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Zhou W, Feng W, Chang J, Hu J, Li F, Hu K, Jiao J, Xue X, Lan T, Wan W, Chen ZJ, Cui L. Metabolic profiles of children aged 2-5 years born after frozen and fresh embryo transfer: A Chinese cohort study. PLoS Med 2024; 21:e1004388. [PMID: 38843150 PMCID: PMC11156393 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1004388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Frozen embryo transfer (FET) has become a widely employed assisted reproductive technology technique. There have historically been concerns regarding the long-term metabolic safety of FET technology in offspring due to pregnancy-induced hypertension and large for gestational age, both of which are well-recognized factors for metabolic dysfunction of children. Therefore, we aimed to compare the metabolic profiles of children born after frozen versus fresh embryo transfer at 2 to 5 years of age. METHODS AND FINDINGS This was a prospective cohort study. Using data from the "Assisted Reproductive Technology borned KIDs (ARTKID)," a birth cohort of offspring born from assisted reproductive technology at the Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, China. We included 4,246 singletons born after FET (n = 2,181) and fresh embryo transfer (n = 2,065) enrolled between 2008 and 2019 and assessed the glucose and lipid variables until the age of 2 to 5 years. During a mean follow-up of 3.6 years, no significant differences were observed in fasting blood glucose, fasting insulin, Homeostatic Model Assessment of Insulin Resistance Index, total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol levels between offspring conceived by fresh and frozen embryo transfer in the crude model and adjusted model (adjusted for parental age, parental body mass index, parental education level, paternal smoking, parity, offspring age and sex). These results remained consistent across subgroup analyses considering offspring age, the stage of embryo transfer, and the mode of fertilization. Results from sensitivity analysis on children matched for age within the cohort remains the same. The main limitation of our study is the young age of the offspring. CONCLUSIONS In this study, the impact of FET on glucose and lipid profiles during early childhood was comparable to fresh embryo transfer. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the metabolic health of offspring born after FET.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wei Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wanbing Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jinli Chang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jingmei Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Fuxia Li
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Kuona Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jiejing Jiao
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Xinyi Xue
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Ting Lan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Wenjing Wan
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory for Assisted Reproduction and Reproductive Genetics, Shanghai, China
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Ren Ji Hospital, Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, the Second Hospital, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Key laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No.2021RU001), Jinan, Shandong, China
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胡 沛, 潘 洁, 刘 欣, 黄 荷. [Reproductive Health-Oriented Development in Assisted Reproductive Technologies]. SICHUAN DA XUE XUE BAO. YI XUE BAN = JOURNAL OF SICHUAN UNIVERSITY. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDITION 2024; 55:501-506. [PMID: 38948299 PMCID: PMC11211779 DOI: 10.12182/20240560401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/02/2024]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) are core components of the field of reproductive medicine, encompassing multiple pivotal stages of early development from gamete maturation and fertilization to embryo development. Against the backdrop of a deteriorating trend of global decline in fertility rates, patients with infertility problems increasingly turn to ARTs to realize their dreams of parenthood. However, concomitant with this trend is a growing apprehension regarding the potential adverse effects of ARTs. Herein, we endeavor to discuss several common ARTs procedures utilized in clinical settings and the relevant cutting-edge advancements. The ARTs discussed in the article include in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), biphasic in vitro maturation (biphasic IVM), frozen embryo transfer (FET), preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), non-invasive PGT (niPGT), etc. In addition, we reevaluated their roles within the broader context of assisted reproduction aimed at promoting reproductive health. Additionally, we will delve into the impact of ARTs on the reproductive health of the offspring. By prioritizing the reproductive well-being of both patients and their offspring, the ongoing development and improvement of ARTs to enhance their efficacy and safety will contribute significantly to the advancement of human reproductive health.
