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Li M, Ji Y, Wang D, Zhang Y, Zhang H, Tang Y, Lin G, Hu L. Evaluation of Laser Confocal Raman Spectroscopy as a Non-Invasive Method for Detecting Sperm DNA Contents. Front Physiol 2022; 13:827941. [PMID: 35211034 PMCID: PMC8861532 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.827941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is Raman spectroscopy an efficient and accurate method to detect sperm chromosome balance state by DNA content differences? DESIGN Semen samples were provided by diploid healthy men, and the analysis parameters met the current World Health Organization standards. The DNA content was assessed by analysis of the corresponding spectra obtained from a laser confocal Raman spectroscope. The sperm sex chromosome information was obtained by fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). Comparative analysis was performed between FISH results and Raman spectral analysis results. RESULTS Different parts of the sperm head showed different spectral signal intensities, which indicated that there were different chemical components. Standard principal component analysis (PCA) can preliminarily classify sperm with different DNA contents into two groups. Further analysis showed that there were significant differences in the 785 DNA backbone peaks and 714-1,162 cm-1 DNA skeleton regions among sperm with different DNA contents. The peak and regional peak of the DNA skeleton of X sperm were significantly higher than those of Y sperm (X vs. Y, p < 0.05). The above sperm types were confirmed by FISH. ROC curve analysis shows that there is a correlation between the Raman spectrum data and FISH results. CONCLUSION Raman spectroscopy can identify X and Y sperms by analyzing the DNA content difference. However, the accuracy of the detection still needs to be improved. Nevertheless, Raman spectroscopy has a potential application value in the field of sperm aneuploidy detection and may even be used as a non-invasive predictor of sperm aneuploid state in preimplantation genetic testing (PGT-A).
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Affiliation(s)
- Mengge Li
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, China.,Hunan Guangxiu Hospital, Changsha, China
| | - Yaxing Ji
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | | | - Huan Zhang
- NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
| | - Yi Tang
- Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Lin
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China
| | - Liang Hu
- National Engineering and Research Center of Human Stem Cells, Changsha, China.,NHC Key Laboratory of Human Stem Cell and Reproductive Engineering, Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Clinical Research Center for Reproduction and Genetics in Hunan Province, Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Hunan International Scientific and Technological Cooperation Base of Development and Carcinogenesis, Changsha, China
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2
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Zhang F, Tan Y, Ding J, Cao D, Gong Y, Zhang Y, Yang J, Yin T. Application and Progress of Raman Spectroscopy in Male Reproductive System. Front Cell Dev Biol 2022; 9:823546. [PMID: 35096844 PMCID: PMC8791646 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.823546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2021] [Accepted: 12/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy is a fast-developing, unmarked, non-invasive, non-destructive technique which allows for real-time scanning and sampling of biological samples in situ, reflecting the subtle biochemical composition alterations of tissues and cells through the variations of spectra. It has great potential to identify pathological tissue and provide intraoperative assistance in clinic. Raman spectroscopy has made many exciting achievements in the study of male reproductive system. In this review, we summarized literatures about the application and progress of Raman spectroscopy in male reproductive system from PubMed and Ovid databases, using MeSH terms associated to Raman spectroscopy, prostate, testis, seminal plasma and sperm. The existing challenges and development opportunities were also discussed and prospected.
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Affiliation(s)
- Feng Zhang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Yiling Tan
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinli Ding
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Dishuang Cao
- College of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yanan Gong
- College of Optometry and Ophthalmology, Tianjin Medical University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Department of Clinical Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Yang
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Tailang Yin
- Reproductive Medical Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
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3
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Huang X, Hong L, Wu Y, Chen M, Kong P, Ruan J, Teng X, Wei Z. Raman Spectrum of Follicular Fluid: A Potential Biomarker for Oocyte Developmental Competence in Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:777224. [PMID: 34858993 PMCID: PMC8632455 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.777224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine and metabolic disorder in reproductive women where abnormal folliculogenesis is considered as a common characteristic. Our aim is to evaluate the potential of follicular fluid (FF) Raman spectra to predict embryo development and pregnancy outcome, so as to prioritize the best promising embryo for implantation, reducing both physiological and economical burdens of PCOS patients. In addition, the altered metabolic profiles will be identified to explore the aetiology and pathobiology of PCOS. In this study, follicular fluid samples obtained from 150 PCOS and 150 non-PCOS women were measured with Raman spectroscopy. Individual Raman spectrum was analyzed to find biologic components contributing to the occurrence of PCOS. More importantly, the Raman spectra of follicular fluid from the 150 PCOS patients were analyzed via machine-learning algorithms to evaluate their predictive value for oocyte development potential and clinical pregnancy. Mean-centered Raman spectra and principal component analysis (PCA) showed global differences in the footprints of follicular fluid between PCOS and non-PCOS women. Two Raman zones (993-1,165 cm-1 and 1,439-1,678 cm-1) were identified for describing the largest variances between the two groups, with the former higher and the latter lower in PCOS FF. The tentative assignments of corresponding Raman bands included phenylalanine and β -carotene. Moreover, it was found that FF, in which oocytes would develop into high-quality blastocysts and obtain high clinical pregnancy rate, were detected with lower quantification of the integration at 993-1,165 cm-1 and higher quantification of the integration at 1,439-1,678 cm-1 in PCOS. In addition, based on Raman spectra of PCOS FF, the machine-learning algorithms via the fully connected artificial neural network (ANN) achieved the overall accuracies of 90 and 74% in correctly assigning oocyte developmental potential and clinical pregnancy, respectively. The study suggests that the PCOS displays unique metabolic profiles in follicular fluid which could be detected by Raman spectroscopy. Specific bands in Raman spectra have the biomarker potential to predict the embryo development and pregnancy outcome for PCOS patients. Importantly, these data may provide some valuable biochemical information and metabolic signatures that will help us to understand the abnormal follicular development in PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Huang
