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García-Vázquez FA. Artificial intelligence and porcine breeding. Anim Reprod Sci 2024:107538. [PMID: 38926001 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2024.107538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/14/2024] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Livestock management is evolving into a new era, characterized by the analysis of vast quantities of data (Big Data) collected from both traditional breeding methods and new technologies such as sensors, automated monitoring system, and advanced analytics. Artificial intelligence (A-In), which refers to the capability of machines to mimic human intelligence, including subfields like machine learning and deep learning, is playing a pivotal role in this transformation. A wide array of A-In techniques, successfully employed in various industrial and scientific contexts, are now being integrated into mainstream livestock management practices. In the case of swine breeding, while traditional methods have yielded considerable success, the increasing amount of information requires the adoption of new technologies such as A-In to drive productivity, enhance animal welfare, and reduce environmental impact. Current findings suggest that these techniques have the potential to match or exceed the performance of traditional methods, often being more scalable in terms of efficiency and sustainability within the breeding industry. This review provides insights into the application of A-In in porcine breeding, from the perspectives of both sows (including welfare and reproductive management) and boars (including semen quality and health), and explores new approaches which are already being applied in other species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francisco A García-Vázquez
- Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Campus de Excelencia Mare Nostrum, Universidad de Murcia, Murcia 30100, Spain; Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria (IMIB-Arrixaca), Murcia, Spain.
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2
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Pasquariello R, Bogliolo L, Di Filippo F, Leoni GG, Nieddu S, Podda A, Brevini TAL, Gandolfi F. Use of assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) to shorten the generational interval in ruminants: current status and perspectives. Theriogenology 2024; 225:16-32. [PMID: 38788626 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2024.05.026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2024] [Revised: 05/18/2024] [Accepted: 05/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/26/2024]
Abstract
The challenges posed by climate change and increasing world population are stimulating renewed efforts for improving the sustainability of animal production. To meet such challenges, the contribution of genomic selection approaches, in combination with assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs), to spreading and preserving animal genetics is essential. The largest increase in genetic gain can be achieved by shortening the generation interval. This review provides an overview of the current status and progress of advanced ARTs that could be applied to reduce the generation time in both female and male of domestic ruminants. In females, the use of juvenile in vitro embryo transfer (JIVET) enables to generate offspring after the transfer of in vitro produced embryos derived from oocytes of prepubertal genetically superior donors reducing the generational interval and acceleration genetic gain. The current challenge is increasing in vitro embryo production (IVEP) from prepubertal derived oocytes which is still low and variable. The two main factors limiting IVEP success are the intrinsic quality of prepubertal oocytes and the culture systems for in vitro maturation (IVM). In males, advancements in ARTs are providing new strategies to in vitro propagate spermatogonia and differentiate them into mature sperm or even to recapitulate the whole process of spermatogenesis from embryonic stem cells. Moreover, the successful use of immature cells, such as round spermatids, for intracytoplasmic injection (ROSI) and IVEP could allow to complete the entire process in few months. However, these approaches have been successfully applied to human and mouse whereas only a few studies have been published in ruminants and results are still controversial. This is also dependent on the efficiency of ROSI that is limited by the current isolation and selection protocols of round spermatids. In conclusion, the current efforts for improving these reproductive methodologies could lead toward a significant reduction of the generational interval in livestock animals that could have a considerable impact on agriculture sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rolando Pasquariello
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | - Luisa Bogliolo
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Francesca Di Filippo
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy
| | | | - Stefano Nieddu
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Andrea Podda
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Sassari, Sassari, Italy
| | - Tiziana A L Brevini
- Laboratory of Biomedical Embryology and Tissue Engineering, Department of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of Milan, Lodi, Italy
| | - Fulvio Gandolfi
- Department of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Milan, Milano, Italy.
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3
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Tatíčková M, Trebichalská Z, Kyjovská D, Otevřel P, Kloudová S, Holubcová Z. The ultrastructural nature of human oocytes' cytoplasmic abnormalities and the role of cytoskeleton dysfunction. F&S SCIENCE 2023; 4:267-278. [PMID: 37730013 DOI: 10.1016/j.xfss.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the structural bases of human oocytes' cytoplasmic abnormalities and the causative mechanism of their emergence. Knowledge of an abnormal oocyte's intracellular organization is vital to establishing reliable criteria for clinical evaluation of oocyte morphology. DESIGN Laboratory-based study on experimental material provided by a private assisted reproduction clinic. SETTING University laboratory and imaging center. PATIENTS A total of 105 women undergoing hormonal stimulation for in vitro fertilization (IVF) donated their spare oocytes for this study. INTERVENTIONS Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was used to analyze the fine morphology of 22 dysmorphic IVF oocytes exhibiting different types of cytoplasmic irregularities, namely, refractile bodies; centrally located cytoplasmic granularity (CLCG); smooth endoplasmic reticulum (SER) disc; and vacuoles. A total of 133 immature oocytes were exposed to cytoskeleton-targeting compounds or matured in control conditions, and their morphology was examined using fluorescent and electron microscopy. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES The ultrastructural morphology of dysmorphic oocytes was analyzed. Drug-treated oocytes had their maturation efficiency, chromosome-microtubule configurations, and fine intracellular morphology examined. RESULTS TEM revealed ultrastructural characteristics of common oocyte aberrations and indicated that excessive organelle clustering was the underlying cause of 2 of the studied morphotypes. Inhibition experiments showed that disruption of actin, not microtubules, allows for inordinate aggregation of subcellular structures, resembling the ultrastructural pattern seen in morphologically abnormal oocytes retrieved in IVF cycles. These results imply that actin serves as a regulator of organelle distribution during human oocyte maturation. CONCLUSION The ultrastructural analogy between dysmorphic oocytes and oocytes, in which actin network integrity was perturbed, suggests that dysfunction of the actin cytoskeleton might be implicated in generating common cytoplasmic aberrations. Knowledge of human oocytes' inner workings and the origin of morphological abnormalities is a step forward to a more objective oocyte quality assessment in IVF practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Tatíčková
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Trebichalská
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Drahomíra Kyjovská
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Otevřel
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Soňa Kloudová
- Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zuzana Holubcová
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic; Reprofit International, Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Brno, Czech Republic.
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4
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Sahin GN, Yildirim RM, Seli E. Embryonic arrest: causes and implications. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2023; 35:184-192. [PMID: 37039141 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/12/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Embryonic arrest is a key determinant of the number of euploid blastocysts obtained after IVF. Here, we review factors that are implicated in the developmental arrest of preimplantation embryos and their relevance for assisted reproduction outcomes. RECENT FINDINGS Among the treatment options available to infertile women, IVF is the one associated with most favorable outcomes. The cumulative pregnancy rates in women undergoing IVF are determined by aneuploidy rate (age), ovarian response to stimulation (ovarian reserve), and the rate of embryo developmental arrest. Mutations in maternal effect genes, especially those encoding for subcortical maternal complex, have been implicated in human embryo developmental arrest. In addition, perturbation of biological processes, such as mitochondrial unfolded protein response and long noncoding RNA regulatory pathways, may play a role. However, how each of these factors contributes to embryos' arrest in different cohorts and age groups has not been determined. SUMMARY Arrest of human embryos during preimplantation development is a common occurrence and is partly responsible for the limited number of euploid blastocysts obtained in assisted reproduction cycles. Although genetic and metabolic causes have been implicated, the mechanisms responsible for human embryo developmental arrest remain poorly characterized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gizem N Sahin
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Raziye M Yildirim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, New Jersey, USA
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5
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Vani V, Vasan SS, Adiga SK, Varsha SR, Seshagiri PB. Molecular regulators of human blastocyst development and hatching: Their significance in implantation and pregnancy outcome. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 89:e13635. [PMID: 36254379 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13635] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
In humans, blastocyst hatching and implantation events are two sequential, critically linked and rate-limiting events for a prospective pregnancy. These events are regulated by embryo-endometrium derived molecular factors which include hormones, growth factors, cytokines, immune-modulators, cell adhesion molecules and proteases. Due to poor viability of blastocysts, they fail to hatch and implant, leading to a low 'Live Birth Rates', majorly contributing to infertility. Here, embryo-derived biomarkers analysis plays a key role to assess potential biological viability of blastocysts which are capable of implantation and prospective pregnancy. Thus far, embryo-derived biomarkers examined are mostly immune-modulators which are thought to be associated with blastocyst development-implantation and progression of pregnancy, leading to live births. There is an urgent need to develop a quantitative and a reliable non-invasive approach aiding embryo selection for elective single embryo transfer and to minimize recurrent pregnancy loss and multiple pregnancies. In this article, we provide a comprehensive review on our current knowledge and understanding of potential embryo-derived molecular regulators, that is, biomarkers, of development of human blastocysts, their hatching and implantation. We discuss their potential implications in the assessment of blastocyst implantation potential and pregnancy outcome in terms of live births in humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Venkatappa Vani
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Satish K Adiga
- Kasturba Medical College, Department of Clinical Embryology, Manipal, Karnataka, India
| | | | - Polani B Seshagiri
- Indian Institute of Science, Department of Molecular Reproduction, Development and Genetics, Sir C.V. Raman Road, Bangalore, Karnataka, India
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Sciorio R, Miranian D, Smith GD. Non-invasive oocyte quality assessment. Biol Reprod 2022; 106:274-290. [PMID: 35136962 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioac009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2021] [Revised: 01/04/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte quality is perhaps the most important limiting factor in female fertility; however, the current methods of determining oocyte competence are only marginally capable of predicting a successful pregnancy. We aim to review the predictive value of non-invasive techniques for the assessment of human oocytes and their related cells and biofluids that pertain to their developmental competence. Investigation of the proteome, transcriptome, and hormonal makeup of follicular fluid, as well as cumulus-oocyte complexes are currently underway; however, prospective randomized non-selection-controlled trials of the future are needed before determining their prognostic value. The biological significance of polar body morphology and genetics are still unknown and the subject of debate. The predictive utility of zygotic viscoelasticity for embryo development has been demonstrated, but similar studies performed on oocytes have yet to be conducted. Metabolic profiling of culture media using human oocytes are also limited and may require integration of automated, high-throughput targeted metabolomic assessments in real time with microfluidic platforms. Light exposure to oocytes can be detrimental to subsequent development and utilization of time-lapse imaging and morphometrics of oocytes is wanting. Polarized light, Raman microspectroscopy, and coherent anti-Stokes Raman scattering are a few novel imaging tools that may play a more important role in future oocyte assessment. Ultimately, the integration of chemistry, genomics, microfluidics, microscopy, physics, and other biomedical engineering technologies into the basic studies of oocyte biology, and in testing and perfecting practical solutions of oocyte evaluation, are the future for non-invasive assessment of oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Daniel Miranian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
| | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA.,Department of Physiology, Urology, and Reproductive Sciences Program, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
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7
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Transcriptome study of receptive endometrium in overweight and obese women shows important expression differences in immune response and inflammatory pathways in women who do not conceive. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0261873. [PMID: 34941965 PMCID: PMC8699967 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0261873] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and being overweight are growing worldwide health problems that also affect women of reproductive age. They impair women’s fertility and are associated with lower IVF success rates. The mechanism by which increased body weight disrupts fertility has not yet been established. One possibility is that it affects the process of embryo implantation on the endometrial level. The purpose of our study was to determine the differences in enriched biological pathways in the endometrium of overweight and obese women undergoing IVF procedures. For this purpose, 14 patients (5 pregnant, 9 non-pregnant) were included in the study. Endometrial samples were obtained during the window of implantation and RNA sequencing was performed. There were no differences in general patient’s and IVF cycle characteristics between pregnant and non-pregnant women. In the endometrial samples of women who did not conceive, pathways related to the immune response, inflammation, and reactive oxygen species production were over-expressed. Our findings show that the reason for implantation failure in overweight and obese women could lie in the excessive immune and inflammatory response at the endometrial level.
