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Sfakianoudis K, Zikopoulos A, Grigoriadis S, Seretis N, Maziotis E, Anifandis G, Xystra P, Kostoulas C, Giougli U, Pantos K, Simopoulou M, Georgiou I. The Role of One-Carbon Metabolism and Methyl Donors in Medically Assisted Reproduction: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Int J Mol Sci 2024; 25:4977. [PMID: 38732193 PMCID: PMC11084717 DOI: 10.3390/ijms25094977] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 04/29/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024] Open
Abstract
One-carbon (1-C) metabolic deficiency impairs homeostasis, driving disease development, including infertility. It is of importance to summarize the current evidence regarding the clinical utility of 1-C metabolism-related biomolecules and methyl donors, namely, folate, betaine, choline, vitamin B12, homocysteine (Hcy), and zinc, as potential biomarkers, dietary supplements, and culture media supplements in the context of medically assisted reproduction (MAR). A narrative review of the literature was conducted in the PubMed/Medline database. Diet, ageing, and the endocrine milieu of individuals affect both 1-C metabolism and fertility status. In vitro fertilization (IVF) techniques, and culture conditions in particular, have a direct impact on 1-C metabolic activity in gametes and embryos. Critical analysis indicated that zinc supplementation in cryopreservation media may be a promising approach to reducing oxidative damage, while female serum homocysteine levels may be employed as a possible biomarker for predicting IVF outcomes. Nonetheless, the level of evidence is low, and future studies are needed to verify these data. One-carbon metabolism-related processes, including redox defense and epigenetic regulation, may be compromised in IVF-derived embryos. The study of 1-C metabolism may lead the way towards improving MAR efficiency and safety and ensuring the lifelong health of MAR infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Konstantinos Sfakianoudis
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Athanasios Zikopoulos
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
- Obstetrics and Gynecology, Royal Cornwall Hospital, Treliske, Truro TR1 3LJ, UK
| | - Sokratis Grigoriadis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Nikolaos Seretis
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Evangelos Maziotis
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, 41222 Larisa, Greece;
| | - Paraskevi Xystra
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Charilaos Kostoulas
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Urania Giougli
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
| | - Konstantinos Pantos
- Centre for Human Reproduction, Genesis Athens Clinic, 14-16, Papanikoli, 15232 Athens, Greece; (K.S.); (K.P.)
| | - Mara Simopoulou
- Department of Physiology, Medical School, National and Kapodistrian University of Athens, 11527 Athens, Greece; (S.G.); (E.M.); (P.X.)
| | - Ioannis Georgiou
- Laboratory of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Ioannina, 45110 Ioannina, Greece; (A.Z.); (N.S.); (C.K.); (U.G.); (I.G.)
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Pandya RK, Jijo A, Cheredath A, Uppangala S, Salian SR, Lakshmi VR, Kumar P, Kalthur G, Gupta S, Adiga SK. Differential sperm histone retention in normozoospermic ejaculates of infertile men negatively affects sperm functional competence and embryo quality. Andrology 2024; 12:881-890. [PMID: 37801310 DOI: 10.1111/andr.13541] [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: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/26/2023] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The unique epigenetic architecture that sperm cells acquire during spermiogenesis by retaining <15% of either canonical or variant histone proteins in their genome is essential for normal embryogenesis. Whilst heterogeneous levels of retained histones are found in morphologically normal spermatozoa, their effect on reproductive outcomes is not fully understood. METHODS Processed spermatozoa (n = 62) were tested for DNA integrity by sperm chromatin dispersion assay, and retained histones were extracted and subjected to dot-blot analysis. The impact of retained histone modifications in normozoospermic patients on sperm functional characteristics, embryo quality, metabolic signature in embryo spent culture medium and pregnancy outcome was studied. RESULTS Dot-blot analysis showed heterogeneous levels of retained histones in the genome of normozoospermic ejaculates. Post-wash sperm yield was affected by an increase in H3K27Me3 and H4K20Me3 levels in the sperm chromatin (p < 0.05). Also, spermatozoa with higher histone H3 retention had increased DNA damage (p < 0.05). Spermatozoa from these cohorts, when injected into donor oocytes, correlated to a significant decrease in the fertilisation rate with an increase in sperm histone H3 (p < 0.05) and H3K27Me3 (p < 0.01). An increase in histone H3 negatively affected embryo quality (p < 0.01) and clinical pregnancy outcome post-embryo transfer (p < 0.05). On the other hand, spent culture medium metabolites assessed by high-resolution (800 MHz) nuclear magnetic resonance showed an increased intensity of the amino acid methionine in the non-pregnant group than in the pregnant group (p < 0.05) and a negative correlation with sperm histone H3 in the pregnant group (p < 0.05). DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Histone retention in spermatozoa can be one of the factors behind the development of idiopathic male infertility. Such spermatozoa may influence embryonic behaviour and thereby affect the success rate of assisted reproductive technology procedures. These results, although descriptive in nature, warrant further research to address the underlying mechanisms behind these clinically important observations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riddhi Kirit Pandya
