantation embryos. Fertil Steril 2019; 109:1030-1037.e2. [PMID: 29935641 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.02.119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2017] [Revised: 02/11/2018] [Accepted: 02/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether [1] exposure of embryos to 5% oxygen (O2) from day 1 (D1) to D3, and then to 2% O2 from D3 to D5, improves total blastocyst yield, as compared with continuous exposure to 5% O2; and [2] extended culture in 2% O2 alters key metabolic processes and O2-regulated gene expression in human preimplantation embryos. DESIGN Randomized controlled trial. SETTING Academic medical center. PATIENT(S) Bipronucleate and tripronucleate embryos donated for research. INTERVENTION(S) On D1, sibling zygotes were randomized to culture in 5% O2 from D1 to D5 (n = 102; "5% group") or 5% O2 from D1 to D3, then 2% O2 from D3 to D5 (n = 101, "2% group"). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Developmental stage and grade; D5 total cell counts; mass spectrometry of spent media; quantitative polymerase chain reaction of 21 genes in inner cell mass and trophectoderm. RESULT(S) Among cleaved embryos (n = 176, 87%), those in the 2% group were less likely to arrest at the cleavage stage on D5 (34 of 87, 39.1%) compared with the 5% group (52 of 89, 58.4%) (adjusted odds ratio 0.38, 95% confidence interval 0.18-0.80). Those in the 2% group were more likely to blastulate (35 of 87, 40.2%) than those in the 5% group (20 of 89, 22.5%) (adjusted odds ratio 2.55, 95% confidence interval 1.27-5.12). Culture in 2% O2 was associated with significantly fewer cells in early and advanced blastocysts, alteration in relative abundances of anabolic amino acids and metabolites involved in redox homeostasis, and differential expression of MUC1 in trophectoderm. CONCLUSION(S) These findings provide foundational evidence for future investigation of 2% O2 as the preferred O2 tension for extended culture of human embryos.
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Krasnopolskaya KV, Beketova AN, Sesina NI, Сhinchenko NK, Badalyan GV, Sudarikova NM, Bocharova TV, Zakharchenko EO. The effect of short-term disturbance of day 3 embryo culture on the development and implantation. Gynecol Endocrinol 2019; 35:1-4. [PMID: 31532309 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2019.1632083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
This study is carried out to estimate the effect on embryo development and implantation potential performed by inevitably occurring short-term 3-day embryo culture condition disorders due to light microscopy applied for morphology parameter assay. One thousand two hundred and fifty-three IVF program results were analyzed to measure the pregnancy rate on embryo transfer and the percentage of embryos reached the blastocyst stage. In 58% of cases, on the 3rd day the quality of embryos was not evaluated (n = 730), while in 42% of cases the evaluation was done on day 3 (n = 523). Embryo development estimation on day 3 affects the pregnancy rate and implantation potential especially in patients of older age group. Additional embryo analysis also affects the number of blastocysts obtained. The pregnancy rate for 3rd and 5th day transfer does not differ. Additional analysis of the 3rd day embryos reduces the PR in patients of the older age group. Embryo culture condition variation has a considerable impact on obtained blastocyst number (i.e blastocyst formation) especially in patients of the older age group.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anastasia Nikolaevna Beketova
- Moscow Regional Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Moscow , Russia
- International Clinic "Family" , Moscow , Russia
| | - Nina Igorevna Sesina
- Moscow Regional Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Moscow , Russia
- International Clinic "Family" , Moscow , Russia
| | | | | | - Nataliya Mihailovna Sudarikova
- Moscow Regional Research Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology , Moscow , Russia
- International Clinic "Family" , Moscow , Russia
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pH: the silent variable significantly impacting meiotic spindle assembly in mouse oocytes. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:279-290. [PMID: 30314883 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2017] [Revised: 06/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Temperature fluctuation negatively impacts the assembly and function of the meiotic spindle, but does pH have a similar effect? DESIGN Polarized light microscopy was used to study the spindle in living mouse oocytes under different pH conditions. Female mice (n = 53) were superovulated, and oocytes collected, denuded and allocated to treatment groups. All experiments were performed at 37°C, and standard bicarbonate-buffered medium was used either pre-equilibrated in 6% CO2 or unequilibrated (in ambient CO2). Mean oocyte spindle retardance was measured over time in response to changing pH. Spindles were also assessed to understand whether this effect was reversible, by using a fixed pH in a zwitterionic buffer. RESULTS The data show the spindle is impacted by pH fluctuation, with mean retardance significantly higher at pH 7.4-7.5 than at the point of media equilibration (P < 0.001). This effect was found to be reversible; retardance significantly decreased after transition of the oocytes from pH 7.43 or pH 7.53 back to the original pre-equilibration pH of 7.32 (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS This study has shown that the meiotic spindle in mouse oocytes is highly sensitive to changes in oocyte culture media pH. If comparable in humans, this has significance as to the pH level of culture media currently used in assisted reproductive technology clinics worldwide, and reinforces the requirement for stringent control over extrinsic variables in the IVF laboratory.