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Fernandes DP, Rossetto R, Montenegro AR, Fernandes CCL, Bravo PA, Moreno ME, Cavalcanti CM, Kubota GA, Rondina D. Effectiveness of near-infrared spectroscopy as a non-invasive tool to discriminate spectral profiles of in vitro cultured oocytes from goats. Anim Reprod 2021; 18:e20200255. [PMID: 34925556 PMCID: PMC8677351 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2020-0255] [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: 01/11/2021] [Accepted: 10/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Here, we aimed to discriminate between the spectral profiles of spent culture media after oocyte in vitro maturation (IVM) and culture (IVC) from goats of different ages subjected to repeated hormonal treatments. The profiles were discriminated using near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy combined with multivariate methods. A total of 19 goats (young = 10; old = 9) were subjected to serial hormonal stimulation (HS) with gonadotropins. Cumulus oophorus complexes (COCs) were collected using laparoscopic ovum pick-up (LOPU) and subjected to IVM and parthenogenetic activation. The initial embryos were subjected to IVC. Spent culture media were collected after oocyte IVM and on day 2 of IVC and analyzed using NIR spectroscopy. NIR spectral data were interpreted through chemometric methods, such as principle component analysis (PCA) and partial least square discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). The results of PCA analysis clearly showed a separation in the spectral profiles between the experimental groups (HS sessions; young and old animals) both after IVM and IVC. Overall, the main absorption bands were attributed to the C-H group second overtone, first overtone of O-H and N-H, and C-H combinations and may serve as molecular markers. On the other hand, the spectral data obtained using PLS-DA models provided a better classification of the groups. The results showed the possibility of discriminating young and old groups as well as the three HS sessions with high specificity, sensitivity, and accuracy using NIR spectra. Thus, the culture medium analysis using NIR spectroscopy combined with multivariate methods indicated the dissimilarities between the groups and provided an insight into the in vitro development of goat oocytes. This technique serves as an efficient, objective, rapid, and non-invasive method to discriminate spectral profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denilsa Pires Fernandes
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Rafael Rossetto
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Assis Rubens Montenegro
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | | | - Pamela Angela Bravo
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Maria Eugenia Moreno
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Camila Muniz Cavalcanti
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Guilherme Araújo Kubota
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
| | - Davide Rondina
- Laboratório de Nutrição e Produção de Ruminantes, Faculdade de Veterinária, Universidade Estadual do Ceará, Fortaleza, CE, Brasil
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Figoli CB, Garcea M, Bisioli C, Tafintseva V, Shapaval V, Gómez Peña M, Gibbons L, Althabe F, Yantorno OM, Horton M, Schmitt J, Lasch P, Kohler A, Bosch A. A robust metabolomics approach for the evaluation of human embryos from in vitro fertilization. Analyst 2021; 146:6156-6169. [PMID: 34515271 DOI: 10.1039/d1an01191j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The identification of the most competent embryos for transfer to the uterus constitutes the main challenge of in vitro fertilization (IVF). We established a metabolomic-based approach by applying Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy on 130 samples of 3-day embryo culture supernatants from 26 embryos that implanted and 104 embryos that failed. On examining the internal structure of the data by unsupervised multivariate analysis, we found that the supernatant spectra of nonimplanted embryos constituted a highly heterogeneous group. Whereas ∼40% of these supernatants were spectroscopically indistinguishable from those of successfully implanted embryos, ∼60% exhibited diverse, heterogeneous metabolic fingerprints. This observation proved to be the direct result of pregnancy's multifactorial nature, involving both intrinsic embryonic traits and external characteristics. Our data analysis strategy thus involved one-class modelling techniques employing soft independent modelling of class analogy that identified deviant fingerprints as unsuitable for implantation. From these findings, we could develop a noninvasive Fourier-transform-infrared-spectroscopy-based approach that represents a shift in the fundamental paradigm for data modelling applied in assisted-fertilization technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Beatriz Figoli
- Laboratorio de Bioespectrosocpia, CINDEFI-CONICET, CCT La Plata, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, UNLP, 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Marcelo Garcea
- PREGNA Medicina Reproductiva, C1425 AYV Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Claudio Bisioli
- PREGNA Medicina Reproductiva, C1425 AYV Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Valeria Tafintseva
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway.
| | - Volha Shapaval
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway.
| | - Mariana Gómez Peña
- PREGNA Medicina Reproductiva, C1425 AYV Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luz Gibbons
- IECS, Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria, C1414 Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Fernando Althabe
- IECS, Instituto de Efectividad Clínica y Sanitaria, C1414 Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Osvaldo Miguel Yantorno
- Laboratorio de Bioespectrosocpia, CINDEFI-CONICET, CCT La Plata, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, UNLP, 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Marcos Horton
- PREGNA Medicina Reproductiva, C1425 AYV Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Peter Lasch
- Centre for Biological Threats and Special Pathogens (ZBS) Proteomics and Spectroscopy Unit, Robert Koch-Institut, 13353 Berlin, Germany
| | - Achim Kohler
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Norwegian University of Life Sciences, 1432 Ås, Norway.
| | - Alejandra Bosch
- Laboratorio de Bioespectrosocpia, CINDEFI-CONICET, CCT La Plata, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, UNLP, 1900 La Plata, Argentina.
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10
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The Differential Metabolomes in Cumulus and Mural Granulosa Cells from Human Preovulatory Follicles. Reprod Sci 2021; 29:1343-1356. [PMID: 34374964 PMCID: PMC8907092 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00691-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2021] [Accepted: 07/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
This study evaluated the differences in metabolites between cumulus cells (CCs) and mural granulosa cells (MGCs) from human preovulatory follicles to understand the mechanism of oocyte maturation involving CCs and MGCs. CCs and MGCs were collected from women who were undergoing in vitro fertilization (IVF)/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatment. The differences in morphology were determined by immunofluorescence. The metabolomics of CCs and MGCs was measured by liquid chromatography coupled to tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) followed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blot analysis to further confirm the genes and proteins involved in oocyte maturation. CCs and MGCs were cultured for 48 h in vitro, and the medium was collected for detection of hormone levels. There were minor morphological differences between CCs and MGCs. LC-MS/MS analysis showed that there were differences in 101 metabolites between CCs and MGCs: 7 metabolites were upregulated in CCs, and 94 metabolites were upregulated in MGCs. The metabolites related to cholesterol transport and estradiol production were enriched in CCs, while metabolites related to antiapoptosis were enriched in MGCs. The expression of genes and proteins involved in cholesterol transport (ABCA1, LDLR, and SCARB1) and estradiol production (SULT2B1 and CYP19A1) was significantly higher in CCs, and the expression of genes and proteins involved in antiapoptosis (CRLS1, LPCAT3, and PLA2G4A) was significantly higher in MGCs. The level of estrogen in CCs was significantly higher than that in MGCs, while the progesterone level showed no significant differences. There are differences between the metabolomes of CCs and MGCs. These differences may be involved in the regulation of oocyte maturation.