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Affiliation(s)
- 沛然 胡
- 复旦大学附属妇产科医院 生殖与发育研究院 (上海 200030)Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - 洁雪 潘
- 复旦大学附属妇产科医院 生殖与发育研究院 (上海 200030)Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - 欣梅 刘
- 复旦大学附属妇产科医院 生殖与发育研究院 (上海 200030)Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - 荷凤 黄
- 复旦大学附属妇产科医院 生殖与发育研究院 (上海 200030)Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai 200030, China
- 上海市生殖与发育重点实验室 (上海 200030)Shanghai Key Laboratory of Reproduction and Development, Shanghai 200030, China
- 中国医学科学院 胚胎源性疾病研究创新单元2019RU056 (上海 200030)Research Units of Diseases of Embryonic Origin (No. 2019RU056), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai 200030, China
- 浙江大学医学院附属妇产科医院 生殖遗传教育部重点实验室 (杭州 310030)Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics of the Ministry of Education, Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310030, China
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Ban M, Feng W, Hou M, Zhang Z, Cui L. IVF exposure induced intergenerational effects on metabolic phenotype in mice. Reprod Biomed Online 2024; 49:103992. [PMID: 38889592 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2024.103992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2024] [Revised: 03/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION What is the potential transmission of metabolic phenotype from IVF offspring to the subsequent generation? DESIGN An IVF mouse model was established. The F1 generation mice were produced though IVF or natural mating and the F2 generation was obtained through the mating of F1 generation males with normal females. Their metabolic phenotype, including systemic and hepatic glucolipid metabolism, was examined. RESULTS It was found that IVF F1 males exhibited metabolic changes. Compared with the control group, the IVF F1 generation showed increased body weight, elevated fasting glucose and insulin, and increased serum triglyceride concentrations. IVF F1 mice also showed an increased expression of hepatic lipogenesis and autophagy genes. Moreover, IVF F1 males transmitted some metabolic changes to their own male progeny (IVF F2) in the absence of a dietary challenge. IVF F2 mice had increased peri-epididymal and subcutaneous fat and decreased insulin sensitivity. Under the 'second hit' of a high-fat diet, IVF F2 mice further showed increased hepatic lipid deposition with unaltered autophagy levels. CONCLUSION This research demonstrates the impact of IVF on hepatic glucose-lipid metabolism in two successive generations of offspring, highlighting the need for additional investigation. Enhanced understanding of the mechanisms underlying the transmission of multigenerational effects induced by IVF could potentially lead to the advancement of therapeutic interventions for individuals experiencing infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miaomiao Ban
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Shandong, China
| | - Wanbing Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Shandong, China
| | - Min Hou
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Shandong, China
| | - Zhirong Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Shandong, China
| | - Linlin Cui
- National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Shandong University, Shandong, China.; Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology (Shandong University), Ministry of Education, Shandong, China.; Shandong Technology Innovation Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Provincial Clinical Research Center for Reproductive Health, Shandong, China.; Shandong Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, China.; Research Unit of Gametogenesis and Health of ART-Offspring, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2021RU001), Shandong, China.; State Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine and Offspring Health, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Institute of Women, Children and Reproductive Health, The Second Hospital, Shandong University, Shandong, China..
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Zhang S, Luo Q, Meng R, Yan J, Wu Y, Huang H. Long-term health risk of offspring born from assisted reproductive technologies. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:527-550. [PMID: 38146031 PMCID: PMC10957847 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-023-02988-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 12/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the world's first in vitro fertilization baby was born in 1978, there have been more than 8 million children conceived through assisted reproductive technologies (ART) worldwide, and a significant proportion of them have reached puberty or young adulthood. Many studies have found that ART increases the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, including preterm birth, low birth weight, small size for gestational age, perinatal mortality, and congenital anomalies. However, data regarding the long-term outcomes of ART offspring are limited. According to the developmental origins of health and disease theory, adverse environments during early life stages may induce adaptive changes and subsequently result in an increased risk of diseases in later life. Increasing evidence also suggests that ART offspring are predisposed to an increased risk of non-communicable diseases, such as malignancies, asthma, obesity, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and neurodevelopmental and psychiatric disorders. In this review, we summarize the risks for long-term health in ART offspring, discuss the underlying mechanisms, including underlying parental infertility, epigenetic alterations, non-physiological hormone levels, and placental dysfunction, and propose potential strategies to optimize the management of ART and health care of parents and children to eliminate the associated risks. Further ongoing follow-up and research are warranted to determine the effects of ART on the long-term health of ART offspring in later life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siwei Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Qinyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Renyu Meng
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Jing Yan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China
| | - Yanting Wu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Research Unit of Embryo Original Diseases (No. 2019RU056), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, No. 419, Fangxie Rd, Shanghai, 200011, China.
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics, Ministry of Education, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.
- Research Unit of Embryo Original Diseases (No. 2019RU056), Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China.