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Diaz de Pool JDN, Van Den Berg SAA, Pilgram GSK, Ballieux BEPB, Van Der Westerlaken LAJ. Validation of the blood gas analyzer for pH measurements in IVF culture medium: Prevent suboptimal culture conditions. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0206707. [PMID: 30418977 PMCID: PMC6231605 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0206707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2018] [Accepted: 10/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Measurement of pH in IVF-media using the blood gas analyzer (BGA) requires validation, because IVF-media is outside the intended scope of the BGA. To determine whether the Siemens Rapidpoint 500 BGA is suitable for pH measurements in IVF-media this study will validate the BGA and assess its accuracy. In this method comparison study, the pH of over three hundred IVF-media samples was measured with the BGA and a pH electrode (Hanna pH checker). The precision of both the BGA and the pH electrode were excellent (coefficient variation <1.4%). However, the closeness of agreement between measured values of both devices were not equivalent to each other in the tested IVF-media, showing 15% to 85% accordance between devices. The pH measured with the blood gas analyzer was also significantly higher in the tested media, compared to that measured by the pH electrode. One of the tested media did not reach its target pH when it was measured with the BGA, even at 9% CO2. The results show that the validated blood gas analyzer produces excellent results in terms of precision but not in terms of accuracy. Inaccurate measurement may lead to misinterpretation of results and consequently to suboptimal culture conditions. Therefore, each laboratory is encouraged to perform a validation of their BGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan D. N. Diaz de Pool
- Department of Gynecology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
- * E-mail:
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28
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Nguyen Q, Sommer S, Greene B, Wrenzycki C, Wagner U, Ziller V. Effects of opening the incubator on morphokinetics in mouse embryos. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 229:64-69. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/09/2018] [Revised: 06/27/2018] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Simopoulou M, Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Giannelou P, Anifandis G, Bolaris S, Pantou A, Lambropoulou M, Pappas A, Deligeoroglou E, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M. Considerations Regarding Embryo Culture Conditions: From Media to Epigenetics. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 32:451-460. [PMID: 29695546 DOI: 10.21873/invivo.11261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 03/13/2018] [Accepted: 03/20/2018] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
There are numerous reports on embryo culture media and conditions in the laboratory, as the subject is multifaceted and complex, reflecting the variation in practice. In this scoping review, we attempt to approach the topic of culture media and conditions from the practitioners' perspective aiming to highlight, in a comprehensive fashion, important aspects regarding the options available, introduce points of debate and controversy, while maintaining the viewpoint of the practicing embryologist's concerns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece .,Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Thessaly, Larissa, Greece
| | - Stamatis Bolaris
- Assisted Conception Unit, Elena Venizelou General-Maternity District Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Agni Pantou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Maria Lambropoulou
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Medical School, Democritus University of Thrace, Alexandroupolis, Greece
| | - Athanasios Pappas
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece
| | - Efthimios Deligeoroglou
- Assisted Conception Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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Tarahomi M, de Melker AA, van Wely M, Hamer G, Repping S, Mastenbroek S. pH stability of human preimplantation embryo culture media: effects of culture and batches. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:409-414. [PMID: 30228072 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.08.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2017] [Revised: 08/04/2018] [Accepted: 08/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION How stable is the pH of human preimplantation embryo culture media during IVF culture and is there variation in pH between batches of culture media? DESIGN To evaluate pH stability, three batches of three culture media were incubated in triplicate without embryos (sham culture) at CO2 levels recommended by the manufacturers (5% or 6%) for 4 days. To evaluate differences in pH between batches, the pH of three batches of five culture media was measured in triplicate during 1 day of sham culture. Linear mixed models were used for the analysis. RESULTS An increase in pH during 4 days of culture was found in all three culture media, but the observed increased values were within the generally accepted range for clinical practice (pH 7.2-7.4). One medium was pH 7.1 in the first 2 days, but this was within the range provided by the manufacturer for that medium. Three out of five analysed media showed batch variation in pH that exceeded the generally accepted range for clinical practice. CONCLUSIONS A relevant difference in pH was found between batches of human preimplantation embryo culture media. This suggests that the CO2 level of incubators may need to be adjusted for new batches of culture medium based on measured pH, to anticipate batch variability and safely accommodate limited pH increase over time. This study was unable to identify the cause of the differences in pH between batches, and further investigation on a larger number of batches and other media seems warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Majid Tarahomi
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands; Reproductive Biotechnology Research Centre, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECRTehran, Iran
| | - Annemieke A de Melker
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Geert Hamer
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Academic Medical Centre, University of AmsterdamAmsterdam, the Netherlands.