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Ameya Jijo
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Aswathi Cheredath
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Shubhashree Uppangala
- Division of Reproductive Genetics, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sujith Raj Salian
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Vani R Lakshmi
- Department of Data Science, Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Pratap Kumar
- Department of Reproductive Medicine and Surgery, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Guruprasad Kalthur
- Division of Reproductive Biology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | - Sanjay Gupta
- KS313, Epigenetics and Chromatin Biology Group, Gupta Lab, Cancer Research Institute, Advanced Centre for Treatment, Research and Education in Cancer, Tata Memorial Centre, Navi Mumbai, India
| | - Satish Kumar Adiga
- Centre of Excellence in Clinical Embryology, Department of Reproductive Science, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
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Lloyd DT, Skinner HG, Maguire R, Murphy SK, Motsinger-Reif AA, Hoyo C, House JS. Clomifene and Assisted Reproductive Technology in Humans Are Associated with Sex-Specific Offspring Epigenetic Alterations in Imprinted Control Regions. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10450. [PMID: 36142363 PMCID: PMC9499479 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 09/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Children conceived with assisted reproductive technology (ART) have an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including congenital malformations and imprinted gene disorders. In a retrospective North Carolina-based-birth-cohort, we examined the effect of ovulation drugs and ART on CpG methylation in differentially methylated CpGs in known imprint control regions (ICRs). Nine ICRs containing 48 CpGs were assessed for methylation status by pyrosequencing in mixed leukocytes from cord blood. After restricting to non-smoking, college-educated participants who agreed to follow-up, ART-exposed (n = 27), clomifene-only-exposed (n = 22), and non-exposed (n = 516) groups were defined. Associations of clomifene and ART with ICR CpG methylation were assessed with linear regression and stratifying by offspring sex. In males, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the PEG3 ICR [β(95% CI) = -1.46 (-2.81, -0.12)] and hypermethylation of the MEG3 ICR [3.71 (0.01, 7.40)]; clomifene-only was associated with hypomethylation of the NNAT ICR [-5.25 (-10.12, -0.38)]. In female offspring, ART was associated with hypomethylation of the IGF2 ICR [-3.67 (-6.79, -0.55)]. Aberrant methylation of these ICRs has been associated with cardiovascular disease and metabolic and behavioral outcomes in children. The results suggest that the increased risk of adverse outcomes in offspring conceived through ART may be due in part to altered methylation of ICRs. Larger studies utilizing epigenome-wide interrogation are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dillon T. Lloyd
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Harlyn G. Skinner
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Rachel Maguire
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - Susan K. Murphy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Duke University Medical Center, Duke University, Durham, NC 27701, USA
| | - Alison A. Motsinger-Reif
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
| | - Cathrine Hoyo
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Department of Biological Sciences, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
| | - John S. House
- Center for Human Health and the Environment, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27606, USA
- Division of Intramural Research, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Department of Health and Human Services, Research Triangle Park, NC 27709, USA
- Bioinformatics Research Center, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27607, USA
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Dvoran M, Nemcova L, Kalous J. An Interplay between Epigenetics and Translation in Oocyte Maturation and Embryo Development: Assisted Reproduction Perspective. Biomedicines 2022; 10:biomedicines10071689. [PMID: 35884994 PMCID: PMC9313063 DOI: 10.3390/biomedicines10071689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2022] [Revised: 06/25/2022] [Accepted: 06/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Germ cell quality is a key prerequisite for successful fertilization and early embryo development. The quality is determined by the fine regulation of transcriptomic and proteomic profiles, which are prone to alteration by assisted reproduction technology (ART)-introduced in vitro methods. Gaining evidence shows the ART can influence preset epigenetic modifications within cultured oocytes or early embryos and affect their developmental competency. The aim of this review is to describe ART-determined epigenetic changes related to the oogenesis, early embryogenesis, and further in utero development. We confront the latest epigenetic, related epitranscriptomic, and translational regulation findings with the processes of meiotic maturation, fertilization, and early embryogenesis that impact the developmental competency and embryo quality. Post-ART embryo transfer, in utero implantation, and development (placentation, fetal development) are influenced by environmental and lifestyle factors. The review is emphasizing their epigenetic and ART contribution to fetal development. An epigenetic parallel among mouse, porcine, and bovine animal models and human ART is drawn to illustrate possible future mechanisms of infertility management as well as increase the awareness of the underlying mechanisms governing oocyte and embryo developmental complexity under ART conditions.
