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Canosa S, Revelli A, Gennarelli G, Cormio G, Loizzi V, Arezzo F, Petracca EA, Carosso AR, Cimadomo D, Rienzi L, Vaiarelli A, Ubaldi FM, Silvestris E. Innovative Strategies for Fertility Preservation in Female Cancer Survivors: New Hope from Artificial Ovary Construction and Stem Cell-Derived Neo-Folliculogenesis. Healthcare (Basel) 2023; 11:2748. [PMID: 37893822 PMCID: PMC10606281 DOI: 10.3390/healthcare11202748] [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: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/12/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent advances in anticancer treatment have significantly improved the survival rate of young females; unfortunately, in about one third of cancer survivors the risk of ovarian insufficiency and infertility is still quite relevant. As the possibility of becoming a mother after recovery from a juvenile cancer is an important part of the quality of life, several procedures to preserve fertility have been developed: ovarian surgical transposition, induction of ovarian quiescence by gonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists (GnRH-a) treatment, and oocyte and/or ovarian cortical tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian tissue cryostorage and allografting is a valuable technique that applies even to prepubertal girls; however, some patients cannot benefit from it due to the high risk of reintroducing cancer cells during allograft in cases of ovary-metastasizing neoplasias, such as leukemias or NH lymphomas. Innovative techniques are now under investigation, as in the construction of an artificial ovary made of isolated follicles inserted into an artificial matrix scaffold, and the use of stem cells, including ovarian stem cells (OSCs), to obtain neo-folliculogenesis and the development of fertilizable oocytes from the exhausted ovarian tissue. This review synthesizes and discusses these innovative techniques, which potentially represent interesting strategies in oncofertility programs and a new hope for young female cancer survivors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Canosa
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
| | - Alberto Revelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 2U, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy
| | - Gianluca Gennarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, LIVET, 10126 Turin, Italy; (A.R.); (G.G.)
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Gennaro Cormio
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Vera Loizzi
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
- Department of Interdisciplinary Medicine (DIM), University of Bari “Aldo Moro”, 70121 Bari, Italy
| | - Francesca Arezzo
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit, Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, University of “Aldo Moro”, 70124 Bari, Italy
| | - Easter Anna Petracca
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
| | - Andrea Roberto Carosso
- Gynecology and Obstetrics 1U, Physiopathology of Reproduction and IVF Unit, Department of Surgical Sciences, S. Anna Hospital, University of Turin, 10126 Turin, Italy;
| | - Danilo Cimadomo
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Laura Rienzi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
- Department of Biomolecular Sciences, University of Urbino “Carlo Bo”, 61029 Urbino, Italy
| | - Alberto Vaiarelli
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Filippo Maria Ubaldi
- IVIRMA, Global Research Alliance, GENERA, Clinica Valle Giulia, 00197 Rome, Italy; (D.C.); (L.R.); (A.V.); (F.M.U.)
| | - Erica Silvestris
- Gynecologic Oncology Unit, IRCCS Istituto Tumori “Giovanni Paolo II”, 70124 Bari, Italy; (G.C.); (V.L.); (E.A.P.); (E.S.)
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Sciorio R, Aiello R, Janssens R. Considerations on staffing levels for a modern assisted reproductive laboratory. JBRA Assist Reprod 2023; 27:120-130. [PMID: 36515254 PMCID: PMC10065777 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20220048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Accepted: 08/23/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The duties recently performed in the embryology laboratory have deeply increased compared to those realized a couple of decades ago. Currently, procedures include conventional in vitro fertilization (IVF) and ICSI techniques, or processing of surgically retrieved sperm, embryo culture and time-lapse monitoring, blastocyst culture, as well as trophectoderm biopsy for preimplantation genetic testing and cryopreservation. These techniques require not only time, but also high knowledge level and acutely concentration by the embryologist team. The existing data indicate that an IVF laboratory need to have adequate staffing levels to perform the required daily duties, and to work in optimal conditions that are critical to assure a high quality service, as well as avoiding incidents and to provide the best outcomes. As a result, IVF clinics have invested in human resources, but there is still a large discrepancy between IVF centres on the number of embryologists employed. Currently there is no golden standard on the human resource requirements for assisted reproductive technology procedures; therefore, in this review paper we aim to provide arguments to take into account to determine the embryology staffing requirements in an embryology laboratory to assure optimal safety and efficiency of operations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of
Edinburgh, 51 Little France Crescent, Old Dalkeith Road, Edinburgh, Scotland, EH16
4SA, UK
| | - Raffaele Aiello
- OMNIA Lab S.C.a.R.L, Via Cesare Rosaroll 24, 80139 Naples, Italy
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Leonurine improves bovine oocyte maturation and subsequent embryonic development by reducing oxidative stress and improving mitochondrial function. Theriogenology 2023; 199:11-18. [PMID: 36680865 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2023.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2022] [Revised: 12/30/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
It is acknowledged that excessive reactive oxygen species (ROS) level attributes greatly to the compromised developmental potential of oocytes matured in vitro. Although agents were applied to alleviate ROS levels, results were varied because of the distinct antioxidative activity and cell toxicity. Leonurine (LEO), extracted from the natural Chinese herb motherwort, is considered to be a potent free radical scavenger. Yet, it is undetermined whether LEO is benefit for oocyte development during in vitro maturation (IVM). In the present study, the effect of LEO on the quality of bovine oocyte as well as the underlying mechanism was investigated. We found that maturation rate (P < 0.01), subsequent blastocyst formation rate (P < 0.05), and the total blastocyst cell number (P < 0.05) after parthenogenetic activation were significantly increased in the group treated with 20 μM LEO. Moreover, a dramatic decline in ROS (P < 0.01), decreased lipid content (P < 0.01), elevated MMP level (P < 0.05), increased ATP content (P < 0.05), and reduced mitochondrial temperature (P < 0.01) were observed in oocytes treated with LEO. Furthermore, the expression level of anti-apoptotic protein BCL2 was significantly higher in LEO treated oocytes (P < 0.01), and the ratio of BAX/BCL2 was obvious decreased (P < 0.01). Finally, we found that LC3B intensity was significantly reduced (P < 0.05) while the rate of EdU positive nuclei was markedly increased (P < 0.05) in embryos derived from LEO-treated oocytes. Our results demonstrate that LEO exhibits a potent protective role in the acquisition of oocyte development capacity against oxidative stress during IVM, and provides a new solution for optimizing the in vitro culture system of bovine embryos.
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In vivo and in vitro matured bovine oocytes present a distinct pattern of single-cell gene expression. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:31-43. [PMID: 36263617 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199422000478] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte gene expression is a well controlled event that promotes gamete competence to undergo maturation, fertilization, and to support early embryo development, directly affecting reproductive outcomes. Considering that in vivo controlled ovarian stimulation or in vitro maturation (IVM) for the acquisition of mature oocytes has distinct implications for gene expression, we sought to evaluate the effects of these procedures on the expression of competence-related genes in single-cell oocytes. Healthy Nelore cows of reproductive age were synchronized to harvest in vivo matured oocytes; ovaries from slaughtered animals were used to obtain cumulus-oocyte complexes that were in vitro matured. Single-cell gene expression was performed using TaqMan Low-Density Arrays and 42 genes were evaluated. In silico analysis of protein interactions and Gene Ontology (GO) analysis was performed. Reduced gene expression was observed for 24 targets in IVM oocytes when compared with those of in vivo matured oocytes (P < 0.05). Differences ranged from 1.5-fold to 4.8-fold higher in in vivo oocytes and the BMP15 (5.28), GDF9 (6.23), NOBOX (7.25), HSPA8 (7.85) and MSX1 (11.00) showed the greatest fold increases. The strongest score of functional interactions was observed between the CDC20 and CKS2, with the differentially expressed gene CDC20 being the main marker behind GO enrichment. IVM negatively affected the expression of important genes related to oocyte competency, and showed higher expression levels in in vivo matured oocytes. In vivo controlled ovarian stimulation may be a better strategy to achieve proper oocyte competence and increase the success of assisted reproductive technologies.
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Sciorio R, Tramontano L, Rapalini E, Bellaminutti S, Bulletti FM, D'Amato A, Manna C, Palagiano A, Bulletti C, Esteves SC. Risk of genetic and epigenetic alteration in children conceived following ART: Is it time to return to nature whenever possible? Clin Genet 2023; 103:133-145. [PMID: 36109352 DOI: 10.1111/cge.14232] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology may influence epigenetic signature as the procedures coincide with the extensive epigenetic modification occurring from fertilization to embryo implantation. However, it is still unclear to what extent ART alters the embryo epigenome. In vivo fertilization occurs in the fallopian tube, where a specific and natural environment enables the embryo's healthy development. During this dynamic period, major waves of epigenetic reprogramming, crucial for the normal fate of the embryo, take place. Over the past decade, concerns relating to the raised incidence of epigenetic anomalies and imprinting following ART have been raised by several authors. Epigenetic reprogramming is particularly susceptible to environmental conditions during the periconceptional period; therefore, unphysiological conditions, including ovarian stimulation, in vitro fertilization, embryo culture, cryopreservation of gametes and embryos, parental lifestyle, and underlying infertility, have the potential to contribute to epigenetic dysregulation independently or collectively. This review critically appraises the evidence relating to the association between ART and genetic and epigenetic modifications that may be transmitted to the offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Luca Tramontano
- Department of Women, Infants and Adolescents, Division of Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Erika Rapalini
- IVF Department, Versilia Hospital Lido di Camaiore, Lucca, Italy
| | - Serena Bellaminutti
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Ospedale Regionale di Lugano, Lugano, Switzerland
- Gynecology and Fertility Unit, Procrea Institute, Lugano, Switzerland
- Gynecology Unit, Centro Medico, Lugano, Switzerland
| | | | - Antonio D'Amato
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Clinic, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Claudio Manna
- Biofertility IVF and Infertility Center, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonio Palagiano
- CFA Napoli, Italy, CFA: Centro Fecondazione Assistita Napoli, Naples, Italy
| | - Carlo Bulletti
- Ostetricia e Ginecologia, EXTRA OMNES Medicina e Salute Riproduttiva, Cattolica, Italy
| | - Sandro C Esteves
- Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas, Brazil
- Department of Surgery (Division of Urology), University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Campinas, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Department of Clinical Medicine, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Paulino LRFM, de Assis EIT, Azevedo VAN, Silva BR, da Cunha EV, Silva JRV. Why Is It So Difficult To Have Competent Oocytes from In vitro Cultured Preantral Follicles? Reprod Sci 2022; 29:3321-3334. [PMID: 35084715 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00840-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The developmental competence of oocytes is acquired gradually during follicular development, mainly through oocyte accumulation of RNA molecules and proteins that will be used during fertilization and early embryonic development. Several attempts to develop in vitro culture systems to support preantral follicle development up to maturation are reported in the literature, but oocyte competence has not yet been achieved in human and domestic animals. The difficulties to have fertilizable oocytes are related to thousands of mRNAs and proteins that need to be synthesized, long-term duration of follicular development, size of preovulatory follicles, composition of in vitro culture medium, and the need of multi-step culture systems. The development of a culture system that maintains bidirectional communication between the oocyte and granulosa cells and that meets the metabolic demands of each stage of follicle growth is the key to sustain an extended culture period. This review discusses the physiological and molecular mechanisms that determine acquisition of oocyte competence in vitro, like oocyte transcriptional activity, follicle and oocyte sizes, and length and regulation of follicular development in murine, human, and domestic animal species. The state of art of in vitro follicular development and the challenges to have complete follicular development in vitro are also highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laís R F M Paulino
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ernando I T de Assis
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Venância A N Azevedo
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Bianca R Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - Ellen V da Cunha
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil
| | - José R V Silva
- Laboratory of Biotechnology and Physiology of Reproduction (LABIREP), Federal University of Ceara, Av. Comandante Maurocélio Rocha Ponte 100, Sobral, CE, CEP 62041-040, Brazil.