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ling Hong
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuanyuan Wu
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Miaoxin Chen
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Pengcheng Kong
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jingling Ruan
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoming Teng
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
| | - Zhiyun Wei
- Department of Assisted Reproduction, Shanghai Key Laboratory of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, School of Medicine, Tongji University, Shanghai, China
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4
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Brogna R, Fan J, Sieme H, Wolkers WF, Oldenhof H. Drying and temperature induced conformational changes of nucleic acids and stallion sperm chromatin in trehalose preservation formulations. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14076. [PMID: 34234244 PMCID: PMC8263733 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-93569-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though dried sperm is not viable, it can be used for fertilization as long as its chromatin remains intact. In this study, we investigated drying- and temperature-induced conformational changes of nucleic acids and stallion sperm chromatin. Sperm was diluted in preservation formulations with and without sugar/albumin and subjected to convective drying at elevated temperatures on glass substrates. Accumulation of reactive oxygen species was studied during storage at different temperatures, and the sperm chromatin structure assay was used to assess DNA damage. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy was used to identify dehydration and storage induced conformational changes in isolated DNA and sperm chromatin. Furthermore, hydrogen bonding in the preservation solutions associated with storage stability were investigated. Reactive oxygen species and DNA damage in dried sperm samples were found to accumulate with increasing storage temperature and storage duration. Non-reducing disaccharides (i.e., trehalose, sucrose) and albumin counteracted oxidative stress and preserved sperm chromatin during dried storage, whereas glucose increased DNA damage during storage. When sperm was dried in the presence of trehalose and albumin, no spectral changes were detected during storage at refrigeration temperatures, whereas under accelerated aging conditions, i.e., storage at 37 °C, spectral changes were detected indicating alterations in sperm chromatin structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raffaele Brogna
- Biostabilization Laboratory, Lower Saxony Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Juezhu Fan
- Biostabilization Laboratory, Lower Saxony Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
| | - Harald Sieme
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Willem F Wolkers
- Biostabilization Laboratory, Lower Saxony Centre for Biomedical Engineering, Implant Research and Development, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Hannover, Germany
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany
| | - Harriëtte Oldenhof
- Unit for Reproductive Medicine, Clinic for Horses, University of Veterinary Medicine Hannover, Bünteweg 15, 30559, Hannover, Germany.
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5
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Aydos K, Aydos OS. Sperm Selection Procedures for Optimizing the Outcome of ICSI in Patients with NOA. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10122687. [PMID: 34207121 PMCID: PMC8234729 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10122687] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 06/13/2021] [Accepted: 06/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Retrieving spermatozoa from the testicles has been a great hope for patients with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA), but relevant methods have not yet been developed to the level necessary to provide resolutions for all cases of NOA. Although performing testicular sperm extraction under microscopic magnification has increased sperm retrieval rates, in vitro selection and processing of quality sperm plays an essential role in the success of in vitro fertilization. Moreover, sperm cryopreservation is widely used in assisted reproductive technologies, whether for therapeutic purposes or for future fertility preservation. In recent years, there have been new developments using advanced technologies to freeze and preserve even very small numbers of sperm for which conventional techniques are inadequate. The present review provides an up-to-date summary of current strategies for maximizing sperm recovery from surgically obtained testicular samples and, as an extension, optimization of in vitro sperm processing techniques in the management of NOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kaan Aydos
- Department of Urology, Reproductive Health Research Center, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +90-533-748-8995
| | - Oya Sena Aydos
- Department of Medical Biology, School of Medicine, University of Ankara, 06230 Ankara, Turkey;
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6
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Rammal H, Al Assaad A, Dosio F, Stella B, Maksimenko A, Mura S, Van Gulick L, Callewaert M, Desmaële D, Couvreur P, Morjani H, Beljebbar A. Investigation of squalene-doxorubicin distribution and interactions within single cancer cell using Raman microspectroscopy. NANOMEDICINE-NANOTECHNOLOGY BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2021; 35:102404. [PMID: 33932593 DOI: 10.1016/j.nano.2021.102404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2020] [Revised: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 04/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Intracellular distribution of doxorubicin (DOX) and its squalenoylated (SQ-DOX) nanoparticles (NPs) form in murine lung carcinoma M109 and human breast carcinoma MDA-MB-231 cells was investigated by Raman microspectroscopy. Pharmacological data showed that DOX induced higher cytotoxic effect than SQ-DOX NPs. Raman data were obtained using single-point measurements and imaging on the whole cell areas. These data showed that after DOX treatment at 1 μM, the spectral features of DOX were not detected in the M109 cell cytoplasm and nucleus. However, the intracellular distribution of SQ-DOX NPs was higher than DOX in the same conditions. In addition, SQ-DOX NPs were localized into both cell cytoplasm and nucleus. After 5 μM treatment, Raman bands of DOX at 1211 and 1241 cm-1 were detected in the nucleus. Moreover, the intensity ratio of these bands decreased, indicating DOX intercalation into DNA. However, after treatment with SQ-DOX NPs, the intensity of these Raman bands increased. Interestingly, with SQ-DOX NPs, the intensity of 1210/1241 cm-1 ratio was higher suggesting a lower fraction of intercalated DOX in DNA and higher amount of non-hydrolyzed SQ-DOX. Raman imaging data confirm this subcellular localization of these drugs in both M109 and MDA-MB-231 cells. These finding brings new insights to the cellular characterization of anticancer drugs at the molecular level, particularly in the field of nanomedicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Rammal
- Translational BioSpectrocopy, BioSpecT, EA 7506, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
| | - Almar Al Assaad
- Translational BioSpectrocopy, BioSpecT, EA 7506, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
| | - Franco Dosio
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Barbara Stella
- Department of Drug Science and Technology, University of Torino, Torino, Italy.