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Hernández-Vargas P, Muñoz M, Domínguez F. Identifying biomarkers for predicting successful embryo implantation: applying single to multi-OMICs to improve reproductive outcomes. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 26:264-301. [PMID: 32096829 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2019] [Revised: 10/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Successful embryo implantation is a complex process that requires the coordination of a series of events, involving both the embryo and the maternal endometrium. Key to this process is the intricate cascade of molecular mechanisms regulated by endocrine, paracrine and autocrine modulators of embryonic and maternal origin. Despite significant progress in ART, implantation failure still affects numerous infertile couples worldwide and fewer than 10% of embryos successfully implant. Improved selection of both the viable embryos and the optimal endometrial phenotype for transfer remains crucial to enhancing implantation chances. However, both classical morphological embryo selection and new strategies incorporated into clinical practice, such as embryonic genetic analysis, morphokinetics or ultrasound endometrial dating, remain insufficient to predict successful implantation. Additionally, no techniques are widely applied to analyse molecular signals involved in the embryo-uterine interaction. More reliable biological markers to predict embryo and uterine reproductive competence are needed to improve pregnancy outcomes. Recent years have seen a trend towards 'omics' methods, which enable the assessment of complete endometrial and embryonic molecular profiles during implantation. Omics have advanced our knowledge of the implantation process, identifying potential but rarely implemented biomarkers of successful implantation. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE Differences between the findings of published omics studies, and perhaps because embryonic and endometrial molecular signatures were often not investigated jointly, have prevented firm conclusions being reached. A timely review summarizing omics studies on the molecular determinants of human implantation in both the embryo and the endometrium will help facilitate integrative and reliable omics approaches to enhance ART outcomes. SEARCH METHODS In order to provide a comprehensive review of the literature published up to September 2019, Medline databases were searched using keywords pertaining to omics, including 'transcriptome', 'proteome', 'secretome', 'metabolome' and 'expression profiles', combined with terms related to implantation, such as 'endometrial receptivity', 'embryo viability' and 'embryo implantation'. No language restrictions were imposed. References from articles were also used for additional literature. OUTCOMES Here we provide a complete summary of the major achievements in human implantation research supplied by omics approaches, highlighting their potential to improve reproductive outcomes while fully elucidating the implantation mechanism. The review highlights the existence of discrepancies among the postulated biomarkers from studies on embryo viability or endometrial receptivity, even using the same omic analysis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Despite the huge amount of biomarker information provided by omics, we still do not have enough evidence to link data from all omics with an implantation outcome. However, in the foreseeable future, application of minimally or non-invasive omics tools, together with a more integrative interpretation of uniformly collected data, will help to overcome the difficulties for clinical implementation of omics tools. Omics assays of the embryo and endometrium are being proposed or already being used as diagnostic tools for personalised single-embryo transfer in the most favourable endometrial environment, avoiding the risk of multiple pregnancies and ensuring better pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Purificación Hernández-Vargas
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Manuel Muñoz
- IVI-RMA Alicante, Innovation. Avda. de Denia 111, 03015 Alicante, Spain.,Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
| | - Francisco Domínguez
- Fundación IVI, Innovation-IIS La Fe, Avda. Fernando Abril Martorell 106, Torre A, 1° 1.23, 46026 Valencia, Spain
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12
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Alternariol disturbs oocyte maturation and preimplantation development. Mycotoxin Res 2019; 36:93-101. [PMID: 31473931 DOI: 10.1007/s12550-019-00372-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Alternariol (AOH) is produced by fungi of the genus Alternaria and can be found in fruits, vegetables, and grains. Besides the oestrogenic activity demonstrated in vitro, this mycotoxin causes DNA damage and cell cycle arrest. Based on this, the effect of AOH was investigated on porcine female gametes during in vitro maturation and subsequent initial embryo development. A first experiment assessed a dose-response effect of AOH (5, 10, or 20 μmol/l) on cumulus expansion and in vitro oocyte nuclear maturation, in the presence or absence of follicular fluid (FF). A second experiment evaluated the effect of AOH (5, 10, or 20 μmol/l) exposure during porcine oocyte maturation, initial embryo development, or both periods, on preimplantation embryo development. Although FF protected oocytes from the deleterious effect of AOH, it did not avoid a decrease in cumulus cells expansion (5 μmol/l AOH regardless of the presence of FF). Moreover, exposure to AOH resulted in the degeneration of oocytes (10 μmol/l AOH in the absence of FF) and the occurrence of nuclear aberrations in mature oocytes (10 μmol/l AOH in the absence of FF and 20 μmol/l AOH in the presence of FF). Exposure to 5 μmol/l AOH during oocyte in vitro maturation was sufficient to impair initial embryo development.
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Walter J, Huwiler F, Fortes C, Grossmann J, Roschitzki B, Hu J, Naegeli H, Laczko E, Bleul U. Analysis of the equine "cumulome" reveals major metabolic aberrations after maturation in vitro. BMC Genomics 2019; 20:588. [PMID: 31315563 PMCID: PMC6637639 DOI: 10.1186/s12864-019-5836-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2018] [Accepted: 05/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maturation of oocytes under in vitro conditions (IVM) results in impaired developmental competence compared to oocytes matured in vivo. As oocytes are closely coupled to their cumulus complex, elucidating aberrations in cumulus metabolism in vitro is important to bridge the gap towards more physiological maturation conditions. The aim of this study was to analyze the equine “cumulome” in a novel combination of proteomic (nano-HPLC MS/MS) and metabolomic (UPLC-nanoESI-MS) profiling of single cumulus complexes of metaphase II oocytes matured either in vivo (n = 8) or in vitro (n = 7). Results A total of 1811 quantifiable proteins and 906 metabolic compounds were identified. The proteome contained 216 differentially expressed proteins (p ≤ 0.05; FC ≥ 2; 95 decreased and 121 increased in vitro), and the metabolome contained 108 metabolites with significantly different abundance (p ≤ 0.05; FC ≥ 2; 24 decreased and 84 increased in vitro). The in vitro “cumulome” was summarized in the following 10 metabolic groups (containing 78 proteins and 21 metabolites): (1) oxygen supply, (2) glucose metabolism, (3) fatty acid metabolism, (4) oxidative phosphorylation, (5) amino acid metabolism, (6) purine and pyrimidine metabolism, (7) steroid metabolism, (8) extracellular matrix, (9) complement cascade and (10) coagulation cascade. The KEGG pathway “complement and coagulation cascades” (ID4610; n = 21) was significantly overrepresented after in vitro maturation. The findings indicate that the in vitro condition especially affects central metabolism and extracellular matrix composition. Important candidates for the metabolic group oxygen supply were underrepresented after maturation in vitro. Additionally, a shift towards glycolysis was detected in glucose metabolism. Therefore, under in vitro conditions, cumulus cells seem to preferentially consume excess available glucose to meet their energy requirements. Proteins involved in biosynthetic processes for fatty acids, cholesterol, amino acids, and purines exhibited higher abundances after maturation in vitro. Conclusion This study revealed the marked impact of maturation conditions on the “cumulome” of individual cumulus oocyte complexes. Under the studied in vitro milieu, cumulus cells seem to compensate for a lack of important substrates by shifting to aerobic glycolysis. These findings will help to adapt culture media towards more physiological conditions for oocyte maturation. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12864-019-5836-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Walter
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - Fabian Huwiler
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Claudia Fortes
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Grossmann
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Bernd Roschitzki
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Junmin Hu
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Hanspeter Naegeli
- Institute of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Endre Laczko
- Functional Genomics Center Zurich, University and ETH Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrich Bleul
- Clinic of Reproductive Medicine, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, 8057, Zurich, Switzerland
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Blastocyst culture and transfer in clinically assisted reproduction: a committee opinion. Fertil Steril 2019; 110:1246-1252. [PMID: 30503113 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.09.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 09/13/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
The purposes of this Practice Committee Opinion, which replaces the 2013 ASRM Practice Committee Opinion of the same name (Fertil Steril 2013; 99:667-72), are to review the literature regarding the clinical application of blastocyst transfer and identify the potential risks and laboratory issues related to the use of this technology. This document does not apply to patients undergoing blastocyst culture and transfer for preimplantation genetic testing.