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Desai N, Spangler M, Nanavaty V, Gishto A, Brown A. New hyaluronan-based biomatrix for 3-D follicle culture yields functionally competent oocytes. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2022; 20:148. [PMID: 36217168 PMCID: PMC9549656 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-022-01019-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2022] [Accepted: 09/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Encapsulation of follicles within a biomatrix is one approach to maintaining 3-D follicle architecture during culture. Hyaluronan is one component of the natural extracellular matrix (ECM) that provides support to cells in vivo. This report describes the application of a novel tyramine-linked hyaluronan for 3-D in vitro follicle culture and the production of developmentally competent metaphase II oocytes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Enzymatically isolated mouse preantral follicles or follicle clusters (FL-C) from fresh or vitrified ovaries were encapsulated in 3 mg/ml of hyaluronan gel (HA). Follicle growth, antrum formation and meiotic maturation to metaphase II oocytes was monitored. Chromatin staining was used to assess GV oocyte progression towards meiotic competence. Functional competence of in vitro matured (IVM) oocytes was evaluated by in vitro fertilization and ability to develop to blastocyst. Modifying the HA gel by inclusion of laminin (HA-LM), mouse sarcoma extracellular matrix (Matrigel;HA-MG) or placental extracellular matrix (HA-PM) was also tested to see if this might further enhance IVM outcomes. RESULTS A total of 402 preantral follicles were cultured in HA gel. After hCG trigger, 314 oocyte-cumulus complexes ovulated from the embedded follicles. Meiotic maturation rate to the metaphase II stage was 73% (228/314). After insemination 83% (188/228) of IVM oocytes fertilized with a subsequent blastulation rate of 46% (87/188). A pilot transfer study with 3 recipient mice resulted in the birth of a single pup. HA gel supported individually isolated follicles as well ovarian tissue fragments containing clusters of 6-8 preantral follicles. Meiotic maturation was lower with FL-clusters from vitrified versus fresh ovaries (34% and 55%, respectively; p < 0.007). Modification of the HA gel with ECMs or laminin affected antrum formation and follicle retention. Maturation rates to the metaphase II stage were however not significantly different: 74% for HA gel alone as compared to HA-LM (67%), HA-MG (56%) and HA-PM (58%). CONCLUSION Hyaluronan gel is an effective and versatile extracellular matrix based biomaterial for 3-D culture of ovarian follicles. This culture model allowed ovulation of functionally competent metaphase II oocytes, capable of fertilization, genomic activation and blastulation. Future testing with human follicles that require longer in vitro culture times should be considered.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Desai
- grid.239578.20000 0001 0675 4725Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH USA
| | - Maribeth Spangler
- grid.239578.20000 0001 0675 4725Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH USA
| | - Vaani Nanavaty
- grid.239578.20000 0001 0675 4725Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH USA
| | - Arsela Gishto
- grid.239578.20000 0001 0675 4725Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH USA
| | - Alyssa Brown
- grid.239578.20000 0001 0675 4725Department of OB/GYN and Women’s Health Institute, Cleveland Clinic Fertility Center, Cleveland Clinic Foundation, Beachwood, OH USA
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Lloyd DT, Skinner HG, Maguire R, Murphy SK, Motsinger-Reif AA, Hoyo C, House JS. Clomifene and Assisted Reproductive Technology in Humans Are Associated with Sex-Specific Offspring Epigenetic Alterations in Imprinted Control Regions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10450. [PMID: 36142363 PMCID: PMC9499479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Children conceived with assisted reproductive technology (ART) have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including congenital malformations and imprinted gene disorders. In a retrospective North Carolina-based-birth-cohort, we examined the effect of ovulation drugs and ART on CpG methylation in differentially methylated CpGs in known imprint control regions (ICRs). Nine ICRs containing 48 CpGs were assessed for methylation status by pyrosequencing in mixed leukocytes from cord blood. After restricting to non-smoking, college-educated participants who agreed to follow-up, ART-exposed (n = 27), clomifene-only-exposed (n = 22), and non-exposed (n = 516) groups were defined. Associations of clomifene and ART with ICR CpG methylation were assessed with linear regression and stratifying by offspring sex. In males, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the PEG3 ICR [β(95% CI) = -1.46 (-2.81, -0.12)] and hypermethylation of the MEG3 ICR [3.71 (0.01, 7.40)]; clomifene-only was associated with hypomethylation of the NNAT ICR [-5.25 (-10.12, -0.38)]. In female offspring, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the IGF2 ICR [-3.67 (-6.79, -0.55)]. Aberrant methylation of these ICRs has been associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic and behavioral outcomes in children. The results suggest that the increased risk of adverse outcomes in offspring conceived through ART may be due in part to altered methylation of ICRs. Larger studies utilizing epigenome-wide interrogation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon T. Lloyd
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Harlyn G. Skinner
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Rachel Maguire
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Susan K. Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Alison A. Motsinger-Reif
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - John S. House
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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Schallmoser A, Einenkel R, Färber C, Sänger N. In vitro growth (IVG) of human ovarian follicles in frozen thawed ovarian cortex tissue culture supplemented with follicular fluid under hypoxic conditions. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2022; 306:1299-1311. [PMID: 35871693 PMCID: PMC9470640 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-022-06672-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Background Despite its clinical success rates, transplantation after ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) remains a matter of concern. Certain cancer subtypes may lead to the transfer of malignant cells when transplantation of affected ovarian tissue is conducted. IVG and subsequent isolation of vital follicles obtained from frozen thawed ovarian tissue for further in vitro maturation (IVM) would expand current fertility protection techniques while reducing the risk of retransplanting malignant cells. Methods A total of 216 cortical biopsies from 3 patients were included in this study in 4 treatment groups. After freezing, thawing and 8 days of hypoxic tissue culture supplemented with different concentrations of human follicular fluid (HuFF) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), follicles were isolated enzymatically and stained with calcein to determine follicular viability. Numbers and size of vital follicles were assessed by fluorescence microscopy (Ti2, Nikon) and specified by computer assisted, semi-automated measurement (NIS software, Nikon). To estimate the effect of in vitro culture on apoptosis, tissue sections were stained for nicked DNA (TUNEL) prior and after tissue culture. Results Analysing 3025 vital follicles, we observed significant differences [P < 0.01] regarding follicle size when hypoxic tissue culture was supplemented with HuFF compared with the control group on day 1, individual follicles reached sizes > 100 µm. Conclusions The results implicate that HuFF contains valuable factors contributing to significant IVG of follicles in human ovarian tissue and could be regarded as an additional tool in personalized fertility restoration prior to retransplantation of ovarian tissue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Schallmoser
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Rebekka Einenkel
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Cara Färber
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Nicole Sänger
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital of Bonn, Venusberg-Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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Lafontaine S, Sirard MA. IGF2R, KCNQ1, PLAGL1, and SNRPN DNA methylation is completed in bovine by the early antral follicle stage. Mol Reprod Dev 2022; 89:290-297. [PMID: 35698757 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.23621] [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: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
Imprinted genes are inherited with different DNA methylation patterns depending on the maternal or paternal origin of the allele. In cattle (Bos taurus), abnormal methylation of these genes is linked to the large offspring syndrome, a neonatal overgrowth phenotype analogous to the human Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome. We hypothesized that in bovine oocytes, some of the methylation patterns on maternally imprinted genes are acquired in the last phase of folliculogenesis. The pyrosequencing analysis of IGF2R, KCNQ1, PLAGL1, and SNRPN imprinted genes showed no clear progression of methylation in oocytes from follicles 1-2 mm (late pre antral/early antral) and up. Instead, these oocytes displayed complete methylation at the imprinted differentially methylated regions (>80%). Other mechanisms related to imprint maintenance should be investigated to explain the hypomethylation at IGF2R, KCNQ1, PLAGL1, and SNRPN maternally imprinted sites observed in some bovine embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Lafontaine
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle, Département des Sciences Animales, Faculté des sciences de l'agriculture et de l'alimentation, Université Laval, Québec, Québec, Canada
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11
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Eivazkhani F, Ebrahimi B, Yousefi B, Fatehi R, Fathi R, Akbarinejad V. Effects of N-Acetyl-L-Cystein Antioxidant on Ex Vivo Culture of Vitrified Premature Mouse Ovarian Tissue. Biopreserv Biobank 2022; 20:331-339. [PMID: 35507947 DOI: 10.1089/bio.2021.0147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Optimization of practical ways to obtain mature follicles from cryopreserved ovarian tissues, especially in patients suffering from ovarian dysfunction, is very important. In vitro ovarian tissue culture allows faster screening of follicle development and reduces follicle isolation damage. During ovarian tissue culture, controlling oxidative stress is critical to support better follicular development and less damage. Immature Naval Medical Research Institute (NMRI) mouse ovaries (8-days-old) were randomly distributed into four cultured groups; non-vitrified, vitrified, non-vitrified N-acetyl-L-cysteine (NAC)+, and vitrified NAC+. Ovaries of vitrified groups along with non-vitrified ovaries were cultured on agar gel in the presence or absence of NAC for 5 days. Afterward, morphological evaluations, mRNA expressions of Gdf9, Bmp6, Lif, Amh, Bax, and Bcl2 genes, malondialdehyde, and total antioxidant capacities were compared between four groups at the first and last day of culture. Good preservation of tissue integrity and an increase of follicular development were observed in all groups. In addition, the expression of Gdf9, Lif, Bax, and Bcl2 genes were increased and Amh was decreased in groups cultured in the presence of NAC compared to groups cultured without NAC. Although total antioxidant capacity was not significantly different between the experimental groups, the lipid peroxidation and apoptotic index were significantly reduced in the presence of NAC. Thus, it appears that NAC antioxidant acts as a contributory factor for the ex vivo culture of ovarian tissue and reduces oxidative stress, apoptotic index, and improves follicular development, especially in non-vitrified groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farideh Eivazkhani
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.,Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Bita Ebrahimi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Behpour Yousefi
- Abnormal Uterine Bleeding Research Center, Semnan University of Medical Sciences, Semnan, Iran
| | - Roya Fatehi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Fathi
- Department of Embryology, Reproductive Biomedicine Research Center, Royan Institute for Reproductive Biomedicine, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - Vahid Akbarinejad
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
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12