| | - Andrei Maksimenko
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay CNRS UMR8612, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry, France..
| | - Simona Mura
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay CNRS UMR8612, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry, France..
| | - Laurence Van Gulick
- Translational BioSpectrocopy, BioSpecT, EA 7506, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France; Institut de Chimie Moléculaire de Reims, ICMR - UMR 7312, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
| | - Maïté Callewaert
- Institut de Chimie Moléculaire de Reims, ICMR - UMR 7312, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
| | - Didier Desmaële
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay CNRS UMR8612, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry, France..
| | - Patrick Couvreur
- Institut Galien Paris-Saclay CNRS UMR8612, Université Paris-Saclay, Faculté de Pharmacie, Châtenay-Malabry, France..
| | - Hamid Morjani
- Translational BioSpectrocopy, BioSpecT, EA 7506, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
| | - Abdelilah Beljebbar
- Translational BioSpectrocopy, BioSpecT, EA 7506, Université de Reims, Faculté de Pharmacie, Reims, France.
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7
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Andolfi L, Battistella A, Zanetti M, Lazzarino M, Pascolo L, Romano F, Ricci G. Scanning Probe Microscopies: Imaging and Biomechanics in Reproductive Medicine Research. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22083823. [PMID: 33917060 PMCID: PMC8067746 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22083823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2021] [Revised: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Basic and translational research in reproductive medicine can provide new insights with the application of scanning probe microscopies, such as atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM). These microscopies, which provide images with spatial resolution well beyond the optical resolution limit, enable users to achieve detailed descriptions of cell topography, inner cellular structure organization, and arrangements of single or cluster membrane proteins. A peculiar characteristic of AFM operating in force spectroscopy mode is its inherent ability to measure the interaction forces between single proteins or cells, and to quantify the mechanical properties (i.e., elasticity, viscoelasticity, and viscosity) of cells and tissues. The knowledge of the cell ultrastructure, the macromolecule organization, the protein dynamics, the investigation of biological interaction forces, and the quantification of biomechanical features can be essential clues for identifying the molecular mechanisms that govern responses in living cells. This review highlights the main findings achieved by the use of AFM and SNOM in assisted reproductive research, such as the description of gamete morphology; the quantification of mechanical properties of gametes; the role of forces in embryo development; the significance of investigating single-molecule interaction forces; the characterization of disorders of the reproductive system; and the visualization of molecular organization. New perspectives of analysis opened up by applying these techniques and the translational impacts on reproductive medicine are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Andolfi
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Correspondence: (L.A.); (G.R.)
| | - Alice Battistella
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Doctoral School in Nanotechnology, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy
| | - Michele Zanetti
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
- Doctoral School in Nanotechnology, University of Trieste, 34100 Trieste, Italy
| | - Marco Lazzarino
- Istituto Officina dei Materiali IOM-CNR, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (A.B.); (M.Z.); (M.L.)
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Federico Romano
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.P.); (F.R.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34127 Trieste, Italy
- Correspondence: (L.A.); (G.R.)
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8
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Zhang X, Liang B, Zhang J, Hao X, Xu X, Chang HM, Leung PCK, Tan J. Raman spectroscopy of follicular fluid and plasma with machine-learning algorithms for polycystic ovary syndrome screening. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2021; 523:111139. [PMID: 33359305 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111139] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/18/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the main cause of anovulatory infertility and affects women throughout their lives. The specific diagnostic method is still under investigation. In the present study, we aimed to identify the metabolic tracks of the follicular fluid and plasma samples from women with PCOS by performing Raman spectroscopy with principal component analysis and spectral classification models. Follicular fluid and plasma samples obtained from 50 healthy (non-PCOS) and 50 PCOS women were collected and measured by Raman spectroscopy. Multivariate statistical methods and different machine-learning algorithms based on the Raman spectra were established to analyze the results. The principal component analysis of the Raman spectra showed differences in the follicular fluid between the non-PCOS and PCOS groups. The stacking classification models based on the k-nearest-neighbor, random forests and extreme gradient boosting algorithms yielded a higher accuracy of 89.32% by using follicular fluid than the accuracy of 74.78% obtained with plasma samples in classifying the spectra from the two groups. In this regard, PCOS may lead to the changes of metabolic profiles that can be detected by Raman spectroscopy. As a novel, rapid and affordable method, Raman spectroscopy combined with advanced machine-learning algorithms have potential to analyze and characterize patients with PCOS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xinyi Zhang
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Bo Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Microbial Metabolism, Joint International Research Laboratory of Metabolic and Developmental Sciences, School of Life Sciences and Biotechnology, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Basecare Medical Device Co., Jiangsu, China
| | - Xinyao Hao
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Xiaoyan Xu
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, China
| | - Hsun-Ming Chang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Peter C K Leung
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, BC Children's Hospital Research Institute, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.
| | - Jichun Tan
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, Liaoning, China; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Dysfunction Diseases and Fertility Remodeling of Liaoning Province, Shenyang, Liaoning, China.
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9
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Pachetti M, Zupin L, Venturin I, Mitri E, Boscolo R, D’Amico F, Vaccari L, Crovella S, Ricci G, Pascolo L. FTIR Spectroscopy to Reveal Lipid and Protein Changes Induced on Sperm by Capacitation: Bases for an Improvement of Sample Selection in ART. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21228659. [PMID: 33212829 PMCID: PMC7698301 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21228659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 11/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/12/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Although being a crucial step for Assisted Reproduction Technologies (ART) success, to date sperm selection is based only on morphology, motility and concentration characteristics. Considering the many possible alterations, there is a great need for analytical approaches allowing more effective sperm selections. The use of Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) may represent an interesting possibility, being able to reveal many macromolecular changes in a single measurement in a nondestructive way. As a proof of concept, in this observational study, we used a FTIR approach to reveal features related to sperm quality and chemical changes promoted by in vitro capacitation. We found indication that α-helix content is increased in capacitated sperm, while high percentages of the β-structures seem to correlate to poor-quality spermatozoa. The most interesting observation was related to the lipid composition, when measured as CH2/CH3 vibrations (ratio 2853/2870), which resulted in being strongly influenced by capacitation and well correlated with sperm motility. Interestingly, this ratio is higher than 1 in infertile samples, suggesting that motility is related to sperm membranes stiffness and lipid composition. Although further analyses are requested, our results support the concept that FTIR can be proposed as a new smart diagnostic tool for semen quality assessment in ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Pachetti
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.P.); (I.V.); (E.M.); (F.D.); (L.V.)