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Zhang G, Mao Y, Zhang Y, Huang H, Pan J. Assisted reproductive technology and imprinting errors: analyzing underlying mechanisms from epigenetic regulation. HUM FERTIL 2023; 26:864-878. [PMID: 37929309 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2023.2261628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 11/07/2023]
Abstract
With the increasing maturity and widespread application of assisted reproductive technology (ART), more attention has been paid to the health outcomes of offspring following ART. It is well established that children born from ART treatment are at an increased risk of imprinting errors and imprinting disorders. The disturbances of genetic imprinting are attributed to the overlap of ART procedures and important epigenetic reprogramming events during the development of gametes and early embryos, but the detailed mechanisms are hitherto obscure. In this review, we summarized the DNA methylation-dependent and independent mechanisms that control the dynamic epigenetic regulation of imprinted genes throughout the life cycle of a mammal, including erasure, establishment, and maintenance. In addition, we systematically described the dysregulation of imprinted genes in embryos conceived through ART and discussed the corresponding underlying mechanisms according to findings in animal models. This work is conducive to evaluating and improving the safety of ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gaochen Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
| | - Yiting Mao
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jiexue Pan
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
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Lai H, Feng N, Zhai Q. Discovery of the major 15-30 nt mammalian small RNAs, their biogenesis and function. Nat Commun 2023; 14:5796. [PMID: 37723159 PMCID: PMC10507107 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-023-41554-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 09/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Small RNAs (sRNAs) within 15-30 nt such as miRNA, tsRNA, srRNA with 3'-OH have been identified. However, whether these sRNAs are the major 15-30 nt sRNAs is still unknown. Here we show about 90% mammalian sRNAs within 15-30 nt end with 2',3'-cyclic phosphate (3'-cP). TANT-seq was developed to simultaneously profile sRNAs with 3'-cP (sRNA-cPs) and sRNA-OHs, and huge amount of sRNA-cPs were detected. Surprisingly, sRNA-cPs and sRNA-OHs usually have distinct sequences. The data from TANT-seq were validated by a novel method termed TE-qPCR, and Northern blot. Furthermore, we found that Angiogenin and RNase 4 contribute to the biogenesis of sRNA-cPs. Moreover, much more sRNA-cPs than sRNA-OHs bind to Ago2, and can regulate gene expression. Particularly, snR-2-cP regulates Bcl2 by targeting to its 3'UTR dependent on Ago2, and subsequently regulates apoptosis. In addition, sRNA-cPs can guide the cleavage of target RNAs in Ago2 complex as miRNAs without the requirement of 3'-cP. Our discovery greatly expands the repertoire of mammalian sRNAs, and provides strategies and powerful tools towards further investigation of sRNA-cPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hejin Lai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Ning Feng
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Qiwei Zhai
- CAS Key Laboratory of Nutrition, Metabolism and Food Safety, Shanghai Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shanghai, China.
- School of Life Science and Technology, ShanghaiTech University, Shanghai, China.
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7
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Velazquez MA, Idriss A, Chavatte-Palmer P, Fleming TP. The mammalian preimplantation embryo: Its role in the environmental programming of postnatal health and performance. Anim Reprod Sci 2023; 256:107321. [PMID: 37647800 DOI: 10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2023] [Revised: 08/02/2023] [Accepted: 08/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/01/2023]
Abstract
During formation of the preimplantation embryo several cellular and molecular milestones take place, making the few cells forming the early embryo vulnerable to environmental stressors than can impair epigenetic reprogramming and controls of gene expression. Although these molecular alterations can result in embryonic death, a significant developmental plasticity is present in the preimplantation embryo that promotes full-term pregnancy. Prenatal epigenetic modifications are inherited during mitosis and can perpetuate specific phenotypes during early postnatal development and adulthood. As such, the preimplantation phase is a developmental window where developmental programming can take place in response to the embryonic microenvironment present in vivo or in vitro. In this review, the relevance of the preimplantation embryo as a developmental stage where offspring health and performance can be programmed is discussed, with emphasis on malnutrition and assisted reproductive technologies; two major environmental insults with important implications for livestock production and human reproductive medicine.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miguel A Velazquez
- School of Natural and Environmental Sciences, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK.
| | - Abdullah Idriss
- Translational and Clinical Research Institute, Newcastle University, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK; Pathology and laboratory medicine, King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, P.O. Box 40047, MBC J-10, Jeddah 21499, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
| | - Pascale Chavatte-Palmer
- Université Paris-Saclay, UVSQ, INRAE, BREED, 78350 Jouy-en-Josas, France; Ecole Nationale Vétérinaire d'Alfort, BREED, 94700 Maisons-Alfort, France
| | - Tom P Fleming
- Biological Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
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Anisimova MV, Gon Y, Kontsevaya GV, Romashchenko AV, Khotskin NV, Stanova AK, Gerlinskaya LA, Moshkin MP. Body composition as an indicator of metabolic changes in mice obtained by in vitro fertilization. Vavilovskii Zhurnal Genet Selektsii 2023; 27:357-365. [PMID: 37465196 PMCID: PMC10350860 DOI: 10.18699/vjgb-23-43] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