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Ozturk S. Molecular determinants of the meiotic arrests in mammalian oocytes at different stages of maturation. Cell Cycle 2022; 21:547-571. [PMID: 35072590 PMCID: PMC8942507 DOI: 10.1080/15384101.2022.2026704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 12/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Mammalian oocytes undergo two rounds of developmental arrest during maturation: at the diplotene of the first meiotic prophase and metaphase of the second meiosis. These arrests are strictly regulated by follicular cells temporally producing the secondary messengers, cAMP and cGMP, and other factors to regulate maturation promoting factor (composed of cyclin B1 and cyclin-dependent kinase 1) levels in the oocytes. Out of these normally appearing developmental arrests, permanent arrests may occur in the oocytes at germinal vesicle (GV), metaphase I (MI), or metaphase II (MII) stage. This issue may arise from absence or altered expression of the oocyte-related genes playing key roles in nuclear and cytoplasmic maturation. Additionally, the assisted reproductive technology (ART) applications such as ovarian stimulation and in vitro culture conditions both of which harbor various types of chemical agents may contribute to forming the permanent arrests. In this review, the molecular determinants of developmental and permanent arrests occurring in the mammalian oocytes are comprehensively evaluated in the light of current knowledge. As number of permanently arrested oocytes at different stages is increasing in ART centers, potential approaches for inducing permanent arrests to obtain competent oocytes are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saffet Ozturk
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Akdeniz University School of Medicine, Antalya, Turkey
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13
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Picton HM. Therapeutic Potential of In Vitro-Derived Oocytes for the Restoration and Treatment of Female Fertility. Annu Rev Anim Biosci 2022; 10:281-301. [PMID: 34843385 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-animal-020420-030319] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Considerable progress has been made with the development of culture systems for the in vitro growth and maturation (IVGM) of oocytes from the earliest-staged primordial follicles and from the more advanced secondary follicles in rodents, ruminants, nonhuman primates, and humans. Successful oocyte production in vitro depends on the development of a dynamic culture strategy that replicates the follicular microenvironment required for oocyte activation and to support oocyte growth and maturation in vivo while enabling the coordinated and timely acquisition of oocyte developmental competence. Significant heterogeneity exists between the culture protocols used for different stages of follicle development and for different species. To date, the fertile potential of IVGM oocytes derived from primordial follicles has been realized only in mice. Although many technical challenges remain, significant advances have been made, and there is an increasing consensus that complete IVGM will require a dynamic, multiphase culture approach. The production of healthy offspring from in vitro-produced oocytes in a secondary large animal species is a vital next step before IVGM can be tested for therapeutic use in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen M Picton
- Reproduction and Early Development Research Group, Discovery and Translational Science Department, Leeds Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom;
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14
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Ma X, Fan Y, Xiao W, Ding X, Hu W, Xia Y. Glufosinate-Ammonium Induced Aberrant Histone Modifications in Mouse Sperm Are Concordant With Transcriptome in Preimplantation Embryos. Front Physiol 2022; 12:819856. [PMID: 35145430 PMCID: PMC8821811 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.819856] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Glufosinate-ammonium (GLA) is a widely used herbicide with emerging concern over its male reproductive toxicity. Abnormalities in sperm histone modification induced by GLA exposure observed in our previous study aroused our interest in whether such alterations could further affect embryonic gene expression. Here we administered adult male mice with 0.2 mg/kg⋅day of GLA for 5 weeks to collect their sperm or 4-cell embryos after copulation. Cleavage Under Targets and Tagmentation (CUT&Tag) sequencing showed alterations of sperm H3 lysine 4 trimethylation (H3K4me3) and histone H3 lysine 27 acetylation (H3K27ac), which are active histone modification marks involved in embryo development, while RNA sequencing identified differentially expressed genes in 4-cell embryos. Differentially H3K4me3 and H3K27ac occupied regions were mainly distributed at the gene promoters and putative enhancers, and were enriched in pathways related to the immune system and nervous system. Integrative analysis of these sequencing data showed that genes such as Mgl2 with increased H3K4me3 and H3K27ac in sperm were up-regulated in embryos, and vice versa for genes such as Dcn. Additionally, differentially occupied H3K4me3 and H3K27ac in sperm were linked to gene expression changes in both paternal and maternal alleles of 4-cell embryos. In conclusion, GLA-induced changes in sperm H3K4me3 and H3K27ac are concordant with gene expression in preimplantation embryos, which might further affect embryo development and offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xuan Ma
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Yun Fan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Microbes and Infection, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Wenwen Xiao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Xingwang Ding
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
| | - Weiyue Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Department of Nutrition and Food Safety, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Weiyue Hu,
| | - Yankai Xia
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Center for Global Health, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- Key Laboratory of Modern Toxicology of Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Nanjing Medical University, Nanjing, China
- *Correspondence: Yankai Xia,
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15
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McClam M, Xiao S. Preserving Oocytes in Oncofertility†. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:328-337. [PMID: 35040934 PMCID: PMC8862718 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
The prodigious rise of cancer survival rates enables many cancer survivors to live long lives. Therefore, the side effects of cancer treatments as well as the long-term quality of life after cancer have become more relevant. Ovarian toxicity is a major off-target effect of anticancer agents for childhood and young adult female cancer patients. Both chemotherapy and irradiation have been demonstrated to damage the ovary and increase the risks of premature ovarian failure (POF), early menopause, ovarian endocrine disorders, and sub- or infertility. Oncofertility is an emerging and multidisciplinary research and medical field that focuses on providing cancer patients with fertility preservation options. Oocyte quality and quantity are one of the most important factors to determine women's fertility success; therefore, preserving oocytes is paramount for maintaining the ability of young female cancer patients' reproduction after their recovery. This review summarizes peer-reviewed literature on current oocyte preservation options in oncofertility. We describe in-depth oocyte and embryo cryopreservation, ovarian suppression, ovarian tissue cryopreservation, in vitro maturation, ovarian transposition, and adjuvant therapy. Further, we discuss current guidelines and practices of female fertility preservation that cover preserving oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria McClam
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC, USA
| | - Shuo Xiao
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute (EOHSI), Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA,Correspondence: 170 Frelinghuysen Rd, Piscataway, NJ 08854, USA. Tel: + 1-848-445-3729; E-mail:
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16
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Telfer EE, Andersen CY. In vitro growth and maturation of primordial follicles and immature oocytes. Fertil Steril 2021; 115:1116-1125. [PMID: 33823993 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2021.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2021] [Accepted: 03/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of ovarian tissue to preserve the fertility of girls and young women at high risk of sterility is now widely practiced. Pieces of cryopreserved ovarian cortex can be thawed and autografted to restore fertility, but because of the risks of reintroduction of the cancer, transplantation may not be possible for girls and women with blood-borne leukemias or cancers with a high risk of ovarian metastasis. Cryopreserved ovarian tissue contains mainly primordial follicles but also provides access to immature oocytes from small antral follicles, which may be matured in vitro to provide an additional source of mature oocytes. So in cases in which transplantation is contraindicated, fertility restoration could be safely achieved in the laboratory either by in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes aspirated from growing follicles or by the complete in vitro growth (IVG) and maturation (IVM) of primordial follicles to produce fertile metaphase II (MII) oocytes. The development of IVM and IVG methods to support all stages of oocytes available within ovarian tissue will maximize the potential for all patients undergoing fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, The University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 8XE, Scotland.
| | - Claus Yding Andersen
- Laboratory of Reproductive Biology, The Juliane Marie Centre for Women, Children and Reproduction, University Hospital of Copenhagen, Faculty of Health and Medical Science, University of Copenhagen, DK-2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
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17
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Elbracht M, Mackay D, Begemann M, Kagan KO, Eggermann T. Disturbed genomic imprinting and its relevance for human reproduction: causes and clinical consequences. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:197-213. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 11/07/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
BACKGROUND
Human reproductive issues affecting fetal and maternal health are caused by numerous exogenous and endogenous factors, of which the latter undoubtedly include genetic changes. Pathogenic variants in either maternal or offspring DNA are associated with effects on the offspring including clinical disorders and nonviable outcomes. Conversely, both fetal and maternal factors can affect maternal health during pregnancy. Recently, it has become evident that mammalian reproduction is influenced by genomic imprinting, an epigenetic phenomenon that regulates the expression of genes according to their parent from whom they are inherited. About 1% of human genes are normally expressed from only the maternally or paternally inherited gene copy. Since numerous imprinted genes are involved in (embryonic) growth and development, disturbance of their balanced expression can adversely affect these processes.
OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE
This review summarises current our understanding of genomic imprinting in relation to human ontogenesis and pregnancy and its relevance for reproductive medicine.
SEARCH METHODS
Literature databases (Pubmed, Medline) were thoroughly searched for the role of imprinting in human reproductive failure. In particular, the terms ‘multilocus imprinting disturbances, SCMC, NLRP/NALP, imprinting and reproduction’ were used in various combinations.
OUTCOMES
A range of molecular changes to specific groups of imprinted genes are associated with imprinting disorders, i.e. syndromes with recognisable clinical features including distinctive prenatal features. Whereas the majority of affected individuals exhibit alterations at single imprinted loci, some have multi-locus imprinting disturbances (MLID) with less predictable clinical features. Imprinting disturbances are also seen in some nonviable pregnancy outcomes, such as (recurrent) hydatidiform moles, which can therefore be regarded as a severe form of imprinting disorders. There is growing evidence that MLID can be caused by variants in the maternal genome altering the imprinting status of the oocyte and the embryo, i.e. maternal effect mutations. Pregnancies of women carrying maternal affect mutations can have different courses, ranging from miscarriages to birth of children with clinical features of various imprinting disorders.