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5
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Malpotra S, Singh MK, Palta P. MeDIP-sequencing for profiling global DNA methylation in buffalo embryos produced by in vitro fertilization. Anim Biotechnol 2021:1-17. [PMID: 34612161 DOI: 10.1080/10495398.2021.1981356] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technique like in vitro fertilization has contributed immensely in producing genetically improved livestock. Production of embryos under in vitro conditions can affect global DNA methylation pattern during the course of embryonic development. The present study is aimed at the generation and comparison of global DNA methylome of embryos at 2-cell, 8-cell and blastocyst stage of buffalo embryos produced by in vitro fertilization using MeDIP-Sequencing. It is observed that there is a profound difference in the global DNA methylation profile of IVF embryos at different developmental stages. These differences are manifested throughout the course of embryonic development. Pathways like Wnt signaling pathway, gonadotropin-releasing hormone receptor pathway and integrin signaling were found to be majorly affected by hypermethylation of DNA in IVF embryos throughout the development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shivani Malpotra
- Embryo Biotechnology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (Deemed University), Karnal, India
| | - Manoj Kumar Singh
- Embryo Biotechnology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (Deemed University), Karnal, India
| | - Prabhat Palta
- Embryo Biotechnology Lab, Animal Biotechnology Centre, ICAR-National Dairy Research Institute (Deemed University), Karnal, India
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Liu Z, Chen W, Zhang Z, Wang J, Yang YK, Hai L, Wei Y, Qiao J, Sun Y. Whole-Genome Methylation Analysis Revealed ART-Specific DNA Methylation Pattern of Neuro- and Immune-System Pathways in Chinese Human Neonates. Front Genet 2021; 12:696840. [PMID: 34589113 PMCID: PMC8473827 DOI: 10.3389/fgene.2021.696840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The DNA methylation of human offspring can change due to the use of assisted reproductive technology (ART). In order to find the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in ART newborns, cord blood maternal cell contamination and parent DNA methylation background, which will add noise to the real difference, must be removed. We analyzed newborns’ heel blood from six families to identify the DMRs between ART and natural pregnancy newborns, and the genetic model of methylation was explored, meanwhile we analyzed 32 samples of umbilical cord blood of infants born with ART and those of normal pregnancy to confirm which differences are consistent with cord blood data. The DNA methylation level was lower in ART-assisted offspring at the whole genome-wide level. Differentially methylated sites, DMRs, and cord blood differentially expressed genes were enriched in the important pathways of the immune system and nervous system, the genetic patterns of DNA methylation could be changed in the ART group. A total of three imprinted genes and 28 housekeeping genes which were involved in the nervous and immune systems were significant different between the two groups, six of them were detected both in heel blood and cord blood. We concluded that there is an ART-specific DNA methylation pattern involved in neuro- and immune-system pathways of human ART neonates, providing an epigenetic basis for the potential long-term health risks in ART-conceived neonates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zongzhi Liu
- Central Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academic of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
| | - Wei Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Zilong Zhang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China.,Tianjin Novogene Bioinformatic Technology Co., Ltd.,, Tianjin, China
| | - Junyun Wang
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
| | - Yi-Kun Yang
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Luo Hai
- Central Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academic of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuan Wei
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, Beijing, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, Beijing, China
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China
| | - Yingli Sun
- Central Laboratory, National Cancer Center/National Clinical Research Center for Cancer/Cancer Hospital & Shenzhen Hospital, Chinese Academic of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, Shenzhen, China.,University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China.,CAS Key Laboratory of Genome Sciences and Information, Beijing Institute of Genomics, Chinese Academy of Sciences/China National Center for Bioinformation, Beijing, China
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7
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Abstract
Assisted reproductive technology is today considered a safe and reliable medical intervention, with healthy live births a reality for many IVF and ICSI treatment cycles. However, there are increasing numbers of published reports describing epigenetic/imprinting anomalies in children born as a result of these procedures. These anomalies have been attributed to methylation errors in embryo chromatin remodelling during in vitro culture. Here we re-visit three concepts: (1) the so-called 'in vitro toxicity' of 'essential amino acids' before the maternal to zygotic transition period; (2) the effect of hyperstimulation (controlled ovarian hyperstimulation) on homocysteine in the oocyte environment and the effect on methylation in the absence of essential amino acids; and (3) the fact/postulate that during the early stages of development the embryo undergoes a 'global' demethylation. Methylation processes require efficient protection against oxidative stress, which jeopardizes the correct acquisition of methylation marks as well as subsequent methylation maintenance. The universal precursor of methylation [by S-adenosyl methionine (SAM)], methionine, 'an essential amino acid', should be present in the culture. Polyamines, regulators of methylation, require SAM and arginine for their syntheses. Cystine, another 'semi-essential amino acid', is the precursor of the universal protective antioxidant molecule: glutathione. It protects methylation marks against some undue DNA demethylation processes through ten-eleven translocation (TET), after formation of hydroxymethyl cytosine. Early embryos are unable to convert homocysteine to cysteine as the cystathionine β-synthase pathway is not active. In this way, cysteine is a 'real essential amino acid'. Most IVF culture medium do not maintain methylation/epigenetic processes, even in mouse assays. Essential amino acids should be present in human IVF medium to maintain adequate epigenetic marking in preimplantation embryos. Furthermore, morphological and morphometric data need to be re-evaluated, taking into account the basic biochemical processes involved in early life.