- Department of Physics, University of Trieste, Via Valerio 2, 34143 Trieste, Italy
| | - Luisa Zupin
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (R.B.); (G.R.)
| | - Irene Venturin
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.P.); (I.V.); (E.M.); (F.D.); (L.V.)
| | - Elisa Mitri
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.P.); (I.V.); (E.M.); (F.D.); (L.V.)
| | - Rita Boscolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (R.B.); (G.R.)
| | - Francesco D’Amico
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.P.); (I.V.); (E.M.); (F.D.); (L.V.)
| | - Lisa Vaccari
- Elettra—Sincrotrone Trieste S.C.p.A., SS14—km 163.5, 34149 Trieste, Italy; (M.P.); (I.V.); (E.M.); (F.D.); (L.V.)
| | - Sergio Crovella
- Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences, College of Arts and Sciences, University of Qatar, P.O. Box 2713 Doha, Qatar;
| | - Giuseppe Ricci
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (R.B.); (G.R.)
- Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, 34149 Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, 34137 Trieste, Italy; (L.Z.); (R.B.); (G.R.)
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +39-040-378-5526
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10
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Pedrosa ML, Furtado MH, Ferreira MCF, Carneiro MM. Sperm selection in IVF: the long and winding road from bench to bedside. JBRA Assist Reprod 2020; 24:332-339. [PMID: 32155013 PMCID: PMC7365522 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20190081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Spermatozoa wage battle to conquer fertilization but the traits needed to succeed remain elusive. The natural advantageous qualities that enable only a few selected sperm cells to reach the site of fertilization remain unknown. Although in vitro fertilization (IVF) facilitates the job of spermatozoa, a universally acceptable means of sperm selection is yet to be developed. No objective or reliable sperm quality indicators have been established and sperm selection is, to a great extent, based on subjective qualitative evaluation. The best method for sperm selection in IVF presents several challenges: intrinsic sperm qualities cannot be evaluated and the ideal endpoint for these studies is debatable. An ideal method for sperm selection in ART should be noninvasive and cost-effective, and allow the identification of high-quality spermatozoa and yield better outcomes in terms of pregnancy and live birth rates. This narrative review included 85 papers and focused on the new available methods and technologies that might shed some light on sperm selection in IVF. It discusses the available data on microfluidic devices, omics profiling, micronuclei studies, sperm plasma membrane markers, and other techniques, such as Magnetic Activated Cell Sorting (MACS), Raman micro-spectroscopy, and artificial intelligence systems. The new techniques herein reviewed offer fresh approaches to an old problem, for which a definite solution has yet to cross the bridge from bench to IVF clinics around the world, since clinical usefulness and application remain unproven.
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Affiliation(s)
- Moisa Lucia Pedrosa
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Hospital MATER DEI, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | | | - Márcia Cristina França Ferreira
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Hospital MATER DEI, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
| | - Márcia Mendonça Carneiro
- Centro de Reprodução Humana Hospital MATER DEI, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil.,Departamento de Ginecologia e Obstetrícia e Obstetrícia da Faculdade de Medicina da UFMG, Belo Horizonte, MG, Brazil
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11
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Nordhoff V, Kliesch S. Das eine unter vielen – Spermienqualität und Möglichkeiten der Selektion. GYNAKOLOGISCHE ENDOKRINOLOGIE 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s10304-019-00274-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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12
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Raman spectroscopy on live mouse early embryo while it continues to develop into blastocyst in vitro. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6636. [PMID: 31036868 PMCID: PMC6488652 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42958-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Laser based spectroscopic methods can be versatile tools in investigating early stage mammalian embryo structure and biochemical processes in live oocytes and embryos. The limiting factor for using the laser methods in embryological studies is the effect of laser irradiation on the ova. The aim of this work is to explore the optimal parameters of the laser exposure in Raman spectroscopic measurements applicable for studying live early embryos in vitro without impacting their developmental capability. Raman spectra from different areas of mouse oocytes and 2-cells embryos were measured and analyzed. The laser power and exposure time were varied and further embryo development was evaluated to select optimal conditions of the measurements. This work demonstrates safe laser irradiation parameters can be selected, which allow acquisition of Raman spectra suitable for further analysis without affecting the early mouse embryo development in vitro up to morphologically normal blastocyst. The estimation of living embryo state is demonstrated via analysis and comparison of the spectra from fertilized embryo with the spectra from unfertilized oocytes or embryos subjected to UV laser irradiation. These results demonstrate the possibility of investigating preimplantation mammalian embryo development and estimating its state/quality. It will have potential in developing prognosis of mammalian embryos in assisted reproductive technologies.