WIDER IMPLICATIONS
Increasing understanding of imprinting disturbances and their clinical consequences have significant impacts on diagnostics, counselling and management in the context of human reproduction. Defining criteria for identifying pregnancies complicated by imprinting disorders facilitates early diagnosis and personalised management of both the mother and offspring. Identifying the molecular lesions underlying imprinting disturbances (e.g. maternal effect mutations) allows targeted counselling of the family and focused medical care in further pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam Elbracht
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Deborah Mackay
- Human Genetics and Genomic Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Matthias Begemann
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
| | - Karl Oliver Kagan
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital of Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Thomas Eggermann
- Institute of Human Genetics, Medical Faculty, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany
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18
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Chowdhury MMR, Park J, Afrin F, Ko YG, Kim CL, Lee SS, Kim SW. Transcriptome profiling of in vitro-matured oocytes from a korean native cow (hanwoo) after cysteamine supplementation. Anim Biotechnol 2020; 32:401-412. [PMID: 31900040 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2019.1706545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study elucidated the molecular markers that decrease oocyte quality during in vitro culture, restricting optimal developmental potential. Here, we evaluated the transcriptomic differences between cysteamine-treated and non-treated bovine cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) after 22 h of co-culture in the maturation media using RNA sequencing. In total, 39,014 transcripts were sequenced between cysteamine-treated and non-treated mature COCs. We evaluated the relative expression of 21,472 genes, with 59 genes showing differential expression between the two COC groups. The cysteamine-treated group had 36 up-regulated gene transcripts and 23 down-regulated gene transcripts. Moreover, gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis revealed that multiple biological processes were significantly enriched after cysteamine supplementation. Differentially expressed genes appeared to maintain normal oocyte physiology, regulation of apoptosis, differentiation, ossification or bone formation, cardiac and muscle physiology, hormonal secretion, and membrane construction for further embryonic development. In conclusion, cysteamine affects the mRNA level of COCs during oocyte maturation by upregulating potential molecular markers and downregulating genes that affect further embryonic development.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M R Chowdhury
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea.,Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Faculty of Animal Science and Veterinary Medicine, Patuakhali Science and Technology University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Joonghoon Park
- Department of International Agricultural Technology, Graduate School of International Agricultural Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea.,Institute of Green Bio Science and Technology, Seoul National University, Pyeongchang, Republic of Korea
| | - Fahmida Afrin
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Yeoung-Gyu Ko
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Chan-Lan Kim
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Soo Lee
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea
| | - Sung Woo Kim
- Animal Genetic Resources Research Center, National Institute of Animal Science (NIAS), Rural Development Administration (RDA), Hamyang, Republic of Korea
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19
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Telfer EE, Sakaguchi K, Clarkson YL, McLaughlin M. In vitro growth of immature bovine follicles and oocytes. Reprod Fertil Dev 2020; 32:1-6. [PMID: 32188553 DOI: 10.1071/rd19270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
The limitation in the supply of mature, fertilisable oocytes constitutes a major impediment to increasing the success of assisted reproduction, stem cell derivation and cloning in domestic species. Techniques are being developed to grow immature oocytes invitro that have the potential to increase the supply of oocytes. Mouse oocytes can be cultured from initial stages of development to maturity, and live young have been produced, but for domestic species, such as cows, with long growth periods, invitro systems that allow complete growth of oocytes contained within primordial follicles to maturity is technically challenging and has not yet been achieved. For cows, several culture systems have been developed that support specific developmental stages, but a multistep culture system will be required for complete growth invitro. This review highlights the steps that will be required to achieve the goal of growing oocytes invitro.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Institute of Cell Biology, Genes and Development Group, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Corresponding author.
| | - Kenichiro Sakaguchi
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Institute of Cell Biology, Genes and Development Group, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Laboratory of Theriogenology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Hokkaido University, Sapporo, Hokkaido 060-0818, Japan
| | - Yvonne L Clarkson
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Institute of Cell Biology, Genes and Development Group, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
| | - Marie McLaughlin
- Institute of Cell Biology, School of Biological Sciences, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK; and Institute of Cell Biology, Genes and Development Group, The University of Edinburgh, The Hugh Robson Building, 15 George Square, Edinburgh, EH8 9XD, UK
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20
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Abstract
The first crucial step in the developmental program occurs during pre-implantation, the time after the oocyte has been fertilized and before the embryo implants in the uterus. This period represents a vulnerable window as the epigenome undergoes dynamic changes in DNA methylation profiles. Alterations in the early embryonic reprogramming wave can impair DNA methylation patterns and induce permanent changes to the developmental program, leading to the onset of adverse health outcomes in offspring. Although there is an increasing body of evidence indicating that harmful exposures during pre-implantation embryo development can trigger lasting epigenetic alterations in offspring, the mechanisms are still not fully understood. Since physiological or pathological changes in DNA methylation can occur as a response to environmental cues, proper environmental milieu plays a critical role in the success of embryonic development. In this review, we depict the mechanisms behind the embryonic epigenetic reprogramming of DNA methylation and highlight how maternal environmental stressors (e.g., alcohol, heat stress, nutrient availability) during pre-implantation and assisted reproductive technology procedures affect development and DNA methylation marks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mélanie Breton-Larrivée
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine. Montreal, Canada
| | - Elizabeth Elder
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine. Montreal, Canada
| | - Serge McGraw
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Université de Montréal, Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine. Montreal, Canada.,Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Université de Montréal, Research Center of the CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Canada
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21
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Telfer EE. Future developments: In vitro growth (
IVG
) of human ovarian follicles. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:653-658. [PMID: 30801653 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13592] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn E. Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology and Genes and Development Group CDBS University of Edinburgh Edinburgh UK
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22
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McLaughlin M, Albertini DF, Wallace WHB, Anderson RA, Telfer EE. Metaphase II oocytes from human unilaminar follicles grown in a multi-step culture system. Mol Hum Reprod 2019; 24:135-142. [PMID: 29390119 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gay002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 186] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2017] [Accepted: 01/23/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can complete oocyte development be achieved from human ovarian tissue containing primordial/unilaminar follicles and grown in vitro in a multi-step culture to meiotic maturation demonstrated by the formation of polar bodies and a Metaphase II spindle? SUMMARY ANSWER Development of human oocytes from primordial/unilaminar stages to resumption of meiosis (Metaphase II) and emission of a polar body was achieved within a serum free multi-step culture system. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Complete development of oocytes in vitro has been achieved in mouse, where in vitro grown (IVG) oocytes from primordial follicles have resulted in the production of live offspring. Human oocytes have been grown in vitro from the secondary/multi-laminar stage to obtain fully grown oocytes capable of meiotic maturation. However, there are no reports of a culture system supporting complete growth from the earliest stages of human follicle development through to Metaphase II. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Ovarian cortical biopsies were obtained with informed consent from women undergoing elective caesarean section (mean age: 30.7 ± 1.7; range: 25-39 years, n = 10). PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Laboratory setting. Ovarian biopsies were dissected into thin strips, and after removal of growing follicles were cultured in serum free medium for 8 days (Step 1). At the end of this period secondary/multi-laminar follicles were dissected from the strips and intact follicles 100-150 μm in diameter were selected for further culture. Isolated follicles were cultured individually in serum free medium in the presence of 100 ng/ml of human recombinant Activin A (Step 2). Individual follicles were monitored and after 8 days, cumulus oocyte complexes (COCs) were retrieved by gentle pressure on the cultured follicles. Complexes with complete cumulus and adherent mural granulosa cells were selected and cultured in the presence of Activin A and FSH on membranes for a further 4 days (Step 3). At the end of Step 3, complexes containing oocytes >100 μm diameter were selected for IVM in SAGE medium (Step 4) then fixed for analysis. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Pieces of human ovarian cortex cultured in serum free medium for 8 days (Step 1) supported early follicle growth and 87 secondary follicles of diameter 120 ± 6 μm (mean ± SEM) could be dissected for further culture. After a further 8 days, 54 of the 87 follicles had reached the antral stage of development. COCs were retrieved by gentle pressure from the cultured follicles and those with adherent mural granulosa cells (n = 48) were selected and cultured for a further 4 days (Step 3). At the end of Step 3, 32 complexes contained oocytes >100 μm diameter were selected for IVM (Step 4). Nine of these complexes contained polar bodies within 24 h and all polar bodies were abnormally large. Confocal immuno-histochemical analysis showed the presence of a Metaphase II spindle confirming that these IVG oocytes had resumed meiosis but their developmental potential is unknown. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This is a small number of samples but provides proof of concept that complete development of human oocytes can occur in vitro. Further optimization with morphological evaluation and fertilization potential of IVG oocytes is required to determine whether they are normal. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The ability to develop human oocytes from the earliest follicular stages in vitro through to maturation and fertilization would benefit fertility preservation practice. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) Funded by MRC Grants (G0901839 and MR/L00299X/1). No competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- M McLaughlin
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
| | - D F Albertini
- Center for Human Reproduction, New York, NY 10021, USA
| | - W H B Wallace
- Department of Haematology/Oncology, Royal Hospital for Sick Children, Edinburgh EH9 1LF, UK
| | - R A Anderson
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4TJ, UK
| | - E E Telfer
- Institute of Cell Biology, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH8 9XD, UK
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23
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Zhao H, Jin L, Li Y, Zhang C, Wang R, Li Y, Huang W, Cui C, Zhang H, Wang H, Ma D, Liao S. Oncofertility: What can we do from bench to bedside? Cancer Lett 2019; 442:148-160. [DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2018.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 10/03/2018] [Accepted: 10/16/2018] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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24
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Premature Ovarian Insufficiency: Procreative Management and Preventive Strategies. Biomedicines 2018; 7:biomedicines7010002. [PMID: 30597834 PMCID: PMC6466184 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines7010002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2018] [Revised: 12/22/2018] [Accepted: 12/24/2018] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is the loss of normal hormonal and reproductive function of ovaries in women before age 40 as the result of premature depletion of oocytes. The incidence of POI increases with age in reproductive-aged women, and it is highest in women by the age of 40 years. Reproductive function and the ability to have children is a defining factor in quality of life for many women. There are several methods of fertility preservation available to women with POI. Procreative management and preventive strategies for women with or at risk for POI are reviewed.
