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Lee SH, Rinaudo PF. Metabolic regulation of preimplantation embryo development in vivo and in vitro: Molecular mechanisms and insights. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2024; 726:150256. [PMID: 38909536 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2024.150256] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/10/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Understanding of embryonic development has led to the clinical application of Assisted Reproductive technologies (ART), with the resulting birth of millions of children. Recent developments in metabolomics, proteomics, and transcriptomics have brought to light new insights into embryonic growth dynamics, with implications spanning reproductive medicine, stem cell research, and regenerative medicine. The review explores the key metabolic processes and molecular pathways active during preimplantation embryo development, including PI3K-Akt, mTOR, AMPK, Wnt/β-catenin, TGF-β, Notch and Jak-Stat signaling pathways. We focused on analyzing the differences occurring in vitro as opposed to in vivo development and we discussed significant physiological and clinical implications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seok Hee Lee
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Paolo F Rinaudo
- Center for Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
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2
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Yildirim RM, Seli E. The role of mitochondrial dynamics in oocyte and early embryo development. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2024; 159-160:52-61. [PMID: 38330625 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2024.01.007] [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: 09/13/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024]
Abstract
Mitochondrial dysfunction is widely implicated in various human diseases, through mechanisms that go beyond mitochondria's well-established role in energy generation. These dynamic organelles exert vital control over numerous cellular processes, including calcium regulation, phospholipid synthesis, innate immunity, and apoptosis. While mitochondria's importance is acknowledged in all cell types, research has revealed the exceptionally dynamic nature of the mitochondrial network in oocytes and embryos, finely tuned to meet unique needs during gamete and pre-implantation embryo development. Within oocytes, both the quantity and morphology of mitochondria can significantly change during maturation and post-fertilization. These changes are orchestrated by fusion and fission processes (collectively known as mitochondrial dynamics), crucial for energy production, content exchange, and quality control as mitochondria adjust to the shifting energy demands of oocytes and embryos. The roles of proteins that regulate mitochondrial dynamics in reproductive processes have been primarily elucidated through targeted deletion studies in animal models. Notably, impaired mitochondrial dynamics have been linked to female reproductive health, affecting oocyte quality, fertilization, and embryo development. Dysfunctional mitochondria can lead to fertility problems and can have an impact on the success of pregnancy, particularly in older reproductive age women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raziye Melike Yildirim
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
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Chien CW, Tang YA, Jeng SL, Pan HA, Sun HS. Blastocyst telomere length predicts successful implantation after frozen-thawed embryo transfer. Hum Reprod Open 2024; 2024:hoae012. [PMID: 38515829 PMCID: PMC10955253 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoae012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do embryos with longer telomere length (TL) at the blastocyst stage have a higher capacity to survive after frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET)? SUMMARY ANSWER Digitally estimated TL using low-pass whole genome sequencing (WGS) data from the preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) process demonstrates that blastocyst TL is the most essential factor associated with likelihood of implantation. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The lifetime TL is established in the early cleavage cycles following fertilization through a recombination-based lengthening mechanism and starts erosion beyond the blastocyst stage. In addition, a telomerase-mediated slow erosion of TL in human fetuses has been observed from a gestational age of 6-11 weeks. Finally, an abnormal shortening of telomeres is likely involved in embryo loss during early development. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION Blastocyst samples were obtained from patients who underwent PGT-A and FET in an IVF center from March 2015 to May 2018. Digitally estimated mitochondrial copy number (mtCN) and TL were used to study associations with the implantation potential of each embryo. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING AND METHODS In total, 965 blastocysts from 232 cycles (164 patients) were available to investigate the biological and clinical relevance of TL. A WGS-based workflow was applied to determine the ploidy of each embryo. Data from low-pass WGS-PGT-A were used to estimate the mtCN and TL for each embryo. Single-variant and multi-variant logistic regression, decision tree, and random forest models were applied to study various factors in association with the implantation potential of each embryo. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Of the 965 blastocysts originally available, only 216 underwent FET. While mtCN from the transferred embryos is significantly associated with the ploidy call of each embryo, mtCN has no role in impacting IVF outcomes after an embryo transfer in these women. The results indicate that mtCN is a marker of embryo aneuploidy. On the other hand, digitally estimated TL is the most prominent univariant factor and showed a significant positive association with pregnancy outcomes (P < 0.01, odds ratio 79.1). We combined several maternal and embryo parameters to study the joint effects on successful implantation. The machine learning models, namely decision tree and random forest, were trained and yielded classification accuracy of 0.82 and 0.91, respectively. Taken together, these results support the vital role of TL in governing implantation potential, perhaps through the ability to control embryo survival after transfer. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The small sample size limits our study as only 216 blastocysts were transferred. The number was further reduced to 153 blastocysts, where pregnancy outcomes could be accurately traced. The other limitation of this study is that all data were collected from a single IVF center. The uniform and controlled operation of IVF cycles in a single center may cause selection bias. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS We present novel findings to show that digitally estimated TL at the blastocyst stage is a predictor of pregnancy capacity after a FET cycle. As elective single-embryo transfer has become the mainstream direction in reproductive medicine, prioritizing embryos based on their implantation potential is crucial for clinical infertility treatment in order to reduce twin pregnancy rate and the time to pregnancy in an IVF center. The AI-powered, random forest prediction model established in this study thus provides a way to improve clinical practice and optimize the chances for people with fertility problems to achieve parenthood. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study was supported by a grant from the National Science and Technology Council, Taiwan (MOST 108-2321-B-006-013 -). There were no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chun-Wei Chien
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Innovation Headquarters, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Yen-An Tang
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Innovation Headquarters, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Shuen-Lin Jeng
- Department of Statistics, Institute of Data Science, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Center for Innovative FinTech Business Models, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - Hsien-An Pan
- IVF center, An-An Women and Children Clinic, Tainan, Taiwan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
| | - H Sunny Sun
- Center for Genomic Medicine, Innovation Headquarters, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, College of Medicine, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, Taiwan
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Luo W, Zheng YM, Hao Y, Zhang Y, Zhou P, Wei Z, Cao Y, Chen D. Mitochondrial DNA quantification correlates with the developmental potential of human euploid blastocysts but not with that of mosaic blastocysts. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:447. [PMID: 37322435 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05760-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE We aimed to study the association between adjusted mtDNA levels in human trophectoderm biopsy samples and the developmental potential of euploid and mosaic blastocysts. METHODS We analyzed relative mtDNA levels in 2,814 blastocysts obtained from 576 couples undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy from June 2018 to June 2021. All patients underwent in vitro fertilization in a single clinic; the study was blinded-mtDNA content was unknown at the time of single embryo transfer. The fate of the euploid or mosaic embryos transferred was compared with mtDNA levels. RESULTS Euploid embryos had lower mtDNA than aneuploid and mosaic embryos. Embryos biopsied on Day 5 had higher mtDNA than those biopsied on Day 6. No difference was detected in mtDNA scores between embryos derived from oocytes of different maternal ages. Linear mixed model suggested that blastulation rate was associated with mtDNA score. Moreover, the specific next-generation sequencing platform used have a significant effect on the observed mtDNA content. Euploid embryos with higher mtDNA content presented significantly higher miscarriage rates and lower live birth rates, while no significant difference was observed in the mosaic cohort. CONCLUSION Our results will aid in improving methods for analyzing the association between mtDNA level and blastocyst viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wen Luo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yi-Min Zheng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yan Hao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Ying Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
| | - Ping Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Zhaolian Wei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China
| | - Yunxia Cao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- Anhui Provincial Engineering Technology Research Center for Biopreservation and Artificial Organs, Anhui Medical University, No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
| | - Dawei Chen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the First Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, No 218 Jixi Road, Hefei, 230022, Anhui, China.
- NHC Key Laboratory of Study On Abnormal Gametes and Reproductive Tract (Anhui Medical University), No 81 Meishan Road, Hefei, 230032, Anhui, China.