To identify body systems subject to epigenetic transformation during in vitro fertilization (IVF), comparative morphological and functional studies were performed on sexually mature offspring of outbred CD1 mice, specific-pathogen-free (SPF), obtained by IVF (experiment) and natural conception (control). The studies included assessment of age-related changes in body weight and composition, energy intake and expenditure, and glucose homeostasis. To level the effects caused by the different number of newborns in the control and in the experiment, the size of the fed litters was halved in the control females. Males obtained using the IVF procedure were superior in body weight compared to control males in all age groups. As was shown by analysis of variance with experiment/control factors, gender, age (7, 10 and 20 weeks), the IVF procedure had a statistically significant and unidirectional effect on body composition. At the same time, IVF offspring outperformed control individuals in relative fat content, but were behind in terms of lean mass. The effect of the interaction of factors was not statistically significant. IVF offspring of both sexes had higher fat to lean mass ratios (FLR). Since adipose tissue contributes significantly less to total energy intake compared to muscle, the main component of lean mass, it is not surprising that at the same level of IVF locomotor activity offspring consumed less food than controls. When converted to one gram of body weight, this difference reached 19 %. One of the consequences of reduced utilization of IVF energy substrates by offspring is a decrease in their tolerance to glucose loading. The integral criterion for the effectiveness of restoring the initial glucose level is the area under the curve (AUC), the value of which was 2.5 (males) and 3.2 (females) times higher in IVF offspring compared to the corresponding control. Thus, the totality of our original and literature data shows an increase in the risk of metabolic disorders in IVF offspring, which is confirmed by epidemiological studies of a relatively young cohort of people born using assisted reproductive technologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- M V Anisimova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - Yanli Gon
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - G V Kontsevaya
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A V Romashchenko
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - N V Khotskin
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - A K Stanova
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - L A Gerlinskaya
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia
| | - M P Moshkin
- Institute of Cytology and Genetics of the Siberian Branch of the Russian Academy of Sciences, Novosibirsk, Russia Tomsk State University, Department of Vertebrate Zoology and Ecology, Tomsk, Russia
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Zhu H, Ding G, Liu X, Huang H. Developmental origins of diabetes mellitus: Environmental epigenomics and emerging patterns. J Diabetes 2023. [PMID: 37190864 DOI: 10.1111/1753-0407.13403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Revised: 01/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Mounting epidemiological evidence indicates that environmental exposures in early life have roles in diabetes susceptibility in later life. Additionally, environmentally induced diabetic susceptibility could be transmitted to subsequent generations. Epigenetic modifications provide a potential association with the environmental factors and altered gene expression that might cause disease phenotypes. Here, we bring the increasing evidence that environmental exposures early in development are linked to diabetes through epigenetic modifications. This review first summarizes the epigenetic targets, including metastable epialleles and imprinting genes, by which the environmental factors can modify the epigenome. Then we review the epigenetics changes in response to environmental challenge during critical developmental windows, gametogenesis, embryogenesis, and fetal and postnatal period, with the specific example of diabetic susceptibility. Although the mechanisms are still largely unknown, especially in humans, the new research methods are now gradually available, and the animal models can provide more in-depth study of mechanisms. These have implications for investigating the link of the phenomena to human diabetes, providing a new perspective on environmentally triggered diabetes risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Zhu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Guolian Ding
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Xinmei Liu
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
| | - Hefeng Huang
- Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Institute of Reproduction and Development, Fudan University, Shanghai, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, Shanghai, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai, China
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10
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Bo L, Wei L, Shi L, Luo C, Gao S, Zhou A, Mao C. Altered local RAS in the liver increased the risk of NAFLD in male mouse offspring produced by in vitro fertilization. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2023; 23:345. [PMID: 37173649 PMCID: PMC10176674 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-05681-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/05/2023] [Indexed: 05/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is associated with an increased risk of adverse metabolic health in offspring, and these findings have been demonstrated in animal models without parental infertility issues. However, it is unclear what changes lead to abnormal metabolism. The activation of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) has been related to various aspects of metabolic syndrome. Thus, we focused on the local RAS of the liver, which is the central organ for glucose and lipid metabolism in offspring conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF), and studied the role of local liver RAS in metabolic diseases. METHODS Male C57BL/6 mouse offspring obtained by natural pregnancy and IVF were fed a standard chow diet or a high-fat diet (HFD) from 4 weeks of age through 16 weeks of age. We assessed glucose and lipid metabolism, hepatic histopathology, and the gene and protein expression of key RAS components. In addition, the blocker losartan was used from 4 weeks of age through 16 weeks of age to investigate the regulatory mechanisms of abnormal local RAS on metabolic activity in the IVF offspring liver. RESULTS The growth trajectories of IVF offspring body and liver weights were different from those of naturally pregnant offspring. Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and insulin resistance (IR) occurred in IVF-conceived male offspring. After continuous HFD feeding, male offspring in the IVF group underwent earlier and more severe IR. Furthermore, there was a trend of lipid accumulation in the livers of chow-fed IVF offspring. Hepatic steatosis was also more serious in the IVF offspring after HFD treatment. Type 1 receptor (AT1R), which is the primary receptor mediating the action of angiotensin (Ang) II, has been confirmed to be upregulated in IVF offspring livers. Losartan reduced or even eliminated most of the significant differences between the IVF and NC groups after HFD consumption. CONCLUSIONS The upregulation of AT1R expression in the liver increased the activity of the local RAS, resulting in abnormal glucose and lipid metabolism and lipid accumulation in the liver, significantly increasing the risk of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) in IVF offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Bo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Lun Wei
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Linling Shi
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Chao Luo
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Shasha Gao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Anwen Zhou
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China
| | - Caiping Mao
- Reproductive Medicine Center, First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, No.899 Pinghai Road, Suzhou, Jiangsu, 215000, China.