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13
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Amaral S, Da Costa R, Wübbeling F, Redmann K, Schlatt S. Raman micro-spectroscopy analysis of different sperm regions: a species comparison. Mol Hum Reprod 2019. [PMID: 29528451 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gax071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is Raman micro-spectroscopy a valid approach to assess the biochemical hallmarks of sperm regions (head, midpiece and tail) in four different species? SUMMARY ANSWER Non-invasive Raman micro-spectroscopy provides spectral patterns enabling the biochemical characterization of the three sperm regions in the four species, revealing however high similarities for each region among species. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Raman micro-spectroscopy has been described as an innovative method to assess sperm features having the potential to be used as a non-invasive selection tool. However, except for nuclear DNA, the identification and assignment of spectral bands in Raman-profiles to the different sperm regions is scarce and controversial. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION Raman spectra from head, midpiece and tail of four different species were obtained. Sperm samples were collected and smeared on microscope slides. Air dried samples were subjected to Raman analysis using previously standardized procedures. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Sperm samples from (i) two donors attending the infertility clinic at the Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology; (ii) two C57BL/6 -TgN (ACTbEGFP) 1Osb adult mice; (iii) two adult Cynomolgus monkeys (Macaca fascicularis) and (iv) two sea urchins (Arbacia punctulata) were used to characterize and compare their spectral profiles. Differences and similarities were confirmed by principal component analysis (PCA). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Several novel region-specific peaks were identified. The three regions could be differentiated by distinctive Raman patterns irrespective of the species. However, regardless of the specie, their main spectral pattern remains mostly unchanged. These results were corroborated by the PCA analysis and suggest that the basic constituents of spermatozoa are biochemically similar among species. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION Further research should be performed in live sperm to validate the detected spectral bands and their use as markers of distinctive regions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Raman peaks that have never been described in the sperm cell were detected. Particularly important are those that are unique to the midpiece as they might be a reference to the identification of sperm mitochondria, whose function is highly correlated with that of sperm. In the future, Raman micro-spectroscopy has the potential to be applied in assessment of male fertility. LARGE SCALE DATA N/A. STUDY FUNDING AND COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by BMBF project 'Sperm Ident' (FKZ:13N13024) and the DAAD-CRUP bilateral exchange program (AI A06/16-57213087). S.A. is a recipient of a fellowship from the Portuguese foundation for science and technology (FCT-SFRH/BPD/110160/2015) and R.DC. is a recipient of a DAAD PhD stipend (91590556). There is no competing interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Amaral
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany.,Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Rua Larga, Faculty of Medicine, Pólo I, 3004-504 Coimbra, Portugal.,Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Casa Costa Alemão, Pólo II, Rua Dom Francisco Lemos, 3030-789 Coimbra, Portugal
| | - R Da Costa
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - F Wübbeling
- Institute for Applied Math: Analysis and Numerics Department of Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Münster, Einsteinstraße 62, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - K Redmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
| | - S Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Domagkstrasse 11, 48149 Münster, Germany
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14
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Tarozzi N, Nadalini M, Borini A. Effect on Sperm DNA Quality Following Sperm Selection for ART: New Insights. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2019; 1166:169-187. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-030-21664-1_10] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
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15
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Da Costa R, Amaral S, Redmann K, Kliesch S, Schlatt S. Spectral features of nuclear DNA in human sperm assessed by Raman Microspectroscopy: Effects of UV-irradiation and hydration. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207786. [PMID: 30458032 PMCID: PMC6245842 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2018] [Accepted: 11/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Raman Microspectroscopy represents an innovative tool for the assessment of sperm biochemical features otherwise undetectable by routine semen analysis. Previously, it was shown that induced DNA damage can be detected in smeared sperm by this technique. This novel readout may be of value for clinical settings especially if it can be transferred to living cells. Yet, starting with living sperms this study was carried-out using a variety of conditions to disclose the Raman features of sperm nuclei under different hydration conditions and UV exposure. Human sperm were immobilized and Raman spectra were obtained from individual sperm as repeated measurements. To create conditions with controlled DNA damage, sperm samples were exposed to ultraviolet light. Several media were used to evaluate their effect on Raman spectra in aqueous conditions. To substantiate differences between the experimental conditions, the spectra were analyzed by Principal Component Analysis. We observed that spectra of sperm nuclei obtained in different solutions showed a qualitatively unchanged spectral pattern showing the principal signals related to DNA. Evaluating the effect of ultraviolet light generated the finding that spectra representing DNA damage were only observed in dry conditions but not in aqueous medium. Thus, Raman microspectroscopy was successfully applied for sperm analysis in different conditions, among them in live spermatozoa in aqueous solution during the initial measurement, revealing the principle use of this technique. However, implementation of Raman spectroscopy as a technique for clinical sperm analysis and selection may be especially relevant when DNA evaluation can be established using live sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raul Da Costa
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sandra Amaral
- Biology of Reproduction and Stem Cell Group, Center for Neuroscience and Cell Biology (CNC), University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- Institute for Interdisciplinary Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Klaus Redmann
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Sabine Kliesch
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Stefan Schlatt
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine and Andrology, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
- * E-mail:
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16
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Morin SJ, Scott RT. Knowledge gaps in male infertility: a reproductive endocrinology and infertility perspective. Transl Androl Urol 2018; 7:S283-S291. [PMID: 30159234 PMCID: PMC6087846 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2018.05.02] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Reproductive research has moved forward at a remarkable pace. Some of these advances are the result of a separation between male and female specialties, allowing focused study in specific areas of the field. However, the different training programs between male and female fertility specialists has created an environment in which some discoveries are not put in the greater context of clinical care. At times, interventions have been measured against surrogate markers of outcome that may not impact the most meaningful outcome for patients—the delivery of a healthy neonate. For example, medical and surgical interventions that use changes in semen parameters may have a limited impact on the likelihood of achieving a live birth due to the limitations inherent in the semen analysis for predicting outcomes. Other commonly used tests, such as sperm DNA fragmentation assays provide promising biological plausibility to account for subfertility of some male partners. However, until well defined thresholds for predicting outcomes in different treatment scenarios are available, changes in sperm DNA fragmentation testing is not an adequate outcome for measuring the utility of interventions. The biggest limitation for these tests remains their analysis of bulk semen. Tests allowing interrogation of the reproductive competence of a given sperm, while allowing that sperm to be used in assisted reproductive technology procedures remain elusive. Progress toward reaching this end (whether by hyaluronic acid binding, IMSI, or Ramen spectroscopy) is underway, but much remains to be learned. Achieving testing and capture of individual sperm would better facilitate studies that measure the most meaningful outcome for patients and providers—the delivery of a healthy baby.