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Menezo Y, Clement P, Clement A, Elder K. Methylation: An Ineluctable Biochemical and Physiological Process Essential to the Transmission of Life. Int J Mol Sci 2020; 21:ijms21239311. [PMID: 33297303 PMCID: PMC7730869 DOI: 10.3390/ijms21239311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 11/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Methylation is a universal biochemical process which covalently adds methyl groups to a variety of molecular targets. It plays a critical role in two major global regulatory mechanisms, epigenetic modifications and imprinting, via methyl tagging on histones and DNA. During reproduction, the two genomes that unite to create a new individual are complementary but not equivalent. Methylation determines the complementary regulatory characteristics of male and female genomes. DNA methylation is executed by methyltransferases that transfer a methyl group from S-adenosylmethionine, the universal methyl donor, to cytosine residues of CG (also designated CpG). Histones are methylated mainly on lysine and arginine residues. The methylation processes regulate the main steps in reproductive physiology: gametogenesis, and early and late embryo development. A focus will be made on the impact of assisted reproductive technology and on the impact of endocrine disruptors (EDCs) via generation of oxidative stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Arthur Clement
- Laboratoire CLEMENT, Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; (P.C.); (A.C.)
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Bourn, Cambridge CB232TN, UK;
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9
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Embryonic MTHFR contributes to blastocyst development. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1807-1814. [PMID: 32767205 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01898-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 07/20/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Reduction in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) activity due to genetic variations in the MTHFR gene has been controversially implicated in subfertility in human in vitro fertilization. However, there is no direct gene-knockdown study of embryonic MTHFR to assess its involvement in mammalian preimplantation development. The purpose of this study is to investigate expression profiles and functional roles of MTHFR in bovine preimplantation development. METHODS Reverse transcription-quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) and analysis of publicly available RNA-seq data were performed to reveal expression levels of MTHFR during bovine preimplantation development. We knocked down MTHFR by siRNA-mediated RNA interference from the 8- to 16-cell stage and assessed the effects on preimplantation development. RESULTS The RT-qPCR analysis showed relatively high MTHFR expression at the GV oocyte stage, which was decreased toward the 8- to 16-cell stage and then slightly restored at the blastocyst stage. Public data-based analysis also showed the similar pattern of expression with substantial embryonic expression at the blastocyst stage. MTHFR knockdown reduced the blastocyst rate (P < 0.01) and the numbers of total (P < 0.0001), trophectoderm (P < 0.0001), and inner cell mass (P < 0.001) cells. CONCLUSION The results indicate that embryonic MTHFR is indispensable for normal blastocyst development. The findings provide insight into the debatable roles of MTHFR in fertility and may be applicable for the improvement of care for early embryos via modulation of surrounding folate-related nutritional conditions in vitro and/or in utero, depending on the parental and embryonic MTHFR genotype.
