1
|
Sciorio R, Tramontano L, Campos G, Greco PF, Mondrone G, Surbone A, Greco E, Talevi R, Pluchino N, Fleming S. Vitrification of human blastocysts for couples undergoing assisted reproduction: an updated review. Front Cell Dev Biol 2024; 12:1398049. [PMID: 38827525 PMCID: PMC11140474 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2024.1398049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Over the past 40 years there has been a worldwide critical change in the field of assisted reproduction technology (ART), leading to the increased application of single blastocyst transfer, which is extremely important to avoid the risks of multiple pregnancy and associated complications for both mother and babies. Indeed, advancements in ART over the last few decades have been obtained thanks to several improvements, including ovarian stimulation, embryo culture conditions and, of course, progress in cryopreservation methods, especially with the application of vitrification. The ability to cryopreserve human embryos has improved significantly with vitrification compared to the initially adopted slow-freezing procedures. Since the introduction of vitrification, it has become the gold standard method to effectively cryopreserve human blastocysts. However, some new protocols are now being explored, such as the short warming procedure and even shorter exposure to the equilibration solution before vitrification, which seem to provide optimal results. Therefore, the main aim of the current narrative review, will be to illustrate the benefit of vitrification as an effective method to cryopreserve the human blastocyst and to illustrate new protocols and variations which in future may increase the performance of vitrification protocols.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman Mother Child, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Luca Tramontano
- Département de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Réseau Hospitalier Neuchâtelois, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
| | - Gerard Campos
- Fertility Geisinger Medical Center, Women’s Health Fertility Clinic, Danville, PA, United States
- GIREXX Fertility Clinics, Girona-Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Anna Surbone
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman Mother Child, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Ermanno Greco
- Villa Mafalda, Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Rome, Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UniCamillus, International Medical University, Rome, Italy
| | - Riccardo Talevi
- Dipartimento di Biologia Strutturale e Funzionale, Universita’ di Napoli ‘Federico II’, Complesso Universitario di Monte S, Napoli, Italy
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman Mother Child, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Steven Fleming
- Discipline of Anatomy and Histology, School of Medical Sciences, University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Cosyns S, Van Moer E, De Quick I, Tournaye H, De Vos M. Reproductive outcomes in women opting for fertility preservation after fertility-sparing surgery for borderline ovarian tumors. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2024; 309:2143-2152. [PMID: 38494510 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-024-07445-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE What are the reproductive outcomes of women who had fertility preservation (FP) using either oocyte or embryo vitrification after fertility-sparing surgery (FSS) for a borderline ovarian tumor (BOT)? METHODS A retrospective, single-center cohort study was conducted between January 2013 and December 2021. Patients with BOT who resorted to FP by vitrifying oocytes or embryos were included. Both clinical and reproductive parameters were reviewed. The primary outcome was live birth. RESULTS In total, thirteen patients who performed 31 FP cycles were included. Of those, six patients achieved eight live births after a mean follow-up period of 79 months. Three further pregnancies are still ongoing. All pregnancies/live births were obtained without using their cryopreserved oocytes or embryos. CONCLUSION Women who had FSS for BOT have favorable prospects of live offspring, even without the need to use their cryopreserved material. Fertility preservation in patients with BOT has to be considered as a tool to mitigate the risk of infertility that may arise in case of BOT recurrence requiring castrating surgery.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Cosyns
- Department of Gynaecology - Oncology, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Brussels, Belgium.
| | - E Van Moer
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - I De Quick
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Tournaye
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group Biology of the Testis, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M De Vos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
- Research Group Follicle Biology, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 103, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Loreti S, Darici E, Nekkebroeck J, Drakopoulos P, Van Landuyt L, De Munck N, Tournaye H, De Vos M. A 10-year follow-up of reproductive outcomes in women attempting motherhood after elective oocyte cryopreservation. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:355-363. [PMID: 38145619 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead267] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Which reproductive treatment outcomes are observed in women who underwent elective oocyte cryopreservation (EOC) and who returned to the clinic with a desire for a child? SUMMARY ANSWER Whether to warm oocytes or to first use fresh own oocytes for ART depends on age upon returning, but both strategies result in favorable reproductive outcomes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Most affluent countries have observed a trend toward postponement of childbearing, and EOC is increasingly used based on the assumption that oocytes cryopreserved at a younger age may extend a woman's reproductive lifespan and mitigate her age-related fertility decline. Although most follow-up studies after EOC have focused on women who requested oocyte warming, a substantial proportion of women who do not conceive naturally will embark on fertility treatment without using their cryopreserved oocytes. Reports on reproductive outcomes in past EOC users are scarce, and the lack of reproductive treatment algorithms in this group of women hampers counseling toward the most efficient clinical strategy. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This retrospective observational single-center study encompasses 843 women who had elective oocyte vitrification between 2009 and 2019 at our fertility clinic. Women who underwent fertility preservation for medical or oncological reasons were excluded. This study describes the outcomes of the diverse reproductive treatment strategies performed until May 2022 in women returning to our clinic to attempt motherhood. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Using descriptive statistics, patient characteristics and data of ovarian stimulation (OS) of EOC cycles were analyzed, as well as data related to OS and laboratory data of ART in women who pursued fertility treatment with and/or without using their cryopreserved oocytes. The primary outcome was live birth rate (LBR) per patient after oocyte warming and after ART using fresh oocytes. Secondary outcomes were return rate, utilization rate of the cryopreserved oocytes, laboratory outcomes upon return, and LBR per embryo transfer. A multivariable regression model was developed to identify factors associated with the decision to thaw oocytes as the primary strategy and factors associated with ongoing pregnancy upon return to the clinic. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A total of 1353 EOC cycles (mean ± SD, 1.6 ± 0.9 per patient) were performed. At the time of EOC, the mean age was 36.5 ± 2.8 years, mean anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) was 2.3 ± 2.0 ng/ml, and 174 (20.6%) women had a partner. On average, 13.9 ± 9.2 mature oocytes were cryopreserved. Two hundred thirty-one (27.4%) women returned to the clinic, an average of 39.9 ± 23.4 months after EOC. Upon returning, their mean age was 40.4 ± 3.1 years, mean AMH was 1.5 ± 1.5 ng/ml, and 158/231 (68.3%) patients had a partner. As a primary approach, 110/231 (47.6%) past EOC users embarked on oocyte warming, 50/231 (21.6%) had intrauterine insemination, and 71/231 (30.7%) had ART using fresh own oocytes. Cumulative LBR (CLBR) was 45.9% (106/231) notwithstanding a miscarriage rate (MR) of 30.7% (51/166) in the entire cohort. In total, 141 women performed oocyte warming at some stage in their treatment trajectory. A subset of 90/231 (39.0%) patients exclusively had oocyte warming (41.6 ± 3.0 years, with 10.0 ± 5.2 oocytes warmed per patient). 52/231 (22.5%) patients exclusively had ART using fresh own oocytes (mean age of 39.0 ± 2.8 years, with 9.9 ± 7.4 mature oocytes retrieved per patient). CLBR was 37/90 (41.1%) in the oocyte warming-only group and 25/52 (48.1%) in the OS-only group. MR/transfer was 25.0% and 29.3% in the oocyte warming-only group and the OS-only group, respectively. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Both sample size and the retrospective design are limitations of this study. The decision to embark on a specific reproductive treatment strategy was based on patient preference, after counseling on their treatment options. This precludes direct comparison of the efficiency of reproductive treatment options in past EOC users in this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Reporting on clinical outcomes of women who underwent EOC and returned to the clinic to embark on divergent reproductive treatment strategies is mandatory to establish guidelines for best clinical practice in this growing patient population. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Loreti
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Darici
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - J Nekkebroeck
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Drakopoulos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- IVF Greece, Athens, Greece
| | - L Van Landuyt
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - N De Munck
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Tournaye
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M De Vos
- Brussels IVF, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
- Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Schaub AM, Gonzalez TL, Dorfman AE, Novoa AG, Hussaini RA, Harakuni PM, Khan MH, Shabani BJ, Swarna A, Wang ET, Chan JL, Williams J, Pisarska MD. A systematic review of genome-wide analyses of methylation changes associated with assisted reproductive technologies in various tissues. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:80-94. [PMID: 37827482 PMCID: PMC11262788 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2023.10.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/01/2023] [Indexed: 10/14/2023]
Abstract
IMPORTANCE Because analytic technologies improve, increasing amounts of data on methylation differences between assisted reproductive technology (ART) and unassisted conceptions are available. However, various studies use different tissue types and different populations in their analyses, making data comparison and integration difficult. OBJECTIVE To compare and integrate data on genome-wide analyses of methylation differences due to ART, allowing exposure of overarching themes. EVIDENCE REVIEW All studies undertaking genome-wide analysis of human methylation differences due to ART or infertility in any tissue type across the lifespan were assessed for inclusion. FINDINGS Seventeen studies were identified that met the inclusion criteria. One study assessed trophectoderm biopsies, 2 first-trimester placenta, 1 first-trimester fetal tissue, 2 term placenta, 7 cord blood, 3 newborn dried blood spots, 1 childhood buccal smears, 1 childhood peripheral blood, and 2 adult peripheral blood. Eleven studies compared tissues from in vitro fertilization (IVF) conceptions with those of unassisted conceptions, 4 compared intracytoplasmic sperm injection with unassisted conceptions, 4 compared non-IVF fertility treatment (NIFT) with unassisted conceptions, 4 compared NIFT with IVF, and 5 compared an infertile population (conceiving via various methods) with an unassisted presumably fertile population. In studies assessing placental tissue, 1 gene with potential methylation changes due to IVF when compared with unassisted conceptions was identified by 2 studies. In blood, 11 potential genes with methylation changes due to IVF compared with unassisted conceptions were identified by 2 studies, 1 of which was identified by 3 studies. Three potentially affected genes were identified by 2 studies involving blood between intracytoplasmic sperm injection and unassisted populations. There were no overlapping genes identified in any tissue type between NIFT and unassisted populations, between NIFT and IVF, or the infertility combined population when compared with the unassisted fertile population. CONCLUSIONS Comparing studies is challenging due to differing variables between analyses. However, even in similar tissue types and populations, overlapping methylation changes are limited, suggesting that differences due to ART are minimal. RELEVANCE Information from this systematic review is significant for providers and patients who provide and use ART to understand methylation risks that may be associated with the technology.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Amelia M Schaub
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Tania L Gonzalez
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Anna E Dorfman
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Allynson G Novoa
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Rimsha A Hussaini
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Paige M Harakuni
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Mayaal H Khan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Brandon J Shabani
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Akhila Swarna
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Erica T Wang
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - Jessica L Chan
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California
| | - John Williams
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Margareta D Pisarska
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Cedars Sinai Medical Center, Los Angeles, California; David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California.