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Siristatidis C, Mantzavinos T, Vlahos N. Maternal spindle transfer for mitochondrial disease: lessons to be learnt before extending the method to other conditions? HUM FERTIL 2022; 25:838-847. [PMID: 33993847 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2021.1925168] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondrial diseases are a group of conditions attributed to mutations of specific genes that regulate mitochondrial function. Maternal spindle transfer (MST) has been proposed as a method to prevent the transmission of these diseases and utilisation of the technique resulted in the birth of a baby free of disease in 2017 in Mexico. Potential flaws in research governance and the associated criticism emerged from the expansion of MST to provide a potentially new assisted reproductive technique to overcome infertility problems characterised by repeated in vitro embryo development arrest caused by mitochondrial dysfunction and cytoplasmic deficiencies of the oocyte. This applied technique represents a good example of the need to strike "a balance between taking appropriate precautions and hampering innovation". The purpose of this article is to explore, through a comprehensive literature search, whether and how this process can evolve from an experimental method to treat a medical condition to a standard of care solution for certain types of infertility. We argue that a number of key issues should be considered before applying the technique more broadly. These include regulatory oversight, safety and efficacy, cost, implications for research, essential laboratory skills and oversight, as well as the care needs of patients and egg donors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charalampos Siristatidis
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aretaieio" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Themis Mantzavinos
- Scientific director of "Institute of Life" IVF Center, Iaso Maternity Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikos Vlahos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, Second Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, "Aretaieio" University Hospital, Athens, Greece
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Ritu G, Veerasigamani G, Ashraf M, Singh S, Laheri S, Colaco S, Modi D. Mitochondrial DNA levels in trophectodermal cells show no association with blastocyst development and pregnancy outcomes. J Hum Reprod Sci 2022; 15:82-89. [PMID: 35494207 PMCID: PMC9053345 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_103_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 03/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: In patients undergoing assisted reproduction, levels of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) in the trophectodermal cells of the developing blastocyst are suggested to be associated with its ability to implant. However, discrepancies exist regarding the use of mtDNA levels as a reliable biomarker to predict outcomes of assisted reproduction. Aims: The aim of the study is to explore the association of trophectodermal mtDNA levels to determine blastocyst quality, implantation potential of blastocyst and clinical outcomes in couples who have undergone pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A). Study Setting: Private fertility centre. Study Design: Retrospective analysis. Materials and Methods: We analysed mtDNA levels in the trophectodermal cells of 287 blastocysts from 61 couples undergoing PGT-A. The levels of mtDNA were estimated by next-generation sequencing method. mtDNA levels were correlated with maternal age, blastocyst morphology, ploidy status, implantation rates, miscarriage rate and live birth rate. Statistical Analysis Used: Linear regression and one-way ANOVA with Tukey's all column comparison test. Results: The trophectodermal mtDNA levels did not correlate with maternal age. There were no significant differences in their levels in grade 1 and grade 2 blastocysts. No significant differences were seen between mtDNA levels of implanted and non-implanted blastocysts or those blastocysts that resulted in miscarriage or live birth. However, significantly lower amounts of mtDNA were seen in euploid blastocysts as compared to that in aneuploid blastocysts. Conclusion: mtDNA levels in the trophectodermal cells of the blastocyst do not associate with blastocyst quality (grade 1 and grade 2), implantation potential and clinical outcomes but can differentiate between aneuploid and euploid blastocysts. Our study does not support the use of trophectodermal mtDNA levels as a biomarker for blastocyst quality and predictor of clinical outcomes.
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7
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Chiaratti MR. Uncovering the important role of mitochondrial dynamics in oogenesis: impact on fertility and metabolic disorder transmission. Biophys Rev 2021; 13:967-981. [PMID: 35059021 PMCID: PMC8724343 DOI: 10.1007/s12551-021-00891-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/01/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Oocyte health is tightly tied to mitochondria given their role in energy production, metabolite supply, calcium (Ca2+) buffering, and cell death regulation, among others. In turn, mitochondrial function strongly relies on these organelle dynamics once cyclic events of fusion and fission (division) are required for mitochondrial turnover, positioning, content homogenization, metabolic flexibility, interaction with subcellular compartments, etc. Importantly, during oogenesis, mitochondria change their architecture from an "orthodox" elongated shape characterized by the presence of numerous transversely oriented cristae to a round-to-oval morphology containing arched and concentrically arranged cristae. This, along with evidence showing that mitochondrial function is kept quiescent during most part of oocyte development, suggests an important role of mitochondrial dynamics in oogenesis. To investigate this, recent works have downregulated/upregulated in oocytes the expression of key effectors of mitochondrial dynamics, including mitofusins 1 (MFN1) and 2 (MFN2) and the dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1). As a result, both MFN1 and DRP1 were found to be essential to oogenesis and fertility, while MFN2 deletion led to offspring with increased weight gain and glucose intolerance. Curiously, neither MFN1/MFN2 deficiency nor DRP1 overexpression enhanced mitochondrial fragmentation, indicating that mitochondrial size is strictly regulated in oocytes. Therefore, the present work seeks to discuss the role of mitochondria in supporting oogenesis as well as recent findings connecting defective mitochondrial dynamics in oocytes with infertility and transmission of metabolic disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcos Roberto Chiaratti
- Departamento de Genética e Evolução, Centro de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de São Carlos, São Carlos, 13565-905 Brazil
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8
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Sfakianoudis K, Rapani A, Grigoriadis S, Retsina D, Maziotis E, Tsioulou P, Giannelou P, Pantos K, Koutsilieris M, Vlahos N, Mastorakos G, Simopoulou M. Novel Approaches in Addressing Ovarian Insufficiency in 2019: Are We There Yet? Cell Transplant 2021; 29:963689720926154. [PMID: 32686983 PMCID: PMC7563844 DOI: 10.1177/0963689720926154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovarian insufficiency is described as a multifaceted issue typically encountered in the field of assisted reproduction. The three main identified diagnoses of ovarian insufficiency include premature ovarian failure (POF), poor ovarian response (POR), and advanced maternal age (AMA). Patient heterogeneity in the era of individualized medicine drives research forward leading to the emergence of novel approaches. This plethora of innovative treatments in the service of adequately managing ovarian insufficiency is called to undertake the challenge of addressing infertile patients exploring their reproductive options. This review provides an all-inclusive presentation and critical analysis on novel treatments that have not achieved routine clinical practice status yet, but have recently emerged as promising. In light of the lack of randomized controlled trials conveying safety and efficiency, clinicians are left puzzled in addressing the "how" and "for whom" these approaches may be beneficial. From ovarian injection employing platelet-rich plasma (PRP) or stem cells to artificial gametes and ovaries, ovarian transplantation, and mitochondrial replacement therapy, this descriptive review provides insight toward assisting the practitioner in decision making regarding these cutting-edge treatments. Biological mechanisms, invasiveness levels, efficiency, as well as possible complications, the current status along with bioethical concerns are discussed in the context of identifying future optimal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Anna Rapani
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Dimitra Retsina
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Petroula Tsioulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Polina Giannelou
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, Athens, Greece.,Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | | | - Michael Koutsilieris
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Nikolaos Vlahos
- Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - George Mastorakos
- Unit of Endocrinology, Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolism, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece.,Assisted Reproduction Unit, 2nd Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Aretaieion Hospital, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, Athens, Greece
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9
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Rodríguez-Varela C, Herraiz S, Labarta E. Mitochondrial enrichment in infertile patients: a review of different mitochondrial replacement therapies. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2021; 15:26334941211023544. [PMID: 34263171 PMCID: PMC8243099 DOI: 10.1177/26334941211023544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor ovarian responders exhibit a quantitative reduction in their follicular
pool, and most cases are also associated with poor oocyte quality due to
patient’s age, which leads to impaired in vitro fertilisation
outcomes. In particular, poor oocyte quality has been related to mitochondrial
dysfunction and/or low mitochondrial count as these organelles are crucial in
many essential oocyte processes. Therefore, mitochondrial enrichment has been
proposed as a potential therapy option in infertile patients to improve oocyte
quality and subsequent in vitro fertilisation outcomes.