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11
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Kabeer SW, Pant R, Sharma S, Tikoo K. Laccaic acid restores epigenetic alterations responsible for high fat diet induced insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice. Chem Biol Interact 2023; 374:110401. [PMID: 36828244 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbi.2023.110401] [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: 11/10/2022] [Revised: 01/10/2023] [Accepted: 02/08/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Laccaic acid, the major constituent of the food colouring agent-lac dye, possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Here we have evaluated the effects of laccaic acid on the high-fat diet induced insulin resistance in C57BL/6J mice. Insulin resistance was developed in mice by feeding high-fat diet for 12 weeks. 6 week treatment with laccaic acid showed significant improvement in the morphometric, biochemical parameters and liver function. Western blotting experiments showed, laccaic acid increased phosphorylation of IRS1/2/AKT/GSK3β which is suppressed under insulin-resistant conditions in liver. Furthermore, it also attenuated the inflammatory ERK/NFκB signalling, thereby reducing the expression of inflammatory cytokines- TNFα, IL-1β and IL-6. Concomitantly, laccaic acid increased AMPK/AKT-mediated phosphorylation of FOXO1, preventing its nuclear translocation and transcriptional activation of gluconeogenic genes (G6PC and PCK1). Interestingly, treatment with laccaic acid also prevented high-fat diet induced alterations of histone methylation (H3K27me3 and H3K36me2) at global level. Our chromatin-immunoprecipitation data shows high-fat diet induced loss of inactivation mark H3K27me3 at FOXO1 promoter was regained upon laccaic acid treatment. Additionally, the expression of the H3K27 methylating enzyme EZH2 was also upregulated by laccaic acid. Together it all results in the downregulation of FOXO1 gene expression. To the best of our knowledge, we provide first evidence that laccaic acid either directly or indirectly modulates the epigenetic landscape of genes responsible for high-fat diet induced insulin resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shaheen Wasil Kabeer
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Rajat Pant
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Shivam Sharma
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India
| | - Kulbhushan Tikoo
- Laboratory of Epigenetics and Diseases, Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Sector-67, S.A.S. Nagar, Punjab, 160062, India.
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12
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Dong ZH, Wu T, Zhang C, Su KZ, Wu YT, Huang HF. Effect of Frozen-Thawed Embryo Transfer on the Metabolism of Children in Early Childhood. J Clin Med 2023; 12:jcm12062322. [PMID: 36983323 PMCID: PMC10057347 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12062322] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Revised: 02/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/02/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: As a routine procedure in assisted reproductive technology (ART), it is crucial to assess the safety of frozen and thawed embryo transfer (FET). We aimed to investigate the metabolic profile of children conceived through FET in their early childhood. Method: A total of 147 children between the age of 1.5 and 4 years old, conceived through FET or naturally conceived (NC), were recruited. A total of 89 children, 65 in the FET group and 24 in the NC group (matched with the FET group based on children’s BMI) were included in the final statistical analysis of biochemical markers and metabolomics. Results: Children conceived through FET had a lower level of fasting insulin level and HORM-IR and a higher level of fasting glucose and APOE as compared to children naturally conceived. Metabolomics showed that there were 16 small differential metabolites, mainly including amino acids, carnitines, organic acids, butyric, and secondary bile acid between two groups, which enriched in Nitrogen metabolism, Butanoate metabolism, Phenylalanine metabolism, and D-Arginine and D-ornithine metabolism pathways. Conclusion: Although the FET group had a significantly higher level of APOE and fasting glucose, it cannot yet be considered that children in the FET group had an obvious disorder of glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the potentially more active intestinal flora and lower carnitine levels of children in the FET group suggested by metabolomics are worth further exploration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ze-Han Dong
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Ting Wu
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Chen Zhang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
- Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
| | - Kai-Zhen Su
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
| | - Yan-Ting Wu
- Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai 200030, China
- Correspondence: (Y.-T.W.); (H.-F.H.); Tel.: +86-21-33189900 (Y.-T.W.); +86-21-64070434 (H.-F.H.)
| | - He-Feng Huang
- The International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai 200030, China
- Shanghai Key Laboratory of Embryo Original Diseases, Shanghai 200030, China
- Institute of Reproduction and Development, Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital, Fudan University, Shanghai 200011, China
- Research Units of Embryo Original Diseases, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences (No. 2019RU056), Shanghai 200030, China
- Key Laboratory of Reproductive Genetics (Ministry of Education), Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou 310058, China
- Correspondence: (Y.-T.W.); (H.-F.H.); Tel.: +86-21-33189900 (Y.-T.W.); +86-21-64070434 (H.-F.H.)