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Cascante SD, Berkeley AS, Licciardi F, McCaffrey C, Grifo JA. Planned oocyte cryopreservation: the state of the ART. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103367. [PMID: 37804606 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.103367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Revised: 08/18/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
The objective of this review is to provide an update on planned oocyte cryopreservation. This fertility preservation method increases reproductive autonomy by allowing women to postpone childbearing whilst maintaining the option of having a biological child. Oocyte cryopreservation is no longer considered experimental, and its use has increased dramatically in recent years as more women delay childbearing for personal, professional and financial reasons. Despite increased usage, most patients who have undergone oocyte cryopreservation have not yet warmed their oocytes. Most women who cryopreserve oocytes wait years to use them, and many never use them. Studies have demonstrated that oocyte cryopreservation results in live birth rates comparable with IVF treatment using fresh oocytes, and does not pose additional safety risks to offspring. Based on current evidence, cryopreserving ≥20 mature oocytes at <38 years of age provides a 70% chance of one live birth. However, larger studies from a variety of geographic locations and centre types are needed to confirm these findings. Additional research is also needed to determine the recommended age for oocyte cryopreservation, recommended number of oocytes to cryopreserve, return and discard/non-use rates, cost-effectiveness, and how best to distribute accurate and up-to-date information to potential patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Druckenmiller Cascante
- New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53(rd) Street, 3(rd) Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA.
| | - Alan S Berkeley
- New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53(rd) Street, 3(rd) Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - Frederick Licciardi
- New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53(rd) Street, 3(rd) Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - Caroline McCaffrey
- New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53(rd) Street, 3(rd) Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
| | - James A Grifo
- New York University Langone Prelude Fertility Center, 159 East 53(rd) Street, 3(rd) Floor, New York, NY 10022, USA
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Zhu Y, Zhang Z, Zhang GL, Jiang MX. Effects of multi-gradient equilibration during vitrification on oocyte survival and embryo development in mice. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:612-619. [PMID: 37997743 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Vitrification has been widely used for oocyte cryopreservation, but there is still a need for optimization to improve clinical outcomes. In this study, we compared the routine droplet merge protocol with modified multi-gradient equilibration vitrification for cryopreservation of mouse oocytes at metaphase II. Subsequently, the oocytes were thawed and subjected to intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Oocyte survival and spindle status were evaluated by morphology and immunofluorescence staining. Moreover, the fertilization rates and blastocyst development were examined in vitro. The results showed that multi-gradient equilibration vitrification outperformed droplet merge vitrification in terms of oocyte survival, spindle morphology, blastocyst formation, and embryo quality. In contrast, droplet merge vitrification exhibited decreasing survival rates, a reduced proportion of oocytes with normal spindle morphology, and lower blastocyst rates as the number of loaded oocytes increased. Notably, when more than six oocytes were loaded, reduced oocyte survival rates, abnormal oocyte spindle morphology, and poor embryo quality were observed. These findings highlight that the vitrification of mouse metaphase II oocytes by the modified multi-gradient equilibration vitrification has the advantage of maintaining oocyte survival, spindle morphology, and subsequent embryonic development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Zhu
- Medical Experimental Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhen Zhang
- Medical Experimental Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People's Republic of China
| | - Guang-Li Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People's Republic of China
| | - Man-Xi Jiang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou 510317, People's Republic of China
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Sciorio R, Pluchino N, Fuller BJ. Review of human oocyte cryopreservation in ART programs: Current challenges and opportunities. Cryobiology 2023; 113:104590. [PMID: 37804949 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2023.104590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 09/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/02/2023] [Indexed: 10/09/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation has notably increased in recent times, to become an essential part of clinical infertility treatment. Since the 1980s, many improvements in oocyte cryopreservation (OC) have been adopted, including the great advance with the application of vitrification. The commonly used vitrification protocol applies different cryoprotectants (Ethylene glycol and/or DMSO and/or PROH and sucrose and/or Trehalose) and two different steps: firstly, exposure in equilibration solution for 5-15 min, followed by a vitrification solution for 60-90 s at room temperature. The warming method includes a first step for 1 min at 37 °C and 3 subsequent steps at room temperature to remove the cryoprotectant for a total of 9-12 min. In addition, biosafety is a critical aspect to mention, and it is related to devices used during the vitrification, mainly in terms of whether the biological vitrified material comes in direct contact with liquid nitrogen (open vitrification) or not (closed vitrification), where LN2 may contain potentially contaminating viruses or pathogens. Furthermore, during early development major waves of epigenetic reprogramming take place. Recent literature suggests that epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles are sensitive to the stress induced by vitrification, including osmotic shock, temperature, rapid changes of pH and toxicity of cryoprotectants. It is, therefore, important to better understand the potential perturbations of epigenetic modifications that may be associated with the globally used vitrification methods. Therefore, we here discuss the benefits and efficiency of human oocyte vitrification; we also review the evidence surrounding oocyte cryopreservation-related epigenetic modifications and potential epigenetic dysregulations, together with long-term consequences for offspring health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, CHUV-Lausanne University Hospital, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Nicola Pluchino
- Fertility Medicine and Gynaecological Endocrinology Unit, Department Woman-Mother-Child, CHUV-Lausanne University Hospital, 1011, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Barry J Fuller
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London Medical School, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Sciorio R, Campos G, Tramontano L, Bulletti FM, Baldini GM, Vinciguerra M. Exploring the effect of cryopreservation in assisted reproductive technology and potential epigenetic risk. ZYGOTE 2023; 31:420-432. [PMID: 37409505 DOI: 10.1017/s0967199423000345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
Since the birth of the first baby by in vitro fertilization in 1978, more than 9 million children have been born worldwide using medically assisted reproductive treatments. Fertilization naturally takes place in the maternal oviduct where unique physiological conditions enable the early healthy development of the embryo. During this dynamic period of early development major waves of epigenetic reprogramming, crucial for the normal fate of the embryo, take place. Increasingly, over the past 20 years concerns relating to the increased incidence of epigenetic anomalies in general, and genomic-imprinting disorders in particular, have been raised following assisted reproduction technology (ART) treatments. Epigenetic reprogramming is particularly susceptible to environmental conditions during the periconceptional period and non-physiological conditions such as ovarian stimulation, in vitro fertilization and embryo culture, as well as cryopreservation procedure, might have the potential to independently or collectively contribute to epigenetic dysregulation. Therefore, this narrative review offers a critical reappraisal of the evidence relating to the association between embryo cryopreservation and potential epigenetic regulation and the consequences on gene expression together with long-term consequences for offspring health and wellbeing. Current literature suggests that epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles are sensitive to the stress induced by vitrification, in terms of osmotic shock, temperature and pH changes, and toxicity of cryoprotectants, it is therefore, critical to have a more comprehensive understanding and recognition of potential unanticipated iatrogenic-induced perturbations of epigenetic modifications that may or may not be a consequence of vitrification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, EFREC, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, UK
| | | | - Luca Tramontano
- Department of Women, Infants and Adolescents, Division of Obstetrics, Geneve University Hospitals, Boulevard de la Cluse 30, Geneve 14, Switzerland
| | - Francesco M Bulletti
- Department Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Vaud, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | | | - Marina Vinciguerra
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Human Oncology, Obstetrics and Gynaecology Section, University of Bari, Italy
- Clinic of Obstetrics and Gynecology 'Santa Caterina Novella', Galatina Hospital, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Torra-Massana M, Miguel-Escalada I, Vassena R, Rodríguez A. Long-term storage of vitrified oocytes does not affect pregnancy and live birth rates: analysis of 5362 oocyte donation cycles. Reprod Biomed Online 2023; 47:103228. [PMID: 37308341 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2023.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2022] [Revised: 04/19/2023] [Accepted: 04/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does long-term storage of vitrified oocytes affect laboratory and reproductive outcomes after intracytoplasmic sperm injection? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study including 41,783 vitrified-warmed oocytes from 5362 oocyte donation cycles between 2013 and 2021. Five categories of storage time were established to analyse its effect on clinical and reproductive outcomes (≤1 year [reference group], 1-2 years, 2-3 years, 3-4 years and >4 years). RESULTS The mean number of warmed oocytes was 8.0 ± 2.5 oocytes. Oocyte storage time ranged from 3 days to 8.2 years (mean: 0.7 ± 0.9). Mean oocyte survival (90.2% ± 14.7% overall) did not significantly decrease with longer storage time after adjusting for confounders (88.9% for time >4 years, P = 0.963). A linear regression model did not show a significant effect of oocyte storage time on fertilization rate (about 70% in all time categories) (P > 0.05). Reproductive outcomes after the first embryo transfer were statistically comparable across storage times (P > 0.05 for all categories). Longer term oocyte storage (>4 years) did not affect the chances of clinical pregnancy (OR 0.700, 95% CI 0.423 to 1.158, P = 0.2214) or live birth (OR 0.716, 95% CI 0.425 to 1.208, P = 0.2670). CONCLUSIONS Oocyte survival, fertilization rate, pregnancy and live birth rates are not affected by the time spent by vitrified oocytes in vapour-phase nitrogen tanks.