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25
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Huntriss J, Balen AH, Sinclair KD, Brison DR, Picton HM. Epigenetics and Reproductive Medicine. BJOG 2018; 125:e43-e54. [DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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26
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Martinez F. Update on fertility preservation from the Barcelona International Society for Fertility Preservation-ESHRE-ASRM 2015 expert meeting: indications, results and future perspectives. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:1802-1811. [PMID: 29117320 PMCID: PMC5850800 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What progress has been made in fertility preservation (FP) over the last decade? SUMMARY ANSWER FP techniques have been widely adopted over the last decade and therefore the establishment of international registries on their short- and long-term outcomes is strongly recommended. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FP is a fundamental issue for both males and females whose future fertility may be compromised. Reproductive capacity may be seriously affected by age, different medical conditions and also by treatments, especially those with gonadal toxicity. There is general consensus on the need to provide counselling about currently available FP options to all individuals wishing to preserve their fertility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An international meeting with representatives from expert scientific societies involved in FP was held in Barcelona, Spain, in June 2015. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Twenty international FP experts belonging to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, ESHRE and the International Society of Fertility Preservation reviewed the literature up to June 2015 to be discussed at the meeting, and approved the final manuscript. At the time this manuscript was being written, new evidence considered relevant for the debated topics was published, and was consequently included. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Several oncological and non-oncological diseases may affect current or future fertility, either caused by the disease itself or the gonadotoxic treatment, and need an adequate FP approach. Women wishing to postpone maternity and transgender individuals before starting hormone therapy or undergoing surgery to remove/alter their reproductive organs should also be counselled accordingly. Embryo and oocyte cryopreservation are first-line FP methods in post-pubertal women. Metaphase II oocyte cryopreservation (vitrification) is the preferred option. Cumulative evidence of restoration of ovarian function and spontaneous pregnancies after ART following orthotopic transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue supports its future consideration as an open clinical application. Semen cryopreservation is the only established method for FP in men. Testicular tissue cryopreservation should be recommended in pre-pubertal boys even though fertility restoration strategies by autotransplantation of cryopreserved testicular tissue have not yet been tested for safe clinical use in humans. The establishment of international registries on the short- and long-term outcomes of FP techniques is strongly recommended. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the lack of studies in large cohorts or with a randomized design, the level of evidence for most of the evidence reviewed was three or below. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Further high quality studies are needed to study the long-term outcomes of FP techniques. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Martinez
- Hospital Universitario Dexeus, Gran Via Carlos III, 71-75, 08208 Barcelona, Spain
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Hatırnaz Ş, Ata B, Hatırnaz ES, Dahan MH, Tannus S, Tan J, Tan SL. Oocyte in vitro maturation: A sytematic review. Turk J Obstet Gynecol 2018; 15:112-125. [PMID: 29971189 PMCID: PMC6022428 DOI: 10.4274/tjod.23911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2018] [Accepted: 04/26/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) is one of the most controversial aspects of assisted reproductive technology. Although it has been studied extensively, it is still not a conventional treatment option and is accepted as an alternative treatment. However, studies have shown that IVM can be used in almost all areas where in vitro fertilization (IVF) is used and it has a strong place in fertility protection and Ovarian Hyperstimulation syndrome management. The aim of this systematic review was to address all aspects of the current knowledge of IVM treatment together with the evolution of IVM and IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Şafak Hatırnaz
- Medicana International Hospital, In Vitro Fertilization Center, Samsun, Turkey
| | - Barış Ata
- Koç University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, In Vitro Fertilization Center, İstanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Michael Haim Dahan
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Samer Tannus
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Justin Tan
- Mc Gill University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Quebec, Canada
| | - Seang Lin Tan
- Originelle Women and Reproductive Medicine Center, Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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O'Doherty AM, McGettigan P, Irwin RE, Magee DA, Gagne D, Fournier E, Al-Naib A, Sirard MA, Walsh CP, Robert C, Fair T. Intragenic sequences in the trophectoderm harbour the greatest proportion of methylation errors in day 17 bovine conceptuses generated using assisted reproductive technologies. BMC Genomics 2018; 19:438. [PMID: 29866048 PMCID: PMC5987443 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-018-4818-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are widely used to treat fertility issues in humans and for the production of embryos in mammalian livestock. The use of these techniques, however, is not without consequence as they are often associated with inauspicious pre- and postnatal outcomes including premature birth, intrauterine growth restriction and increased incidence of epigenetic disorders in human and large offspring syndrome in cattle. Here, global DNA methylation profiles in the trophectoderm and embryonic discs of in vitro produced (IVP), superovulation-derived (SOV) and unstimulated, synchronised control day 17 bovine conceptuses (herein referred to as AI) were interrogated using the EmbryoGENE DNA Methylation Array (EDMA). Pyrosequencing was used to validate four loci identified as differentially methylated on the array and to assess the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of six imprinted genes in these conceptuses. The impact of embryo-production induced DNA methylation aberrations was determined using Ingenuity Pathway Analysis, shedding light on the potential functional consequences of these differences. Results Of the total number of differentially methylated loci identified (3140) 77.3 and 22.7% were attributable to SOV and IVP, respectively. Differential methylation was most prominent at intragenic sequences within the trophectoderm of IVP and SOV-derived conceptuses, almost a third (30.8%) of the differentially methylated loci mapped to intragenic regions. Very few differentially methylated loci were detected in embryonic discs (ED); 0.16 and 4.9% of the differentially methylated loci were located in the ED of SOV-derived and IVP conceptuses, respectively. The overall effects of SOV and IVP on the direction of methylation changes were associated with increased methylation; 70.6% of the differentially methylated loci in SOV-derived conceptuses and 57.9% of the loci in IVP-derived conceptuses were more methylated compared to AI-conceptuses. Ontology analysis of probes associated with intragenic sequences suggests enrichment for terms associated with cancer, cell morphology and growth. Conclusion By examining (1) the effects of superovulation and (2) the effects of an in vitro system (oocyte maturation, fertilisation and embryo culture) we have identified that the assisted reproduction process of superovulation alone has the largest impact on the DNA methylome of subsequent embryos. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-018-4818-3) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alan M O'Doherty
- School of Agriculture and Food Science and Lyons Research Farm, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland.
| | - Paul McGettigan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science and Lyons Research Farm, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Rachelle E Irwin
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
| | - David A Magee
- School of Agriculture and Food Science and Lyons Research Farm, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
| | - Dominic Gagne
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Qc, Canada
| | - Eric Fournier
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Qc, Canada
| | - Abdullah Al-Naib
- Department of Animal and Poultry Science, School of Agriculture, Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksberg, VA, USA
| | - Marc-André Sirard
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Qc, Canada
| | - Colum P Walsh
- Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, University of Ulster, Coleraine, UK
| | - Claude Robert
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction (CRBR), Département des Sciences Animales, Université Laval, Québec, Qc, Canada
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science and Lyons Research Farm, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland
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29
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Current perspectives on in vitro maturation and its effects on oocyte genetic and epigenetic profiles. SCIENCE CHINA-LIFE SCIENCES 2018; 61:633-643. [PMID: 29569023 DOI: 10.1007/s11427-017-9280-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2017] [Accepted: 12/26/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM), the maturation in culture of immature oocytes, has been used in clinic for more than 20 years. Although IVM has the specific advantages of low cost and minor side effects over controlled ovarian stimulation, the prevalence of IVM is less than 1% of routine in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer techniques in many reproductive centers. In this review, we searched the MEDLINE database for all full texts and/or abstract articles published in English with content related to oocyte IVM mainly between 2000 and 2016. Many different aspects of the IVM method may influence oocyte potential, including priming, gonadotrophin, growth factors, and culture times. The culture conditions of IVM result in alterations in the oocyte or cumulus cell transcriptome that are not observed under in vivo culture conditions. Additionally, epigenetic modifications, such as DNA methylation or acetylation, are also different between in vitro and in vivo cultured oocytes. In sum, current IVM technique is still not popular and requires more systematic and intensive research to improve its effects and applications. This review will help point our problems, supply evidence or clues for future improving IVM technique, thus assist patients for fertility treatment or preservation as an additional option.
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Dolmans MM. Recent advances in fertility preservation and counseling for female cancer patients. Expert Rev Anticancer Ther 2017; 18:115-120. [PMID: 29220203 DOI: 10.1080/14737140.2018.1415758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Ensuring quality of life for increasing numbers of women surviving cancer has become a key challenge. Patients need to be counseled on potential fertility loss resulting from gonadotoxic treatments, and referred to fertility specialists to discuss existing options and available results. Areas covered: Fertility preservation options have existed for over twenty years. The proposed fertility preservation approach depends on patient age, the urgency of required chemotherapy, and psychosocial factors such as financial concerns, especially in countries where techniques are not covered by social security. Efficacy in terms of pregnancy rates has been demonstrated with frozen-thawed embryos, oocytes and re-implanted ovarian tissue. Appropriate counseling by oncologists is on the increase, despite persistently low rates of referral to fertility specialists. Expert commentary: Access to oncofertility services is steadily improving, facilitated by the growing involvement of public healthcare systems and sustained efforts all over the world to establish specific oncofertility programs. Early referral to reproductive specialists before initiation of chemo/radiotherapy is crucial to success in the field of female fertility preservation. In the near future, efforts should focus on increasing patient referrals and establishing international registries on short- and long-term outcomes of fertility preservation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- a Gynecology Department , Cliniques Universitaires Saint Luc , Brussels , Belgium.,b Gynecology Research Laboratory, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique (IREC) , Université Catholique de Louvain (UCL) , Brussels , Belgium
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31
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Yang ZY, Chian RC. Development of in vitro maturation techniques for clinical applications. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:577-584. [PMID: 28965552 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.08.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2017] [Accepted: 08/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
In vitro maturation (IVM) refers to maturation in culture of immature oocytes at different stages that may or may not have been exposed to short courses of gonadotropins. The source of immature oocytes is an important feature for subsequent embryonic development, pregnancy, and healthy live births. IVM is an effective treatment that has already achieved significant outcomes of acceptable pregnancy and implantation rates and has led to the births of several thousand healthy babies. As the development of IVM treatment continues, an attractive possibility for improving the already successful outcome is to combine a natural-cycle in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment with immature-oocyte retrieval followed by IVM of those immature oocytes. If the treatment processes can be simplified for immature-oocyte retrieval, different types of infertile women may be able to take advantage of these treatments. Mild-stimulation IVF combined with IVM treatment may represent a viable alternative to the standard treatment. Although IVM treatment is still considered to be experimental, it is now time to reconsider the IVM technology and its development. Mild-stimulation IVF combined with IVM may prove to be not just alternatives to standard treatments, but potentially first-line treatment choices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhi-Yong Yang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China
| | - Ri-Cheng Chian
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Tenth People's Hospital of Tongji University, Shanghai, People's Republic of China; Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
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32
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Zhang W, Wu T, Zhang C, Luo L, Xie M, Huang H. Cadmium exposure in newborn rats ovary induces developmental disorders of primordial follicles and the differential expression of SCF/c-kit gene. Toxicol Lett 2017; 280:20-28. [PMID: 28801138 DOI: 10.1016/j.toxlet.2017.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2017] [Revised: 08/01/2017] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Since the 1990s, the rising problem that gonad reproductive toxicity on adult female after exposing to cadmium (Cd), an environmental endocrine disruptor, has attracted high attention at home and abroad,and was systematically studied. Our research focuses on a further problem is that early cadmium exposure (during birth to before puberty) impact on development and function of ovarian cells and its possible mechanism. Our research focuses on the changes of ovarian cells growth and development after the newborn rat ovaries with cadmium exposure in vitro, and different expression of ovarian cells development-related factors, SCF/c-kit and changes of their DNA methylation status. We obtained ovaries from 4-day-old SD rats and cultured them in DMEM/F12 mixed with α-MEM media in vitro. Different doses of cadmium were designed as control, 0.5, 5, 10 and 50μM, and then the constituent ratio of ovarian follicle and follicular oocytes diameter were observed with microscope after 4-h exposure. We found that the increased constituent ratio of original follicle and decreased diameter of all levels of follicular oocytes(compared with control, with statistically significant differences, P<0.01).After the measurement of expression of SCF/c-kit by qRT-PCR and Western Blotting, the mRNA and protein expression of SCF/c-kit in ovarian were both decreased. We further found that the increased constituent ratio of growth follicle and increased diameter of oocytes under the treatment of adding SCF in cell culture media. Finally, MALDI-TOF-MS method showed DNA-low methylation status of SCF/c-kit promoter region after Cd exposure. Overall, we concluded that the exposure of cadimium (5-50μM) on newborn rats ovaries could inhibit follicle development.SCF/c-kit system might mediate follicle development damage caused by cadmium, which is associated with DNA hypomethylation of SCF/c-kit promoter region may be worthy of further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenchang Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment factors and Cancer, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Xueyuan Road No.1, Minhou County, Fuzhou 350108 China.