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Affiliation(s)
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- American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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- American Society for Reproductive Medicine, Birmingham, Alabama
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Ljubić A. Inverted pyramid of prenatal care - is it enough? Should it be - extended inverted pyramid of prenatal care? J Perinat Med 2018; 46:716-720. [PMID: 28593902 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2016-0427] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2016] [Accepted: 03/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
In recent years, the idea of the inverted pyramid of prenatal care and monitoring has emerged, for the purpose of prediction and prevention, early detection and treatment of health disorders of the fetus. Is this enough? If we analyze the period behind us, progress has been made in the field of detection of multiple pregnancies, dating of pregnancy and prenatal detection of chromosomal and structural fetal disorders, as well as a small amount of progress in terms of prediction and prevention of preeclampsia. If these disorders are the consequence of the disturbed or dysfunctional placentation, they are rooted at the time of implantation. This means that the changes that lead to the dysfunctional implantation should be sought in the pre-implantation period, in relation between the embryo and the endometrium. An extended inverted pyramid is necessary to find better results in perinatal medicine. This means that the interventions should be focused on the preconception and peri-implantation periods. The therapy should be on the subcellular and genetic level by applying the latest biotechnological procedures. It is possible that the time is approaching when the listed disorders of a pregnancy will be the indications for the application of a non stimulated in-vitro fertilization (IVF) (without ovary stimulating medication) with the use of new biotechnological achievements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandar Ljubić
- Medigroup system, Belgrade, Serbia, DIU Libertas, Svetog Dominika 4, Dubrovnik, Croatia
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Montskó G, Gödöny K, Herczeg R, Várnagy Á, Bódis J, Kovács GL. Alpha-1 chain of human haptoglobin as viability marker of in vitro fertilized human embryos: information beyond morphology. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2018; 65:174-180. [PMID: 30222008 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2018.1518499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
Only one third of the in vitro fertilization treatments result in successful delivery following morphological viability assessment worldwide. A paper by Montskó et al. (2015) describes the identification of the alpha-1 chain of human haptoglobin as a potential marker of embryo viability. Using mass spectrometry, the concentration of the haptoglobin alpha-1 chain was determined in spent culture media samples of in vitro fertilized embryos and correlation was found with the outcome of the respective transfer. In the present study we investigated, whether the concentration of haptoglobin alpha-1 chain shows any correlation with morphological scores to clarify whether levels of the alpha-1 chain provide additional information on embryo viability unnoticed by the morphological assessment. In the study, pregnancy and live birth rates were examined in 143 transferred samples of 86 patients, retrospectively. Two sample groups were created. The control group contained embryos classified as 'good' or 'fair' based on the Istanbul Consensus Criteria System, while the double-assay group contained embryos assessed as 'good' or 'fair' by the morphological evaluation and as 'viable' by the haptoglobin assay. Clinical pregnancy rate was 30.2% in the control group, while 47.6% in the group scored parallel with morphological criteria and proteomic analysis (p < 0.05). The increased clinical pregnancy rate observed in the double-assayed group can be attributed to decreased false-positivity of the double assay. Abbreviations: IVF: in vitro fertilization; SEC: spent embryo culture medium; HSA: human serum albumin; Hpt: haptoglobin; HptA1: haptoglobin alpha-1 chain; ICCS: Istanbul Consensus Criteria System; BMI: body mass index; ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gergely Montskó
- a Szentágothai Research Centre , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,b MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
| | - Krisztina Gödöny
- b MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
| | - Róbert Herczeg
- a Szentágothai Research Centre , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
| | - Ákos Várnagy
- b MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
| | - József Bódis
- b MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,c Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
| | - Gábor L Kovács
- a Szentágothai Research Centre , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,b MTA-PTE Human Reproduction Scientific Research Group , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary.,d Department of Laboratory Medicine, Faculty of Medicine , University of Pécs , Pécs , Hungary
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Celá A, Mádr A, Ješeta M, Žáková J, Crha I, Glatz Z. Study of metabolic activity of human embryos focused on amino acids by capillary electrophoresis with light‐emitting diode‐induced fluorescence detection. Electrophoresis 2018; 39:3040-3048. [DOI: 10.1002/elps.201800265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Revised: 07/31/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Celá
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceMasaryk University Brno Czech Republic
| | - Aleš Mádr
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceMasaryk University Brno Czech Republic
| | - Michal Ješeta
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Jana Žáková
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Igor Crha
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyFaculty of Medicine and University Hospital Brno Brno Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Glatz
- Department of BiochemistryFaculty of ScienceMasaryk University Brno Czech Republic
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Li XX, Cao PH, Han WX, Xu YK, Wu H, Yu XL, Chen JY, Zhang F, Li YH. Non-invasive metabolomic profiling of culture media of ICSI- and IVF-derived early developmental cattle embryos via Raman spectroscopy. Anim Reprod Sci 2018; 196:99-110. [DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2018] [Revised: 06/18/2018] [Accepted: 07/02/2018] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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Chokjirawat T, Sukpresert M, Choktanasiri W, Waiyaput W, Saengwimol D, Taweewongsounton A, Pongrujikorn T, Satirapod C. Luteinizing Hormone Receptor Gene and Regulator of G-protein Signaling 2 Gene Expression Level and Association with Oocyte Maturity in In vitro Fertilization/Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection Cycle. J Hum Reprod Sci 2018; 11:52-58. [PMID: 29681717 PMCID: PMC5892105 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_89_16] [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] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: The aim is to study the relation and distribution in gene expression level of the luteinizing hormone receptor (LHR) gene and regulator of G-protein signaling 2 (RGS2) gene expression with oocyte maturation. Setting and Design: This cross-sectional study was undertaken in an instruction-based tertiary care infertility unit, department of obstetrics and gynecology. Materials and Methods: After controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, cumulus granulosa cells (CCs) from 59 oocytes among 18 women being treated by in vitro fertilization/intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycle technique from November 2015 to January 2016 were collected on the day of oocyte retrieval. Total RNA was extracted and converted to cDNA in individual oocytes. LHR and RGS2 gene levels were measured and analyzed using digital droplet polymerase chain reaction. Statistical Analysis: Gene expression level was analyzed using software STATA, version 14.0 (College Station, TX: StataCorp LP, USA). Results: CCs were obtained from 59 cumulus-oocyte complexes (COC), 46 COC from metaphase II (CCMII), 13 COC from metaphase I, and GV oocyte (CCMI + GV). The RGS2 gene expression level, when compared with the housekeeping gene in CCMII and CCMI + GV, was 0.15 (0.05–0.52) and 0.08 (0.02–0.27), respectively. The LHR gene expression when compared with the housekeeping gene in CCMII and CCMI + GV did not differ and was quite in the same value that was 0.02 (0.00–0.11) and 0.02 (0.00–0.06), respectively. Conclusion: This study showed that LHR gene expression did not differ in between oocyte groups. Even though the median of RGS2 gene expression was more in the mature oocyte group, the result was inconclusive due to scattering and overlapping of gene expression data between oocyte groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanik Chokjirawat
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Infertility and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Mutchuporn Sukpresert
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Infertility and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wicharn Choktanasiri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Infertility and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Wanwisa Waiyaput
- Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Duangporn Saengwimol
- Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | | | - Tanjitti Pongrujikorn
- Research Center, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Chonthicha Satirapod
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Infertility and Reproductive Medicine Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Ramathibodi Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This article discusses the use of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number as a potential biomarker for embryo viability in assisted reproduction. RECENT FINDINGS Mitochondria have a well-established role in regulating embryo energy metabolism, and their efficiency has significant implications for reproductive success. Two recent studies suggested that elevated mtDNA copy number is associated with decreased implantation potential in human embryos generated by IVF. In the first study, Fragouli et al. reported that blastocysts that are aneuploid and those obtained from older reproductive age women have a higher mtDNA copy number. In addition, euploid blastocysts that failed to implant had a higher mtDNA copy number; and pregnancy did not occur when mtDNA copy number was above a threshold. In a subsequent study, Diez-Juan et al. found that mtDNA copy number inversely correlates with implantation potential of euploid embryos, not only for blastocysts but also for cleavage stage embryos. Instead of a threshold model, they proposed a score for embryos based on mtDNA copy number, which would be indicative of implantation potential. Unlike the previous study, Diez-Juan et al. did not find an age-associated decrease in mtDNA copy number in day 3 or day 5 embryos. SUMMARY Recent reports suggest that mtDNA copy number may be used as a biomarker for embryo viability. Further studies are necessary to determine whether mtDNA copy number constitutes a parameter independent of morphology and preimplantation genetic screening and whether its use may result in higher IVF pregnancy rates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
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21
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Spent culture medium analysis from individually cultured bovine embryos demonstrates metabolomic differences. ZYGOTE 2017; 25:662-674. [PMID: 29032784 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199417000417] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Spent culture medium can provide valuable information regarding the physiological state of a bovine preimplantation embryos through non-invasive analysis of the sum/depleted metabolite constituents. Metabolomics has become of great interest as an adjunct technique to morphological and cleavage-rate assessment, but more importantly, in improving our understanding of metabolism. In this study, in vitro produced bovine embryos developing at different rates were evaluated using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H NMR). Spent culture medium from individually cultured embryos (2-cell to blastocyst stage) were divided into two groups based on their cleavage rate fast growing (FG) and slow growing (SG; developmentally delayed by 12-24 h), then analyzed by a 600 MHz NMR spectrometer. Sixteen metabolites were detected and investigated for sum/depletion throughout development. Data indicate distinct differences between the 4-cell SG and FG embryos for pyruvate (P < 0.05, n = 9) and at the 16-cell stage for acetate, tryptophan, leucine/isoleucine, valine and histidine. Overall sum/depletion levels of metabolites demonstrated that embryos produced glutamate, but consumed histidine, tyrosine, glycine, methionine, tryptophan, phenylalanine, lysine, arginine, acetate, threonine, alanine, pyruvate, valine, isoleucine/leucine, and lactate with an overall trend of higher consumption of these metabolites by FG groups. Principal component analysis revealed distinct clustering of the plain medium, SG, and FG group, signifying the uniqueness of the metabolomic signatures of each of these groups. This study is the first of its kind to characterize the metabolomic profiles of SG and FG bovine embryos produced in vitro using 1H NMR. Elucidating differences between embryos of varying developmental rates could contribute to a better understanding of embryonic health and physiology.