Nowadays, different options are available for mitochondrial enrichment
treatments that are encompassed in two main approaches: heterologous and
autologous. In the heterologous approach, mitochondria come from an external
source, which is an oocyte donor. These techniques include transferring either a
portion of the donor’s oocyte cytoplasm to the recipient oocyte or nuclear
material from the patient to the donor’s oocyte. In any case, this approach
entails many ethical and safety concerns that mainly arise from the uncertain
degree of mitochondrial heteroplasmy deriving from it. Thus the autologous
approach is considered a suitable potential tool to improve oocyte quality by
overcoming the heteroplasmy issue. Autologous mitochondrial transfer, however,
has not yielded as many beneficial outcomes as initially expected. Proposed
mitochondrial autologous sources include immature oocytes, granulosa cells,
germline stem cells, and adipose-derived stem cells. Presently, it would seem
that these autologous techniques do not improve clinical outcomes in human
infertile patients. However, further trials still need to be performed to
confirm these results. Besides these two main categories, new strategies have
arisen for oocyte rejuvenation by improving patient’s own mitochondrial function
and avoiding the unknown consequences of third-party genetic material. This is
the case of antioxidants, which may enhance mitochondrial activity by
counteracting and/or preventing oxidative stress damage. Among others,
coenzyme-Q10 and melatonin have shown promising results in low-prognosis
infertile patients, although further randomised clinical trials are still
necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Elena Labarta
- IVI Foundation – IIS La Fe, Valencia, Spain;
IVIRMA Valencia, Valencia, Spain
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10
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW To provide an overview of mitochondrial functional alterations in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). RECENT FINDINGS Although numerous studies have focused on PCOS, the pathophysiological mechanisms that cause this common disease remain unclear. Mitochondria play a central role in energy production, and mitochondrial dysfunction may underlie several abnormalities observed in women with PCOS. Recent studies associated mtDNA mutations and low mtDNA copy number with PCOS, and set out to characterize the potential protective role of mitochondrial and endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein responses (UPR and UPR). SUMMARY Mitochondrial dysfunction likely plays a role in the pathogenesis of PCOS by increasing reactive oxygen (ROS) and oxidative stress. This occurs in a metabolic milieu often affected by insulin resistance, which is a common finding in women with PCOS, especially in those who are overweight or obese. Mutations in mtDNA and low mtDNA copy number are found in these patients and may have potential as diagnostic modalities for specific PCOS phenotypes. More recently, UPR and UPR are being investigated as potential cellular rescue mechanisms in PCOS, the failure of which may lead to apoptosis, and contribute to decreased reproductive potential.
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Abstract
Mounting evidence suggests a role for mitochondrial dysfunction in the pathogenesis of many diseases, including type 2 diabetes, aging, and ovarian failure. Because of the central role of mitochondria in energy production, heme biosynthesis, calcium buffering, steroidogenesis, and apoptosis signaling within cells, understanding the molecular mechanisms behind mitochondrial dysregulation and its potential implications in disease is critical. This review will take a journey through the past and summarize what is known about mitochondrial dysfunction in various disorders, focusing on metabolic alterations and reproductive abnormalities. Evidence is presented from studies in different human populations, and rodents with genetic manipulations of pathways known to affect mitochondrial function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manasi Das
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Consuelo Sauceda
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
| | - Nicholas J G Webster
- VA San Diego Healthcare System, San Diego, California
- Department of Medicine, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
- Moores Cancer Center, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla, California
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12
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Colella M, Cuomo D, Peluso T, Falanga I, Mallardo M, De Felice M, Ambrosino C. Ovarian Aging: Role of Pituitary-Ovarian Axis Hormones and ncRNAs in Regulating Ovarian Mitochondrial Activity. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:791071. [PMID: 34975760 PMCID: PMC8716494 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.791071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of mitochondria in the oocyte along with their functions (e.g., energy production, scavenger activity) decline with age progression. Such multifaceted functions support several processes during oocyte maturation, ranging from energy supply to synthesis of the steroid hormones. Hence, it is hardly surprising that their impairment has been reported in both physiological and premature ovarian aging, wherein they are crucial players in the apoptotic processes that arise in aged ovaries. In any form, ovarian aging implies the progressive damage of the mitochondrial structure and activities as regards to ovarian germ and somatic cells. The imbalance in the circulating hormones and peptides (e.g., gonadotropins, estrogens, AMH, activins, and inhibins), active along the pituitary-ovarian axis, represents the biochemical sign of ovarian aging. Despite the progress accomplished in determining the key role of the mitochondria in preserving ovarian follicular number and health, their modulation by the hormonal signalling pathways involved in ovarian aging has been poorly and randomly explored. Yet characterizing this mechanism is pivotal to molecularly define the implication of mitochondrial dysfunction in physiological and premature ovarian aging, respectively. However, it is fairly difficult considering that the pathways associated with ovarian aging might affect mitochondria directly or by altering the activity, stability and localization of proteins controlling mitochondrial dynamics and functions, either unbalancing other cellular mediators, released by the mitochondria, such as non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs). We will focus on the mitochondrial ncRNAs (i.e., mitomiRs and mtlncRNAs), that retranslocate from the mitochondria to the nucleus, as active players in aging and describe their role in the nuclear-mitochondrial crosstalk and its modulation by the pituitary-ovarian hormone dependent pathways. In this review, we will illustrate mitochondria as targets of the signaling pathways dependent on hormones and peptides active along the pituitary/ovarian axis and as transducers, with a particular focus on the molecules retrieved in the mitochondria, mainly ncRNAs. Given their regulatory function in cellular activities we propose them as potential diagnostic markers and/or therapeutic targets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Colella
- Biogem, Istituto di Biologia e Genetica Molecolare, Ariano Irpino, Italy
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
- Laboratory of Pre-Clinical and Translational Research, IRCCS, Referral Cancer Center of Basilicata, Rionero in Vulture, Italy
| | - Danila Cuomo
- Department of Molecular and Cellular Medicine, College of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, United States
| | - Teresa Peluso
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Ilaria Falanga
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
| | - Massimo Mallardo
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
| | - Mario De Felice
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Medical Biotechnologies, University of Naples “Federico II”, Naples, Italy
- Istituto per l’ endocrinologia e l’oncologia “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS)-Centro Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy
| | - Concetta Ambrosino
- Biogem, Istituto di Biologia e Genetica Molecolare, Ariano Irpino, Italy
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, Benevento, Italy
- Istituto per l’ endocrinologia e l’oncologia “Gaetano Salvatore” (IEOS)-Centro Nazionale delle Ricerche (CNR), Naples, Italy
- *Correspondence: Concetta Ambrosino,
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13
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Elimination of stress factors by continuous embryo culture and its influence on in vitro fertilization outcomes. Reprod Biol 2020; 20:512-519. [PMID: 32912714 DOI: 10.1016/j.repbio.2020.08.004] [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: 05/20/2020] [Revised: 07/25/2020] [Accepted: 08/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
Recently, infertility has become one of the most important endemic conditions, affecting approximately 15-20 % of couples worldwide. Among others, the careerist lifestyle, the increasing maternal age and the parallel increment in the aneuploidy rate of embryos play a crucial role in this phenomenon. In this study, embryological parameters and pregnancy outcomes were investigated in IVF cycles using either sequential embryo culture or a single step culture system. By sequential media, oocytes/embryos are needlessly exposed to the potentially negative effects of light exposure, temperature decrement and altered oxygen tension. In comparison with sequential media, single step media induced 1.28, 1.21 and 1.21-fold increments in implantation, biochemical pregnancy and clinical pregnancy rates, respectively. Pregnancy outcomes showed strong maternal age-dependency, so the difference between the two investigated culture systems was equalized by the increasing maternal ages (35-44 years) and the supposed incidence of embryo aneuploidy. Nevertheless, the significant enlargements in the outcomes of the younger ages (25-34) induced by the single step cultures suggest that, beside the resultant maternal aneuploidy, aneuploidy (reduced pregnancy rates) may evolve from exposure to the mentioned environmental stress factors.