| | - Tingting Wu
- Fujian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.76 Jintai Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, China
| | - Chenyun Zhang
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment factors and Cancer, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Xueyuan Road No.1, Minhou County, Fuzhou 350108 China
| | - Lingfeng Luo
- Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Environment factors and Cancer, Key Laboratory of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Xueyuan Road No.1, Minhou County, Fuzhou 350108 China
| | - Meimei Xie
- Fujian Center for Disease Control and Prevention, No.76 Jintai Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, China
| | - Huiling Huang
- Union Hospital of Fujian Medical University, No.29 Xinquan Road, Fuzhou, Fujian, 350001, China.
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33
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Martinez F. Update on fertility preservation from the Barcelona International Society for Fertility Preservation-ESHRE-ASRM 2015 expert meeting: indications, results and future perspectives. Fertil Steril 2017; 108:407-415.e11. [PMID: 28739117 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2017.05.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2017] [Accepted: 05/19/2017] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What progress has been made in fertility preservation (FP) over the last decade? SUMMARY ANSWER FP techniques have been widely adopted over the last decade and therefore the establishment of international registries on their short- and long-term outcomes is strongly recommended. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FP is a fundamental issue for both males and females whose future fertility may be compromised. Reproductive capacity may be seriously affected by age, different medical conditions and also by treatments, especially those with gonadal toxicity. There is general consensus on the need to provide counselling about currently available FP options to all individuals wishing to preserve their fertility. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION An international meeting with representatives from expert scientific societies involved in FP was held in Barcelona, Spain, in June 2015. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Twenty international FP experts belonging to the American Society of Reproductive Medicine, ESHRE and the International Society of Fertility Preservation reviewed the literature up to June 2015 to be discussed at the meeting, and approved the final manuscript. At the time this manuscript was being written, new evidence considered relevant for the debated topics was published, and was consequently included. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Several oncological and non-oncological diseases may affect current or future fertility, either caused by the disease itself or the gonadotoxic treatment, and need an adequate FP approach. Women wishing to postpone maternity and transgender individuals before starting hormone therapy or undergoing surgery to remove/alter their reproductive organs should also be counselled accordingly. Embryo and oocyte cryopreservation are first-line FP methods in postpubertal women. Metaphase II oocyte cryopreservation (vitrification) is the preferred option. Cumulative evidence of restoration of ovarian function and spontaneous pregnancies after ART following orthotopic transplantation of cryopreserved ovarian tissue supports its future consideration as an open clinical application. Semen cryopreservation is the only established method for FP in men. Testicular tissue cryopreservation should be recommended in pre-pubertal boys even though fertility restoration strategies by autotransplantation of cryopreserved testicular tissue have not yet been tested for safe clinical use in humans. The establishment of international registries on the short- and long-term outcomes of FP techniques is strongly recommended. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Given the lack of studies in large cohorts or with a randomized design, the level of evidence for most of the evidence reviewed was 3 or below. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Further high quality studies are needed to study the long-term outcomes of FP techniques. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisca Martinez
- Hospital Universitario Dexeus, Gran Via Carlos III, 71-75, 08208, Barcelona, Spain.
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34
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Guzel Y, Oktem O. Understanding follicle growth in vitro: Are we getting closer to obtaining mature oocytes from in vitro-grown follicles in human? Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:544-559. [PMID: 28452156 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22822] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2017] [Revised: 03/06/2017] [Accepted: 04/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Obtaining and fertilizing mature oocytes from immature follicles that were grown outside the body has conceptually attracted scientists for centuries, with initial attempts first documented in the 19th century. Significant progress has been made since then, due in part to a better understanding of folliculogenesis and improved techniques of in vitro follicle growth. Indeed, in vitro growth is now considered a reasonable approach to preserve or restore fertility when immature follicles and their oocytes need to be grown and matured outside the body. Certain patients would benefit from in vitro follicle growth, particularly those who carry a risk of cancer re-seeding after grafting of frozen-thawed ovarian tissue or who are at the risk of premature ovarian failure due to several intrinsic ovarian defects and genetic mutations that lead to accelerated follicle atresia and early exhaustion of the ovarian reserve. This review provides an update on the current status of in vitro growth of preantral human follicles, from initial efforts to the most recent achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yilmaz Guzel
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istanbul Aydin University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Ozgur Oktem
- Division Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Koc University School of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey.,Women's Health Center, Assisted Reproduction Unit, American Hospital, Istanbul, Turkey
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35
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Fesahat F, Dehghani Firouzabadi R, Faramarzi A, Khalili MA. The effects of different types of media on in vitro maturation outcomes of human germinal vesicle oocytes retrieved in intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2017; 44:79-84. [PMID: 28795046 PMCID: PMC5545223 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2017.44.2.79] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Revised: 04/03/2017] [Accepted: 05/17/2017] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Optimizing in vitro maturation (IVM) media to achieve better outcomes has been a matter of interest in recent years. The aim of this prospective clinical trial was to investigate the effects of different media on the IVM outcomes of immature oocytes at the germinal vesicle (GV) stage. METHODS A total of 400 immature oocytes at the GV stage with normal morphology were retrieved from 320 infertile women aged 31±4.63 years during stimulated intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. They were divided into groups of homemade IVM medium (I, n=100), cleavage medium (II, n=100), blastocyst medium (III, n=100), and Sage IVM medium (IV, n=100) and cultured for 24 to 48 hours at 37℃. ICSI was performed, and the rates of fertilization and embryo formation were compared across the four groups. RESULTS In the 400 retrieved GV oocytes, the total maturation rates showed significant differences in groups I to IV (55%, 53%, 78%, and 68%, respectively, p<0.001). However, there were no significant differences in the fertilization, embryo formation, or arrest rates of metaphase II oocytes across these groups. In all groups, GV maturation was mostly completed after 24 hours, with fewer oocytes requiring 48 hours to mature (p<0.01). Moreover, the rate of high-quality embryos was higher in group IV than in the other groups (p=0.01). CONCLUSION The quality of the IVM medium was found to affect clinical IVM outcomes. Additionally, blastocyst medium may be a good choice in IVM/ICSI cycles as an alternative IVM medium.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Fesahat
- Department of Genetics, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | | | - Azita Faramarzi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran
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36
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Liu Y, Tang Y, Ye D, Ma W, Feng S, Li X, Zhou X, Chen X, Chen S. Impact of Abnormal DNA Methylation of Imprinted Loci on Human Spontaneous Abortion. Reprod Sci 2017; 25:131-139. [PMID: 28443481 DOI: 10.1177/1933719117704906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
Currently, there is a growing concern regarding the safety of assisted reproductive technology (ART) due to increased risk of spontaneous abortion (SA) and imprinting disorders in ART-conceived offspring. Early investigations suggested that aberrant genetic imprinting may be related to pregnancy loss; however, few studies have used human tissue specimens. Here the DNA methylation patterns of 3 imprinted genes, including maternally inherited GRB10 and the paternally inherited IGF2 and PEG3 genes, were evaluated in human chorionic villus samples by pyrosequencing and bisulfite sequencing polymerase chain reaction. The samples were divided into 4 groups: (1) SA of natural conception (NC; n = 84), (2) induced abortion of NC (n = 94), (3) SA after ART (n = 73), and (4) fetal reduction after ART (n = 86). The methylation levels and the percentages of abnormal methylation of the IGF2, GRB10, and PEG3 genes between the ART group and the NC group showed no significant difference. Both IGF2 and GRB10 genes showed higher methylation levels in the SA group compared to the non-SA group. Additionally, determining the single-nucleotide polymorphisms of 4 loci, including IGF2 rs3741205, rs3741206, rs3741211, and GRB10 rs2237457, showed that the TC+CC genotype of IGF2 rs3741211 had a 1.91-fold increased risk of SA after ART. However, there was no association between the mutant genotype of IGF2 rs3741211 and the methylation levels of IGF2 and H19, and ART might not affect the distribution of the abovementioned genotypes. It provides support for the opinion that genetic imprinting defects may be associated with SA, which might not be due to ART treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yudong Liu
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Yan Tang
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China.,2 Center of Reproductive Medicine, Zhongshan City People's Hospital, Zhongshan, People's Republic of China
| | - Desheng Ye
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Weixu Ma
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shuxian Feng
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xuelan Li
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xingyu Zhou
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Chen
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
| | - Shiling Chen
- 1 Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou, People's Republic of China
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Combelles CM. In VitroMaturation of Human Oocytes: Current Practices and Future Promises. Hum Reprod 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118849613.ch2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
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Palomba S, Homburg R, Santagni S, La Sala GB, Orvieto R. Risk of adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcomes after high technology infertility treatment: a comprehensive systematic review. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2016; 14:76. [PMID: 27814762 PMCID: PMC5097409 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-016-0211-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 10/26/2016] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
In the literature, there is growing evidence that subfertile patients who conceived after infertility treatments have an increased risk of pregnancy and perinatal complications and this is particularly true for patients who conceived through use of high technology infertility treatments. Moreover, high technology infertility treatments include many concomitant clinical and biological risk factors. This review aims to summarize in a systematic fashion the current evidence regarding the relative effect of the different procedures for high technology infertility treatments on the risk of adverse pregnancy and perinatal outcome. A literature search up to August 2016 was performed in IBSS, SocINDEX, Institute for Scientific Information, PubMed, Web of Science and Google Scholar and an evidence-based hierarchy was used to determine which articles to include and analyze. Data on prepregnancy maternal factors, low technology interventions, specific procedures for male factor, ovarian tissue/ovary and uterus transplantation, and chromosomal abnormalities and malformations of the offspring were excluded. The available evidences were analyzed assessing the level and the quality of evidence according to the Oxford Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine guidelines and the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, respectively. Current review highlights that every single procedure of high technology infertility treatments can play a crucial role in increasing the risk of pregnancy and perinatal complications. Due to the suboptimal level and quality of the current evidence, further well-designed studies are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stefano Palomba