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10
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Ménézo Y, Elder K. Epigenetic remodeling of chromatin in human ART: addressing deficiencies in culture media. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:1781-1788. [PMID: 32676929 PMCID: PMC7468041 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01884-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 07/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Yves Ménézo
- Laboratoire Clément, 17 Avenue d’Eylau, 75016 Paris, France
| | - Kay Elder
- Bourn Hall Clinic, Bourn, Cambridge, CB232TN UK
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11
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Stimpfel M, Vrtacnik-Bokal E. Minor DNA methylation changes are observed in spermatozoa prepared using different protocols. Andrology 2020; 8:1312-1323. [PMID: 32470185 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12832] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2020] [Revised: 05/18/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND DNA methylation patterns can show transgenerational inheritance and are influenced by lifestyle and environmental factors. It is suggested that these patterns can be changed by assisted reproductive technology. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the impact of two different sperm preparation methods, conventional density gradient centrifugation (DGC) vs. density gradient centrifugation followed by magnetic-activated cell sorting (MACS) of non-apoptotic spermatozoa, on sperm DNA methylation profile. MATERIALS AND METHODS We analyzed semen of patients included in our IVF treatment program. Half of the semen from each included patient was prepared for ICSI using the DGC method and the other half with DGC followed by MACS. The remaining samples were processed for DNA methylation analysis with reduced representation bisulfite sequencing (RRBS). In addition to the DNA methylation profile, we assessed the morphology and DNA fragmentation of spermatozoa. RESULTS RRBS analysis revealed that the average genome-wide methylation level was similar between both groups (DGC vs. MACS group) and ranged from 0.53 to 0.56. Furthermore, RRBS analysis identified 99 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) and 800 differentially methylated positions (DMPs). In the DGC group, 43 DMRs and 392 DMPs were hypermethylated whereas 56 DMRs and 408 DMPs were hypomethylated compared with those in the MACS group. When DMRs and DMPs were annotated to genes, 3 genes associated with imprinting were found: IGF2, PRDM16, and CLF4/BRUNOL4. The percentage of morphologically normal spermatozoa (MACS vs. DGC; 14.0 ± 10.8 vs. 13.2 ± 10.0; P = .335) and of spermatozoa with fragmented DNA of patients with RRBS analysis (22.9 ± 21.1% vs. 34.4 ± 21.2; P = .529) were also similar between groups. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION Although the average genome-wide level of sperm DNA methylation was similar in both sample groups, a distinctive number of methylation changes were observed in DMR and DMP levels. A larger number of samples should be analyzed and additional sperm preparation methods should be tested to confirm our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Eda Vrtacnik-Bokal
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Gynaecology, University Medical Center Ljubljana, Ljubljana, Slovenia
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12
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Huo Y, Yan ZQ, Yuan P, Qin M, Kuo Y, Li R, Yan LY, Feng HL, Qiao J. Single-cell DNA methylation sequencing reveals epigenetic alterations in mouse oocytes superovulated with different dosages of gonadotropins. Clin Epigenetics 2020; 12:75. [PMID: 32487258 PMCID: PMC7268365 DOI: 10.1186/s13148-020-00866-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic abnormalities caused by superovulation have recently attracted increasing attention. Superovulation with exogenous hormones may prevent oocytes from establishing an appropriate epigenetic state, and this effect may extend to the methylation programming in preimplantation embryos, as de novo DNA methylation is a function of developmental stage of follicles and oocyte size. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and human menopausal gonadotropin (hMG) are common gonadotropins used for superovulation, and appropriate concentrations of these gonadotropins might be necessary. However, no systematic study on the effects of DNA methylation alterations in oocytes associated with superovulation with different dosages of FSH/hMG at the single-cell level has yet been reported. In the current study, different dosages of FSH/hMG combined with human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) were used in female mice to generate experimental groups, while naturally matured oocytes and oocytes superovulated with only hCG were respectively used as controls. Single-cell level DNA methylation sequencing was carried out on all these matured oocytes. RESULTS In this study, we revealed that the genome-wide methylation pattern and CG methylation level of the maternal imprinting control regions of all mature oocytes were globally conserved and stable. However, methylation alterations associated with superovulation were found at a specific set of loci, and the differentially methylated regions (DMRs) mainly occurred in regions other than promoters. Furthermore, some of the annotated genes in the DMRs were involved in biological processes such as glucose metabolism, nervous system development, cell cycle, cell proliferation, and embryo implantation and were altered in all dosages of FSH/hMG group (for example, Gfod2 and SYF2). Other genes were impaired only after high gonadotropin dosages (for instance, Sox17 and Phactr4). CONCLUSIONS In conclusion, the current study addressed the effects of superovulation on DNA methylation from the perspective of different dosages of gonadotropins at the single-cell level. We found that the genome-wide DNA methylation landscape was globally preserved irrespective of superovulation or of the kind and dosage of gonadotropins used, whereas the methylation alterations associated with superovulation occurred at a specific set of loci. These observed effects reflect that superovulation recruits oocytes that would not normally be ovulated or that have not undergone complete epigenetic maturation. Our results provide an important reference for the safety assessment of superovulation with different dosages of gonadotropins. However, it should be noted that this study has some limitations, as the sample number and library coverage of analyzed oocytes were relatively low. Future studies with larger sample sizes and high-coverage libraries that examine the effects of superovulation on embryo development and offspring health as well as the underlying mechanisms are still needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Huo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, No. 38 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Zhi Qiang Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Peking-Tsinghua Center for Life Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, 100871, China
| | - Peng Yuan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Meng Qin
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Ying Kuo
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Rong Li
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Li Ying Yan
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Huai Liang Feng
- The New York Fertility Center, New York Hospital Queens, Weill Medical College of Cornell University, New York, NY, USA.
| | - Jie Qiao
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Key Laboratory of Assisted Reproduction, Ministry of Education, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Beijing Key Laboratory of Reproductive Endocrinology and Assisted Reproduction, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Peking University, No. 38 XueYuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing, 100191, China. .,National Clinical Research Center of Obstetrics and Gynecology, No. 49 North HuaYuan Road, Hai Dian District, Beijing, 100191, China.