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14
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Zhang M, Bener MB, Jiang Z, Wang T, Esencan E, Scott R, Horvath T, Seli E. Mitofusin 2 plays a role in oocyte and follicle development, and is required to maintain ovarian follicular reserve during reproductive aging. Aging (Albany NY) 2020; 11:3919-3938. [PMID: 31204316 PMCID: PMC6628992 DOI: 10.18632/aging.102024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2019] [Accepted: 06/08/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Mitochondria change their shape through fusion and fission in order to adapt to their metabolic milieu. Mitofusin-2 (MFN2) is a key regulatory protein in this process, mediating mitochondrial fusion and interaction with endoplasmic reticulum. Targeted deletion of Mfn2 in oocytes resulted in mitochondrial dysfunction and female subfertility associated with impaired oocyte maturation and follicle development. Oocytes lacking MFN2 showed shortened telomeres and increased apoptosis, resulting in compromised oocyte quality and accelerated follicular depletion, consistent with a reproductive aging phenotype.
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Affiliation(s)
- Man Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Muhammed Burak Bener
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Current address: AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, USA
| | - Tianren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Current address: Foundation for Embryonic Competence, Basking Ridge, NJ 07920, USA
| | - Ecem Esencan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Richard Scott
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Tamas Horvath
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA.,Department of Comparative Medicine, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
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15
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Stigliani S, Orlando G, Massarotti C, Casciano I, Bovis F, Anserini P, Ubaldi FM, Remorgida V, Rienzi L, Scaruffi P. Non-invasive mitochondrial DNA quantification on Day 3 predicts blastocyst development: a prospective, blinded, multi-centric study. Mol Hum Reprod 2020; 25:527-537. [PMID: 31174207 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaz032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2019] [Revised: 04/19/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
In ART, embryo quality evaluation is routinely based on morphological criteria. We previously demonstrated that the mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA)/genomic DNA (gDNA) ratio in culture medium was significantly associated with embryo quality and viability potential. The purpose of this prospective, blinded, multi-centric study was to validate the use of mtDNA/gDNA ratio in Day 3 spent medium as a predictor of human embryo developmental competence. The mtDNA/gDNA ratio was assessed in Day 3 culture media (n=484) of embryos from 143 patients by quantitative PCR. A mixed effect logistic regression model was applied. We found that mtDNA/gDNA ratio in Day 3 culture medium combined with embryo morphology improves the prediction upon blastulation compared to morphology alone (P < 0.0001), independent of patient and cycle characteristics. With regard to routine use in clinics, we evaluated the ability of the novel, combined grading score to improve selection of developmentally competent embryos of a single cohort. Including embryos from 44 patients, the sensibility and specificity of the scoring system based on Day 3 morphological stage were 92% and 13%, respectively. Integration with the culture medium mtDNA/gDNA ratio increased the performance of the method (sensibility: 95%; specificity: 65%). The results of this study suggest the possibility of carrying out a non-invasive evaluation of embryonic mtDNA content through the culture medium. When combined with embryo morphology, it has the potential to help embryologists rank embryos and choose which embryo(s) has the greater development potential, and thus should be transferred on Day 3, among sibling embryos with the same morphological grade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sara Stigliani
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Claudia Massarotti
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Ida Casciano
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | - Francesca Bovis
- Department of Health Sciences (DISSAL), University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Paola Anserini
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
| | | | - Valentino Remorgida
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Academic Unit of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Laura Rienzi
- GENERA, Reproductive Medicine Center, Roma, Italy
| | - Paola Scaruffi
- UOS Physiopathology of Human Reproduction, IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genova, Italy
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16
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Wang XH, Yin S, Ou XH, Luo SM. Increase of mitochondria surrounding spindle causes mouse oocytes arrested at metaphase I stage. Biochem Biophys Res Commun 2020; 527:1043-1049. [PMID: 32439172 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbrc.2020.05.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2020] [Accepted: 05/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
During oocyte meiosis, mitochondria usually surround spindle to meet the energy demand of spindle migration and chromosome segregation. Therefore, the mitochondrion surrounding spindle is widely accepted as an important indicator to demonstrate the mitochondrial function in oocyte studies. However, the role of mitochondria surrounding spindle in oocyte quality is not exactly addressed. Mitofusin-2 (MFN2) is a mitochondrial outer membrane GTPase that mediates mitochondrial clustering and fusion. Here, we increased the mitochondria surrounding spindle by overexpression of MFN2 in mouse oocytes. Results indicate that the increase of mitochondria surrounding spindle has little effect on germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD), spindle migration, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) distribution, while blocks chromosome segregation, destroys the spindle, and finally causes most of the oocytes to arrest at metaphase I stage. Collectively, our results demonstrate the mitochondria surrounding spindle is precisely regulated during oocyte maturation, while too much of it may cause abnormal oocyte meiosis. Therefore, although mitochondrion surrounding spindle is a typical biological event during oocyte maturation, utilizing it to demonstrate the mitochondrial function and oocyte quality should be much careful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xing-Hua Wang
- College of Animal Science and Technology, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Shen Yin
- College of Life Sciences, Institute of Reproductive Sciences, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266109, China
| | - Xiang-Hong Ou
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, China
| | - Shi-Ming Luo
- Fertility Preservation Lab, Reproductive Medicine Center, Guangdong Second Provincial General Hospital, Guangzhou, 510317, China.
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17
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Scott RT, Sun L, Zhan Y, Marin D, Tao X, Seli E. Mitochondrial DNA content is not predictive of reproductive competence in euploid blastocysts. Reprod Biomed Online 2020; 41:183-190. [PMID: 32600944 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2019] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number predict the reproductive potential of euploid human blastocysts? DESIGN To investigate whether the amount of mtDNA in trophectoderm biopsies correlates with IVF outcome, euploid human blastocysts (n = 615) used in single embryo transfer were analysed. Furthermore, to determine whether mtDNA content is predictive of reproductive outcome within a given cohort, paired sibling embryos (n = 78) transferred in two consecutive cycles carried out in the same patient (in which one cycle failed to result in implantation and the other cycle resulted in sustained implantation) were studied. Targeted amplification followed by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction for two mitochondrial loci (16S and MajArc) relative to a multicopy nuclear genome locus (AluYb8) were carried out to determine relative mtDNA copy number. RESULTS Sustained implantation was not associated with relative mtDNA copy number (P = 0.78), and there was no threshold value above or below which ongoing implantation was more or less likely. No correlation was observed between maternal age and relative mtDNA copy number (P = 0.39). In addition, no association was found between relative mtDNA levels of sibling embryos and ensuing implantation and delivery rates in women who underwent a successful single embryo transfer before or after a failed transfer using embryos derived from the same cohort of oocytes (P = 0.70). CONCLUSIONS In trophectoderm samples, mitochondrial DNA copy number analysis was not found to be predictive of euploid human embryo reproductive competence. These data do not support the use of mitochondrial DNA copy number in clinical decision making when selecting which embryo to transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard T Scott
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar street, LSOG 304B, New Haven CT, 06525, USA
| | - Li Sun
- Foundation for Embryonic Eompetence, 140 Allen Road, Basking Ridge NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Yiping Zhan
- Foundation for Embryonic Eompetence, 140 Allen Road, Basking Ridge NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Diego Marin
- IVIRMA New Jersey, 140 Allen Road, Basking Ridge NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Xin Tao
- Foundation for Embryonic Eompetence, 140 Allen Road, Basking Ridge NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar street, LSOG 304B, New Haven CT, 06525, USA; IVIRMA New Jersey, 140 Allen Road, Basking Ridge NJ, 07920, USA.