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova (ASMN)-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Roy Homburg
- Homerton Fertility Unit, Homerton University Hospital, Homerton Row, London, UK
| | - Susanna Santagni
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova (ASMN)-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Giovanni Battista La Sala
- Center of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Arcispedale Santa Maria Nuova (ASMN)-Istituto di Ricovero e Cura a Carattere Scientifico (IRCCS), Viale Risorgimento 80, 42123 Reggio Emilia, Italy
- University of Modena, Reggio Emilia, Italy
| | - Raoul Orvieto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Center (Tel Hashomer), Ramat Gan, Israel
- Sackler Faculty of Medicine, Tel Aviv University, Tel Aviv, Israel
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Petrussa L, Van de Velde H, De Rycke M. Similar kinetics for 5-methylcytosine and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine during human preimplantation development in vitro. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:594-605. [PMID: 27163211 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22656] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2016] [Accepted: 05/07/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
After fertilization, the mammalian embryo undergoes epigenetic reprogramming with genome-wide DNA demethylation and subsequent remethylation. Oxidation of 5-methylcytosine (5mC) into 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) was suggested to be an intermediate step in the DNA demethylation pathway. Other evidence, such as the stability of 5hmC in specific tissues, suggests that 5hmC constitutes a new epigenetic modification with its own biological function. Since few studies have been conducted on human material compared to animal models and species-specific epigenetic differences have been reported, we studied global DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation patterns in human in vitro preimplantation embryos using immunocytochemistry, comparing these patterns in good-quality and abnormally developing embryos. Our data showed that DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation modifications co-exist. 5mC and 5hmC signals were found in oocytes and in paternal and maternal pronuclei of zygotes, present in non-reciprocal patterns-which contrasts published data for the mouse. These two epigenetic modifications are present between Days 1 and 7 of in vitro development, with 5mC levels declining over cell divisions without noticeable remethylation during this period. A main decline in 5mC and 5hmC occurred as the embryo progressed from compaction to the blastocyst stage. No difference in (hydroxy)methylation was found between the inner cell mass and trophectoderm. When comparing normally and abnormally developing embryos, DNA (hydroxy)methylation reprogramming was abnormal in poor-quality embryos, especially during the first cleavages. Mol. Reprod. Dev. 83: 594-605, 2016 © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Petrussa
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hilde Van de Velde
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium.,Centre for Reproductive Medicine (CRM), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine De Rycke
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium.,Centre for Medical Genetics (CMG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
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Harada M, Osuga Y. Where are oncofertility and fertility preservation treatments heading in 2016? Future Oncol 2016; 12:2313-21. [PMID: 27328888 DOI: 10.2217/fon-2016-0161] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
An improvement in the survival rates of cancer patients and recent advancements in assisted reproductive technologies have led to remarkable progress in oncofertility and fertility preservation treatments. Although there are several available or emerging approaches for fertility preservation, the limited evidence for each strategy is the greatest concern. In this review, we discuss the concerns on currently available options, and propose new approaches for fertility preservation that may be available in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miyuki Harada
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
| | - Yutaka Osuga
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Tokyo, 7-3-1, Hongo, Bunkyo, Tokyo, 113-8655, Japan
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick Lonergan
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland;
| | - Trudee Fair
- School of Agriculture and Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin 4, Ireland;
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Saenz-de-Juano MD, Billooye K, Smitz J, Anckaert E. The loss of imprinted DNA methylation in mouse blastocysts is inflicted to a similar extent by in vitro follicle culture and ovulation induction. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:427-41. [PMID: 26908643 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaw013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 01/29/2016] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY HYPOTHESIS Does in vitro follicle culture (IFC) have an effect on maintenance of imprinted DNA methylation in preimplantation mouse embryos? STUDY FINDING We report similar alterations in the methylation pattern of H19 imprinted maternally expressed transcript (H19), small nuclear ribonucleoprotein polypeptide N (Snrpn) and mesoderm specific transcript (Mest) imprinted genes in mouse blastocysts obtained after ovulation induction and IFC. Furthermore, we observed no differences in the gene expression of maternal effect proteins related with imprinting maintenance between superovulated in vivo grown or IFC oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Assisted reproductive technology is associated with adverse post-natal outcomes such as increased risk of premature birth, altered birthweight, congenital anomalies and genomic imprinting syndromes in human and in animal models. Previous studies have shown that ovulation induction allowed normal imprinting establishment in mouse oocytes, but interfered with imprinting maintenance during preimplantation . Normal imprinting establishment was also observed in mouse oocytes derived from a standardized IFC from the early pre-antral follicle stage. STUDY DESIGN, SAMPLES/MATERIALS, METHODS The methylation profiles of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) of three key imprinted genes (H19, Snrpn and Mest) were compared at hatched blastocyst stage between embryos obtained from IFC or superovulated oocytes, each subjected to IVF and preimplantation in vitro culture (IVC); in non-manipulated in vivo produced late blastocyst (control) and in in vivo produced 2-cell embryos that were in vitro cultured until the hatched blastocyst stage (to assess the effect of IVC). Two different mice strains (Mus musculus C57BL/6J X CBA/Ca and Mus musculus B6 (CAST7)) were used to discriminate between maternal and paternal alleles of imprinted genes. Additionally, a limiting-dilution bisulfite-sequencing technique was carried out on individual embryos in order to avoid amplification bias. To assess whether IFC and ovulation induction differentially affect the mRNA expression of imprinting maintenance genes in the oocyte, a comparison of DNA methyltransferase 1 (Dnmt1o), methyl-CpG binding domain protein 3 (MBD3) and developmental pluripotency-associated 3 (Dppa3) was performed by qPCR between in vivo and in vitro grown oocytes at the germinal vesicle and metaphase II (MII) stage. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Results showed a loss of global imprinted DNA methylation in all in vitro manipulated embryos, due to an increase in the amount of abnormal alleles (<50% methylated). Importantly, there were no differences in blastocysts obtained from IFC and ovulation induction. Moreover, similar mRNA expression levels for Dnmt1o, MBD3 and Dppa3 genes were observed in IFC and stimulated oocytes. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The methylation analysis was restricted to a number of well-selected imprinted genes. Future studies need to determine whether ovulation induction and IFC affect maternal effect factors at the protein level. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In vitro maturation of oocytes (IVM) is a patient-friendly alternative to conventional ovarian stimulation in PCOS patients. IFC is an emerging technology in human oncofertility. The results of this study show for the first time that in vitro oocyte culture induces no additional epigenetic alterations compared with conventional ovulation induction, at least for imprinted genes at the hatched blastocyst stage. The mouse IFC system can be used to test the sensitivity of the oocyte during its growth and maturation to several nutritional, metabolic and hormonal conditions possibly linked to epigenetic alterations. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTERESTS This study received funding by Strategic Research Programs-Groeiers (OZR/2014/97), IWT/TBM/110680 and by UZ Brussel Fonds Willy Gepts (WFWG 2013). There is no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- M D Saenz-de-Juano
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - K Billooye
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Smitz
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Anckaert
- Follicle Biology Laboratory, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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Hoeijmakers L, Kempe H, Verschure PJ. Epigenetic imprinting during assisted reproductive technologies: The effect of temporal and cumulative fluctuations in methionine cycling on the DNA methylation state. Mol Reprod Dev 2016; 83:94-107. [PMID: 26660493 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2015] [Accepted: 12/04/2015] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lianne Hoeijmakers
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - Hermannus Kempe
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam the Netherlands
| | - Pernette J. Verschure
- Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam the Netherlands
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Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the safety and risk of cryopreservation in female fertility preservation. Data sources: The data analyzed in this review were the English articles from 1980 to 2013 from journal databases, primarily PubMed and Google scholar. The criteria used in the literature search show as following: (1) human; embryo; cryopreservation/freezing/vitrification, (2) human; oocyte/immature oocyte; cryopreservation/ freezing/vitrification, (3) human; ovarian tissue transplantation; cryopreservation/freezing/vitrification, (4) human; aneuploidy/DNA damage/epigenetic; cryopreservation/freezing/vitrification, and (5) human; fertility preservation; maternal age. Study selection: The risk ratios based on survival rate, maturation rate, fertilization rate, cleavage rate, implantation rate, pregnancy rate, and clinical risk rate were acquired from relevant meta-analysis studies. These studies included randomized controlled trials or studies with one of the primary outcome measures covering cryopreservation of human mature oocytes, embryos, and ovarian tissues within the last 7 years (from 2006 to 2013, since the pregnancy rates of oocyte vitrification were significantly increased due to the improved techniques). The data involving immature oocyte cryopreservation obtained from individual studies was also reviewed by the authors. Results: Vitrifications of mature oocytes and embryos obtained better clinical outcomes and did not increase the risks of DNA damage, spindle configuration, embryonic aneuploidy, and genomic imprinting as compared with fresh and slow-freezing procedures, respectively. Conclusions: Both embryo and oocyte vitrifications are safe applications in female fertility preservation.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Jie Qiao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