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13
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Clément A, Chouteau J, Clément P, Ménézo Y. [Importance of the determination of MTHFR SNPs (Methylene Tetrahydrofolate Reductase Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) in couple infertility]. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 48:422-427. [PMID: 32145452 DOI: 10.1016/j.gofs.2020.02.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE MTHFR SNPs (Methylene Tetrahydrofolate reductase Single Nucleotide polymorphisms) are biochemical modifications decreasing the capacity to form 5 MTHF 5 methyltetrahydrofolate (5MTHF). Their presence reduces the capacity of the One Carbon cycle, and so the regeneration of Homocysteine (Hcy) and in fine strongly perturbs all the methylation processes. As methylation processes are major regulators in gametogenesis and embryogenesis. We have determined the prevalence of the 2 most important SNPs A1298C and C677T in our population of patients consulting for infertility. METHODS Determination of the MTHFR SNPs A1298C and C677T, by hybridization using the LAMP Human MTHFR mutation KITs. RESULTS Only 15.8% of our patients (861) do not carry any SNP (WT wid type). Close to 20% of the patients are homozygotes for one mutation or the other. A total of 19.7% are composite heterozygous. A total of 43% of our population is considered "at risk", based on observations collected for the repeat miscarriages. CONCLUSIONS Determination of the 2 major MTHFR SNPs is not a "first row" choice, but it must not be neglected and should be carried out in case of repeat ART failures and repeat miscarriages. Some simple therapeutic options can be proposed: they are based on the use of 5MTHF (5MethyleneTetraHydroFolate) the compound downstream the MTHFR.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Clément
- Laboratoire Clément, avenue d'Eylau, 75016 Paris, France.
| | - J Chouteau
- Laboratoire Oriade-Noviale, avenue de la Plaine-Fleurie, 38240 Meylan, France.
| | - P Clément
- Laboratoire Clément, avenue d'Eylau, 75016 Paris, France.
| | - Y Ménézo
- Laboratoire Clément, avenue d'Eylau, 75016 Paris, France; Laboratoire Oriade-Noviale, avenue de la Plaine-Fleurie, 38240 Meylan, France; London Fertility associates, Harley St, London, Royaume-Uni.
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14
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Drevet JR, Aitken RJ. Oxidation of Sperm Nucleus in Mammals: A Physiological Necessity to Some Extent with Adverse Impacts on Oocyte and Offspring. Antioxidants (Basel) 2020; 9:E95. [PMID: 31979208 PMCID: PMC7070651 DOI: 10.3390/antiox9020095] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2019] [Revised: 01/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cells have long been known to be good producers of reactive oxygen species, while they are also known to be particularly sensitive to oxidative damage affecting their structures and functions. As with all organic cellular components, sperm nuclear components and, in particular, nucleic acids undergo oxidative alterations that have recently been shown to be commonly encountered in clinical practice. This review will attempt to provide an overview of this situation. After a brief coverage of the biological reasons why the sperm nucleus and associated DNA are sensitive to oxidative damage, a summary of the most recent results concerning the oxidation of sperm DNA in animal and human models will be presented. The study will then attempt to cover the possible consequences of sperm nuclear oxidation on male fertility and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joël R. Drevet
- Faculty of Medicine, GReD Institute, INSERM U1103—CNRS UMR6293—Université Clermont Auvergne, CRBC building, 28 place Henri Dunant, 63001 Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Robert John Aitken
- School of Environmental and Life Sciences, Priority Research Centre for Reproductive Sciences, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle 2308, Australia;
- Faculty of Health and Medicine, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, Newcastle 2308, Australia
- Medical Genetics, Hunter Medical Research Institute, New Lambton Heights, 13 2305 Newcastle, Australia
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15
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Kaihola H, Yaldir FG, Bohlin T, Samir R, Hreinsson J, Åkerud H. Levels of caspase-3 and histidine-rich glycoprotein in the embryo secretome as biomarkers of good-quality day-2 embryos and high-quality blastocysts. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0226419. [PMID: 31856190 PMCID: PMC6922338 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0226419] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2019] [Accepted: 11/26/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Morphological assessment at defined developmental stages is the most important method to select viable embryos for transfer and cryopreservation. Timing of different developmental stages in embryo development has been shown to correlate with its potential to develop into a blastocyst. However, improvements in pregnancy rates by using time-lapse techniques have been difficult to validate scientifically. Therefore, there is a need for new methods, preferably non-invasive methods based on metabolomics, genomics and proteomics, to improve the evaluation of embryo quality even further. The aim of this study was to investigate if different levels of caspase-3 and histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG), secreted by the embryo into the culture media, can be used as biomarkers of embryo quality. In this study, a total of 334 samples of culture media were collected from in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments at three different clinics. Protein analysis of the culture media was performed using multiplex proximity extension protein analysis to detect levels of caspase-3 and