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18
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Carnevale EM, Catandi GD, Fresa K. Equine Aging and the Oocyte: A Potential Model for Reproductive Aging in Women. J Equine Vet Sci 2020; 89:103022. [PMID: 32563447 DOI: 10.1016/j.jevs.2020.103022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2020] [Revised: 04/07/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Numerous similarities in reproductive aging have been documented between the mare and woman. Aging is associated with a decline in fertility. In mares and women, oocyte transfer procedures were initially used to establish that oocyte donor age is associated with oocyte quality. Age-associated differences in oocytes include altered morphology, gene expression, and developmental potential. Reactive oxygen species and mitochondrial dysfunction are thought to be important contributors to loss of oocyte quality. In the woman, aneuploidy is a primary consideration with maternal aging. Although misalignment of chromosomes during meiosis has been observed in the mare, less is known in this area. Reproductive aging will be reviewed in the mare and compared with the woman with emphasis on factors that affect oocyte quality and developmental potential. Areas in which the mare could be used as a research model to study reproductive aging in women will be highlighted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elaine M Carnevale
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO.
| | - Giovana D Catandi
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
| | - Kyle Fresa
- Equine Reproduction Laboratory, Department of Biomedical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO
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19
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Esencan E, Jiang Z, Wang T, Zhang M, Soylemez-Imamoglu G, Seli E. Impaired Mitochondrial Stress Response due to CLPP Deletion Is Associated with Altered Mitochondrial Dynamics and Increased Apoptosis in Cumulus Cells. Reprod Sci 2020; 27:621-630. [PMID: 31939198 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-019-00063-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 09/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Caseinolytic peptidase P (CLPP) plays a central role in mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) and is required for maintaining protein homeostasis in the mitochondria. Global germline Clpp deletion causes female infertility and accelerated follicular depletion. In the current study, we aimed to characterize the role of CLPP in cumulus cell function, gene expression, and mitochondrial ultrastructure. We found that mitochondria in Clpp-deficient cumulus cells have a smaller aspect ratio (length/width) and have a larger coverage area (mitochondrial area/cytoplasmic area) under electron microscopy. These ultrastructural changes were accompanied with diminished expression of mitochondrial dynamics genes. RNA sequencing analysis revealed a significant change in genes related to cellular metabolism in Clpp-deficient cumulus cells compared to wild type. In addition, apoptosis and phagosome pathways were significantly affected. Immunofluorescence assessment confirmed increased apoptotic activity and decreased cell proliferation in cumulus oophorus complexes (COCs) of Clpp-deficient mice. Our findings demonstrate that deletion of CLPP results in significant structural and functional changes in cumulus cells and suggests that mtUPR is required for cumulus cell function.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Esencan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - Z Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.,AgCenter, School of Animal Sciences, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA, 70803, USA
| | - T Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.,Foundation for Embryonic Competence, Basking Ridge, NJ, 07920, USA
| | - M Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - G Soylemez-Imamoglu
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA
| | - E Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, 310 Cedar Street, New Haven, CT, 06510, USA.
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20
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Noguchi T, Aizawa T, Munakata Y, Iwata H. Comparison of gene expression and mitochondria number between bovine blastocysts obtained <i>in vitro</i> and <i>in vivo</i>. J Reprod Dev 2019; 66:35-39. [PMID: 31748448 PMCID: PMC7040209 DOI: 10.1262/jrd.2019-100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Embryo transfer uses embryos developed in vivo or in vitro for cattle production, however there is a difference in the quality of the embryos obtained by
the two methods. This study addresses the differences in gene expression between blastocysts developed in vitro and in vivo. In vivo
blastocysts were flushed from the uteri of super-ovulated cows and blastocysts developed in vitro were derived from in vitro matured and fertilized embryos.
The same batch of frozen bull sperm was used for insemination and in vitro fertilization. Blastocysts were then subjected to RNA sequencing. Differentially expressed genes
upregulated in in vitro blastocysts were annotated to focal adhesion, extracellular matrix (ECM)-receptor interaction, and PI3K-Akt signaling and the genes that were
upregulated in in vivo blastocysts were annotated to oxidation-reduction processes, mitochondrion organization, and mitochondrial translation. Although the total cell number
of the two types of blastocysts was similar, the mitochondrial quantity (determined by mitochondrial DNA copy numbers and expression levels of TOMM20), and ATP content in the blastocysts
were lower in in vivo blastocysts compared with those developed in vitro. In conclusion, RNAseq revealed differential molecular backgrounds between
in vitro and in vivo developed blastocysts and mitochondrial number and function are responsible for these differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatsuo Noguchi
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Takuro Aizawa
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Yasuhisa Munakata
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
| | - Hisataka Iwata
- Department of Animal Science, Tokyo University of Agriculture, Kanagawa 243-0034, Japan
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21
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Bayram A, De Munck N, Elkhatib I, Arnanz A, Liñán A, Lawrenz B, Fatemi HM. Cleavage stage mitochondrial DNA is correlated with preimplantation human embryo development and ploidy status. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1847-1854. [PMID: 31292817 PMCID: PMC6730730 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01520-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2019] [Accepted: 07/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate whether the mitoscore of cleavage stage embryos might correlate with developmental kinetics and the ploidy status. MATERIALS This retrospective single-center study involved all cycles between April 2016 and April 2018 in which preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGT-A) on day 3 was performed. The mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content and embryo ploidy were determined on 375 single blastomere biopsies by next generation sequencing (NGS). After intracytoplasmic sperm injection, a time-lapse imaging system (embryoscope) was used to follow the development. The median mtDNA content of cleavage stage embryos (49.4) was used to stratify the embryos into two groups to compare embryo development and ploidy status: low mitoscore group (≤ 49.4) and high mitoscore group (> 49.4). RESULTS The total number of euploid embryos was equal between both mitoscore groups (32.1% versus 33.5%; p = 0.854). However, embryos in the low mitoscore group had a significantly higher cell number on day 3 (8.13 ± 1.59 versus 7.62 ± 1.5; p = 0.0013) and showed a significantly faster development up until the 8-cell stage. Mitoscore was not different between euploid and aneuploid embryos, with the same blastomere number at the time of biopsy. Furthermore, absence of cavitation within 118 h after insemination was correlated with higher mitoscore values (60.22 ± 42.23 versus 50.97 ± 13.37; p = 0.006) and a lower chance of being euploid (17.1% versus 47.4%; p = 0.001). CONCLUSION mtDNA content of cleavage stage embryos correlates with time-lapse parameters. Early blastulation is correlated with a lower mtDNA content and a higher chance of euploidy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aşina Bayram
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates.
| | - Neelke De Munck
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ibrahim Elkhatib
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ana Arnanz
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alberto Liñán
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Barbara Lawrenz
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Obstetrical Department, Women's University Hospital Tuebingen, Tübingen, Germany
| | - Human M Fatemi
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
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22
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De Munck N, Liñán A, Elkhatib I, Bayram A, Arnanz A, Rubio C, Garrido N, Lawrenz B, Fatemi HM. mtDNA dynamics between cleavage-stage embryos and blastocysts. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1867-1875. [PMID: 31392663 PMCID: PMC6730967 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01544-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2019] [Accepted: 07/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim was to evaluate mtDNA content and its dynamics in euploid and aneuploid embryos from cleavage to blastocyst stage following consecutive biopsies. The effect of female age on mtDNA content was evaluated by comparing reproductively younger (≤ 37 years) with older (> 37 years) women. METHODS A retrospective single-centre descriptive study was performed between August 2016 and January 2017. Forty patients, with 112 embryos, undergoing preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A) by next-generation sequencing (NGS) were included. Embryos that reached the blastocyst stage and were not selected for fresh embryo transfer were included following consecutive biopsies of a single blastomere on day 3 and trophectoderm biopsy of day 5 blastocysts. RESULTS Cleavage-stage mtDNA was significantly lower in fast cleaving embryos (p = 0.016). Based on the concordance between day 3 and day 5 biopsies, a difference was identified in blastocyst mtDNA content between groups (p = 0.019); true euploid blastocysts presented a lower mtDNA content. No association was identified between cleavage-stage mtDNA content and ploidy status (OR 1.008 [0.981-1.036], p = 0.565) nor between blastocyst mtDNA content and ploidy outcome (OR 0.954 [0.898-1.014], p = 0.129). No difference was found when comparing mtDNA content and ploidy outcome between the two reproductive age groups (p = 0.505 (cleavage stage) and p = 0.774 (blastocyst)). CONCLUSION Mitochondrial DNA content of cleavage-stage embryos and blastocysts is unable to predict ploidy status. Subgroup analysis based on ploidy concordance between day 3 and day 5 revealed a significantly lower mtDNA content for true euploid blastocysts. Reproductive ageing does not affect mtDNA content.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neelke De Munck
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Alberto Liñán
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Ibrahim Elkhatib
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
| | - Aşina Bayram
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Ana Arnanz
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | | | - Nicolas Garrido
- IVI Foundation, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - Barbara Lawrenz
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- Obstetrical Department, Women’s University Hospital Tuebingen, Tuebingen, Germany
| | - Human M. Fatemi
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Marina Village, Villa B22-23, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- IVIRMA Middle East Fertility Clinic, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman
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23
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Cozzolino M, Marin D, Sisti G. New Frontiers in IVF: mtDNA and autologous germline mitochondrial energy transfer. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2019; 17:55. [PMID: 31299996 PMCID: PMC6626406 DOI: 10.1186/s12958-019-0501-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2019] [Accepted: 07/08/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Many infertility specialists support the existence of a relationship between the levels of mitochondrial DNA and the quality of the blastocysts. Despite the extensive use of pre-implantation genetic testing for aneuploidy, a significant percentage of euploid embryos do not implant even though the endometrium is normal. Mitochondrial DNA may be used as a new test in evaluating embryonic vitality.Ovarian aging leads to a decrease in the quantity and quality of oocytes and aged oocytes have a reduced number of mitochondria. Mitochondria are the energy factories of the cells and their lacked could leads to lower fertilization rates and poor embryonic development. Various strategies have been tested to increase the mitochondria quantity and thus improve the quality of oocytes used in in vitro fertilization. Results of ovarian rejuvenation techniques such as autologous mitochondrial transplantation have been controversial. In this review, we describe the state of the art concerning the use of mitochondrial DNA and autologous mitochondrial transplantation as new possibilities to increase success in vitro fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Cozzolino
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT, USA.