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Edwards N, Farookhi R, Clarke HJ. Identification of a β-galactosidase transgene that provides a live-cell marker of transcriptional activity in growing oocytes and embryos. Mol Hum Reprod 2015; 21:583-93. [PMID: 25882542 PMCID: PMC4487448 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2014] [Revised: 03/27/2015] [Accepted: 04/09/2015] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Identifying the events and molecular mechanisms that regulate oocyte growth has emerged as a key objective of research in human fertility, fuelled by evidence from human and animal studies indicating that disease and environmental factors can act on oocytes to affect the health of the resulting individual and by efforts to grow oocytes in vitro to enable fertility preservation of cancer survivors. Techniques that monitor the development of growing oocytes would be valuable tools to assess the progression of growth under different conditions. Most methods used to assess oocytes grown in vitro are indirect, however, relying on characteristics of the somatic compartment of the follicle, or compromise the oocyte, preventing its subsequent culture or fertilization. We investigated the utility of T-cell factor/lymphoid enhancer-binding factor (TCF/Lef)-LacZ transgene expression as a predictor of global transcriptional activity in oocytes and early embryos. Using a fluorescent β-galactosidase substrate combined with live-cell imaging, we show that TCF/Lef-LacZ transgene expression is detectable in growing oocytes, lost in fully grown oocytes and resumes in late two-cell embryos. Transgene expression is likely regulated by a Wnt-independent mechanism. Using chromatin analysis, LacZ expression and methods to monitor and inhibit transcription, we show that TCF/Lef-LacZ expression mirrors transcriptional activity in oocytes and preimplantation embryos. Oocytes and preimplantation embryos that undergo live-cell imaging for TCF/Lef-LacZ expression are able to continue development in vitro. TCF/Lef-LacZ reporter expression in living oocytes and early embryos is thus a sensitive and faithful marker of transcriptional activity that can be used to monitor and optimize conditions for oocyte growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicole Edwards
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Riaz Farookhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Department of Physiology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Hugh J Clarke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, QC, Canada Department of Experimental Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada Department of Biology, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
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Fan Y, Zhao HC, Liu J, Tan T, Ding T, Li R, Zhao Y, Yan J, Sun X, Yu Y, Qiao J. Aberrant expression of maternal Plk1 and Dctn3 results in the developmental failure of human in-vivo- and in-vitro-matured oocytes. Sci Rep 2015; 5:8192. [PMID: 25645239 PMCID: PMC4314639 DOI: 10.1038/srep08192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2014] [Accepted: 01/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Fertilisation is the first step in embryonic development, and dynamic changes of key genes may potentially improve assisted reproduction techniques efficiency during this process. Here, we analysed genes that were differentially expressed between oocytes and zygotes and focused on cytokinesis-related genes. Plk1 and Dctn3 were identified as showing dramatic changes in expression during fertilisation and were suggested to play a key role in inducing aneuploidy in zygotes and 8-cell embryos. Moreover, we found that maternal Plk1 and Dctn3 were expressed at lower levels in in vitro matured oocytes, which may have contributed to the high ratio of resulting embryos with abnormal Plk1 and Dctn3 expression levels, thereby reducing the developmental competence of the resulting embryos. Furthermore, the overexpression of Dctn3 can silence Plk1 expression, which suggests a potential regulation mechanism. In conclusion, our present study showed that aberrant expression of Plk1 and Dctn3 increases embryo aneuploidy and developmental failure, particularly in in vitro matured oocytes. Our results facilitate a better understanding of the effects of oocyte maternal gene expression on embryonic development and can be used to improve the outcome of assisted reproduction techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yong Fan
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Hong-Cui Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jianqiao Liu
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Tao Tan
- Yunnan Key Laboratory of Primate Biomedical Research and Kunming Biomed International and National Engineering Research Center of Biomedicine and Animal Science, Kunming, 650500, China
| | - Ting Ding
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Yue Zhao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Xiaofang Sun
- Key Laboratory for Major Obstetric Diseases of Guangdong Province, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University, Guangzhou, 510150, China
| | - Yang Yu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproductive Technology, Beijing, 100191, China
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The impact of assisted reproductive technologies on genomic imprinting and imprinting disorders. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2015; 26:210-21. [PMID: 24752003 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Genomic imprinting refers to preferential allele-specific gene expression. DNA methylation-based molecular mechanisms regulate establishment and maintenance of parental imprints during early embryo development and gametogenesis. Because of the coincident timing, a potential association between assisted reproductive technology (ART) procedures and imprinting defects has been investigated in various studies. In this review, we provide an overview of genomic imprinting and present a summary of the relevant clinical data. RECENT FINDINGS ART procedures affect DNA methylation pattern, parental imprinting status, and imprinted gene expression in the mouse embryo. In humans, several case series suggested an association between ART and imprinting disorders, with a three-fold to six-fold higher prevalence of ART use among children born with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome compared to the general population. However, more recent studies failed to support these findings and could not demonstrate an association between imprinting disorders and ARTs, independent of subfertility. SUMMARY ART procedures may affect methylation status of imprinted regions in the DNA, leading to imprinting disorders. Although the low prevalence of imprinting disorders makes it challenging to perform conclusive clinical trials, further studies in large registries are required to determine the real impact of ARTs on their occurrence.
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Gu L, Liu H, Gu X, Boots C, Moley KH, Wang Q. Metabolic control of oocyte development: linking maternal nutrition and reproductive outcomes. Cell Mol Life Sci 2014; 72:251-71. [PMID: 25280482 DOI: 10.1007/s00018-014-1739-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2014] [Revised: 09/12/2014] [Accepted: 09/22/2014] [Indexed: 02/01/2023]
Abstract
Obesity, diabetes, and related metabolic disorders are major health issues worldwide. As the epidemic of metabolic disorders continues, the associated medical co-morbidities, including the detrimental impact on reproduction, increase as well. Emerging evidence suggests that the effects of maternal nutrition on reproductive outcomes are likely to be mediated, at least in part, by oocyte metabolism. Well-balanced and timed energy metabolism is critical for optimal development of oocytes. To date, much of our understanding of oocyte metabolism comes from the effects of extrinsic nutrients on oocyte maturation. In contrast, intrinsic regulation of oocyte development by metabolic enzymes, intracellular mediators, and transport systems is less characterized. Specifically, decreased acid transport proteins levels, increased glucose/lipid content and elevated reactive oxygen species in oocytes have been implicated in meiotic defects, organelle dysfunction and epigenetic alteration. Therefore, metabolic disturbances in oocytes may contribute to the diminished reproductive potential experienced by women with metabolic disorders. In-depth research is needed to further explore the underlying mechanisms. This review also discusses several approaches for metabolic analysis. Metabolomic profiling of oocytes, the surrounding granulosa cells, and follicular fluid will uncover the metabolic networks regulating oocyte development, potentially leading to the identification of oocyte quality markers and prevention of reproductive disease and poor outcomes in offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ling Gu
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Nanjing Agricultural University, 1 Weigang, Nanjing, 210095, Jiangsu, China,
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Petrussa L, Van de Velde H, De Rycke M. Dynamic regulation of DNA methyltransferases in human oocytes and preimplantation embryos after assisted reproductive technologies. Mol Hum Reprod 2014; 20:861-74. [PMID: 24994815 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gau049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
DNA methylation is a key epigenetic modification which is essential for normal embryonic development. Major epigenetic reprogramming takes place during gametogenesis and in the early embryo; the complex DNA methylation patterns are established and maintained by DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs). However, the influence of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) on DNA methylation reprogramming enzymes has predominantly been studied in mice and less so in human oocytes and embryos. The expression and localization patterns of the four known DNMTs were analysed in human oocytes and IVF/ICSI embryos by immunocytochemistry and compared between a reference group of good quality fresh embryos and groups of abnormally developing embryos or embryo groups after cryopreservation. In humans, DNMT1o rather than DNMT1s seems to be the key player for maintaining methylation in early embryos. DNMT3b, rather than DNMT3a and DNMT3L, appears to ensure global DNA remethylation in the blastocysts before implantation. DNMT3L, an important regulator of maternal imprint methylation in mouse, was not detected in human oocytes (GV, MI and MII stage). Our study confirms the existence of species differences for mammalian DNA methylation enzymes. In poor quality fresh embryos, the switch towards nuclear DNMT3b expression was delayed and nuclear DNMT1, DNMT1s and DNMT3b expression was less common. Compared with the reference embryos, a smaller number of cryopreserved embryos showed nuclear DNMT1, while a delayed switch to nuclear DNMT3b and an extended DNMT1s temporal expression pattern were also observed. The spatial and temporal expression patterns of DNMTs seem to be disturbed in abnormally developing embryos and in embryos that have been cryopreserved. Further research must be performed in order to understand whether the potentially disturbed embryonic DNMT expression after cryopreservation has any long-term developmental consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Petrussa
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Hilde Van de Velde
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium Centre for Reproductive Medicine (CRM), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Martine De Rycke
- Department of Reproduction and Genetics (REGE), Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 103, 1090 Brussels, Belgium Centre for Medical Genetics (CMG), Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
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50
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Abstract
It has long been established that germline stem cells (GSCs) are responsible for lifelong gametogenesis in males, and some female invertebrates (for example, Drosophila) and lower vertebrates (for example, teleost fish and some prosimians) also appear to rely on GSCs to replenish their oocyte reserve in adulthood. However, the presence of such cells in the majority of female mammals is controversial, and the idea of a fixed ovarian reserve determined at birth is the prevailing belief among reproductive biologists. However, accumulating evidence demonstrates the isolation and culture of putative GSCs from the ovaries of adult mice and humans. Live offspring have been reportedly produced from the culture of adult mouse GSCs, and human GSCs formed primordial follicles using a mouse xenograft model. If GSCs were present in adult female ovaries, it could be postulated that the occurrence of menopause is not due to the exhaustion of a fixed supply of oocytes but instead is a result of GSC and somatic cell aging. Alternatively, they may be benign under normal physiological conditions. If their existence were confirmed, female GSCs could have many potential applications in both basic science and clinical therapies. GSCs not only may provide a valuable model for germ cell development and maturation but may have a role in the field of fertility preservation, with women potentially being able to store GSCs or GSC-derived oocytes from their own ovaries prior to infertility-inducing treatments. Essential future work in this field will include further independent corroboration of the existence of GSCs in female mammals and the demonstration of the production of mature competent oocytes from GSCs cultured entirely in vitro.
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