HRG in the embryo secretome. Protein levels were compared in secretome samples from high- and low-quality blastocysts and embryos that became arrested during development. Correlation between protein levels and time to morula formation was also analyzed. Furthermore, protein levels in secretomes from day-2 cultured embryos were compared on the basis of whether or not pregnancy was achieved. The results showed that caspase-3 levels were lower in secretomes from high-quality vs. low-quality blastocysts and those that became arrested (p ≤ 0.05 for both). In addition, higher HRG levels correlated with a shorter time to morula formation (p ≤ 0.001). Caspase-3 levels were also lower in secretomes from day-2 cultured embryos resulting in a pregnancy vs. those that did not (p ≤ 0.05). Furthermore, it was shown that caspase-3 might be used as a marker for predicting potential success rate after transfer of day-2 cultured embryos, where a caspase-3 cutoff level of 0.02 gave a prediction probability of 68% (p = 0.038). In conclusion, in future prediction models, levels of caspase-3 and HRG might be used as potential markers of embryo quality, and secreted caspase-3 levels could to some extent predict the outcome after transfer of day-2 cultured embryos.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena Kaihola
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- * E-mail:
| | - Fatma Gülen Yaldir
- Department of Women’s and Children’s Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Therese Bohlin
- Fertility Unit, Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden
| | | | - Julius Hreinsson
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- GynHälsan Fertility Clinic, Minerva Fertility, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helena Åkerud
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- GynHälsan Fertility Clinic, Minerva Fertility, Uppsala, Sweden
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16
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Van Winkle LJ, Ryznar R. One-Carbon Metabolism Regulates Embryonic Stem Cell Fate Through Epigenetic DNA and Histone Modifications: Implications for Transgenerational Metabolic Disorders in Adults. Front Cell Dev Biol 2019; 7:300. [PMID: 31824950 PMCID: PMC6882271 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2019.00300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Human (h) and mouse (m) embryonic stem (ES) cells need specific amino acids to proliferate. mES cells require threonine (Thr) metabolism for epigenetic histone modifications. Thr is converted to glycine and acetyl CoA, and the glycine is metabolized specifically to regulate trimethylation of lysine (Lys) residue 4 in histone H3 (H3K4me3). DNA methylation and methylation of other H3 Lys residues remain unimpaired by Thr deprivation in mES cell culture medium. Similarly, hES cells require methionine (Met) to maintain the Met-SAM (S-adenosyl methionine) cycle of 1-carbon metabolism also for H3K4me3 formation. H3K4me3 is needed specifically to regulate and maintain both mES and hES cell proliferation and their pluripotent states. Better understanding of this regulation is essential since treatment of human diseases and disorders will increasingly involve hES cells. Furthermore, since ES cells are derived from their progenitor cells in preimplantation blastocysts, they serve as models of 1-carbon metabolism in these precursors of all mammalian tissues and organs. One-carbon metabolism challenges, such as a maternal low protein diet (LPD) during preimplantation blastocyst development, contribute to development of metabolic syndrome and related abnormalities in adults. These 1-carbon metabolism challenges result in altered epigenetic DNA and histone modifications in ES progenitor cells and the tissues and organs to which they develop. Moreover, the modified histones could have extracellular as well as intracellular effects, since histones are secreted in uterine fluid and influence early embryo development. Hence, the mechanisms and transgenerational implications of these altered epigenetic DNA and histone modifications warrant concerted further study.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lon J Van Winkle
- Department of Biochemistry, Midwestern University, Downers Grove, IL, United States.,Department of Medical Humanities, Rocky Vista University, Parker, CO, United States
| | - Rebecca Ryznar
- Molecular Biology, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Rocky Vista University, Parker, CO, United States
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17
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Iliadou AN, Öberg AS, Pege J, Rodriguez-Wallberg KA, Olofsson JI, Holte J, Wramsby H, Wramsby M, Cnattingius S, Cesta CE. The Uppsala-Stockholm Assisted Reproductive Techniques (UppStART) study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e028866. [PMID: 31467051 PMCID: PMC6720339 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-028866] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The Uppsala-Stockholm Assisted Reproductive Techniques (UppStART) study is a prospectively recruited sample of couples undergoing assisted reproduction in Stockholm and Uppsala county in Sweden. The study was initiated to (1) investigate possible changes in the epigenetic profile of infants inferred through the ART procedures and their consequence and (2) to assess the impact of lifestyle and health exposures on treatment outcome. PARTICIPANTS Recruitment took place between September 2011 and December 2013, and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) cycles initiated and pregnancies conceived during this time were followed until December 2014. The cohort includes 971 participants (n= 514 women; n= 457 men), and 129 pregnancies were achieved from the first IVF cycle included in the study. FINDINGS TO DATE Self-reported demographic, health and lifestyle data were collected from a baseline questionnaire, and to assess changes to lifestyle, a