- Universidad Rey Juan Carlos, Madrid, Spain.
- IVIRMA, Fundación Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Avda/Fernando Abril Martorell, n° 106, Valencia, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Diego Marin
- IVIRMA New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, 07920, USA
| | - Giovanni Sisti
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lincoln Medical and Mental Health Center, Bronx, New York, USA
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24
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Kim J, Seli E. Mitochondria as a biomarker for IVF outcome. Reproduction 2019; 157:R235-R242. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0580] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 03/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/25/2022]
Abstract
Mitochondria play an essential role in generating energy for embryo development and maintaining embryo metabolism through key cellular functions including ion homeostasis, amino acid metabolism, glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, signal transduction and apoptotic regulation. Recent literature suggests that mitochondrial content and function may be related to implantation success and embryo viability. Some studies have linked increased levels of mitochondrial DNA to aneuploidy, advanced maternal age and euploid blastocyst with implantation failure, while others have failed to demonstrate similar findings. This review aims to provide an overview of the current literature surrounding the possibilities of using mitochondria as an additional biomarker for infertility treatment outcome and summarize the reasons as to why there are inconsistencies in these studies.
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25
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Zhu Z, Han X, Wang Y, Liu W, Lu Y, Xu C, Wang X, Hao L, Song Y, Huang S, Rizak JD, Li Y, Han C. Identification of Specific Nuclear Genetic Loci and Genes That Interact With the Mitochondrial Genome and Contribute to Fecundity in Caenorhabditis elegans. Front Genet 2019; 10:28. [PMID: 30778368 PMCID: PMC6369210 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2019.00028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/17/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have found that fecundity is a multigenic trait regulated, in part, by mitochondrial-nuclear (mit-n) genetic interactions. However, the identification of specific nuclear genetic loci or genes interacting with the mitochondrial genome and contributing to the quantitative trait fecundity is an unsolved issue. Here, a panel of recombinant inbred advanced intercrossed lines (RIAILs), established from a cross between the N2 and CB4856 strains of C. elegans, were used to characterize the underlying genetic basis of mit-n genetic interactions related to fecundity. Sixty-seven single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified by association mapping to be linked with fecundity among 115 SNPs linked to mitotype. This indicated significant epistatic effects between nuclear and mitochondria genetics on fecundity. In addition, two specific nuclear genetic loci interacting with the mitochondrial genome and contributing to fecundity were identified. A significant reduction in fecundity was observed in the RIAILs that carried CB4856 mitochondria and a N2 genotype at locus 1 or a CB4856 genotype at locus 2 relative to the wild-type strains. Then, a hybrid strain (CNC10) was established, which was bred as homoplasmic for the CB4856 mtDNA genome and N2 genotype at locus 1 in the CB4856 nuclear background. The mean fecundity of CNC10 was half the fecundity of the control strain. Several functional characteristics of the mitochondria in CNC10 were also influenced by mit-n interactions. Overall, experimental evidence was presented that specific nuclear genetic loci or genes have interactions with the mitochondrial genome and are associated with fecundity. In total, 18 genes were identified using integrative approaches to have interactions with the mitochondrial genome and to contribute to fecundity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zuobin Zhu
- Department of Genetics, Research Facility Center for Morphology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xiaoxiao Han
- Center of Reproductive Medicine, Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital, Tongji University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Yuechen Wang
- Department of Genetics, Research Facility Center for Morphology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Wei Liu
- Medical Technology College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yue Lu
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Chang Xu
- Department of Genetics, Research Facility Center for Morphology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Xitao Wang
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Lin Hao
- Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
| | - Yuanjian Song
- Department of Genetics, Research Facility Center for Morphology, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Shi Huang
- School of Life Sciences, Xiangya Medical School, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | | | - Ying Li
- Medical Technology College, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China
| | - Conghui Han
- Department of Clinical Medicine, Xuzhou Medical University, Xuzhou, China.,Department of Urology, Xuzhou Central Hospital, Xuzhou, China
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26
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Mitochondrial unfolded protein response: a stress response with implications for fertility and reproductive aging. Fertil Steril 2019; 111:197-204. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.11.048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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27
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Lledo B, Ortiz JA, Morales R, García-Hernández E, Ten J, Bernabeu A, Llácer J, Bernabeu R. Comprehensive mitochondrial DNA analysis and IVF outcome. Hum Reprod Open 2018; 2018:hoy023. [PMID: 30895263 PMCID: PMC6396640 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoy023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 11/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Do mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number and heteroplasmy in human embryos affect the ongoing pregnancy rate? SUMMARY ANSWER Our study suggests that mtDNA copy number above a specific threshold is associated with the ongoing pregnancy rate. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Mitochondria play a vital role in cell function. Recently, there has been increasing research on mtDNA as a biomarker of embryo implantation. Although reports showed that high levels of mtDNA in the blastocyst are associated with low implantation potential, other publications were unable to confirm this. Confounding factors may influence the mtDNA copy number in euploid embryos. On the other hand it has been speculated that both mtDNA heteroplasmy and copy number contribute to mitochondrial function. Next generation sequencing (NGS) allows us to study in depth mtDNA heteroplasmy and copy number simultaneously. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A prospective non-selection study was performed. We included 159 blastocyst biopsies from 142 couples who attended our clinic for preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidies (PGT-A), from January 2017 to December 2017. All embryos were biopsied on Day 5 or Day 6. The aneuploid testing was performed by NGS. All blastocysts were diagnosed as euploid non-mosaic and were transferred. The mtDNA analysis was performed once the embryo diagnosis was known. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Sequencing reads mapping to the mtDNA genome were extracted from indexed bam files to identify copy number and heteroplasmy. The relative measure of mtDNA copy number was calculated by dividing the mtDNA reads by the nuclear DNA value to normalize for technical variants and the number of cells collected at the biopsy. All the results were subjected to a mathematical correction factor according to the embryo genome. Heteroplasmy was assigned by MitoSeek. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The mean average copy number and SD of mtDNA per genome was 0.0016 ± 0.0012. Regarding heteroplasmy, 40 embryos were heteroplasmy carriers (26.32%). MtDNA variants were detected in coding and non-coding regions and the highest number of variants in an embryo was eight. With respect to IVF outcome for mtDNA copy number analysis, we set a threshold of 0.003 for the following analysis. The vast majority of the embryos were below the threshold (142/159, 89.31%) and 17 embryos were classified as having higher mtDNA levels. We showed a reduction in ongoing pregnancy rate associated with elevated mtDNA copy number (42.96% versus 17.65%, P < 0.05). This result was independent of maternal age and day of the biopsy: these factors were included as confounding factors because mtDNA copy number was negatively correlated with female age (25 –30 y: 0.0017 ± 0.0011, 30 –35 y: 0.0012 ± 0.0007, 35 –40 y: 0.0016 ± 0.0009, over 40 y: 0.0024 + 0.0017, P < 0.05). Embryos biopsied on Day 5 were more likely to have higher quantities of mtDNA compared with those biopsied on Day 6 (0.0017 versus 0.0009, P < 0.001). According to IVF outcome and heteroplasmy, a lower ongoing pregnancy rate was reported for embryos that carried more than two variants. However, this did not reach statistical significance when we compared embryos with a number of variants lower or higher than two (39.15 versus 20.0, P = 0.188). Finally, a clear positive association between the mtDNA variants and copy number was reported when we compare embryos with or without heteroplasmy (0.0013 ± 0.0009 versus 0.0025 ± 0.0014, P < 0.001) and among different numbers of variants (0:0.0013 ± 0.0009, 1–2:0.0023 ± 0.0012, >2:0.0043 ± 0.0014, P < 0.05). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION A limitation may be the size of the sample and the high-throughput sequencing technology that might not have detected heteroplasmy levels below 2% which requires high sequence depth A clinical randomized trial comparing the clinical outcome after the transfer of embryos selected according to mtDNA levels or only by morphological evaluation will be necessary. More research into the impact of mtDNA heteroplasmy and copy number on IVF outcome is needed. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results demonstrate that embryos with elevated mtDNA copy number have a lower chance of producing an ongoing pregnancy. MtDNA copy number is higher in older women and is dependent upon the number of cell divisions that preceded biopsy. Moreover, our data suggest that mitochondrial activity could be a balance between functional capacity and relative mtDNA copy number. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) There are no conflicts of interest or sources of funding to declare. Trial registration number Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Lledo