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13
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Beilby KH, Kneebone E, Roseboom TJ, van Marrewijk IM, Thompson JG, Norman RJ, Robker RL, Mol BWJ, Wang R. Offspring physiology following the use of IVM, IVF and ICSI: a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies. Hum Reprod Update 2023; 29:272-290. [PMID: 36611003 PMCID: PMC10152177 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Revised: 11/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Since the birth of the first baby using IVF technology in 1978, over 10 million children have been conceived via ART. Although most aspects of ARTs were developed in animal models, the introduction of these technologies into clinical practice was performed without comprehensive assessment of their long-term safety. The monitoring of these technologies over time has revealed differences in the physiology of babies produced using ARTs, yet due to the pathology of those presenting for treatment, it is challenging to separate the cause of infertility from the effect of treatments offered. The use of systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate the impacts of the predominant ART interventions used clinically in human populations on animals produced in healthy fertile populations offers an alternative approach to understanding the long-term safety of reproductive technologies. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to examine the evidence available from animal studies on physiological outcomes in the offspring conceived after IVF, IVM or ICSI, compared to in vivo fertilization, and to provide an overview on the landscape of research in this area. SEARCH METHODS PubMed, Embase and Commonwealth Agricultural Bureaux (CAB) Abstracts were searched for relevant studies published until 27 August 2021. Search terms relating to assisted reproductive technology, postnatal outcomes and mammalian animal models were used. Studies that compared postnatal outcomes between in vitro-conceived (IVF, ICSI or IVM) and in vivo-conceived mammalian animal models were included. In vivo conception included mating, artificial insemination, or either of these followed by embryo transfer to a recipient animal with or without in vitro culture. Outcomes included birth weight, gestation length, cardiovascular, metabolic and behavioural characteristics and lifespan. OUTCOMES A total of 61 studies in five different species (bovine, equine, murine, ovine and non-human primate) met the inclusion criteria. The bovine model was the most frequently used in IVM studies (32/40), while the murine model was mostly used in IVF (17/20) and ICSI (6/8) investigations. Despite considerable heterogeneity, these studies suggest that the use of IVF or maturation results in offspring with higher birthweights and a longer length of gestation, with most of this evidence coming from studies in cattle. These techniques may also impair glucose and lipid metabolism in male mice. The findings on cardiovascular outcomes and behaviour outcomes were inconsistent across studies. WIDER IMPLICATIONS Conception via in vitro or in vivo means appears to have an influence on measurable outcomes of offspring physiology, manifesting differently across the species studied. Importantly, it can be noted that these measurable differences are noticeable in healthy, fertile animal populations. Thus, common ART interventions may have long-term consequences for those conceived through these techniques, regardless of the pathology underpinning diagnosed infertility. However, due to heterogeneous methods, results and measured outcomes, highlighted in this review, it is difficult to draw firm conclusions. Optimizing animal and human studies that investigate the safety of new reproductive technologies will provide insight into safeguarding the introduction of novel interventions into the clinical setting. Cautiously prescribing the use of ARTs clinically may also be considered to reduce the chance of promoting adverse outcomes in children conceived before long-term safety is confidently documented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kiri H Beilby
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Ezra Kneebone
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Tessa J Roseboom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Academic Medical Centre, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Indah M van Marrewijk
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Erasmus MC University Medical Centre, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Jeremy G Thompson
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia.,ARC Centre of Excellence for Nanoscale BioPhotonics, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Robert J Norman
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Robker
- The Robinson Research Institute, School of Biomedicine, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Ben Willem J Mol
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia.,Aberdeen Centre for Women's Health Research, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Rui Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
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14
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Current status and reflections on fertility preservation in China. J Assist Reprod Genet 2022; 39:2835-2845. [PMID: 36322229 PMCID: PMC9790826 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-022-02648-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE With the progress of medical technology and renovated conception of fertility, the prospective studies and practice of fertility preservation are drawing more and more attention from medical workers. With the largest population of over 1.4 billion, China makes the experience accumulated in fertility preservation efforts even more relevant. This article summarizes China's experience and shares it with the world to promote the healthy development of fertility preservation. METHODS This study was based on multiple Chinese expert consensuses on fertility preservation issued in 2021 and the current national regulations and principles, compared with the latest advice and guidelines issued by global reproductive authorities such as the ASRM and ESHRE. Summarize the experience and reflection of Chinese scholars in the process of fertility preservation. RESULTS This study reports on the current situation of fertility preservation in China, sharing the Chinese experience gained in the process of development, and offering Chinese reflections on worrying issues. CONCLUSION Fertility preservation is a medical and social issue of reproductive health security, which is conducive to the sound development of the world population and social production.