Collapse
|
10
|
Sciorio R, Manna C, Fauque P, Rinaudo P. Can Cryopreservation in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Induce Epigenetic Changes to Gametes and Embryos? J Clin Med 2023; 12:4444. [PMID: 37445479 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134444] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the birth of Louise Brown in 1978, more than nine million children have been conceived using assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). While the great majority of children are healthy, there are concerns about the potential epigenetic consequences of gametes and embryo manipulation. In fact, during the preimplantation period, major waves of epigenetic reprogramming occur. Epigenetic reprogramming is susceptible to environmental changes induced by ovarian stimulation, in-vitro fertilization, and embryo culture, as well as cryopreservation procedures. This review summarizes the evidence relating to oocytes and embryo cryopreservation and potential epigenetic regulation. Overall, it appears that the stress induced by vitrification, including osmotic shock, temperature and pH changes, and toxicity of cryoprotectants, might induce epigenetic and transcriptomic changes in oocytes and embryos. It is currently unclear if these changes will have potential consequences for the health of future offspring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
| | - Claudio Manna
- Biofertility IVF and Infertility Center, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Development (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, F-21000 Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, F-21000 Dijon, France
| | - Paolo Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 92037, USA
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Bolton VN, Hayden C, Robinson M, Abdo D, Pericleous-Smith A. Human oocyte cryopreservation: revised evidence for practice. HUM FERTIL 2023:1-15. [DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2190987] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/29/2023]
|
12
|
Chen H, Zhang L, Meng L, Liang L, Zhang C. Advantages of vitrification preservation in assisted reproduction and potential influences on imprinted genes. Clin Epigenetics 2022; 14:141. [PMID: 36324168 PMCID: PMC9632035 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-022-01355-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/06/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryopreservation has important application in assisted reproductive technology (ART). The vitrification technique has been widely used in the cryopreservation of oocytes and embryos, as a large number of clinical results and experimental studies have shown that vitrification can achieve a higher cell survival rate and preimplantation development rate and better pregnancy outcomes. Ovarian tissue vitrification is an alternative method to slow freezing that causes comparatively less damage to the original follicular DNA. At present, sperm preservation mainly adopts slow freezing or rapid freezing (LN2 vapor method), although the vitrification method can achieve higher sperm motility after warming. However, due to the use of high-concentration cryoprotectants and ultra-rapid cooling, vitrification may cause strong stress to gametes, embryos and tissue cells, resulting in potentially adverse effects. Imprinted genes are regulated by epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, and show single allele expression. Their accurate regulation and correct expression are very important for the placenta, fetal development and offspring health. Considering that genome imprinting is very sensitive to changes in the external environment, we comprehensively summarized the effect of cryopreservation—especially the vitrification method in ART—on imprinted genes. Animal studies have found that the vitrification of oocytes and embryos can have a significant impact on some imprinted genes and DNA methylation, but the few studies in humans have reported almost no influence, which need to be further explored. This review provides useful information for the safety assessment and further optimization of the current cryopreservation techniques in ART.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Lei Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Li Meng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Linlin Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China. .,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China. .,Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Zhang L, Chen H, Cui C, Liang L, Ge H, Meng L, Zhang C. Effects of oocyte vitrification on gene expression in the liver and kidney tissues of adult offspring. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2635-2646. [PMID: 36223009 PMCID: PMC9723011 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02611-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte vitrification is an important assisted reproductive technology (ART) that preserves the fertility of unmarried patients with malignant tumors, and promotes the development of the oocyte donation program. In recent years, the effects of ART, including the vitrification of oocytes and embryos on the health of offspring, have attracted much attention; however, it is difficult to conduct long-term follow-up and biochemical evaluation in humans. In this study, we detected the effect of oocyte vitrification on gene expression in the organs of adult mice offspring by RNA sequencing for the first time. Our results showed that only a small amount of gene expression was significantly affected. Seven genes (Tpm3, Hspe1-rs1, Ntrk2, Cyp4a31, Asic5, Cyp4a14, Retsat) were abnormally expressed in the liver, and ten genes (Lbp, Hspe1-rs1, Prxl2b, Pfn3, Gm9008, Bglap3, Col8a1, Hmgcr, Ero1lb, Ifi44l) were abnormal in the kidney. Several genes were related to metabolism and disease occurrence in the liver or kidney. Besides, we paid special attention to the expression of known imprinted genes and DNA methylation-related genes in adult organs, which are susceptible to oocyte cryopreservation in the preimplantation stage. As a result, some of these transcripts were detected in adult organs, but they were not affected by oocyte vitrification. In conclusion, we first report that oocyte vitrification did not significantly change the global gene expression in offspring organs; nonetheless, it can still influence the transcription of a few functional genes. The potential adverse effects caused by oocyte vitrification need attention and further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lei Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Huanhuan Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Chenchen Cui
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Linlin Liang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Hengtao Ge
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
| | - Li Meng
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| | - Cuilian Zhang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Henan Provincial People's Hospital, People's Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Henan Provincial People's Hospital of Henan University, Zhengzhou, Henan, China.
- Henan Joint International Research Laboratory of Reproductive Bioengineering, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Tharasanit T, Thuwanut P. Oocyte Cryopreservation in Domestic Animals and Humans: Principles, Techniques and Updated Outcomes. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11102949. [PMID: 34679970 PMCID: PMC8533007 DOI: 10.3390/ani11102949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2021] [Revised: 10/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte cryopreservation plays important roles in basic research and the application of models for genetic preservation and in clinical situations. This technology provides long-term storage of gametes for genetic banking and subsequent use with other assisted reproductive technologies. Until recently, oocytes have remained the most difficult cell type to freeze, as the oocytes per se are large with limited surface area to cytoplasm ratio. They are also highly sensitive to damage during cryopreservation, and therefore the success rate of oocyte cryopreservation is generally poor when compared to noncryopreserved oocytes. Although advancement in oocyte cryopreservation has progressed rapidly for decades, the improvement of cryosurvival and clinical outcomes is still required. This review focuses on the principles, techniques, outcomes and prospects of oocyte cryopreservation in domestic animals and humans.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Theerawat Tharasanit
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproduction, Faculty of Veterinary Science, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Veterinary Clinical Stem Cells and Bioengineering Research Unit, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand
- Correspondence:
| | - Paweena Thuwanut
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University, Bangkok 10330, Thailand;
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Cryopreservation of Gametes and Embryos and Their Molecular Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910864. [PMID: 34639209 PMCID: PMC8509660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of freezing cells or tissues and depositing them in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C is called cryopreservation. Sub-zero temperature is not a physiological condition for cells and water ice crystals represent the main problem since they induce cell death, principally in large cells like oocytes, which have a meiotic spindle that degenerates during this process. Significantly, cryopreservation represents an option for fertility preservation in patients who develop gonadal failure for any condition and those who want to freeze their germ cells for later use. The possibility of freezing sperm, oocytes, and embryos has been available for a long time, and in 1983 the first birth with thawed oocytes was achieved. From the mid-2000s forward, the use of egg vitrification through intracytoplasmic sperm injection has improved pregnancy rates. Births using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have some adverse conditions and events. These risks could be associated with ART procedures or related to infertility. Cryopreservation generates changes in the epigenome of gametes and embryos, given that ART occurs when the epigenome is most vulnerable. Furthermore, cryoprotective agents induce alterations in the integrity of germ cells and embryos. Notably, cryopreservation extensively affects cell viability, generates proteomic profile changes, compromises crucial cellular functions, and alters sperm motility. This technique has been widely employed since the 1980s and there is a lack of knowledge about molecular changes. The emerging view is that molecular changes are associated with cryopreservation, affecting metabolism, cytoarchitecture, calcium homeostasis, epigenetic state, and cell survival, which compromise the fertilization in ART.