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Bracewell-Milnes T, Saso S, Abdalla H, Nikolau D, Norman-Taylor J, Johnson M, Holmes E, Thum MY. Metabolomics as a tool to identify biomarkers to predict and improve outcomes in reproductive medicine: a systematic review. Hum Reprod Update 2017; 23:723-736. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmx023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/31/2016] [Accepted: 07/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
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Faramarzi A, Khalili MA, Micara G, Agha- Rahimi A. Revealing the secret life of pre-implantation embryos by time-lapse monitoring: A review. Int J Reprod Biomed 2017. [DOI: 10.29252/ijrm.15.5.257] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
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Celá A, Mádr A, Glatz Z. Electrophoretically mediated microanalysis for simultaneous on-capillary derivatization of standard amino acids followed by micellar electrokinetic capillary chromatography with laser-induced fluorescence detection. J Chromatogr A 2017; 1499:203-210. [DOI: 10.1016/j.chroma.2017.03.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2017] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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25
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Labas V, Teixeira-Gomes AP, Bouguereau L, Gargaros A, Spina L, Marestaing A, Uzbekova S. Intact cell MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry on single bovine oocyte and follicular cells combined with top-down proteomics: A novel approach to characterise markers of oocyte maturation. J Proteomics 2017; 175:56-74. [PMID: 28385661 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2017.03.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Revised: 02/23/2017] [Accepted: 03/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Intact cell MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry (ICM-MS) was adapted to bovine follicular cells from individual ovarian follicles to obtain the protein/peptide signatures (<17kDa) of single oocytes, cumulus cells (CC) and granulosa cells (GC), which shared a total of 439 peaks. By comparing the ICM-MS profiles of single oocytes and CC before and after in vitro maturation (IVM), 71 different peaks were characterised, and their relative abundance was found to vary depending on the stage of oocyte meiotic maturation. To identify these endogenous biomolecules, top-down workflow using high resolution MS/MS (TD HR-MS) was performed on the protein extracts from oocytes, CC and GC. The TD HR-MS proteomic approach allowed for: (1) identification of 386 peptide/proteoforms encoded by 194 genes; and (2) characterisation of proteolysis products likely resulting from the action of kallikreins and caspases. In total, 136 peaks observed by ICM-MS were annotated by TD HR-MS (ProteomeXchange PXD004892). Among these, 16 markers of maturation were identified, including IGF2 binding protein 3 and hemoglobin B in the oocyte, thymosins beta-4 and beta-10, histone H2B and ubiquitin in CC. The combination of ICM-MS and TD HR-MS proved to be a suitable strategy to identify non-invasive markers of oocyte quality using limited biological samples. BIOLOGICAL SIGNIFICANCE Intact cell MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry on single oocytes and their surrounding cumulus cells, coupled to an optimised top-down HR-MS proteomic approach on ovarian follicular cells, was used to identify specific markers of oocyte meiotic maturation represented by whole low molecular weight proteins or products of degradation by specific proteases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Valérie Labas
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Ana-Paula Teixeira-Gomes
- UMR ISP, INRA, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Laura Bouguereau
- UMR ISP, INRA, Université de Tours, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Audrey Gargaros
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Lucie Spina
- INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INSA/CNRS 5504 - UMR INSA/INRA 792, Toulouse, France
| | - Aurélie Marestaing
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France
| | - Svetlana Uzbekova
- UMR PRC, INRA 85, CNRS, Université de Tours, IFCE, 37380 Nouzilly, France; INRA, Plateforme d'Analyse Intégrative des Biomolécules, Laboratoire de Spectrométrie de Masse, 37380 Nouzilly, France.
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The influence of in vitro fertilization and embryo culture on the embryo epigenetic constituents and the possible consequences in the bovine model. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2017; 8:411-417. [PMID: 28260557 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174417000125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Medically assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro embryo production, are increasingly being used to palliate infertility. Eggs are produced following a hormonal regimen that stimulates the ovaries to produce a large number of oocytes. Collected oocytes are then fertilized in vitro and allowed to develop in vitro until they are either frozen or transferred to mothers. There are controversial reports on the adverse impacts of these technologies on early embryos and their potential long-term effects. Using newly developed technological platforms that enable global gene expression and global DNA methylation profiling, we evaluated gene perturbations caused by such artificial procedures. We know that cells in the early embryo produce all cells in the body and are able to respond to their in vitro environment. However, it is not known whether gene perturbations are part of a normal response to the environment or are due to distress and will have long-term impacts. While the mouse is an established genetic model used for quality control of culture media in clinics, the bovine is a large mono-ovulating mammal with similar embryonic kinetics as humans during the studied developmental window. These model systems are critical to understand the effects of assisted reproduction without the confounding impact of infertility and without the limitations imposed by the scarcity of donated human samples and ethical issues. The data presented in this review come mostly from our own experimentation, publications, and collaborations. Together they demonstrate that the in vitro environment has a significant impact on embryos at the transcriptomic level and at the DNA methylation level.
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Kirkegaard K, Dyrlund TF, Ingerslev HJ. Clinical Application of Methods to Select In VitroFertilized Embryos. Hum Reprod 2016. [DOI: 10.1002/9781118849613.ch7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Kirstine Kirkegaard
- Department of Medical Biochemistry; Aarhus University Hospital; Aarhus Denmark
| | - Thomas F. Dyrlund
- Department of Molecular Biology and Genetics; Aarhus University; Aarhus Denmark
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Cagnone G, Sirard MA. The embryonic stress response to in vitro culture: insight from genomic analysis. Reproduction 2016; 152:R247-R261. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent genomic studies have shed light on the impact of in vitro culture (IVC) on embryonic homeostasis and the differential gene expression profiles associated with lower developmental competence. Consistently, the embryonic stress responses to IVC conditions correlate with transcriptomic changes in pathways related to energetic metabolism, extracellular matrix remodelling and inflammatory signalling. These changes appear to result from a developmental adaptation that enhances a Warburg-like effect known to occur naturally during blastulation. First discovered in cancer cells, the Warburg effect (increased glycolysis under aerobic conditions) is thought to result from mitochondrial dysfunction. In the case of IVC embryos, culture conditions may interfere with mitochondrial maturation and oxidative phosphorylation, forcing cells to rely on glycolysis in order to maintain energetic homeostasis. While beneficial in the short term, such adaptations may lead to epigenetic changes with potential long-term effects on implantation, foetal growth and post-natal health. We conclude that lessening the detrimental effects of IVC on mitochondrial activity would lead to significantly improved embryo quality.
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Braga DPAF, Setti AS, Lo Turco EG, Cordeiro FB, Cabral EC, Cortezzi SS, Ono E, Figueira RCS, Eberlin MN, Borges E. Protein expression in human cumulus cells as an indicator of blastocyst formation and pregnancy success. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1571-1583. [PMID: 27614633 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0800-7] [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] [Received: 04/26/2016] [Accepted: 08/17/2016] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The goal for the present study was to implement a technique for protein extraction and identification in human cumulus cells (CCs). METHODS Forty samples of CCs were collected after ovum pick-up from patients undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Samples were split into the blastocyst group (n = 10), including patients in which all embryos converted into blastocysts, and the non-blastocyst group (n = 10), including patients in which none of the embryos reached the blastocyst stage or the positive-pregnancy (n = 10) and negative-pregnancy group (n = 10). Proteins were extracted and injected into a liquid chromatography system coupled to a mass spectrometer. The spectra were processed and used to search a database. RESULTS There were 87 different proteins in samples from the blastocyst and non-blastocyst groups, in which 30 were exclusively expressed in the blastocyst group and 17 in the non-blastocyst group. Among the 72 proteins detected in the pregnancy groups, 19 were exclusively expressed in the positive, and 16 were exclusively expressed in the negative-pregnancy group. CONCLUSIONS CC proteomics may be useful for predicting pregnancy success and the identification of patients that should be included in extended embryo culture programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Paes Almeida Ferreira Braga
- Fertility Medical Group, Av. Brigadeiro Luis Antônio, 4545, São Paulo, SP, 01401-002, Brazil.,Disciplina de Urologia, Área de Reprodução Humana, Departamento de Cirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Embaú, 231, São Paulo, SP, 04039-060, Brazil.,Instituto Sapientiae-Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Humana Assistida, Rua Vieira Maciel, 62, São Paulo, SP, 04503-040, Brazil
| | - Amanda Souza Setti
- Fertility Medical Group, Av. Brigadeiro Luis Antônio, 4545, São Paulo, SP, 01401-002, Brazil.,Instituto Sapientiae-Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Humana Assistida, Rua Vieira Maciel, 62, São Paulo, SP, 04503-040, Brazil
| | - Edson Guimarães Lo Turco
- Disciplina de Urologia, Área de Reprodução Humana, Departamento de Cirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Embaú, 231, São Paulo, SP, 04039-060, Brazil
| | - Fernanda Bertuccez Cordeiro
- Disciplina de Urologia, Área de Reprodução Humana, Departamento de Cirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Embaú, 231, São Paulo, SP, 04039-060, Brazil
| | - Elaine Cristina Cabral
- Centro Pluridisciplinar de Pesquisas Químicas, Biológicas e Agronômicas (CPQBA)-Universidade de Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Sylvia Sanches Cortezzi
- Instituto Sapientiae-Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Humana Assistida, Rua Vieira Maciel, 62, São Paulo, SP, 04503-040, Brazil
| | - Erika Ono
- Instituto Sapientiae-Centro de Estudos e Pesquisa em Reprodução Humana Assistida, Rua Vieira Maciel, 62, São Paulo, SP, 04503-040, Brazil
| | | | - Marcos Nogueira Eberlin
- Laboratório ThoMSon de Espectrometria de Massas-Instituto de Química, Universidade de Campinas-UNICAMP, Campinas, SP, 13083-970, Brazil
| | - Edson Borges
- Fertility Medical Group, Av. Brigadeiro Luis Antônio, 4545, São Paulo, SP, 01401-002, Brazil. .,Disciplina de Urologia, Área de Reprodução Humana, Departamento de Cirurgia, Universidade Federal de São Paulo-UNIFESP, Rua Embaú, 231, São Paulo, SP, 04039-060, Brazil.