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Affiliation(s)
- Scott J Morin
- IVI RMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Richard T Scott
- IVI RMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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17
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Samuel R, Feng H, Jafek A, Despain D, Jenkins T, Gale B. Microfluidic-based sperm sorting & analysis for treatment of male infertility. Transl Androl Urol 2018; 7:S336-S347. [PMID: 30159240 PMCID: PMC6087839 DOI: 10.21037/tau.2018.05.08] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2017] [Accepted: 05/07/2018] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidics technology has emerged as an enabling technology for different fields of medicine and life sciences. One such field is male infertility where microfluidic technologies are enabling optimization of sperm sample preparation and analysis. In this chapter we review how microfluidic technology has been used for sperm quantification, sperm quality analysis, and sperm manipulation and isolation with subsequent use of the purified sperm population for treatment of male infertility. As we discuss demonstrations of microfluidic sperm sorting/manipulation/analysis, we highlight systems that have demonstrated feasibility towards clinical adoption or have reached commercialization in the male infertility market. We then review microfluidic-based systems that facilitate non-invasive identification and sorting of viable sperm for in vitro fertilization. Finally, we explore commercialization challenges associated with microfluidic sperm sorting systems and provide suggestions and future directions to best overcome them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheel Samuel
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Haidong Feng
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Alex Jafek
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Dillon Despain
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, Brigham Young University, Provo, Utah, USA
| | - Timothy Jenkins
- Department of Surgery, School of Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
| | - Bruce Gale
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah, USA
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18
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Štiavnická M, Abril-Parreño L, Nevoral J, Králíčková M, García-Álvarez O. Non-Invasive Approaches to Epigenetic-Based Sperm Selection. Med Sci Monit 2017; 23:4677-4683. [PMID: 28961228 PMCID: PMC5633068 DOI: 10.12659/msm.904098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Since sperm size and form do not necessarily provide information on internal sperm structures, novel sperm markers need to be found in order to conduct assisted reproductive therapies (ART) successfully. Currently, the priority of andrologists is not only to select those sperm able to fertilize the oocyte, but also a high quality of sperm that will guarantee a healthy embryo. Evidence of this shows us the importance of studying sperm intensively on genetic and epigenetic levels, because these could probably be the cause of a percentage of infertility diagnosed as idiopathic. Thus, more attention is being paid to posttranslational modifications as the key for better understanding of the fertilization process and its impact on embryo and offspring. Advances in the discovery of new sperm markers should go hand in hand with finding appropriate techniques for selecting the healthiest sperm, guaranteeing its non-invasiveness. To date, most sperm selection techniques can be harmful to sperm due to centrifugation or staining procedures. Some methods, such as microfluidic techniques, sperm nanopurifications, and Raman spectroscopy, have the potential to make selection gentle to sperm, tracking small abnormalities undetected by methods currently used. The fact that live cells could be analyzed without harmful effects creates the expectation of using them routinely in ART. In this review, we focus on the combination of sperm epigenetic status (modifications) as quality markers, with non-invasive sperm selection methods as novel approaches to improve ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriama Štiavnická
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Laura Abril-Parreño
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Nevoral
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Milena Králíčková
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic.,Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
| | - Olga García-Álvarez
- Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Biomedical Centre, Faculty of Medicine in Pilsen, Charles University, Pilsen, Czech Republic
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19
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Verheyen G, Popovic-Todorovic B, Tournaye H. Processing and selection of surgically-retrieved sperm for ICSI: a review. Basic Clin Androl 2017; 27:6. [PMID: 28331619 PMCID: PMC5360083 DOI: 10.1186/s12610-017-0050-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Although the technique of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) has been a revolution in the alleviation of male infertility, the use of testicular sperm for ICSI was a formerly unseen breakthrough in the treatment of the azoospermic man with primary testicular failure. At the clinical level, different procedures of testicular sperm retrieval (conventional TESE, micro-TESE, FNA/TESA, MESA, PESA) are being performed, the choice is mainly based on the cause of azoospermia (obstructive versus non-obstructive) and the surgeon's skills. At the level of the IVF laboratory, mechanical procedures to harvest the sperm from the tissue may be combined with enzymatic treatment in order to increase the sperm recovery rates. A number of techniques have been developed for viable sperm selection in males with only immotile testicular sperm available. However, large, well-designed studies on the benefit and safety of one over the other technique are lacking. Despite all the available methods and combinations of laboratory procedures which have a common goal to maximize sperm recovery from testicular samples, a large proportion of NOA patients fail to father a genetically own child. Advanced technology application may improve recovery rates by detection of the testicular foci with active spermatogenesis and/or identification of the rare individual sperm in the testicular suspensions. On the other hand, in vitro spermatogenesis or sperm production from embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells might be future options. The present review summarizes the available strategies which aim to maximize sperm recovery from surgically retrieved samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Greta Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | | | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, B-1090 Brussels, Belgium
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20
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Cammisuli F, Pascolo L, Morgutti M, Gessini A, Masciovecchio C, D'Amico F. Avoiding Ethanol Presence in DNA Samples Enhances the Performance of Ultraviolet Resonance Raman Spectroscopy Analysis. APPLIED SPECTROSCOPY 2017; 71:152-155. [PMID: 27815433 DOI: 10.1177/0003702816654152] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Ethanol is an essential chemical reagent in DNA preparation as its use increases the yield of extraction. All methodologies for DNA isolation involve the use of ethanol in order to prevent DNA dissolution in water and to optimize the binding of DNA to chromatographic membranes. In this note, we show how the presence of ethanol traces in DNA aqueous solution affects ultraviolet Raman spectra, leading to possible misinterpretations. We report a simple method to remove the ethanol Raman features from the spectra, based on heating the DNA sample at 80 ℃, followed by a slow cooling procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Cammisuli