Collapse
|
16
|
Delattre S, Segers I, Van Moer E, Drakopoulos P, Mateizel I, Enghels L, Tournaye H, De Vos M. Combining fertility preservation procedures to spread the eggs across different baskets: a feasibility study. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:2524-2536. [PMID: 32951035 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2020] [Revised: 07/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the reproductive potential following combinations of ovarian stimulation, IVM and ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) in female patients seeking fertility preservation (FP)? SUMMARY ANSWER In selected patients, combining different FP procedures is a feasible approach and reproductive outcomes after FP in patients who return to attempt pregnancy are promising. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FP is increasingly performed in fertility clinics but an algorithm to select the most suitable FP procedure according to patient characteristics and available timeframe is currently lacking. Vitrification of mature oocytes (OV) and OTC are most commonly performed, although in some clinical scenarios a combination of procedures including IVM, to spread the sources of gametes, may be considered in order to enhance reproductive options for the future. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Retrospective, observational study in a university-based, tertiary fertility centre involving all female patients who underwent urgent medical FP between January 2012 and December 2018. Descriptive analysis of various FP procedures, either stand-alone or combined, was performed, and reproductive outcomes of patients who attempted pregnancy in the follow-up period were recorded. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS In total, 207 patients underwent medical FP. Patient-tailored strategies and procedures were selected after multidisciplinary discussion. When deemed feasible, FP procedures were combined to cryopreserve different types of reproductive tissue for future use. The main primary outcome measure was the number of mature oocytes. Live birth rates were evaluated in patients who returned for reproductive treatment. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Among patients seeking FP, 95/207 (46%) had breast cancer, 43/207 (21%) had haematological malignancies and 31/207 (15%) had a gynaecological tumour. Mean ± SD age was 27.0 ± 8.3 years. Eighty-five (41.1%) patients underwent controlled ovarian stimulation (COS), resulting in 10.8 ± 7.1 metaphase II (MII) oocytes for vitrification. Eleven (5.3%) patients had multiple COS cycles. Transvaginal oocyte retrieval for IVM was performed in 17 (8.2%) patients, yielding 9.2 ± 10.1 MII oocytes. Thirty-four (16.4%) patients underwent OTC combined with IVM of oocytes retrieved from ovarian tissue 'ex vivo' (OTO-IVM), yielding 4.0 ± 4.3 MII oocytes in addition to ovarian fragments. Seventeen (8.2%) patients had OTC combined with OTO-IVM and transvaginal retrieval of oocytes for IVM from the contralateral ovary, resulting in 13.5 ± 9.7 MII oocytes. In 13 (6.3%) patients, OTC with OTO-IVM was followed by controlled stimulation of the contralateral ovary, yielding 11.3 ± 6.6 MII oocytes in total. During the timeframe of the study, 31/207 (15%) patients have returned to the fertility clinic with a desire for pregnancy. Of those, 12 (38.7%) patients had preserved ovarian function and underwent ART treatment with fresh oocytes, resulting in nine (75%) livebirth. The remaining 19 (61.3%) patients requested warming of their cryopreserved material because of ovarian insufficiency. Of those, eight (42.1%) patients had a livebirth, of whom three after OTO-IVM. To date, 5/207 patients (2.4%) achieved an ongoing pregnancy or livebirth after spontaneous conception. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our FP programme is based on a patient-tailored approach rather than based on an efficiency-driven algorithm. The data presented are descriptive, which precludes firm conclusions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Combining different FP procedures is likely to enhance the reproductive fitness of patients undergoing gonadotoxic treatment but further follow-up studies are needed to confirm this. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was used for this study and the authors have no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- S Delattre
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Segers
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - E Van Moer
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - P Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - I Mateizel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - L Enghels
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - M De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Follicle Biology Laboratory (FOBI), UZ Brussel, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproductology, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov University, Moscow, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Van Reckem M, Blockeel C, Bonduelle M, Buysse A, Roelants M, Verheyen G, Tournaye H, Hes F, Belva F. Health of 2-year-old children born after vitrified oocyte donation in comparison with peers born after fresh oocyte donation. Hum Reprod Open 2021; 2021:hoab002. [PMID: 33634217 PMCID: PMC7892365 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Revised: 01/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does oocyte vitrification adversely affect the health of 2-year-old children compared with peers born after use of fresh oocytes in a donation programme? SUMMARY ANSWER The growth and health of 2-year-old children born after oocyte vitrification are similar to those of peers born after use of fresh oocytes. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Although oocyte vitrification is a well-established procedure in ART, the evidence on its safety for offspring is limited. Currently, no disadvantageous effects of oocyte vitrification have been shown in terms of obstetric and neonatal outcome. However, no data beyond the neonatal period are available to date. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A combined retrospective and prospective observational study was performed in a tertiary reproductive centre. The retrospective data were available in our extensive database of children born after ART. Donor cycles with an oocyte retrieval between January 2010 and March 2017 and a fresh embryo transfer resulting in the livebirth of a singleton were selected from the established oocyte donation programme. Fresh or vitrified oocytes were used in the donor cycles and all pregnancies in oocyte recipients were achieved after ICSI. Only children residing in Belgium were eligible for follow-up. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Biometric and health parameters of 72 children born after oocyte vitrification were compared with those of 41 children born after use of a fresh oocyte. Data were collected by means of questionnaires and physical examinations at the age of 21–30 months. The primary outcome measures were anthropometry and health at 2 years of age. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Length, weight, BMI, head circumference, left arm circumference and waist circumference at the age of 2 years were comparable between the vitrification and fresh group, also after adjustment for treatment, and maternal and neonatal characteristics (all P > 0.05). Health of the children in terms of hospital admission and surgical intervention rates were comparable between the vitrification and fresh group (both P > 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Although the current study is the largest series describing health parameters beyond the neonatal period, the small numbers still preclude definite conclusions. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This study provides the first evidence indicating that oocyte vitrification does not adversely affect the growth and health of offspring beyond the neonatal period. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by Methusalem grants and by grants from Wetenschappelijk Fonds Willy Gepts, all issued by the Vrije Universiteit Brussel. All co-authors declared no conflict of interest in relation to this work. Both the Centre for Reproductive Medicine and the Centre for Medical Genetics from the UZ Brussel have received several educational grants from IBSA, Ferring, MSD and Merck for either research on oocyte vitrification or for establishing the database for follow-up research and organizing the data collection.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Marjan Van Reckem
- Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb 10000, Croatia
| | - Maryse Bonduelle
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Andrea Buysse
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Mathieu Roelants
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Environment and Health/Youth Health Care, 3000 Leuven, Belgium
| | - Greta Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium.,Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Perinatology and Reproduction, Institute of Professional Education, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University of the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation (Sechenov University), Moscow 119992, Russia
| | - Frederik Hes
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Florence Belva
- Centre for Medical Genetics, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Wu S, Wang Y, Ding H, Sun N, Liu Y, Wang L, Sheng F, Zhang H, Yang F, Li W. The Efficacy and Safety of the mTOR Signaling Pathway Activator, MHY1485, for in vitro Activation of Human Ovarian Tissue. Front Genet 2021; 11:603683. [PMID: 33613618 PMCID: PMC7890121 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2020.603683] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/29/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) is characterized by abnormal ovarian function before the age of 40. POI showed that primordial follicles developed in disorder. mTOR signaling plays a vital role in the process of follicle development. It has been verified that the mTOR signaling pathway activator, MHY1485, can promote primordial follicle development in mice. We considered that MHY1485 would be a promising fertility preservation method for POI patients. Methods The fragmented ovarian tissues of normal woman was cultured with activator MHY1485 in vitro, and then the control and activated ovaries were transplanted into the kidney capsules of ovariectomized mice. We then used the Infinium Human Methylation EPIC BeadChip to verify the DNA methylation level of ovarian tissues, thus exploring the effectiveness of them. Results MHY1485 stimulated mTOR, S6K1, and rpS6 phosphorylation. Cultured with MHY1485, ovarian weights increased and endocrine function was restored. The number of growing follicles was increased. The in vitro activation process did not induce histological changes or abnormal DNA methylation occurrence. Conclusion MHY1485 for in vitro activation (IVA) is effective for ovarian rejuvenation and is a potential therapeutic treatment for POI patients.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shuang Wu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yining Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Haixiang Ding
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Ningxia Sun
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yan Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Liang Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fei Sheng
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Honghong Zhang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine Center, Changzheng Hospital, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Fu Yang
- Department of Medical Genetics, Second Military Medical University, Shanghai, China
| | - Wen Li
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Saadeldin IM, Moulavi F, Swelum AAA, Khorshid SS, Hamid HF, Hosseini SM. Vitrification of camel oocytes transiently impacts mitochondrial functions without affecting the developmental potential after intracytoplasmic sperm injection and parthenogenetic activation. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:44604-44613. [PMID: 33029771 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-11070-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Oocyte vitrification preserves the female genetic resources of elite dromedary camels. In the current study, we aimed to explore the effects of vitrification of camel oocytes on mitochondrial activity, redox stress, and expression of genes related to mitochondrial function, apoptosis, pluripotency, and cytoskeleton. Moreover, we investigated developmental competence of vitrified oocytes after parthenogenetic activation. Oocytes vitrified with the Cryotop method were compared with the fresh oocytes. Our results showed that vitrification led to increased ROS production in oocytes as evidenced by an increase in the DCFDHA fluorescence intensity, and lower mitochondrial activity. At the molecular level, vitrification reduced mRNA expression of many genes, including those related to mitochondrial function (TFAM, MT-CO1, MFN1, ATP1A1, NRF1), pluripotency (SOX2 and POU5F1), and apoptosis (p53 and BAX). In contrast, expression of KLF4 and cytoskeleton-related genes (ACTB and KRT8) was not affected. However, we found no difference in the rates of oocyte survival, cleavage, and blastocyst development, and blastocyst hatching between fresh and vitrified oocytes after warming. Our results indicate that although vitrification of camel metaphase II (MII) oocytes adversely affected mitochondrial functions, the effect was transient without compromising the developmental potential of the oocytes after parthenogenetic activation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Islam M Saadeldin
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia.