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15
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Liu J, Zhu Y, Zhu D, Shi Y, Lu L, Li W, Li L, Zhou X, Zhang P, Yang H, Li M, Wang B, Sun M. GDF15 negatively regulates RGS16 to impair hepatic lipid metabolism in male mice offspring conceived by in vitro fertilization. Am J Transl Res 2022; 14:7535-7551. [PMID: 36398249 PMCID: PMC9641458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2022] [Accepted: 09/29/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We generated an in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET) mouse model to investigate the molecular mechanism underlying the abnormal lipid metabolism found in IVF-ET offspring. METHODS The glucose metabolism levels of offspring were assessed by glucose tolerance test (GTT), insulin tolerance test (ITT), and pyruvate tolerance test (PTT). The lipid metabolism levels were assessed by triglycerides (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C). RNA-seq was performed on liver tissues. mRNA and protein expression of relevant genes was verified by the quantitative real-time PCR and protein immunoblotting. HepG2 cells were transfected with either interfering RNA or overexpression plasmids to investigate the gene functions. RESULTS Compared to the control, male IVF-ET offspring showed: 1) higher body, liver, and epididymal white adipose tissue weight; 2) disrupted glucolipid metabolism with abnormal GTT, ITT, and PTT; 3) significantly decreased GDF15 along with increased RGS16. Furthermore, phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT was significantly reduced. In HepG2 cells, knockdown of GDF15 caused an abnormally increased RGS16 and decreased phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and AKT, accompanied by increased lipid deposition. In contrast, overexpression of GDF15 reduced expression of RGS16. Simultaneous knockdown of both GDF15 and RGS16 reversed lipid deposition. CONCLUSIONS Down-regulation of GDF15 results in elevated RGS16, which causes the weakening of the downstream ERK1/2 and AKT phosphorylation, leading to abnormal lipid metabolism in the livers of IVF-ET male offspring. This suggests that the GDF15-RGS16-p-ERK1/2/p-AKT pathway plays a crucial role in liver lipid deposition in IVF-ET male offspring and could be a therapeutic target.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jingliu Liu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yichen Zhu
- Cambridge-Suda Genomic Resource Center, Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Neuropsychiatric Diseases Research, Suzhou Medical College of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Dan Zhu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yajun Shi
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Likui Lu
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Weisheng Li
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Lingjun Li
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xiuwen Zhou
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Pengjie Zhang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Hao Yang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Min Li
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Bin Wang
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Miao Sun
- Institute for Fetology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow UniversitySuzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Daniel Juárez J, Marco-Jiménez F, Vicente JS. Effects of Rederivation by Embryo Vitrification on Performance in a Rabbit Paternal Line. FRONTIERS IN ANIMAL SCIENCE 2022. [DOI: 10.3389/fanim.2022.909446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo cryopreservation is a valuable tool for maintaining genetic variability and preserving breeds and lines, allowing to assess the response to selection and enabling genetic diffusion. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of rederivation by embryo vitrification and transfer procedures on the growth and reproductive traits in a paternal rabbit line selected for average daily gain from weaning (28 days old) to fattening (63 days old). The rederived population was bred over two generations at the same time as a control population of this paternal line and, growth trait parameters (weights at weaning, end of the fattening period, and average daily gain) and reproductive performance (kindling rate, litter size at birth and at weaning) were compared with three filial generations. Moreover, fetal growth and litter size components were assessed for the second generation by ultrasonography and laparoscopy. Differences in postnatal growth traits (end of fattening weight and average daily gain) were observed in the three generations assessed. However, fetal growth, litter size components, and reproductive traits did not show significant differences. In conclusion, cryopreservation and embryo transfer processes cause changes in growth traits of reconstituted populations that influence the following generations, without changes in reproductive traits in a paternal line of rabbits.
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Tang X, Yu Y, Ding Q, Liu H, Niu Y, Li Y, Zhao S, Wei D, Chen ZJ. The sex-specific difference in singleton birth weight after frozen embryo transfer compared with fresh embryo transfer: a secondary analysis of 3 randomized trials. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1004-1012. [PMID: 35216834 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.01.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether the between-group difference in singleton birth weight following frozen vs. fresh embryo transfer varied with infant sex. DESIGN A post hoc exploratory secondary analysis of data from three multicenter randomized trials compared the live birth rates between freeze-only vs. fresh embryo transfer. SETTING Academic fertility centers. PATIENT(S) A total of 1,886 women who achieved singleton live birth after a frozen or fresh embryo transfer during these trials were included. INTERVENTION(S) Women underwent either a frozen or fresh embryo transfer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Mean birth weight, large for gestational age (LGA), and small for gestational age (SGA). RESULT(S) There was an interaction between the types of embryo transfer and infant sex on the birth weight and on the incidences of LGA and SGA. Among male infants, compared with singletons following fresh embryo transfer, singletons following frozen embryo transfer had higher mean birth weights (3,520.6 ± 526.1 vs. 3,345.1 ± 524.9 g), a higher risk of being LGA (25.2% vs. 15.7%), and a lower risk of being SGA (3.3% vs. 6.1%). However, among the female infants, no statistically significant difference was found in the mean birth weight (3,336.5 ± 514.8 vs. 3,299.5 ± 485.0 g) or the risks of being LGA (18.8% vs. 15.7%) or SGA (5.2% vs. 6.0%) between frozen and fresh embryo transfer. CONCLUSION(S) Male singletons born after frozen embryo transfer were more likely to have a higher birth weight than those born after fresh embryo transfer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoqian Tang
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Yunhai Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The Second Hospital, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Qiaoqiao Ding
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Hong Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Yue Niu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Shigang Zhao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
| | - Daimin Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China.