- 1 Department of Medical, Surgical, and Health Sciences, University of Trieste, Trieste, Italy
| | - Lorella Pascolo
- 2 Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marcello Morgutti
- 2 Institute for Maternal and Child Health, IRCCS Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy
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21
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Swain JE. Novel Imaging Techniques to Assess Gametes and Preimplantation Embryos. Hum Reprod 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118849613.ch6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jason E. Swain
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology; University of Michigan; Ann Arbor MI USA
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22
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Abramczyk H, Surmacki J, Kopeć M, Olejnik AK, Kaufman-Szymczyk A, Fabianowska-Majewska K. Epigenetic changes in cancer by Raman imaging, fluorescence imaging, AFM and scanning near-field optical microscopy (SNOM). Acetylation in normal and human cancer breast cells MCF10A, MCF7 and MDA-MB-231. Analyst 2016; 141:5646-58. [PMID: 27460599 DOI: 10.1039/c6an00859c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
This paper examines epigenetic changes in breast cancer by Raman imaging, fluorescence imaging, AFM and SNOM and discusses how they contribute to different aspects of tumourigenesis in malignant human breast epithelial cell lines MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 compared with non-malignant MCF10A cell lines. The paper focuses on information that can be extracted from Raman microscopy and Raman imaging for the biological material of nucleoli contained within the cell nucleus and lipid droplets within the cell cytoplasm. The biochemical composition of the nuclei and lipid droplets in the non-malignant and malignant human breast epithelial cell lines has been monitored. The potential of Raman microspectroscopy to monitor acetylation processes and a prognostic value of Raman biomarkers in breast cancer have been discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Halina Abramczyk
- Institute of Applied Radiation Chemistry, Laboratory of Laser Molecular Spectroscopy, Lodz University of Technology, Lodz, Poland.
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23
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Samuel R, Badamjav O, Murphy KE, Patel DP, Son J, Gale BK, Carrell DT, Hotaling JM. Microfluidics: The future of microdissection TESE? Syst Biol Reprod Med 2016; 62:161-70. [PMID: 27104311 DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2016.1159748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Abstract
Non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) is a severe form of infertility accounting for 10% of infertile men. Microdissection testicular sperm extraction (microTESE) includes a set of clinical protocols from which viable sperm are collected from patients (suffering from NOA), for intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Clinical protocols associated with the processing of a microTESE sample are inefficient and significantly reduce the success of obtaining a viable sperm population. In this review we highlight the sources of these inefficiencies and how these sources can possibly be removed by microfluidic technology and single-cell Raman spectroscopy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raheel Samuel
- a Andrology and IVF Laboratories, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,b Department of Mechanical Engineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Odgerel Badamjav
- a Andrology and IVF Laboratories, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Kristin E Murphy
- c Huntsman Cancer Institute, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Darshan P Patel
- d Division of Urology, Department of Surgery , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Jiyoung Son
- e Department of Electrical & Computer Engineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Bruce K Gale
- b Department of Mechanical Engineering , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - Douglas T Carrell
- a Andrology and IVF Laboratories, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,d Division of Urology, Department of Surgery , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
| | - James M Hotaling
- a Andrology and IVF Laboratories, University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA.,d Division of Urology, Department of Surgery , University of Utah , Salt Lake City , Utah , USA
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24
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Brayboy LM, Wessel GM. The double-edged sword of the mammalian oocyte--advantages, drawbacks and approaches for basic and clinical analysis at the single cell level. Mol Hum Reprod 2016; 22:200-7. [PMID: 26590170 PMCID: PMC4767051 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gav064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2015] [Revised: 10/30/2015] [Accepted: 11/13/2015] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocytes are usually the largest cells in the body and as such offer unique opportunities for single-cell analysis. Unfortunately, these cells are also some of the rarest in the mammalian female, usually necessitating single-cell analysis. In cases of infertility in humans, determining the quality of the oocyte is often restricted to a morphological analysis or to the study of cellular behaviors in the developing embryo. Minimally invasive approaches could greatly assist the clinician to prioritize oocytes for fertilization or following fertilization, which embryo to transfer back into the woman. Transcriptomics of human and mouse oocytes may have great utility, and recently it was learned that the polar body faithfully reflects the transcript prevalence in the oocyte. The polar body may thus serve as a minimally invasive proxy for an oocyte in the clinic. In the mouse, the transcriptomes of oocytes from mice of the same strain are markedly similar; no significant differences are apparent in transcript prevalence or identity. In human oocytes however, the transcript pool is highly variable. This is likely the result of different histories of each oocyte, in the age of the donor woman, the different hormonal exposures and the prolonged time from specification of the primary oocyte to the fully grown and ovulated egg. This variability in human oocytes also emphasizes the need for cell-by-cell analysis of the oocytes in vitro; which oocytes have a better potential for fertilization and development? To this end, new imaging capabilities are being employed. For example, a single-cell analytical device for oocytes (the simple perfusion apparatus, or SPA) enables investigators to load multiple oocytes in individual wells, to visualize them on the microscope and to use controlled temperature and media flow by perfusion for optimal clinical applications. Recently, developed Raman microspectroscopy approaches suggest that this imaging modality may enable more in-depth analysis of the molecular characteristics of an oocyte that, in combination with the SPA and transcriptomic approaches, might assist the clinician to prioritize more effectively human oocytes and embryos for transfer into women. This review is intended to update the reader on the status of the examination of single oocytes from a variety of approaches and to emphasize areas that may be primed for advancement in the near future.