- Department of Physiology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt.
| | - Fariba Moulavi
- Department of Embryology, Camel Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, Government of Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ayman Abdel-Aziz Swelum
- Department of Animal Production, College of Food and Agricultural Sciences, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
- Department of Theriogenology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Zagazig University, Zagazig, 44519, Egypt
| | - Sokhangouy Saiede Khorshid
- Department of Embryology, Camel Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, Government of Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Hossini-Fahraji Hamid
- Department of Embryology, Camel Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, Government of Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
| | - Sayyed Morteza Hosseini
- Department of Embryology, Camel Advanced Reproductive Technologies Centre, Government of Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Barberet J, Barry F, Choux C, Guilleman M, Karoui S, Simonot R, Bruno C, Fauque P. What impact does oocyte vitrification have on epigenetics and gene expression? Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:121. [PMID: 32778156 PMCID: PMC7418205 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00911-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 07/21/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Children conceived by assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have a moderate risk for a number of adverse events and conditions. The question whether this additional risk is associated with specific procedures used in ART or whether it is related to the intrinsic biological factors associated with infertility remains unresolved. One of the main hypotheses is that laboratory procedures could have an effect on the epigenome of gametes and embryos. This suspicion is linked to the fact that ART procedures occur precisely during the period when there are major changes in the organization of the epigenome. Oocyte freezing protocols are generally considered safe; however, some evidence suggests that vitrification may be associated with modifications of the epigenetic marks. In this manuscript, after describing the main changes that occur during epigenetic reprogramming, we will provide current information regarding the impact of oocyte vitrification on epigenetic regulation and the consequences on gene expression, both in animals and humans. Overall, the literature suggests that epigenetic and transcriptomic profiles are sensitive to the stress induced by oocyte vitrification, and it also underlines the need to improve our knowledge in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Julie Barberet
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Fatima Barry
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Cécile Choux
- Gynécologie-Obstétrique, CHU Dijon Bourgogne, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Magali Guilleman
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Sara Karoui
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Raymond Simonot
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Céline Bruno
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| | - Patricia Fauque
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, CECOS, 14 rue Gaffarel, 21079 Dijon Cedex, France
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Melado L, Arnanz A, Bayram A, Elkhatib I, De Munck N, Navarro AT, Coughlan C, Lawrenz B, Fatemi HM. Anti-Müllerian hormone is an independent marker for oocyte survival after vitrification. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:119-127. [PMID: 32499103 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2019] [Revised: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION This study explored the relationship between anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) and oocyte survival after vitrification. The association between AMH and blastocyst formation after oocyte vitrification was also assessed. DESIGN A retrospective observational analysis was performed in a private IVF centre. A total of 4507 metaphase-II warmed oocytes were included from 450 couples, predominantly of Arab ethnicity. Between August 2015 and August 2018, couples underwent 484 intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) treatments using vitrified-warmed oocytes. RESULTS Patients' median age ± SD was 36.2 ± 6.1 years, AMH concentration 2.6 ± 3.4 ng/ml and body mass index (BMI) 26.5 ± 4.6 kg/m2. The oocyte survival rate after vitrification was 87.37 ± 20.42%. AMH concentration showed a significant correlation (Kendall's tau 0.087, P = 0.0079) with oocyte survival rate independent of oocyte yield. Correlation was significant (odds ratio 1.041, 95% confidence interval 1.007-1.077, P = 0.018) when a multivariant model was applied that included AMH, age and BMI. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed an AMH cut-off value of 1.09 ng/ml that could obtain at least a 70% survival rate, with an area under the curve of 0.669. Regarding embryo development in ICSI cycles including fresh and warmed oocytes for the same patient, blastocyst formation rate was higher in fresh compared with warmed oocytes (P < 0.001). In this subgroup no significant correlation was seen between fertilization or blastocyst rate and AMH concentration. CONCLUSIONS AMH concentration showed a significant correlation with oocyte survival. Blastocyst formation was significantly lower after oocyte vitrification, but no correlation was found with AMH. Clinicians should carefully evaluate oocyte vitrification for patients with AMH below 1.09 ng/ml and consider embryo accumulation for these patients in preference to oocyte accumulation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Melado
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE; IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Dubai, UAE.
| | - Ana Arnanz
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Asina Bayram
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Ibrahim Elkhatib
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | - Neelke De Munck
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE
| | | | - Carol Coughlan
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Dubai, UAE
| | - Barbara Lawrenz
- IVF Department, IVI Middle-East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, UAE; Women's University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | | |
Collapse
|
22
|
Qin Q, Zhao L, Liu Z, Liu T, Qu J, Zhang X, Li R, Yan L, Yan J, Jin S, Wang J, Qiao J. Bioinspired l-Proline Oligomers for the Cryopreservation of Oocytes via Controlling Ice Growth. ACS APPLIED MATERIALS & INTERFACES 2020; 12:18352-18362. [PMID: 32227894 DOI: 10.1021/acsami.0c02719] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Various types of cells are routinely cryopreserved in modern regenerative and cell-based medicines. For instance, the oocyte is one of the most demanding cells to be cryopreserved in genetic engineering and human-assisted reproductive technology (ART). However, the usage of cryopreserved oocytes in ART clinics is still limited mainly because of the unstable survival rate. This is due to the fact that oocytes are more prone to be damaged by ice crystals in comparison to other cells, as oocytes are larger in size and surface area. Meanwhile, oocytes contain more water, and thus, ice crystals are easier to form inside the cells. Currently, to avoid injury by the formed ice crystals, cryopreservation (CP) of oocytes has to use large amounts of small molecules as cryoprotectants such as dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG), which can permeate into the cell and prevent ice formation inside. However, these molecules are chemically and epigenetically toxic to cells. Therefore, great efforts have been focused on reducing the amount of DMSO and EG used for oocyte CP. In nature, the antifreeze (glyco)proteins (AFGPs) locate extracellularly with the ability to protect living organisms from freezing damage via controlling ice growth. Inspired by this, biocompatible and nontoxic L-proline oligomers (L-Pron), which have the same polyproline II helix structure as that of AFGPs, are first employed for the CP of oocytes. The experimental results reveal that L-Pro8 has a profound activity in inhibiting ice growth as that of AFGP8. Also, by the addition of 50 mM L-Pro8, the amount of DMSO and EG can be greatly reduced by ca. 1.8 M for oocyte CP; moreover, the survival rate of the cryopreserved oocytes is increased up to 99.11%, and the coefficient of variance of the survival rate is decreased from 7.47 to 2.15%. These results mean that almost all oocytes can survive after CP with our method; importantly, the mitochondrial function as a critical criterion for the quality of the frozen-thawed oocytes is also improved. It is proposed that with the addition of L-Pro8, the extracellular ice growth is slowed down, which prevents the direct injuries of cells by large ice crystals and the accompanying osmotic pressure increase. As such, this work is not only significant for meeting the ever-increasing demand by the ART clinics but also gives guidance for designing materials in controlling ice growth during CP of other cells and tissues.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Qingyuan Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Lishan Zhao
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Zhang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Tao Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jiangxue Qu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xiaowei Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Liying Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Jie Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Shenglin Jin
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
| | - Jianjun Wang
- Key Laboratory of Green Printing, Institute of Chemistry, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100190, China
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North Hua Yuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing 100191, China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing 100191, China
- Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing 100191, China
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Apter S, Ebner T, Freour T, Guns Y, Kovacic B, Le Clef N, Marques M, Meseguer M, Montjean D, Sfontouris I, Sturmey R, Coticchio G. Good practice recommendations for the use of time-lapse technology †. Hum Reprod Open 2020; 2020:hoaa008. [PMID: 32206731 PMCID: PMC7081060 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoaa008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 91] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Revised: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Thomas Ebner
- Department of Gynecology, Obstetrics, and Gynecological Endocrinology, Kepler Universitätsklinikum, Linz, Austria
| | - Thomas Freour
- Médecine de la Reproduction, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France
| | - Yves Guns
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Borut Kovacic
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Gynecologic Endocrinology, Univerzitetni klinicni center Maribor, Maribor, Slovenia
| | - Nathalie Le Clef
- European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology, Grimbergen, Belgium
| | | | - Marcos Meseguer
- IVF Laboratory, Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
| | - Debbie Montjean
- Médecine et Biologie de la Reproduction, Hopital Saint Joseph, Marseille, France