| | - Zi-Jiang Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, China; The Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology of Ministry of Education, Jinan, China; National Research Center for Assisted Reproductive Technology and Reproductive Genetics, Jinan, China
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18
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Cryopreservation of Gametes and Embryos and Their Molecular Changes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms221910864. [PMID: 34639209 PMCID: PMC8509660 DOI: 10.3390/ijms221910864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 08/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/01/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The process of freezing cells or tissues and depositing them in liquid nitrogen at -196 °C is called cryopreservation. Sub-zero temperature is not a physiological condition for cells and water ice crystals represent the main problem since they induce cell death, principally in large cells like oocytes, which have a meiotic spindle that degenerates during this process. Significantly, cryopreservation represents an option for fertility preservation in patients who develop gonadal failure for any condition and those who want to freeze their germ cells for later use. The possibility of freezing sperm, oocytes, and embryos has been available for a long time, and in 1983 the first birth with thawed oocytes was achieved. From the mid-2000s forward, the use of egg vitrification through intracytoplasmic sperm injection has improved pregnancy rates. Births using assisted reproductive technologies (ART) have some adverse conditions and events. These risks could be associated with ART procedures or related to infertility. Cryopreservation generates changes in the epigenome of gametes and embryos, given that ART occurs when the epigenome is most vulnerable. Furthermore, cryoprotective agents induce alterations in the integrity of germ cells and embryos. Notably, cryopreservation extensively affects cell viability, generates proteomic profile changes, compromises crucial cellular functions, and alters sperm motility. This technique has been widely employed since the 1980s and there is a lack of knowledge about molecular changes. The emerging view is that molecular changes are associated with cryopreservation, affecting metabolism, cytoarchitecture, calcium homeostasis, epigenetic state, and cell survival, which compromise the fertilization in ART.
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García-Domínguez X, Diretto G, Peñaranda DS, Frusciante S, García-Carpintero V, Cañizares J, Vicente JS, Marco-Jiménez F. Early Embryo Exposure to Assisted Reproductive Manipulation Induced Subtle Changes in Liver Epigenetics with No Apparent Negative Health Consequences in Rabbit. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:ijms22189716. [PMID: 34575877 PMCID: PMC8467347 DOI: 10.3390/ijms22189716] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2021] [Revised: 08/30/2021] [Accepted: 09/06/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo manipulation is a requisite step in assisted reproductive technology (ART). Therefore, it is of great necessity to appraise the safety of ART and investigate the long-term effect, including lipid metabolism, on ART-conceived offspring. Augmenting our ART rabbit model to investigate lipid metabolic outcomes in offspring longitudinally, we detected variations in hepatic DNA methylation ART offspring in the F3 generation for embryonic exposure (multiple ovulation, vitrification and embryo transfer). Through adult liver metabolomics and proteomics, we identified changes mainly related to lipid metabolism (e.g., polyunsaturated fatty acids, steroids, steroid hormone). We also found that DNA methylation analysis was linked to changes in lipid metabolism and apoptosis genes. Nevertheless, these differences did not apparently alter the general health status. Thus, our findings suggest that ART is likely to be a player in embryo epigenetic events related to hepatic homeostasis alteration in adulthood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ximo García-Domínguez
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction, Institute for Animal Science and Technology (ICTA), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (X.G.-D.); (D.S.P.); (J.S.V.)
| | - Gianfranco Diretto
- Casaccia Research Centre, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Development (ENEA), 00123 Rome, Italy; (G.D.); (S.F.)
| | - David S. Peñaranda
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction, Institute for Animal Science and Technology (ICTA), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (X.G.-D.); (D.S.P.); (J.S.V.)
| | - Sarah Frusciante
- Casaccia Research Centre, Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Development (ENEA), 00123 Rome, Italy; (G.D.); (S.F.)
| | - Victor García-Carpintero
- Institute for the Conservation and Breeding of Agricultural Biodiversity (COMAV-UPV), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (V.G.-C.); (J.C.)
| | - Joaquín Cañizares
- Institute for the Conservation and Breeding of Agricultural Biodiversity (COMAV-UPV), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (V.G.-C.); (J.C.)
| | - José S. Vicente
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction, Institute for Animal Science and Technology (ICTA), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (X.G.-D.); (D.S.P.); (J.S.V.)
| | - Francisco Marco-Jiménez
- Laboratory of Biotechnology of Reproduction, Institute for Animal Science and Technology (ICTA), Universitat Politècnica de Valencia, 46022 Valencia, Spain; (X.G.-D.); (D.S.P.); (J.S.V.)
- Correspondence:
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