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Affiliation(s)
- L M Brayboy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Women & Infants Hospital, Warren Alpert Medical School, Brown University, 101 Dudley, Fl1, Providence, RI 020905, USA
| | - G M Wessel
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology & Biochemistry, Brown University, 185 Meeting Street, Providence, RI 02912, USA
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Pitfalls and promises in FTIR spectromicroscopy analyses to monitor iron-mediated DNA damage in sperm. Reprod Toxicol 2016; 61:39-46. [PMID: 26923261 DOI: 10.1016/j.reprotox.2016.02.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2015] [Revised: 02/01/2016] [Accepted: 02/19/2016] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Many drugs, chemicals, and environmental factors can impair sperm functionality by inducing DNA damage, one of the important causes of reduced fertility potential. The use of vibrational spectromicroscopy represents a promising approach for monitoring DNA integrity in sperm, although some limitations exist, depending from the experimental conditions. Here, we report that when using FTIR spectromicroscopy to reveal oxidative stress mediated by Fenton's reaction on hydrated sperm samples, DNA damage interpretation is partially compromised by unexpected cell surface precipitates. The precipitates give a broad band in the 1150-1000cm(-1) infrared region, which partially covers one of the signatures of DNA (phosphate stretching bands), and are detected as iron and oxygen containing material when using XRF spectroscopy. On the other hand, the analyses further support the potential of FTIR spectromicroscopy to reveal cellular oxidative damage events such as lipid peroxidation, protein misfolding and aggregations, as well as DNA strain breaks.
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Sakkas D, Ramalingam M, Garrido N, Barratt CLR. Sperm selection in natural conception: what can we learn from Mother Nature to improve assisted reproduction outcomes? Hum Reprod Update 2015; 21:711-26. [PMID: 26386468 PMCID: PMC4594619 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmv042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 141] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Accepted: 08/12/2015] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In natural conception only a few sperm cells reach the ampulla or the site of fertilization. This population is a selected group of cells since only motile cells can pass through cervical mucus and gain initial entry into the female reproductive tract. In animals, some studies indicate that the sperm selected by the reproductive tract and recovered from the uterus and the oviducts have higher fertilization rates but this is not a universal finding. Some species show less discrimination in sperm selection and abnormal sperm do arrive at the oviduct. In contrast, assisted reproductive technologies (ART) utilize a more random sperm population. In this review we contrast the journey of the spermatozoon in vivo and in vitro and discuss this in the context of developing new sperm preparation and selection techniques for ART. METHODS A review of the literature examining characteristics of the spermatozoa selected in vivo is compared with recent developments in in vitro selection and preparation methods. Contrasts and similarities are presented. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS New technologies are being developed to aid in the diagnosis, preparation and selection of spermatozoa in ART. To date progress has been frustrating and these methods have provided variable benefits in improving outcomes after ART. It is more likely that examining the mechanisms enforced by nature will provide valuable information in regard to sperm selection and preparation techniques in vitro. Identifying the properties of those spermatozoa which do reach the oviduct will also be important for the development of more effective tests of semen quality. In this review we examine the value of sperm selection to see how much guidance for ART can be gleaned from the natural selection processes in vivo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denny Sakkas
- Boston IVF, 130 Second Ave, Waltham, MA 02451, USA
| | - Mythili Ramalingam
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
| | | | - Christopher L R Barratt
- Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Medical School, Ninewells Hospital, University of Dundee, Dundee DD19SY, UK
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Devpura S, Barton KN, Brown SL, Palyvoda O, Kalkanis S, Naik VM, Siddiqui F, Naik R, Chetty IJ. Vision 20/20: the role of Raman spectroscopy in early stage cancer detection and feasibility for application in radiation therapy response assessment. Med Phys 2014; 41:050901. [PMID: 24784365 DOI: 10.1118/1.4870981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Raman spectroscopy is an optical technique capable of identifying chemical constituents of a sample by their unique set of molecular vibrations. Research on the applicability of Raman spectroscopy in the differentiation of cancerous versus normal tissues has been ongoing for many years, and has yielded successful results in the context of prostate, breast, brain, skin, and head and neck cancers as well as pediatric tumors. Recently, much effort has been invested on developing noninvasive "Raman" probes to provide real-time diagnosis of potentially cancerous tumors. In this regard, it is feasible that the Raman technique might one day be used to provide rapid, minimally invasive real-time diagnosis of tumors in patients. Raman spectroscopy is relatively new to the field of radiation therapy. Recent work involving cell lines has shown that the Raman technique is able to identify proteins and other markers affected by radiation therapy. Although this work is preliminary, one could ask whether or not the Raman technique might be used to identify molecular markers that predict radiation response. This paper provides a brief review of Raman spectroscopic investigations in cancer detection, benefits and limitations of this method, advances in instrument development, and also preliminary studies related to the application of this technology in radiation therapy response assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suneetha Devpura
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Kenneth N Barton
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Stephen L Brown
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Olena Palyvoda
- College of Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Steven Kalkanis
- Department of Neurosurgery, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Vaman M Naik
- Department of Natural Sciences, University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dearborn, Michigan 48128
| | - Farzan Siddiqui
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
| | - Ratna Naik
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48201
| | - Indrin J Chetty
- Department of Radiation Oncology, Henry Ford Hospital, Detroit, Michigan 48202
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Stetciura IY, Markin AV, Bratashov DN, Sukhorukov GB, Gorin DA. Nanoencapsulated and microencapsulated SERS platforms for biomedical analysis. Curr Opin Pharmacol 2014; 18:149-58. [DOI: 10.1016/j.coph.2014.10.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2014] [Revised: 09/20/2014] [Accepted: 10/04/2014] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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