| | | | - Roger Sturmey
- Centre for Atherothrombosis and Metabolic Disease, Hull York Medical School, University of Hull, Hull, UK
| | | |
Collapse
|
24
|
Bosch E, De Vos M, Humaidan P. The Future of Cryopreservation in Assisted Reproductive Technologies. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:67. [PMID: 32153506 PMCID: PMC7044122 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2019] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Societal changes and the increasing desire and opportunity to preserve fertility have increased the demand for effective assisted reproductive technologies (ART) and have increased the range of scenarios in which ART is now used. In recent years, the "freeze-all" strategy of cryopreserving all oocytes or good quality embryos produced in an IVF cycle to transfer later-at a time that is more appropriate for reasons of medical need, efficacy, or desirability-has emerged as an accepted and valuable alternative to fresh embryo transfer. Indeed, improvements in cryopreservation techniques (vitrification) and the development of more efficient ovarian stimulation protocols have facilitated a dramatic increase in the practice of elective frozen embryo transfer (eFET). Alongside these advances, debate continues about whether eFET should be a standard treatment option available to the whole IVF population or if it is important to identify patient subgroups who are most likely to benefit from such an approach. Achieving successful outcomes in ART, whether by fresh or frozen embryo transfer, is influenced by a wide range of factors. As well as the efficiency of IVF and embryo transfer protocols and techniques, factors affecting implantation include maternal aging, sperm quality, the vaginal and endometrial microbiome, and peri-implantation levels of serum progesterone. The safety of eFET, both during ART cycles and on longer-term obstetric and neonatal outcomes, is also an important consideration. In this review, we explore the benefits and risks of freeze-all strategies in different scenarios. We review available evidence on the outcomes achieved with elective cryopreservation strategies and practices and how these compare with more traditional IVF cycles with fresh embryo transfers, both in the general IVF population and in subgroups of special interest. In addition, we consider how to optimize and individualize "freeze-all" procedures to achieve successful reproductive outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ernesto Bosch
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
- *Correspondence: Ernesto Bosch
| | - Michel De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Peter Humaidan
- The Fertility Clinic, Skive Regional Hospital, Skive, Denmark
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Leonel ECR, Corral A, Risco R, Camboni A, Taboga SR, Kilbride P, Vazquez M, Morris J, Dolmans MM, Amorim CA. Stepped vitrification technique for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Sci Rep 2019; 9:20008. [PMID: 31882972 PMCID: PMC6934833 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-56585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
The advantage of stepped vitrification (SV) is avoiding ice crystal nucleation, while decreasing the toxic effects of high cryoprotectant concentrations. We aimed to test this method for human ovarian tissue cryopreservation. Ovarian cortex was taken from 7 fertile adult women. Samples were subjected to an SV protocol performed in an automatic freezer, which allowed sample transfer to ever higher concentrations of dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) as the temperature was reduced. Histological evaluation of the vitrified-warmed tissue showed large numbers of degenerated follicles after 24 hours of in vitro culture. We therefore evaluated DMSO perfusion rates by X-ray computed tomography, ice crystal formation by freeze-substitution, and cell toxicity by transmission electron microscopy, seeking possible reasons why follicles degenerated. Although cryoprotectant perfusion was considered normal and no ice crystals were formed in the tissue, ultrastructural analysis detected typical signs of DMSO toxicity, such as mitochondria degeneration, alterations in chromatin condensation, cell vacuolization and extracellular matrix swelling in both stromal and follicular cells. The findings indicated that the method failed to preserve follicles due to the high concentrations of DMSO used. However, adaptations can be made to avoid toxicity to follicles caused by elevated levels of cryoprotectants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ellen Cristina Rivas Leonel
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Departament of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Ariadna Corral
- Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA), University of Seville, Calle Thomas Alva Edison 7, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Ramon Risco
- Centro Nacional de Aceleradores (CNA), University of Seville, Calle Thomas Alva Edison 7, 41092, Seville, Spain.,Engineering School of Sevilla, University of Seville, Camino Descubrimientos S/N, Isla Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain
| | - Alessandra Camboni
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Service d'Anatomie Pathologique, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Sebastião Roberto Taboga
- Departament of Biology, Institute of Biosciences, Humanities and Exact Sciences, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Rua Cristóvão Colombo, 2265, Jardim Nazareth, 15054-000, São José do Rio Preto, Brazil
| | - Peter Kilbride
- General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - Marina Vazquez
- Engineering School of Sevilla, University of Seville, Camino Descubrimientos S/N, Isla Cartuja, 41092, Seville, Spain.,General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - John Morris
- General Electric Healthcare, Sovereign House, Vision Park, Cambridge, CB24 9BY, United Kingdom
| | - Marie-Madeleine Dolmans
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.,Gynecology and Andrology Department, Cliniques Universitaires Saint-Luc, Avenue Hippocrate 10, 1200, Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christiani A Amorim
- Pôle de Recherche en Gynécologie, Institut de Recherche Expérimentale et Clinique, Université Catholique de Louvain, Avenue Mounier 52, bte B1.52.02, 1200, Brussels, Belgium.
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Human oocytes and zygotes are ready for ultra-fast vitrification after 2 minutes of exposure to standard CPA solutions. Sci Rep 2019; 9:15986. [PMID: 31690725 PMCID: PMC6831692 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-52014-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/01/2018] [Accepted: 10/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Vitrification of human oocytes and embryos in different stages of development is a key element of daily clinical practice of in vitro fertilization treatments. Despite the cooling and warming of the cells is ultra-fast, the procedure as a whole is time consuming. Most of the duration is employed in a long (8–15 minutes), gradual or direct exposure to a non-vitrifying cryoprotectant solution, which is followed by a short exposure to a more concentrated vitrifying solution. A reduction in the duration of the protocols is desirable to improve the workflow in the IVF setting and reduce the time of exposure to suboptimal temperature and osmolarity, as well as potentially toxic cryoprotectants. In this work it is shown that this reduction is feasible. In silico (MatLab program using two-parameter permeability model) and in vitro observations of the oocytes’ osmotic behaviour indicate that the dehydration upon exposure to standard cryoprotectant solutions occurs very fast: the point of minimum volume of the shrink-swell curve is reached within 60 seconds. At that point, intracellular water ejection is complete, which coupled with the permeation of low molecular weight cryoprotectants results in similar intracellular and extracellular solute concentrations. This shows that prolonging the exposure to the cryoprotectant solutions does not improve the cytosolic glass forming tendency and could be avoided. To test this finding, human oocytes and zygotes that were donated for research were subjected to a shortened, dehydration-based protocol, consisting of two consecutive exposures of one-minute to two standard cryoprotectant solutions, containing ethylene glycol, dimethyl sulfoxide and sucrose. At the end of this two-minute dehydration protocol, the critical intracellular solute concentration necessary for successful vitrification was attained, confirmed by the post-warming survival and ability to resume cytokinesis of the cells. Further studies of the developmental competency of oocytes and embryos would be necessary to determine the suitability of this specific dehydration protocol for clinical practice, but based on our results, short times of exposure to increasingly hypertonic solutions could be a more time-efficient strategy to prepare human oocytes and embryos for vitrification.
Collapse
|
27
|
De Gheselle S, De Sutter P, Tilleman K. In-vitro development of embryos derived from vitrified-warmed oocytes is delayed compared with embryos derived from fresh oocytes: a time-lapse sibling oocyte study. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 40:82-90. [PMID: 31796251 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Revised: 09/18/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Is there a difference in blastocyst formation between fresh and vitrified-warmed sibling oocytes and can this difference be attributed to changes in embryo morphokinetics? DESIGN Between February 2016 and December 2017, 472 metaphase II (MII) oocytes in 67 donor-recipient cycles from 27 different healthy anonymous oocyte donors were allocated for fresh transfer (FSHO) (n = 220) to a synchronous recipient (n = 36) or vitrified (VITO) (n = 252) to be warmed and transferred to another recipient (n = 31). Embryos derived from the FSHO and their sibling VITO were analysed for morphokinetic development using time-lapse imaging, blastocyst formation and clinical outcome. RESULTS Time-lapse analysis showed an overall delay in cleavage rate from the time of pronuclei disappearance up to the time of blastulation in the VITO compared with their sibling FSHO. Twelve morphokinetic variables were significantly different between the groups. On Day 5 significantly more FSHO embryos developed to blastocyst (expansion 1-6) and reached the full blastocyst stage (expansion 3-6) compared with the VITO embryos [53.2% (84/158) versus 40.0% (64/160); P = 0.0244 and 48.1% (76/158) versus 31.3% (50/160); P = 0.0028, respectively]. The embryo utilization rate was similar in both groups at the time of cryopreservation; 51.3% (FSHO) versus 45.0% (VITO) (P = 0.3124). The pregnancy rate per cycle was 47.2% (17/36) in FSHO patients and 48.4% (15/31) in VITO patients (P = 1). Limitations in this study: non-randomized, small study size and not powered to detect differences in clinical outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Timing of development is altered and blastocyst formation is delayed in embryos derived from vitrified-warmed donor oocytes compared with their fresh sibling counterparts. Although preliminary results suggest that the clinical impact of this delay may be limited, this needs further investigation in larger randomized studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stefanie De Gheselle
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium.