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - J A Ortiz
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - R Morales
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - J Ten
- Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynecology, Alicante, Spain
| | - A Bernabeu
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain
| | - J Llácer
- Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynecology, Alicante, Spain
| | - R Bernabeu
- Instituto Bernabeu Biotech, 03016 Alicante, Spain.,Instituto Bernabeu of Fertility and Gynecology, Alicante, Spain
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Sanchez T, Wang T, Pedro MV, Zhang M, Esencan E, Sakkas D, Needleman D, Seli E. Metabolic imaging with the use of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) accurately detects mitochondrial dysfunction in mouse oocytes. Fertil Steril 2018; 110:1387-1397. [PMID: 30446247 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2018.07.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2018] [Revised: 07/24/2018] [Accepted: 07/25/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To determine whether metabolic imaging with the use of fluorescence lifetime imaging microscopy (FLIM) identifies metabolic differences between normal oocytes and those with metabolic dysfunction. DESIGN Experimental study. SETTING Academic research laboratories. PATIENT(S) None. INTERVENTION(S) Oocytes from mice with global knockout of Clpp (caseinolytic peptidase P; n = 52) were compared with wild-type (WT) oocytes (n = 55) as a model of severe oocyte dysfunction. Oocytes from old mice (1 year old; n = 29) were compared with oocytes from young mice (12 weeks old; n = 35) as a model of mild oocyte dysfunction. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) FLIM was used to measure the naturally occurring nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide dehydrogenase (NADH) and flavin adenine dinucleotide (FAD) autofluorescence in individual oocytes. Eight metabolic parameters were obtained from each measurement (4 per fluorophore): short (τ1) and long (τ2) fluorescence lifetime, fluorescence intensity (I), and fraction of the molecule engaged with enzyme (F). Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and blastocyst development rates were measured to assess illumination safety. RESULT(S) In Clpp-knockout oocytes compared with WT, FAD τ1 and τ2 were longer and I was higher, NADH τ2 was longer, and F was lower. In old oocytes compared with young ones, FAD τ1 was longer and I was lower, NADH τ1 and τ2 were shorter, and I and F were lower. FLIM did not affect ROS levels or blastocyst development rates. CONCLUSION(S) FLIM parameters exhibit strong differentiation between Clpp-knockout versus WT, and old versus young oocytes. FLIM could potentially be used as a noninvasive tool to assess mitochondrial function in oocytes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Sanchez
- Departments of Applied Physics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Tianren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Marta Venturas Pedro
- Departments of Applied Physics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | - Ecem Esencan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
| | | | - Dan Needleman
- Departments of Applied Physics and Molecular and Cellular Biology, Harvard University, Cambridge, Massachusetts
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut.
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29
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Wang T, Babayev E, Jiang Z, Li G, Zhang M, Esencan E, Horvath T, Seli E. Mitochondrial unfolded protein response gene Clpp is required to maintain ovarian follicular reserve during aging, for oocyte competence, and development of pre-implantation embryos. Aging Cell 2018; 17:e12784. [PMID: 29851234 PMCID: PMC6052477 DOI: 10.1111/acel.12784] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 04/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Caseinolytic peptidase P mediates degradation of unfolded mitochondrial proteins and activates mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mtUPR) to maintain protein homeostasis. Clpp−/− female mice generate a lower number of mature oocytes and two‐cell embryos, and no blastocysts. Clpp−/− oocytes have smaller mitochondria, with lower aspect ratio (length/width), and decreased expression of genes that promote fusion. A 4‐fold increase in atretic follicles at 3 months, and reduced number of primordial follicles at 6–12 months are observed in Clpp−/− ovaries. This is associated with upregulation of p‐S6, p‐S6K, p‐4EBP1 and p‐AKT473, p‐mTOR2481 consistent with mTORC1 and mTORC2 activation, respectively, and Clpp−/− oocyte competence is partially rescued by mTOR inhibitor rapamycin. Our findings demonstrate that CLPP is required for oocyte and embryo development and oocyte mitochondrial function and dynamics. Absence of CLPP results in mTOR pathway activation, and accelerated depletion of ovarian follicular reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tianren Wang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Center; Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University; Shenyang China
| | - Elnur Babayev
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Zongliang Jiang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Guangxin Li
- Department of Surgery; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Man Zhang
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Ecem Esencan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Tamas Horvath
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
- Department of Comparative Medicine; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
| | - Emre Seli
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences; Yale School of Medicine; New Haven Connecticut
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30
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Metabolism of the oocyte and the preimplantation embryo: implications for assisted reproduction. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2018; 30:163-170. [DOI: 10.1097/gco.0000000000000455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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31
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Srirattana K, St John JC. Additional mitochondrial DNA influences the interactions between the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes in a bovine embryo model of nuclear transfer. Sci Rep 2018; 8:7246. [PMID: 29740154 PMCID: PMC5940817 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-25516-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/24/2018] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
We generated cattle embryos using mitochondrial supplementation and somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT), named miNT, to determine how additional mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) modulates the nuclear genome. To eliminate any confounding effects from somatic cell mtDNA in intraspecies SCNT, donor cell mtDNA was depleted prior to embryo production. Additional oocyte mtDNA did not affect embryo development rates but increased mtDNA copy number in blastocyst stage embryos. Moreover, miNT-derived blastocysts had different gene expression profiles when compared with SCNT-derived blastocysts. Additional mtDNA increased expression levels of genes involved in oxidative phosphorylation, cell cycle and DNA repair. Supplementing the embryo culture media with a histone deacetylase inhibitor, Trichostatin A (TSA), had no beneficial effects on the development of miNT-derived embryos, unlike SCNT-derived embryos. When compared with SCNT-derived blastocysts cultured in the presence of TSA, additional mtDNA alone had beneficial effects as the activity of glycolysis may increase and embryonic cell death may decrease. However, these beneficial effects were not found with additional mtDNA and TSA together, suggesting that additional mtDNA alone enhances reprogramming. In conclusion, additional mtDNA increased mtDNA copy number and expression levels of genes involved in energy production and embryo development in blastocyst stage embryos emphasising the importance of nuclear-mitochondrial interactions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kanokwan Srirattana
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Justin C St John
- Centre for Genetic Diseases, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
- Department of Molecular and Translational Sciences, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3168, Australia.