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IVF: progress through technology development. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2016; 28:149-50. [PMID: 27077470 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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31
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Daughtry BL, Chavez SL. Chromosomal instability in mammalian pre-implantation embryos: potential causes, detection methods, and clinical consequences. Cell Tissue Res 2016; 363:201-225. [PMID: 26590822 PMCID: PMC5621482 DOI: 10.1007/s00441-015-2305-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 53] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2015] [Accepted: 09/24/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Formation of a totipotent blastocyst capable of implantation is one of the first major milestones in early mammalian embryogenesis, but less than half of in vitro fertilized embryos from most mammals will progress to this stage of development. Whole chromosomal abnormalities, or aneuploidy, are key determinants of whether human embryos will arrest or reach the blastocyst stage. Depending on the type of chromosomal abnormality, however, certain embryos still form blastocysts and may be morphologically indistinguishable from chromosomally normal embryos. Despite the implementation of pre-implantation genetic screening and other advanced in vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, the identification of aneuploid embryos remains complicated by high rates of mosaicism, atypical cell division, cellular fragmentation, sub-chromosomal instability, and micro-/multi-nucleation. Moreover, several of these processes occur in vivo following natural human conception, suggesting that they are not simply a consequence of culture conditions. Recent technological achievements in genetic, epigenetic, chromosomal, and non-invasive imaging have provided additional embryo assessment approaches, particularly at the single-cell level, and clinical trials investigating their efficacy are continuing to emerge. In this review, we summarize the potential mechanisms by which aneuploidy may arise, the various detection methods, and the technical advances (such as time-lapse imaging, "-omic" profiling, and next-generation sequencing) that have assisted in obtaining this data. We also discuss the possibility of aneuploidy resolution in embryos via various corrective mechanisms, including multi-polar divisions, fragment resorption, endoreduplication, and blastomere exclusion, and conclude by examining the potential implications of these findings for IVF success and human fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brittany L Daughtry
- Department of Cell, Developmental & Cancer Biology, Graduate Program in Molecular & Cellular Biosciences, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA
| | - Shawn L Chavez
- Division of Reproductive & Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, 505 NW 185th Avenue, Beaverton, OR 97006, USA.
- Physiology & Pharmacology, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA.
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University School of Medicine, Portland, Ore., USA.
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Perkel KJ, Tscherner A, Merrill C, Lamarre J, Madan P. The ART of selecting the best embryo: A review of early embryonic mortality and bovine embryo viability assessment methods. Mol Reprod Dev 2015; 82:822-38. [PMID: 26184077 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22525] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2014] [Accepted: 07/10/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Animal reproductive biotechnology is continually evolving. Significant advances have been made in our understanding of early embryonic mortality and embryo development in domestic animals, which has improved the selection and success of in vitro technologies. Yet our knowledge is still relatively limited such that identifying a single embryo with the highest chance of survival and development for transfer remains challenging. While invasive methods such as embryo biopsy can provide useful information regarding the genetic status of the embryos, morphological assessment remains the most common evaluation. A recent shift, however, favors alternative, adjunct approaches for non-invasive assessment of an embryo's viability and developmental potential. Various analytical techniques have facilitated the evaluation of cellular health through the metabolome, the assessment of end products of cellular metabolism, or by analyzing spent media for small RNAs. This review discusses the application of noninvasive approaches for ascertaining the health and viability of in vitro-produced bovine embryos. A comparative analysis of noninvasive techniques for embryo assessment currently being investigated in cattle and humans is also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kayla J Perkel
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Allison Tscherner
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Casandra Merrill
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jonathan Lamarre
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
| | - Pavneesh Madan
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Ontario Veterinary College, University of Guelph, Guelph, Ontario, Canada
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Benkhalifa M, Madkour A, Louanjli N, Bouamoud N, Saadani B, Kaarouch I, Chahine H, Sefrioui O, Merviel P, Copin H. From global proteome profiling to single targeted molecules of follicular fluid and oocyte: contribution to embryo development and IVF outcome. Expert Rev Proteomics 2015; 12:407-23. [DOI: 10.1586/14789450.2015.1056782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Mádr A, Celá A, Klejdus B, Pelcová M, Crha I, Žáková J, Glatz Z. Determination of pyruvate and lactate as potential biomarkers of embryo viability in assisted reproduction by capillary electrophoresis with contactless conductivity detection. Electrophoresis 2015; 36:1244-50. [PMID: 25639526 DOI: 10.1002/elps.201400487] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2014] [Revised: 12/19/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
Abstract
Human-assisted reproduction is increasing in importance due to the constantly rising number of couples suffering from infertility issue. A key step in in vitro fertilization is the proper assessment of embryo viability in order to select the embryo with the highest likelihood of resulting in a pregnancy. This study proposes a method based on CE with contactless conductivity detection for the determination of pyruvate and lactate in spent culture media used in human-assisted reproduction. A fused-silica capillary of 64.0 cm total length and 50 μm inner diameter was used. The inner capillary wall was modified by the coating of successive layers of the ionic polymers polybrene and dextran sulfate to reverse EOF. The BGE was composed of 10 mM MES/lithium hydroxide, pH 6.50. The sample was injected by pressure 50 mbar for 18 s, separation voltage was set to -24 kV, and capillary temperature to 15°C. The presented method requires only 2 μL of the culture medium, with LODs for pyruvate and lactate of 0.03 and 0.02 μM, respectively. The results demonstrated the method's suitability for the analysis of spent culture media to support embryo viability assessment by light microscopy, providing information about key metabolites of the energy metabolism of a developing embryo.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleš Mádr
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Andrea Celá
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Bořivoj Klejdus
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Marta Pelcová
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Igor Crha
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University and University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Žáková
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Masaryk University and University Hospital Brno, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Zdeněk Glatz
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Science and CEITEC, Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
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Matsunaga R, Horiuchi T. ICSI with the Assistance of Meiotic Spindle Imaging for the Production of High Quality Embryos. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1274/jmor.32.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Matsuura K. Numerical calculations for diffusion effects in the well-of-the-well culture system for mammalian embryos. Reprod Fertil Dev 2015; 26:742-51. [PMID: 23697480 DOI: 10.1071/rd13025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2013] [Accepted: 05/01/2013] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent studies suggest that the microenvironment and embryo density used during embryo culture considerably affect development to the blastocyst stage. High embryo density allows for autocrine secretions to diffuse to neighbouring embryos during group culture, with a positive effect on further development. A variation of group culture is the well-of-the-well (WOW) culture system, allowing for individual identification of embryos cultured in small holes in a microdroplet. Bovine blastocyst development is higher in the WOW culture system than in conventional group culture. To compare the concentration of chemical factors between conventional and WOW culture, a model was constructed to calculate the concentration of secreted factors based on Fick's second law of diffusion using spreadsheet software. Furthermore, model was used to determine the concentration of growth factors and waste materials adjacent to the embryo periphery. The results of these calculations suggest that the highest difference in the concentration of secreted small molecules and macromolecules was at the most two- to threefold, with the concentrations reduced more and diffusion kinetics facilitated to a greater extent in the WOW culture system. The average ratio of the concentration of secreted macromolecules (10nm diameter) around the embryos was also compared between systems with well widths of 0.1 and 0.3mm. The concentration of secreted materials surrounding embryos increased in a narrow tapered well. The findings suggest that the WOW culture system is better than conventional group culture because of the increased final concentration of autocrine factors and higher diffusion kinetics of waste materials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Koji Matsuura
- Research Core for Interdisciplinary Sciences, Okayama University, 3-1-1 Tsushima-naka, Kita-ku, Okayama 700-8530, Japan.