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| | - Kelly Tilleman
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, Ghent 9000, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Zhe J, Zhang J, Chen S, Zhang W, Luo C, Zhou X, Chen X, Qiu Z, Li H, Wu X. [Causes of oocyte vitrification and its value in assisted reproductive technology]. NAN FANG YI KE DA XUE XUE BAO = JOURNAL OF SOUTHERN MEDICAL UNIVERSITY 2019; 39:766-771. [PMID: 31340907 DOI: 10.12122/j.issn.1673-4254.2019.07.03] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the causes of oocyte vitrification and its application in assisted reproduction. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the data of 26 patients with 27 cycles of oocyte vitrification cryopreservation undergoing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) and embryo transfer between January, 2008 and October, 2018. The causes of oocyte vitrification and the outcomes of ICSI and clinical pregnancy were analyzed. RESULTS The causes of oocytes vitrification included mainly azoospermia or severe spermatogenesis disorder of the husband, failure to obtain sperms from the husband, failure of the husband to be present on the day of oocyte retrieval and acute diseases of the husband to not allow sperm collection. A total of 274 oocytes were frozen in 27 oocyte retrieval cycles, and 217 eggs were thawed in 19 cycles with a survival rate of 81.11% (176/217). The normal fertilization rate, cleavage rate and high-quality embryo rate was 74.81% (98/131), 89.80% (88/98) and 36.73% (36/98), respectively. Fifteen patients underwent embryo transfer, and the clinical pregnancy rate and live birth rate was 53.33% (8/15) and 33.33% (5/15), respectively. Compared with patients below 35 years of age, the patients aged above 35 years had significantly lower oocyte survival rate after thawing (82.76% vs 74.42%, P=0.211), clinical pregnancy rate (77.78% vs 16.67%, P=0.041) and live birth rate (55.56% vs 0, P=0.044). CONCLUSIONS Oocytes vitrification can be used as a remedy for infertile couples who fail to provide sperms due to male factors on the day of oocyte retrieval. Vitrification of the oocytes does not significantly affect the fertilization rate or the clinical pregnancy rate. The survival rate of the thawed oocytes is related to the age of the wife, and an age younger than 35 years can be optimal for achieving favorable clinical pregnancy outcomes after oocyte vitrification.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Zhe
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Shiling Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Weiqing Zhang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Chen Luo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xingyu Zhou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xin Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Zhuolin Qiu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Huixi Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| | - Xiaomin Wu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nanfang Hospital, Southern Medical University, Guangzhou 510515, China
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Galvão A, Karakus G, Racca A, Santos-Ribeiro S, De Munck N, Drakopoulos P, De Vos M, Verheyen G, Tournaye H, Blockeel C. Oocyte donation in donors with levonorgestrel intrauterine device: a good match? Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 39:641-647. [PMID: 31362915 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2019.05.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2019] [Revised: 04/24/2019] [Accepted: 05/31/2019] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine device (LNG-IUD) influence cumulative live birth rate (CLBR) in oocyte donor cycles? DESIGN Retrospective cohort study based on prospectively collected data from 1 May 2009 to 31 December 2017, without attrition, consisting of 491 consecutive cycles of vitrified oocyte donation, none lost to follow-up (unique donor-recipient pairs). All donors underwent ovarian stimulation using gonadotrophin releasing hormone (GnRH) antagonist co-treatment and GnRH agonist trigger. CLBR was chosen as primary outcome measure. RESULTS In total, 103 (21.0%) cycles were carried out in donors carrying a LNG-IUD. In 388 (79.0%) cycles, no LNG-IUD was present. After confounder-adjustment, the use of an LNG-IUD did not have a statistically significant influence on CLBR. CONCLUSIONS The LNG-IUD does not negatively affect CLBR.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ana Galvão
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Centro Materno Infantil do Norte, Centro Hospitalar do Porto, Largo da Maternidade de Júlio Dinis 30, 4050-651 Porto, Portugal
| | - Gunes Karakus
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Santarem Hospital, R. Zeferino Silva, Santarém, Portugal
| | - Annalisa Racca
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Samuel Santos-Ribeiro
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; IVI-RMA Lisboa, Avenida Infante Dom Henrique 333 H 1-9, Lisbon 1800-282, Portugal
| | - Neelke De Munck
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Panagiotis Drakopoulos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Michel De Vos
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Greta Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Herman Tournaye
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Christophe Blockeel
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium; University of Zagreb-School of Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Zagreb, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Vitrification of murine mature metaphase II oocytes perturbs DNA methylation reprogramming during preimplantation embryo development. Cryobiology 2019; 87:91-98. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2019.01.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Revised: 01/26/2019] [Accepted: 01/28/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
|
31
|
Pitchayapipatkul J, Somfai T, Matoba S, Parnpai R, Nagai T, Geshi M, Vongpralub T. Microtubule stabilisers docetaxel and paclitaxel reduce spindle damage and maintain the developmental competence of in vitro-mature bovine oocytes during vitrification. Reprod Fertil Dev 2018; 29:2028-2039. [PMID: 28147214 DOI: 10.1071/rd16193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2016] [Accepted: 12/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared the efficacy of docetaxel (DT) and paclitaxel (PT) in reducing spindle damage during vitrification and maintaining the developmental competence of in vitro-matured (IVM) bovine oocytes after vitrification and warming. Pretreatment of IVM oocytes with 0.05µM DT for 30min before vitrification resulted in significantly higher (P<0.05) rates of oocyte survival and cleavage after IVF, as well as subsequent blastocyst rates on Days 7-9 and hatching on Days 8-9, compared with oocytes pretreated with 1.0µM PT before vitrification or those vitrified without pretreatment. When nuclear status and spindle morphology of vitrified oocytes were assess after warming by immunostaining, DT pretreatment before vitrification resulted in a significantly higher (P<0.05) percentage of oocytes at the MII stage with a normal, intact spindle compared with PT pretreatment or no pretreatment, but the percentage of MII oocytes was still significantly lower (P<0.05) than in the control group. Pretreatment of IVM bovine oocytes with 0.05µM DT or 1.0µM PT for 30min before vitrification reduces spindle damage to the same extent, without side effects on fertilisation and development. Pretreatment with 0.05µM DT improved the developmental competence of vitrified-warmed oocytes to a greater degree than 1.0µM PT pretreatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Tamás Somfai
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division, National Agriculture and Food Research Organisation (NARO) Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, 2 Ikenodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Satoko Matoba
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division, National Agriculture and Food Research Organisation (NARO) Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, 2 Ikenodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Rangsan Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima 30000, Thailand
| | - Takashi Nagai
- Food and Fertilizer Technology Center, Taipei 10648, Taiwan
| | - Masaya Geshi
- Animal Breeding and Reproduction Research Division, National Agriculture and Food Research Organisation (NARO) Institute of Livestock and Grassland Science, 2 Ikenodai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-0901, Japan
| | - Thevin Vongpralub
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agriculture, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Anav M, Ferrières-Hoa A, Gala A, Fournier A, Zaragoza S, Vintejoux E, Vincens C, Hamamah S. [Birth weight and frozen embryo transfer: State of the art]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 46:489-496. [PMID: 29680508 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2018.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2017] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to update our acknowledgment if there is a link between assisted embryo cryopreservation and epigenetics in human? Animal studies have demonstrated epigenetics consequence and especially imprinting disorders due to in vitro culture. In human, it is important to note that after frozen embryo transfer birth weight is significantly increased by 81 to 250g. But these studies cannot identify the reasons of such difference. This review strongly suggests that embryo cryopreservation is responsible for birth weight variations but mechanisms not yet elucidated. Epigenetics is probably one of these but to date, none study is able to prove it. We have to be attentive on a possible link between assisted reproductive technology (ART) and epigenetics reprogrammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Anav
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - A Ferrières-Hoa
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - A Gala
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - A Fournier
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - S Zaragoza
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - E Vintejoux
- Service de gynécologie obstétrique, CHU Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - C Vincens
- Service de gynécologie obstétrique, CHU Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France
| | - S Hamamah
- Département biologie de la reproduction/DPI, hôpital Arnaud-de-Villeneuve, 371, avenue du Doyen-Gaston-Giraud, 34295, Montpellier, France.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
De Munck N, Vajta G. Safety and efficiency of oocyte vitrification. Cryobiology 2017; 78:119-127. [PMID: 28774548 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2017.07.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2017] [Revised: 07/25/2017] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
As the oocyte is the starting point for a new life, artificial reproductive technology (ART) techniques should not affect the (ultra) structural and functional integrity, or the developmental competence. Oocyte vitrification -one of the most significant achievements in human ART during the past decade- should therefore be a safe and efficient technique. This review discusses the principles and developments of the existing and future techniques, applications possibilities and safety concerns. The broad range of vitrification media and devices that are currently available, show differences in their effects on the oocyte ultrastructure and preimplantation development. It is not yet fully decided whether this has an influence on the obstetric and neonatal outcome, since only limited information is available with different media and devices. For autologous oocytes, the obstetric and neonatal outcomes appear promising and comparable to pregnancies obtained with fresh oocytes. This however, is not the case for heterologous fresh or vitrified oocytes, where the immunological foreign foetus induces adverse obstetric and neonatal outcomes. Besides the oocyte vitrification process itself, the effect of multiple stimulations (for oocyte banking or for oocyte donors), seems to influence the possibility to develop gynaecological cancers further in life. Automated vitrification/warming should offer a consistent, cross-contamination free process that offers the highest safety level for the users. They should also produce more consistent results in survival, development and clinical pregnancies between different IVF clinics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neelke De Munck
- Universitair Ziekenhuis Brussel (UZ Brussel), Centrum voor Reproductieve Geneeskunde, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090 Brussels, Belgium.
| | - Gábor Vajta
- Central Queensland University, Bruce Highway, North Rockhampton QLD 4702, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Liu M, Zhou W, Chu D, Fu L, Sha W, Liu S, Li Y. A modified vitrification method reduces spindle and chromosome abnormalities. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2017; 63:199-205. [PMID: 28277744 DOI: 10.1080/19396368.2017.1285370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Development of an effective system for oocyte-cryopreservation is of clinical relevance in reproductive medicine. However, oocyte-preservation is not as effective as embryo preservation. In this study, we used a 37°C pre-equilibrium temperature as part of a modified vitrification method for human oocyte cryopreservation. The effect of the new method on spindle configuration, chromosomal arrangement, and mitochondrial distribution was investigated in in vitro-matured human oocytes. A total of 101 in vitro-matured oocytes were randomly assigned for vitrification at pre-equilibrium temperature of 37°C (37°C Group, n=50) or at room temperature (RT Group, 22-24°C, n=51). The time needed for vitrification in the 37°C group was significantly shorter than that in the RT group. Defective spindles were found in 45.5% and 69.0% oocytes in the 37°C group and RT group, respectively (p < 0.05). Abnormal chromosomes were found in 47.7% and 71.4% oocytes, respectively (p < 0.05). There were no significant differences with respect to oocyte survival rate and mitochondrial distribution pattern between the two groups. These results indicate that vitrification at a pre-equilibrium temperature of 37°C may reduce the incidence of defective spindle configuration and chromosomal abnormalities in in-vitro-matured human oocytes. ABBREVIATIONS ICSI: intracytoplasmic sperm injection; FSH: follicle-stimulating hormone; MII: metaphase II; EG: ethylene glycol; PROH: 1,2-propanediol.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Minghui Liu
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Wenhui Zhou
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Dapeng Chu
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Lei Fu
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Wei Sha
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Shan Liu
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| | - Yuan Li
- a Medical Center for Human Reproduction , Beijing Chao-Yang Hospital, Capital Medical University , Beijing , China
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Chatterjee A, Saha D, Niemann H, Gryshkov O, Glasmacher B, Hofmann N. Effects of cryopreservation on the epigenetic profile of cells. Cryobiology 2017; 74:1-7. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2016.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2016] [Revised: 11/08/2016] [Accepted: 12/08/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
|
36
|
De Munck N, Belva F, Van de Velde H, Verheyen G, Stoop D. Closed oocyte vitrification and storage in an oocyte donation programme: obstetric and neonatal outcome. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:1024-33. [DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2015] [Accepted: 02/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
|
37
|
High survival of mouse oocytes using an optimized vitrification protocol. Sci Rep 2016; 6:19465. [PMID: 26781721 PMCID: PMC4726034 DOI: 10.1038/srep19465] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2015] [Accepted: 12/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The method of vitrification has been widely used for cryopreservation. However, the effectiveness of this method for mammalian oocytes could be improved by optimizing each step of the process. In the present study, we tested the effects of varying several key parameters to determine the most effective protocol for mouse oocyte vitrification. We found that cryoprotectant containing ethylene glycol and dimethylsulfoxide plus 20% fetal calf serum produced the highest rates of oocyte survival, fertilization, and blastocyst formation. The duration and temperature of oocyte exposure to vitrification and thawing solutions influenced survival rate. The presence of cumulus cells surrounding oocytes and the incubation of thawed oocytes in Toyoda-Yokoyama-Hosoki medium also increased oocyte survival. Open pulled straw and nylon loop methods were more effective than the mini-drop method. Finally, the combination of these improved methods resulted in better spindle morphology when compared to the unimproved methods. These results demonstrate that the outcomes of mouse oocyte vitrification can be improved by a suitable combination of cryopreservation methods, which could be applied to future clinical research with human oocytes.