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32
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Shang W, Zhang Y, Shu M, Wang W, Ren L, Chen F, Shao L, Lu S, Bo S, Ma S, Gao Y. Comprehensive chromosomal and mitochondrial copy number profiling in human IVF embryos. Reprod Biomed Online 2017; 36:67-74. [PMID: 29203383 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2017.10.110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2017] [Revised: 10/11/2017] [Accepted: 10/17/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Single cell whole genome sequencing helps to decipher the genome heterogeneity within a cell population and facilitates the analysis of trace amounts of genetic material, such as is found in human embryos. The mitochondrial genome, although an important part of the genetic composition of eukaryotic cells, is often neglected in single cell genome analysis. A recently developed single cell whole genome amplification method was used, known as multiple annealing and looping based amplification cycles (MALBAC-NGS), for simultaneous analysis of chromosomal and mitochondrial genomes at the single cell level. The platform was validated by a series of technical and biological replicates and used for chromosomal and mitochondrial copy number analysis in 399 in-vitro fertilized embryos from 81 couples. A positive correlation of maternal age with increased mitochondria quantity (β = 0.176, P = 0.001) was observed after adjusting for the impact of cell type. Lower numbers of mitochondria were detected in successfully implanted embryos, although the difference was not significant. It is proposed that MALBAC-NGS could potentially be used for an advanced pre-implantation genetic screening procedure with both chromosomal constitution and mitochondrial copy number being evaluated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Shang
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China.
| | - Yunshan Zhang
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Mingming Shu
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Weizhou Wang
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Likun Ren
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Fu Chen
- Assisted Reproductive Centre of the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, PLA Naval General Hospital, Haidian District, Beijing 100048, China
| | - Lin Shao
- Yikon Genomics, Fengxian District, Shanghai 201400, China
| | - Sijia Lu
- Yikon Genomics, Fengxian District, Shanghai 201400, China.
| | - Shiping Bo
- Yikon Genomics, Fengxian District, Shanghai 201400, China
| | - Shujie Ma
- Yikon Genomics, Fengxian District, Shanghai 201400, China
| | - Yumei Gao
- Yikon Genomics, Fengxian District, Shanghai 201400, China
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33
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Viotti M, Victor AR, Zouves CG, Barnes FL. Is mitochondrial DNA quantitation in blastocyst trophectoderm cells predictive of developmental competence and outcome in clinical IVF? J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:1581-1585. [PMID: 29080967 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-1072-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2017] [Accepted: 10/16/2017] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Behind every successful IVF embryo transfer, there is a great game of chance. Methods seeking to tilt the balance and increase the likelihood of implantation have been proposed and implemented with varying results, including embryo morphology, FISH-PGS, comprehensive chromosomal screening (CCS), morphokinetics, endometrial receptivity testing. It has been suggested that mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) copy number could serve as a biomarker for embryo viability, but this concept was recently challenged. The world of IVF is left with unanswered questions: Why are there discrepancies in the reports? Should mtDNA copy number be considered to rank embryos for transfer? And in a broader sense, how well must a technique be validated before its implementation in the IVF clinic? Here, we explore these questions attempting to piece together the published data and suggest future directions to help unravel the subject matter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Viotti
- Zouves Fertility Center (ZFC), 1241 E Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA.
| | - Andrea R Victor
- Zouves Fertility Center (ZFC), 1241 E Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Christo G Zouves
- Zouves Fertility Center (ZFC), 1241 E Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
| | - Frank L Barnes
- Zouves Fertility Center (ZFC), 1241 E Hillsdale Blvd, Foster City, CA, 94404, USA
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34
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Treff NR, Zhan Y, Tao X, Olcha M, Han M, Rajchel J, Morrison L, Morin SJ, Scott RT. Levels of trophectoderm mitochondrial DNA do not predict the reproductive potential of sibling embryos. Hum Reprod 2017; 32:954-962. [PMID: 28333210 PMCID: PMC5400072 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex034] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2016] [Accepted: 02/06/2017] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the predictive value of trophectoderm mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) quantity for blastocyst reproductive potential? SUMMARY ANSWER This study demonstrates that, within a given cohort, mtDNA quantitation does not distinguish between embryos that implant and embryos that do not implant after double embryo transfer (DET). WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN An association between implantation failure and increased quantities of mtDNA has been observed in two studies but not in a third. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE AND DURATION A total of 187 patients (nine who received donor oocytes) with DET of one male and one female euploid blastocyst were included in this retrospective study, with 69 singleton deliveries providing the primary dataset to evaluate the predictive value of mtDNA for reproductive potential between January 2010 and July 2016. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING AND METHOD MtDNA was quantified in cell lines to validate the quantitative PCR assay on limited quantities of starting material and then applied to 374 blastocyst biopsies. Pregnancies resulting in a singleton outcome were analyzed and newborn gender was utilized as a means to identify the implanted embryo. MtDNA quantity was then compared between implanted and non-implanted embryos in order to define the predictive value of mtDNA content for reproductive potential in this subset of patients. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE An initial comparison of mtDNA levels between all successful and unsuccessful embryos revealed no significant differences. In order to control for patient-specific variables, gender was subsequently used to identify the implanted embryo in DETs resulting in a singleton (n = 69). No systematic difference in relative mtDNA quantity was detected between implanted and non-implanted embryos. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was conducted at a single center and did not evaluate the entire cohort of embryos from each patient to evaluate cohort specific variation in mtDNA quantity. Although the largest of its kind so far, the sample size of DETs leading to a singleton was relatively small. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS These data highlight the importance of control over patient-specific variables when evaluating candidate biomarkers of reproductive potential. All current available data suggest that mtDNA quantification needs further study before its clinical use to augment embryo selection. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS The authors have no potential conflict of interest to declare. No external funding was obtained for this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER Not applicable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nathan R Treff
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA.,Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, NJ , USA
| | - Yiping Zhan
- The Foundation for Embryonic Competence,NJ , USA
| | - Xin Tao
- The Foundation for Embryonic Competence,NJ , USA
| | - Meir Olcha
- Rutgers-Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, NJ , USA
| | - Michael Han
- The Foundation for Embryonic Competence,NJ , USA
| | | | | | - Scott J Morin
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University,Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Richard T Scott
- Reproductive Medicine Associates of New Jersey, Basking Ridge, NJ, USA.,Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University,Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Victor AR, Brake AJ, Tyndall JC, Griffin DK, Zouves CG, Barnes FL, Viotti M. Accurate quantitation of mitochondrial DNA reveals uniform levels in human blastocysts irrespective of ploidy, age, or implantation potential. Fertil Steril 2016; 107:34-42.e3. [PMID: 27793366 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 100] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2016] [Revised: 09/07/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To accurately determine mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) levels in human blastocysts. DESIGN Retrospective analysis. SETTING IVF clinic. PATIENT(S) A total of 1,396 embryos derived from 259 patients. INTERVENTION(S) Blastocyst-derived trophectoderm biopsies were tested by next-generation sequencing (NGS) and quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) For each sample the mtDNA value was divided by the nuclear DNA value, and the result was further subjected to mathematical analysis tailored to the genetic makeup of the source embryo. RESULT(S) On average the mathematical correction factor changed the conventionally determined mtDNA score of a given blastocyst via NGS by 1.43% ± 1.59% (n = 1,396), with maximal adjustments of 17.42%, and via qPCR by 1.33% ± 8.08% (n = 150), with maximal adjustments of 50.00%. Levels of mtDNA in euploid and aneuploid embryos showed a statistically insignificant difference by NGS (euploids n = 775, aneuploids n = 621) and by qPCR (euploids n = 100, aneuploids n = 50). Blastocysts derived from younger or older patients had comparable mtDNA levels by NGS ("young" age group n = 874, "advanced" age group n = 514) and by qPCR ("young" age group n = 92, "advanced" age group n = 58). Viable blastocysts did not contain significantly different mtDNA levels compared with unviable blastocysts when analyzed by NGS (implanted n = 101, nonimplanted n = 140) and by qPCR (implanted n = 49, nonimplanted n = 51). CONCLUSION(S) We recommend implementation of the correction factor calculation to laboratories evaluating mtDNA levels in embryos by NGS or qPCR. When applied to our in-house data, the calculation reveals that overall levels of mtDNA are largely equal between blastocysts stratified by ploidy, age, or implantation potential.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alan J Brake
- Zouves Fertility Center, Foster City, California
| | | | - Darren K Griffin
- School of Biosciences, University of Kent, Canterbury, United Kingdom
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