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ASSIDI M, MONTAG M, SIRARD MA. Use of both cumulus cells' transcriptomic markers and zona pellucida birefringence to select developmentally competent oocytes in human assisted reproductive technologies. BMC Genomics 2015; 16 Suppl 1:S9. [PMID: 25923296 PMCID: PMC4315169 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-16-s1-s9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Selection of the best oocyte for subsequent steps of fertilization and embryo transfer was shown to be the crucial step in human infertility treatment procedure. Oocyte selection using morphological criteria mainly Zona pellucida (ZP) has been the gold standard method in assisted reproductive technologies (ART) clinics, but this selection approach has limitations in terms of accuracy, objectivity and constancy. Recent studies using OMICs-based approaches have allowed the identification of key molecular markers that quantitatively and non-invasively predict the oocyte quality for higher pregnancy rates and efficient infertility treatment. These biomarkers are a valuable reinforcement of the morphological selection criteria widely used in in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinics. In this context, this study was designed to investigate the relationship between transcriptomic predictors of oocyte quality found by our group and the conventional morphological parameters of oocyte quality mainly the ZP birefringence. RESULTS Microarray data revealed that 48 and 27 differentially expressed candidate genes in cumulus cells (CCs) were respectively overexpressed and underexpressed in the ZGP (Zona Good Pregnant) versus ZBNP (Zona Bad Non Pregnant) groups. More than 70% of previously reported transcriptomic biomarkers of oocyte developmental competence were confirmed in this study. The analysis of possible association between ZP birefringence versus molecular markers approach showed an absence of correlation between them using the current set of markers. CONCLUSIONS This study suggested a new integrative approach that matches morphological and molecular approaches used to select developmentally competent oocytes able to lead to successful pregnancy and the delivery of healthy baby. For each ZP birefringence score, oocytes displayed a particular CCs' gene expression pattern. However, no correlations were found between the 7 gene biomarkers of oocyte developmental potential and the ZP birefringence score. Further studies using larger lists of candidate markers are required to identify suitable genes that are highly correlated with the morphological criteria, and therefore able to reinforce the accuracy of oocyte selection and the effectiveness of infertility treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mourad ASSIDI
- Center of Excellence in Genomic Medicine Research, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, 21589, Saudi Arabia
- KACST Technology Innovation Center in Personalized Medicine, King AbdulAziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, G1K 7P4, Canada
| | - Markus MONTAG
- Department of Gynecological Endocrinology and Reproductive Medicine, Bonn University, Bonn, Germany
- Current address: ilabcomm Gm bH, Eisenachstr. 34; D-53757 St. Augustin; Germany
| | - Marc-André SIRARD
- Centre de Recherche en Biologie de la Reproduction, Laval University, Quebec City, QC, G1K 7P4, Canada
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Cetinkaya M, Pirkevi C, Yelke H, Colakoglu YK, Atayurt Z, Kahraman S. Relative kinetic expressions defining cleavage synchronicity are better predictors of blastocyst formation and quality than absolute time points. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:27-35. [PMID: 25370178 PMCID: PMC4294863 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0341-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Morphology alone is not enough for the selection of the embryo (s) with the highest implantation potential and time-lapse imaging has added embryo development kinetics as another selection criterion. Therefore, a combination of morphology with kinetics has inspired a new field termed "morphokinetics", providing a new way of evaluating and selecting embryos. The aim of the study was to identify a criterion solely based on morphokinetic data and available up to the 8-cell stage (t8) to predict blastocyst formation and quality. METHODS The study included 3,354 embryos, with annotations up to t8, and cultured until day 5 from 626 infertile patients. A total of 17 kinetic expressions, either absolute cleavage timings and time intervals or time ratios were tested retrospectively for the prediction of blastocyst formation and quality. RESULTS Relative timings (t8-t5, the cleavage synchronicity from 4 to 8 cells and from 2 to 8 cells) were found to be better indicators of blastocyst formation and quality when compared to absolute time-points. Especially, the cleavage synchronicity from 2 to 8 cells (CS2-8) = ((t3-t2) + (t5-t4))/(t8-t2)) was found to be the best predictor available on day 3 for blastocyst formation and quality (AUC:0.786; sensitivity: 83.43; specificity: 62.46). CONCLUSIONS Time intervals and relative ratios based on selected cleavage cycles defining synchronicity allowed a specific analysis providing high predictivity of blastocyst formation and quality.
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Affiliation(s)
- Murat Cetinkaya
- Istanbul Memorial Hospital, Assisted Reproductive Techniques and Reproductive Genetics Center, Piyale Pasa Bulvari, 34385, Okmeydani, Sisli, Istanbul/Turkey,
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Bunel A, Jorssen E, Merckx E, Leroy J, Bols P, Sirard M. Individual bovine in vitro embryo production and cumulus cell transcriptomic analysis to distinguish cumulus-oocyte complexes with high or low developmental potential. Theriogenology 2015; 83:228-37. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2014] [Revised: 09/09/2014] [Accepted: 09/11/2014] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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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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Egea RR, Puchalt NG, Escrivá MM, Varghese AC. OMICS: Current and future perspectives in reproductive medicine and technology. J Hum Reprod Sci 2014; 7:73-92. [PMID: 25191020 PMCID: PMC4150148 DOI: 10.4103/0974-1208.138857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2013] [Revised: 01/14/2014] [Accepted: 02/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Many couples present fertility problems at their reproductive age, and although in the last years, the efficiency of assisted reproduction techniques has increased, these are still far from being 100% effective. A key issue in this field is the proper assessment of germ cells, embryos and endometrium quality, in order to determine the actual likelihood to succeed. Currently available analysis is mainly based on morphological features of oocytes, sperm and embryos and although these strategies have improved the results, there is an urgent need of new diagnostic and therapeutic tools. The emergence of the - OMICS technologies (epigenomics, genomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics) permitted the improvement on the knowledge in this field, by providing with a huge amount of information regarding the biological processes involved in reproductive success, thereby getting a broader view of complex biological systems with a relatively low cost and effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rocío Rivera Egea
- Andrology Laboratory and Semen Bank, Instituto Universitario, IVI Valencia, Spain
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Li Y, Li RQ, Ou SB, Zhang NF, Ren L, Wei LN, Zhang QX, Yang DZ. Increased GDF9 and BMP15 mRNA levels in cumulus granulosa cells correlate with oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo quality in humans. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2014; 12:81. [PMID: 25139161 PMCID: PMC4153897 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-12-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2014] [Accepted: 07/26/2014] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Oocyte secreted factors (OSFs), including growth differentiation factor 9 (GDF9) and bone morphogenetic protein 15 (BMP15), play an important role in the process of follicular development and oocyte maturation. Since OSFs are expressed in oocytes and cumulus granulosa cells, the aim of the present study was to explore whether the expression levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs in cumulus granulosa cells can be used as molecular markers for predicting oocyte developmental potential. METHODS Cumulus cells of 2426 cumulus-oocyte complexes were collected from 196 female patients who underwent intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and were used for mRNA detection on the egg retrieval day. Pearson correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between OSF expression and general physiological parameters. Partial correlation analysis was used to analyze the correlation between OSF expression and oocyte developmental potential. Covariance analysis was used to compare OSF expression among different groups. Receiver operating characteristic curves were used to examine the diagnostic value of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNA for predicting pregnancy. RESULTS The expression levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs were significantly associated with age, body mass index (BMI), oocyte maturation, normal fertilization, and cleavage rate (P < 0.05). The expression levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs in the group with high-quality embryos were significantly higher than those in the group without high-quality embryos (P < 0.05). The expression levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs in the pregnancy group were significantly higher than those in the nonpregnancy group (P < 0.05). The cut-off value of GDF9 mRNA for predicting pregnancy was 4.82, with a sensitivity of 82% and a specificity of 64%. The cut-off value of BMP15 mRNA for predicting pregnancy was 2.60, with a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 52%. CONCLUSIONS The expression levels of GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs were closely associated with oocyte maturation, fertilization, embryo quality, and pregnancy outcome; therefore, GDF9 and BMP15 mRNAs in cumulus granulosa cells may be considered as new molecular markers for predicting oocyte developmental potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
| | - Rui-Qi Li
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
| | - Song-Bang Ou
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
| | - Ning-Feng Zhang
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
| | - Ling Ren
- />Ultrasound Diagnostic Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Gannan Medical Collage, 23 Qing-nian Road, Gangzhou, 341000 China
| | - Li-Na Wei
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Sixth Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 17 Shou-gou-ling Road, Guangzhou, 510655 China
| | - Qing-Xue Zhang
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
| | - Dong-Zi Yang
- />Reproductive Medicine Research Center, Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, 107 Yan-jiang-xi Road, Guangzhou, 510120 China
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Zygote serine decreased uptake from the fertilization medium is associated with implantation and pregnancy. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:889-97. [PMID: 24789167 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0231-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To identify an association between amino acids (AAs) metabolism and reproductive outcome. METHODS Prospective collection, observational study, in patients undergoing fresh, double embryo transfer (ET), in a tertiary hospital referral IVF unit. Spent day 1 and day 3 media were collected. Concentrations of taurine, aspartic acid, proline, and serine in the medium were determined using a liquid-chromatography mass-spectrometer (LCMS/MS). Data was analyzed according to excretion versus uptake, and a cut-off value was calculated based on a receiver operating curve (ROC). Pregnancy rates were also calculated after stratification into subgroups in accordance with AA metabolism. RESULTS Seven out of 19 patients conceived (36.8 %). The ORs for pregnancy when the zygotes secreted aspartic acid, serine and proline above the cut-off value were 2.9, 5.67 and 5.21 (p < 0.05). When both transferred embryos were above the cut-off value of serine the PR's were 62.5 %, 12.5 % when both were below, and 33.3 % when one was above and the other below (p = 0.04). Similar results were obtained for proline; PR's were 66.7, 18.7 and 28.6 % respectively, but with a borderline statistical significance (p = 0.08). The same trend was observed in the case of aspartic acid but not near statistical significance. No differences in PRs were found in association with taurine turnover during fertilization or any of the studied AAs during the cleavage stage. There was no correlation between zygote or embryo AAs metabolism and embryo morphology. CONCLUSIONS Serine and possibly proline decreased uptake from the fertilization medium is associated with pregnancy and might be useful for embryo selection.