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31
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Fawzy M, AbdelRahman MY, Zidan MH, Abdel Hafez FF, Abdelghafar H, Al-Inany H, Bedaiwy MA. Humid versus dry incubator: a prospective, randomized, controlled trial. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:277-283. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.05.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2017] [Revised: 05/20/2017] [Accepted: 05/24/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Abstract
The phenotype of the human embryo conceived through in vitro fertilization (IVF), that is its morphology, developmental kinetics, physiology and metabolism, can be affected by numerous components of the laboratory and embryo culture system (which comprise the laboratory environment). The culture media formulation is important in determining embryo phenotype, but this exists within a culture system that includes oxygen, temperature, pH and whether an embryo is cultured individually or in a group, all of which can influence embryo development. Significantly, exposure of an embryo to one suboptimal component of the culture system of laboratory typically predisposes the embryo to become more vulnerable to a second stressor, as has been well documented for atmospheric oxygen and individual culture, as well as for oxygen and ammonium. Furthermore, the inherent viability of the human embryo is derived from the quality of the gametes from which it is created. Patient age, aetiology, genetics, lifestyle (as well as ovarian stimulation in women) are all known to affect the developmental potential of gametes and hence the embryo. Thus, as well as considering the impact of the IVF laboratory environment, one needs to be aware of the status of the infertile couple, as this impacts how their gametes and embryos will respond to an in vitro environment. Although far from straight forward, analysing the interactions that exist between the human embryo and its environment will facilitate the creation of more effective and safer treatments for the infertile couple.
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33
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Integrating insulin into single-step culture medium regulates human embryo development in vitro. Fertil Steril 2017; 107:405-412. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.11.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2016] [Revised: 10/08/2016] [Accepted: 11/01/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Vega M, Jindal S. Mosaicism: throwing the baby out with the bath water? J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 34:11-13. [PMID: 27704231 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0819-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/20/2016] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Mario Vega
- Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA
| | - Sangita Jindal
- Montefiore Medical Center/Albert Einstein College of Medicine, Bronx, NY, USA.
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Swain JE, Carrell D, Cobo A, Meseguer M, Rubio C, Smith GD. Optimizing the culture environment and embryo manipulation to help maintain embryo developmental potential. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:571-587. [PMID: 26851765 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
With increased use of comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS), the question remains as to why some practices do not experience the same high levels of clinical success after implementation of the approach. Indeed, the debate surrounding the efficacy and usefulness of blastocyst biopsy and CCS continues. Importantly, several variables impact the success of an assisted reproductive technology cycle. Transfer of a euploid embryo is but one factor in an intricate system that requires numerous steps to occur successfully. Certainly, the culture environment and the manipulations of the embryo during its time in the laboratory can impact its reproductive potential. Environmental stressors ranging from culture media to culture conditions and even culture platform can impact biochemical, metabolic, and epigenetic patterns that can affect the developing cell independent of chromosome number. Furthermore, accompanying procedures, such as biopsy and vitrification, are complex and, when performed improperly, can negatively impact embryo quality. These are areas that likely still carry room for improvement within the IVF laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Doug Carrell
- Department of Surgery (Urology) and Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Ana Cobo
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Ob/Gyn, Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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36
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Reduced blastocyst formation in reduced culture volume. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1365-70. [PMID: 26292800 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0541-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2015] [Accepted: 07/14/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this prospective sibling oocyte study was to evaluate whether reduced culture volume improves blastocyst formation. METHODS Twenty-three patients with extended embryo culture until day 5 were selected for the study. After injection, 345 sibling oocytes were individually cultured in either 25 or 7 μl droplets of Origio cleavage medium under oil. On day 3 of development, embryos were transferred to droplets with the corresponding volume of Origio blastocyst culture medium. Fertilization and embryo quality on day 3 and day 5/6 were evaluated. RESULTS No statistically significant difference (p = 0.326) in fertilization rate was observed (81.3 versus 83.0 %). There was no significant difference in terms of the number of excellent and good-quality embryos obtained on day 3 between both groups (p = 0.655). Embryo culture in 25 μl droplets led to more embryos with a higher cell number when compared to 7 μl culture (p = 0.024). On day 3, 132 and 131 embryos were considered for further culture until day 5/6. Blastulation rates were significantly higher in the 25 μl group (75.0 versus 61.6 %; p = 0.017) and significantly more day 5 embryos with excellent and good quality were found in this group (54.5 versus 40.5 %; p = 0.026). Finally, the utilization rates expressed per mature oocyte (41.4 versus 29.8 %; p = 0.043), per fertilized oocyte (50.7 versus 36.6 %; p = 0.023), and per day 3 embryo undergoing extended culture to day 5/6 (54.5 versus 39.7 %; p = 0.019) were all significantly higher in the 25 μl group. CONCLUSION Reduced culture volume (7 μl) negatively impacts early development by reducing the cell number on day 3 and both blastocyst formation and quality.
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Wale PL, Gardner DK. The effects of chemical and physical factors on mammalian embryo culture and their importance for the practice of assisted human reproduction. Hum Reprod Update 2015. [PMID: 26207016 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although laboratory procedures, along with culture media formulations, have improved over the past two decades, the issue remains that human IVF is performed in vitro (literally 'in glass'). METHODS Using PubMed, electronic searches were performed using keywords from a list of chemical and physical factors with no limits placed on time. Examples of keywords include oxygen, ammonium, volatile organics, temperature, pH, oil overlays and incubation volume/embryo density. Available clinical and scientific evidence surrounding physical and chemical factors have been assessed and presented here. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS Development of the embryo outside the body means that it is constantly exposed to stresses that it would not experience in vivo. Sources of stress on the human embryo include identified factors such as pH and temperature shifts, exposure to atmospheric (20%) oxygen and the build-up of toxins in the media due to the static nature of culture. However, there are other sources of stress not typically considered, such as the act of pipetting itself, or the release of organic compounds from the very tissue culture ware upon which the embryo develops. Further, when more than one stress is present in the laboratory, there is evidence that negative synergies can result, culminating in significant trauma to the developing embryo. It is evident that embryos are sensitive to both chemical and physical signals within their microenvironment, and that these factors play a significant role in influencing development and events post transfer. From the viewpoint of assisted human reproduction, a major concern with chemical and physical factors lies in their adverse effects on the viability of embryos, and their long-term effects on the fetus, even as a result of a relatively brief exposure. This review presents data on the adverse effects of chemical and physical factors on mammalian embryos and the importance of identifying, and thereby minimizing, them in the practice of human IVF. Hence, optimizing the in vitro environment involves far more than improving culture media formulations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Petra L Wale
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia Melbourne IVF, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - David K Gardner
- School of BioSciences, University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia
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Abstract
BACKGROUND The advances in the world of IVF during the last decades have been rapid and impressive and culture media play a major role in this success. Until the 1980s fertility centers made their media in house. Nowadays, there are numerous commercially available culture media that contain various components including nutrients, vitamins and growth factors. This review goes through the past, present and future of IVF culture media and explores their composition and quality assessment. METHODS A computerized search was performed in PubMed regarding IVF culture media including results from 1929 until March 2014. Information was gathered from the websites of companies who market culture media, advertising material, instructions for use and certificates of analysis. The regulation regarding IVF media mainly in the European Union (EU) but also in non-European countries was explored. RESULTS The keyword 'IVF culture media' gave 923 results in PubMed and 'embryo culture media' 12 068 results dating from 1912 until March 2014, depicting the increased scientific activity in this field. The commercialization of IVF culture media has increased the standards bringing a great variety of options into clinical practice. However, it has led to reduced transparency and comparisons of brand names that do not facilitate the scientific dialogue. Furthermore, there is some evidence suggesting that suboptimal culture conditions could cause long-term reprogramming in the embryo as the periconception period is particularly susceptible to epigenetic alterations. IVF media are now classified as class III medical devices and only CE (Conformité Européene)-marked media should be used in the EU. CONCLUSION The CE marking of IVF culture media is a significant development in the field. However, the quality and efficiency of culture media should be monitored closely. Well-designed randomized controlled trials, large epidemiological studies and full transparency should be the next steps. Reliable, standardized models assessing multiple end-points and post-implantation development should replace the mouse embryo assay. Structured long-term follow-up of children conceived by assisted reproduction technologies and traceability are of paramount importance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elpiniki Chronopoulou