follow-up questionnaire was issued at the time of oocyte retrieval, and at subsequent IVF cycles. Questionnaire data were linked to data extracted from medical records. Biological samples were collected at baseline: blood for extraction of serum, plasma and DNA, morning and evening saliva samples for cortisol measurement and at delivery including samples of maternal blood, placenta and amniotic fluid, and cord blood for epigenetic analysis. FUTURE PLANS Through the unique identification number assigned to each Swedish citizen at birth or immigration, UppStART study participants will be linked to the Swedish population-based national and quality registers to provide data from prenatal, obstetrical, neonatal and infant care, and subsequent updates will provide data on childhood health and educational outcomes. Collaboration and use of UppStART data is encouraged, and more information about access can be found at www.ki.se/meb/uppstart.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anastasia N Iliadou
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Anna Sara Öberg
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Epidemiology, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jessica Pege
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Kenny A Rodriguez-Wallberg
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Gynecology and Reproduction, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
- Department of Oncology-Pathology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan I Olofsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jan Holte
- Carl von Linne Kliniken, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala Universitet, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala, University of Agricultural Science and Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Håkan Wramsby
- Livio Fertilitetscentrum Kungsholmen, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Sven Cnattingius
- Clinical Epidemiology Unit, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Carolyn E Cesta
- Department of Medical Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Centre for Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Medicine Solna, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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18
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Dyke SOM, Saulnier KM, Dupras C, Webster AP, Maschke K, Rothstein M, Siebert R, Walter J, Beck S, Pastinen T, Joly Y. Points-to-consider on the return of results in epigenetic research. Genome Med 2019; 11:31. [PMID: 31122281 PMCID: PMC6533659 DOI: 10.1186/s13073-019-0646-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
As epigenetic studies become more common and lead to new insights into health and disease, the return of individual epigenetic results to research participants, in particular in large-scale epigenomic studies, will be of growing importance. Members of the International Human Epigenome Consortium (IHEC) Bioethics Workgroup considered the potential ethical, legal, and social issues (ELSI) involved in returning epigenetic research results and incidental findings in order to produce a set of 'Points-to-consider' (P-t-C) for the epigenetics research community. These P-t-C draw on existing guidance on the return of genetic research results, while also integrating the IHEC Bioethics Workgroup's ELSI research on and discussion of the issues associated with epigenetic data as well as the experience of a return of results pilot study by the Personal Genome Project UK (PGP-UK). Major challenges include how to determine the clinical validity and actionability of epigenetic results, and considerations related to environmental exposures and epigenetic marks, including circumstances warranting the sharing of results with family members and third parties. Interdisciplinary collaboration and good public communication regarding epigenetic risk will be important to advance the return of results framework for epigenetic science.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie O M Dyke
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada.
- Montreal Neurological Institute, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 2B4, Canada.
| | - Katie M Saulnier
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Charles Dupras
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
| | - Amy P Webster
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6DD, UK
| | | | - Mark Rothstein
- Institute for Bioethics, Health Policy and Law, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Louisville, KY, 40202, USA
| | - Reiner Siebert
- Institute of Human Genetics, Ulm University Medical Center, 89091, Ulm, Germany
| | - Jörn Walter
- Saarland University, 66123, Saarbrücken, Germany
| | - Stephan Beck
- UCL Cancer Institute, University College London, London, WC1E 6DD, UK
| | - Tomi Pastinen
- Department of Human Genetics, McGill University and Genome Quebec Innovation Centre, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
- Center for Pediatric Genomic Medicine, Children's Mercy Kansas City, Kansas City, MO, 64108, USA
| | - Yann Joly
- Centre of Genomics and Policy, Faculty of Medicine, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, H3A 0G1, Canada
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19
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Jacquesson-Fournols L, Alvarez S, Cohen M, Clement P, Menezo Y. A paternal effect of MTHFR SNPs on gametes and embryos should not be overlooked: case reports. J Assist Reprod Genet 2019; 36:1351-1353. [PMID: 31119439 PMCID: PMC6642231 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-019-01488-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Marc Cohen
- Gyn Obst, Clinique Natecia, Lyon, France
| | - Patrice Clement
- Laboratoire Clement, 17 Avenue d ‘Eylau, 75016 Paris, France
| | - Yves Menezo
- Laboratoire Clement, 17 Avenue d ‘Eylau, 75016 Paris, France
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