Collapse
|
38
|
De Munck N, Santos-Ribeiro S, Stoop D, Van de Velde H, Verheyen G. Open versus closed oocyte vitrification in an oocyte donation programme: a prospective randomized sibling oocyte study. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:377-84. [PMID: 26724798 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2015] [Accepted: 11/27/2015] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is the survival of donor oocytes with the CryotopSC device superior to the survival with the closed CBSvit device? SUMMARY ANSWER The CryotopSC device and the CBSvit device showed similar survival rates. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Health authorities are cautious about possible cross contamination during liquid nitrogen storage or handling when working with open vitrification devices. At present, the use of open devices is still allowed since little information is available on the efficiency of closed devices. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective randomized sibling oocyte study was performed in the Centre for Reproductive Medicine (UZBrussel) between January 2014 and July 2015. The survival after warming and the embryological outcome of donor oocytes vitrified using two devices was compared: the CBSvit device (closed vitrification and closed storage) and the CryotopSC device (open vitrification and closed storage). A difference of 10% was defined to prove the superiority of the CryotopSC device. In total, 250 warmed oocytes were needed in each arm. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Oocytes from 48 donors were included in the study: 253 vitrified with the CBSvit device and 257 with the CryotopSC device. Equal numbers of oocytes from both devices and originated from the same donor cycle were allocated to each of 78 recipients, in order to exclude donor and recipient (male factor) effects. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE There were no differences found between the CBSvit and the CryotopSC in terms of survival after warming (93.7 versus 89.9%) or fertilization per injected oocyte (74.3 versus 81.4%). The degeneration rate after ICSI was significantly higher for the CBSvit device: 11.4 versus 6.1% (P = 0.041). A significantly higher number of zygotes in the CryotopSC group finished their first mitosis 25-27 h post-injection (34.1 versus 52.1%, P = 0.001). On Day 3, the overall embryo quality distribution did not vary between groups, but a significantly higher cell number was obtained in the CryotopSC device: 6.8 ± 2.8 versus 7.6 ± 2.8 (P = 0.01). The utilization rate per mature oocyte, per surviving oocyte or per fertilized oocyte did not differ. The embryos with the highest quality were selected for transfer on Day 3. The clinical pregnancy rate per transfer cycle was 36.5%. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The results of this study should not be extrapolated to other female groups, since oocytes from young fertile donors were used in this study. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS In many countries, the use of open devices is still allowed due to the limited reports on the efficiency of closed devices. Knowing the caution of health authorities about the use of open devices, there is an urgent need for efficiency studies with closed devices. The results obtained in the current study shows the efficiency of a safe closed vitrification device, leaving behind any concern about possible cross contamination during handling or storage. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS No funding was obtained. The authors have no conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT01952184. TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 24 September 2013. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 23 January 2014.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- N De Munck
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - S Santos-Ribeiro
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium Department of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Universitário de Santa Maria, Avenida Professor Egas Moniz, Lisbon 1649-035, Portugal
| | - D Stoop
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - H Van de Velde
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium Reproduction and Genetics, Vrije Universiteit Brussel (VUB), Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| | - G Verheyen
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, Brussels, Belgium
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Diagnosis of abnormal human fertilization status based on pronuclear origin and/or centrosome number. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1589-95. [PMID: 26395191 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0568-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/15/2015] [Accepted: 09/07/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Normally fertilized zygotes generally show two pronuclei (2PN) and the extrusion of the second polar body. Conventional in vitro fertilization (c-IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) often result in abnormal monopronuclear (1PN), tripronuclear (3PN), or other polypronuclear zygotes. In this study, we performed combined analyses of the methylation status of pronuclei (PN) and the number of centrosomes, to reveal the abnormal fertilization status in human zygotes. METHOD We used differences in DNA methylation status (5-methylcytosine (5mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC)) to discriminate between male and female PN in human zygotes. These results were also used to analyze the centrosome number to indicate how many sperm entered into the oocyte. RESULT Immunofluorescent analysis shows that all of the normal 2PN zygotes had one 5mC/5hmC double-positive PN and one 5mC-positive PN, whereas a parthenogenetically activated oocyte had only 5mC staining of the PN. All of the zygotes derived from ICSI (1PN, 3PN) had two centrosomes as did all of the 2PN zygotes derived from c-IVF. Of the 1PN zygotes derived from c-IVF, more than 50 % had staining for both 5mC and 5hmC in a single PN, and one or two centrosomes, indicating fertilization by a single sperm. Meanwhile, most of 3PN zygotes derived from c-IVF had a 5mC-positive PN and two 5mC/5hmC double-positive PNs, and had four or five centrosomes, suggesting polyspermy. CONCLUSIONS We have established a reliable method to identify the PN origin based on the epigenetic status of the genome and have complemented these results by counting the centrosomes of zygotes.
Collapse
|
40
|
Segers I, Mateizel I, Van Moer E, Smitz J, Tournaye H, Verheyen G, De Vos M. In vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes recovered from ovariectomy specimens in the laboratory: a promising "ex vivo" method of oocyte cryopreservation resulting in the first report of an ongoing pregnancy in Europe. J Assist Reprod Genet 2015; 32:1221-31. [PMID: 26253691 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-015-0528-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2015] [Accepted: 06/30/2015] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We present our center's experience with 34 consecutive cases who underwent in vitro maturation (IVM) of oocytes obtained from ovariectomy specimens and compare our data with updated literature data. METHODS Feasibility and efficiency of oocyte collection during ovarian tissue processing was assessed by the recovery rate, maturation rate, and embryological development after IVM. RESULTS On average, 14 immature oocytes were retrieved per patient during ovarian tissue processing in 33/34 patients. The overall maturation rate after IVM was 36%. The maturation rate correlated with the age of the patient and the duration of IVM. Predominately, oocyte vitrification was performed. Eight couples preferred embryo cryopreservation. Here, a 65% fertilization rate was obtained and at least one good-quality day 3 embryo was cryopreserved in 7/8 couples. The retrieval of oocytes ex vivo resulted in mature oocytes or embryos available for vitrification in 79% of patients. One patient with ovarian insufficiency following therapeutic embolization of the left uterine and the right ovarian artery because of an arteriovenous malformation had an embryo transfer of one good-quality warmed embryo generated after IVM ex vivo, which resulted in an ongoing clinical pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS IVM of oocytes obtained ex vivo during the processing of ovarian cortex prior to cryopreservation is a procedure with emerging promise for patients at risk for fertility loss, as illustrated by the reported pregnancy. However, more data are needed in order to estimate the overall success rate and safety of this novel approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ingrid Segers
- Centre for Reproductive Medicine, UZ Brussel, Laarbeeklaan 101, 1090, Brussels, Belgium,
| | | | | | | | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
41
|
Prediction model for aneuploidy in early human embryo development revealed by single-cell analysis. Nat Commun 2015; 6:7601. [PMID: 26151134 PMCID: PMC4506544 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms8601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2014] [Accepted: 05/22/2015] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Aneuploidies are prevalent in the human embryo and impair proper development, leading to cell cycle arrest. Recent advances in imaging and molecular and genetic analyses are postulated as promising strategies to unveil the mechanisms involved in aneuploidy generation. Here we combine time-lapse, complete chromosomal assessment and single-cell RT-qPCR to simultaneously obtain information from all cells that compose a human embryo until the approximately eight-cell stage (n=85). Our data indicate that the chromosomal status of aneuploid embryos (n=26), including those that are mosaic (n=3), correlates with significant differences in the duration of the first mitotic phase when compared with euploid embryos (n=28). Moreover, gene expression profiling suggests that a subset of genes is differentially expressed in aneuploid embryos during the first 30 h of development. Thus, we propose that the chromosomal fate of an embryo is likely determined as early as the pronuclear stage and may be predicted by a 12-gene transcriptomic signature.
Collapse
|