- Institute for Women's Health, University College London, 86-96 Chenies Mews, London WC1E 6HX, UK
| | - Joyce C Harper
- UCL Centre for PG and D, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK The Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health, UCLH, London, UK
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Swain JE. Decisions for the IVF laboratory: comparative analysis of embryo culture incubators. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:535-47. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2013] [Revised: 12/21/2013] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
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Li Y, Li T, Mai Q, Long L, Ou J. Comparison of fertilization outcome between microdrop and open insemination methods in non-male factor IVF patients. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2014; 60:165-70. [PMID: 24499510 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2013.872707] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Both microdrop and open methods are commonly used for in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols for embryo culture as well as oocyte insemination. However, few comparative studies evaluating the microdrop or open method of insemination on the fertilization outcome and subsequent embryo development have been performed. A randomized study was conducted to compare microdrop and open fertilization with respect to fertilization rate and embryo development among non-male factor patients undergoing in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). The results presented in this study demonstrate that the fertilization failure rate [total fertilization failure rate (TFF) plus low fertilization rate (<25% oocytes fertilized)] in the microdrop insemination group was higher than in the open insemination group (11.9% versus 3.3%, p < 0.001), while the good quality embryo rate and pregnancy rate did not differ significantly between the groups. As a highly complicated process involving many extrinsic and intrinsic factors, further studies are needed to confirm the effects of these insemination methods on the rate of fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yubin Li
- The First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University , Guangzhou , China
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Mortimer D, Barratt CLR, Björndahl L, de Jager C, Jequier AM, Muller CH. What should it take to describe a substance or product as 'sperm-safe'. Hum Reprod Update 2013; 19 Suppl 1:i1-45. [PMID: 23552271 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Male reproductive potential continues to be adversely affected by many environmental, industrial and pharmaceutical toxins. Pre-emptive testing for reproductive toxicological (side-)effects remains limited, or even non-existent. Many products that come into direct contact with spermatozoa lack adequate testing for the absence of adverse effects, and numerous products that are intended for exposure to spermatozoa have only a general assumption of safety based on the absence of evidence of actual harm. Such assumptions can have unfortunate adverse impacts on at-risk individuals (e.g. couples who are trying to conceive), illustrating a clear need for appropriate up-front testing to establish actual 'sperm safety'. METHODS After compiling a list of general areas within the review's scope, relevant literature and other information was obtained from the authors' personal professional libraries and archives, and supplemented as necessary using PubMed and Google searches. Review by co-authors identified and eliminated errors of omission or bias. RESULTS This review provides an overview of the broad range of substances, materials and products that can affect male fertility, especially through sperm fertilizing ability, along with a discussion of practical methods and bioassays for their evaluation. It is concluded that products can only be claimed to be 'sperm-safe' after performing objective, properly designed experimental studies; extrapolation from supposed predicate products or other assumptions cannot be trusted. CONCLUSIONS We call for adopting the precautionary principle, especially when exposure to a product might affect not only a couple's fertility potential but also the health of resulting offspring and perhaps future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Mortimer
- Oozoa Biomedical Inc., Caulfeild Village, West Vancouver, BC, Canada.
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de los Santos MJ, Gámiz P, Albert C, Galán A, Viloria T, Pérez S, Romero JL, Remohï J. Reduced oxygen tension improves embryo quality but not clinical pregnancy rates: a randomized clinical study into ovum donation cycles. Fertil Steril 2013; 100:402-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2013.03.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2013] [Revised: 03/21/2013] [Accepted: 03/27/2013] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
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Brezina PR, Ning N, Mitchell E, Zacur HA, Baramki TA, Zhao Y. Recent Advances in Assisted Reproductive Technology. CURRENT OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY REPORTS 2012. [DOI: 10.1007/s13669-012-0019-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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