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Sequential (hFSH + recFSH) vs homogenous (hFSH or recFSH alone) stimulation: clinical and biochemical (cumulus cell gene expression) aspects. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 31:657-65. [PMID: 24639041 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0208-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2013] [Accepted: 02/28/2014] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
FSH is a key hormone in the regulation of follicular development. Together with the EGF network, these molecules mediate oocyte maturation and competence in preparation for the action of LH. FSH isoforms regulate distinct biological pathways and have specific effects on granulosa cell function and maturation of the ovarian follicle. Their dynamic interactions occur during the follicular cycle; short-living forms are predominant in the pre-ovulatory phase, whereas long-acting molecules characterize the luteal-follicular transition. Recombinant FSH (rFSH) molecules have a reduced number of isoforms and are less acidic, with a shorter half-life. We have investigated sequential stimulation, comparing hFSH + rFSH, vs. rFSH alone and hFSH alone for the entire stimulation phase. Sequential stimulation leads to an E2 per MII oocyte ratio that is much lower than is seen during treatment with the two drugs individually. Although there is a positive tendency in favor of the sequential treatment, there was no significant difference in pregnancy rates, even taking frozen embryos into consideration. The cumulus cell transcriptome varies considerably between the treatments, although with no clear significance. When comparing pregnant vs. non-pregnant patients, in general a decrease in mRNA expression can be observed in the pregnant patients, especially in expression of folic acid receptor 1 and ovostatin 2. This indicates that material has been transferred from CC to the oocyte. However, a common observation in the literature is that variations in the transcriptome of the cumulus cells are highly dependent upon the patient genotype; the potential for applying this strategy as a basis for selecting embryos is, at the very least, questionable.
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Chronowska E. High-throughput analysis of ovarian granulosa cell transcriptome. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2014; 2014:213570. [PMID: 24711992 PMCID: PMC3966335 DOI: 10.1155/2014/213570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2013] [Revised: 12/30/2013] [Accepted: 01/02/2014] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The quality of follicular oocytes depends on interactions with surrounding granulosa cells. Development of molecular techniques and methods enables better understanding of processes underlying mammalian reproduction on cellular level. The success in reproductive biology and medicine in different species depends on reliable assessment of oocyte and embryo viability which presently mainly bases on embryo morphology. Although successful pregnancies have been achieved using this approach, its precision still should be improved and completed with other, more objective, and accurate assessment strategies. Global profiling of gene expression in follicular cumulus cells using microarrays is continuously leading to the establishment of new biomarkers which can be used to select oocytes with highest developmental potential. Even more potential applications and greater precision could be achieved using next generation sequencing (NGS) of granulosa and cumulus cell RNA (RNA-seq). However, due to the high cost, this method is not used as frequently as microarrays at the moment. In any case, high-throughput technologies offer the possibilities and advantages in ovarian somatic cell analysis on scale that has not been noted so far. The aim of this work is to present current directions and examples of global molecular profiling of granulosa cells and underline its impact on reproductive biology and medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Chronowska
- Third Chair of Surgery, Collegium Medicum, Jagiellonian University, Pradnicka 35-37, 31-202 Cracow, Poland
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Abstract
Preimplantation embryo metabolism demonstrates distinctive characteristics associated with the developmental potential of embryos. On this basis, metabolite content of culture media was hypothesized to reflect the implantation potential of individual embryos. This hypothesis was tested in consecutive studies reporting a significant association between culture media metabolites and embryo development or clinical pregnancy. The need for a noninvasive, reliable, and rapid embryo assessment strategy promoted metabolomics studies in vitro fertilization (IVF) in an effort to increase success rates of single embryo transfers. With the advance of analytical techniques and bioinformatics, commercial instruments were developed to predict embryo viability using spectroscopic analysis of surplus culture media. However, despite the initial promising results from proof-of-principal studies, recent randomized controlled trials using commercial instruments failed to show a consistent benefit in improving pregnancy rates when metabolomics is used as an adjunct to morphology. At present, the application of metabolomics technology in clinical IVF laboratory requires the elimination of factors underlying inconsistent findings, when possible, and development of reliable predictive models accounting for all possible sources of bias throughout the embryo selection process.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asli Uyar
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
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Traeger-Synodinos J, Kakourou G, Destouni A, Kanavakis E. Eleven years of preimplantation genetic diagnosis for human leukocyte antigen matching: is there room for improvement? Expert Rev Hematol 2014; 6:215-7. [DOI: 10.1586/ehm.13.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Traeger-Synodinos J, Kakourou G, Vrettou C, Kanavakis E. Looking to the future: developments in preimplantation genetic diagnosis. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014. [DOI: 10.1586/eog.12.28] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
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Altmäe S, Esteban FJ, Stavreus-Evers A, Simón C, Giudice L, Lessey BA, Horcajadas JA, Macklon NS, D'Hooghe T, Campoy C, Fauser BC, Salamonsen LA, Salumets A. Guidelines for the design, analysis and interpretation of 'omics' data: focus on human endometrium. Hum Reprod Update 2014; 20:12-28. [PMID: 24082038 PMCID: PMC3845681 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmt048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 101] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2013] [Revised: 08/04/2013] [Accepted: 08/19/2013] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND 'Omics' high-throughput analyses, including genomics, epigenomics, transcriptomics, proteomics and metabolomics, are widely applied in human endometrial studies. Analysis of endometrial transcriptome patterns in physiological and pathophysiological conditions has been to date the most commonly applied 'omics' technique in human endometrium. As the technologies improve, proteomics holds the next big promise for this field. The 'omics' technologies have undoubtedly advanced our knowledge of human endometrium in relation to fertility and different diseases. Nevertheless, the challenges arising from the vast amount of data generated and the broad variation of 'omics' profiling according to different environments and stimuli make it difficult to assess the validity, reproducibility and interpretation of such 'omics' data. With the expansion of 'omics' analyses in the study of the endometrium, there is a growing need to develop guidelines for the design of studies, and the analysis and interpretation of 'omics' data. METHODS Systematic review of the literature in PubMed, and references from relevant articles were investigated up to March 2013. RESULTS The current review aims to provide guidelines for future 'omics' studies on human endometrium, together with a summary of the status and trends, promise and shortcomings in the high-throughput technologies. In addition, the approaches presented here can be adapted to other areas of high-throughput 'omics' studies. CONCLUSION A highly rigorous approach to future studies, based on the guidelines provided here, is a prerequisite for obtaining data on biological systems which can be shared among researchers worldwide and will ultimately be of clinical benefit.
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Affiliation(s)
- Signe Altmäe
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia
- School of Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | | | - Anneli Stavreus-Evers
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Akademiska Sjukhuset, 75185 Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Carlos Simón
- Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad (FIVI) and Instituto Universitario IVI/INCLIVA, Valencia University, 46021 Valencia, Spain
| | - Linda Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA 94143-0132, USA
| | - Bruce A. Lessey
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Group, Greenville Hospital System, Greenville, South Carolina, SC 29605, USA
| | - Jose A. Horcajadas
- Araid-Hospital Miguel Servet, 50004 Zaragoza, Spain
- Department of Genetics, Universidad Pablo de Olavide, 41013 Sevilla, Spain
| | - Nick S. Macklon
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Developmental Origins of Adult Disease, University of Southampton, Princess Anne Hospital, SO16 5YA Southampton, UK
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Thomas D'Hooghe
- Leuven University Fertility Center, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven (Leuven University), 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Cristina Campoy
- School of Medicine, Department of Paediatrics, University of Granada, 18012 Granada, Spain
| | - Bart C. Fauser
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, 3584 CX Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lois A. Salamonsen
- Prince Henry's Institute of Medical Research, Melbourne, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Andres Salumets
- Competence Centre on Reproductive Medicine and Biology, Tartu, Estonia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Tartu, 51014 Tartu, Estonia
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Male infertility and copy number variants (CNVs) in the dog: a two-pronged approach using Computer Assisted Sperm Analysis (CASA) and Fluorescent In Situ Hybridization (FISH). BMC Genomics 2013; 14:921. [PMID: 24373333 PMCID: PMC3922845 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2164-14-921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2013] [Accepted: 12/10/2013] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Infertility affects ~10-15% of couples trying to have children, in which the rate of male fertility problems is approximately at 30-50%. Copy number variations (CNVs) are DNA sequences greater than or equal to 1 kb in length sharing a high level of similarity, and present at a variable number of copies in the genome; in our study, we used the canine species as an animal model to detect CNVs responsible for male infertility. We aim to identify CNVs associated with male infertility in the dog genome with a two-pronged approach: we performed a sperm analysis using the CASA system and a cytogenetic-targeted analysis on genes involved in male gonad development and spermatogenesis with fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), using dog-specific clones. This analysis was carried out to evaluate possible correlations between CNVs on targeted genes and spermatogenesis impairments or infertility factors. Results We identified two genomic regions hybridized by BACs CH82-321J09 and CH82-509B23 showing duplication patterns in all samples except for an azoospermic dog. These two regions harbor two important genes for spermatogenesis: DNM2 and TEKT1. The genomic region encompassed by the BAC clone CH82-324I01 showed a single-copy pattern in all samples except for one dog, assessed with low-quality sperm, displaying a marked duplication pattern. This genomic region harbors SOX8, a key gene for testis development. Conclusion We present the first study involving functional and genetic analyses in male infertility. We set up an extremely reliable analysis on dog sperm cells with a highly consistent statistical significance, and we succeeded in conducting FISH experiments on sperm cells using BAC clones as probes. We found copy number differences in infertile compared with fertile dogs for genomic regions encompassing TEKT1, DNM2, and SOX8, suggesting those genes could have a role if deleted or duplicated with respect to the reference copy number in fertility biology. This method is of particular interest in the dog due to the recognized role of this species as an animal model for the study of human genetic diseases and could be useful for other species of economic interest and for endangered animal species.
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