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Cardona Barberán A, Bonte D, Boel A, Thys V, Paredis R, Machtelinckx F, De Sutter P, De Croo I, Leybaert L, Stoop D, Coucke P, Vanden Meerschaut F, Heindryckx B. Assisted oocyte activation does not overcome recurrent embryo developmental problems. Hum Reprod 2023; 38:872-885. [PMID: 36931261 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dead051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2022] [Revised: 02/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/19/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Can recurrent embryo developmental problems after ICSI be overcome by assisted oocyte activation (AOA)? SUMMARY ANSWER AOA did not improve blastocyst formation in our patient cohort with recurrent embryo developmental problems after ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The use of AOA to artificially induce calcium (Ca2+) rises by using Ca2+ ionophores (mainly calcimycin and ionomycin) has been reported as very effective in overcoming fertilization failure after ICSI, especially in patients whose Ca2+ dynamics during fertilization are deficient. However, there is only scarce and contradictory literature on the use of AOA to overcome embryo developmental problems after ICSI, and it is not clear whether abnormal Ca2+ patterns during fertilization disturb human preimplantation embryo development. Moreover, poor embryo development after ICSI has also been linked to genetic defects in the subcortical maternal complex (SCMC) genes. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This prospective cohort single-center study compared ICSI-AOA cycles and previous ICSI cycles in couples with normal fertilization rates (≥60%) but impaired embryonic development (≤15% blastocyst formation) in at least two previous ICSI cycles. In total, 42 couples with embryo developmental problems were included in this study from January 2018 to January 2021. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Of the 42 couples included, 17 underwent an ICSI-AOA cycle consisting of CaCl2 injection and double ionomycin exposure. Fertilization, blastocyst development, pregnancy, and live birth rates after ICSI-AOA were compared to previous ICSI cycles. In addition, the calcium pattern induced by the male patient's sperm was investigated by mouse oocyte calcium analysis. Furthermore, all 42 couples underwent genetic screening. Female patients were screened for SCMC genes (TLE6, PADI6, NLRP2, NLRP5, NLRP7, and KHDC3L) and male patients were screened for the sperm-oocyte-activating factor PLCZ1. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE We compared 17 AOA cycles to 44 previous ICSI cycles from the same patient cohort. After AOA, a total fertilization rate of 68.95% (131/190), a blastocyst development rate of 13.74% (18/131), a pregnancy rate of 29.41% (5/17), and a live birth rate of 23.53% (4/17) were achieved, which was not different from the previous ICSI cycles (76.25% (321/421, P-value = 0.06); 9.35% (30/321, P-value = 0.18), 25.00% (11/44, P-value = 0.75), and 15.91% (7/44, P-value = 0.48), respectively). Calcium analysis showed that patient's sperm induced calcium patterns similar to control sperm samples displaying normal embryo developmental potential. Genetic screening revealed 10 unique heterozygous variants (in NLRP2, NLRP5, NLRP7, TLE6, and PADI6) of uncertain significance (VUS) in 14 females. Variant NLRP5 c.623-12_623-11insTTC (p.?) was identified in two unrelated individuals and variant NLRP2 c.1572T>C (p.Asp524=) was identified in four females. Interestingly, we identified a previously reported homozygous mutation PLCZ1, c.1499C>T (p.Ser500Leu), in a male patient displaying impaired embryonic development, but not showing typical fertilization failure. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Our strict inclusion criteria, requiring at least two ICSI cycles with impaired embryo development, reduced cycle-to-cycle variability, while the requirement of a lower blastocyst development not influenced by a poor fertilization excluded couples who otherwise would be selective cases for AOA; however, these criteria limited the sample size of this study. Targeted genetic screening might be too restricted to identify a genetic cause underlying the phenotype of poor embryo development for all patients. Moreover, causality of the identified VUS should be further determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Strong evidence for AOA overcoming impaired embryonic development is still lacking in the literature. Thus far, only one article has reported a beneficial effect of AOA (using calcimycin) compared to previous ICSI cycles in this patient population, whilst two more recent sibling-oocyte control studies (one using calcimycin and the other ionomycin) and our research (using ionomycin) could not corroborate these findings. Although no major abnormalities have been found in children born after AOA, this technique should be reserved for couples with a clear Ca2+-release deficiency. Finally, genetic screening by whole-exome sequencing may reveal novel genes and variants linked to embryo developmental problems and allow the design of more personalized treatment options, such as wild-type complementary RNA or recombinant protein injection. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by the Flemish Fund for Scientific Research (grant FWO.OPR.2015.0032.01 to B.H. and grant no. 1298722N to A.B.). A.C.B., D.B., A.B., V.T., R.P., F.M., I.D.C., L.L., D.S., P.D.S., P.C., and F.V.M. have nothing to disclose. B.H. reports a research grant from the Flemish Fund for Scientific Research and reports being a board member of the Belgian Society for Reproductive Medicine and the Belgian Ethical Committee on embryo research. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03354013.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Cardona Barberán
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - D Bonte
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - A Boel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - V Thys
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - R Paredis
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Machtelinckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - I De Croo
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - L Leybaert
- Physiology Group, Department of Basic and Applied Medical Sciences, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - D Stoop
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - P Coucke
- Department of Biomolecular Medicine, Center for Medical Genetics Ghent (CMGG), Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - F Vanden Meerschaut
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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Cabeza JP, Cámera J, Briski O, Felipe MY, Salamone DF, Gambini A. Preimplantation Developmental Competence of Bovine and Porcine Oocytes Activated by Zinc Chelation. Animals (Basel) 2022; 12:ani12243560. [PMID: 36552480 PMCID: PMC9774810 DOI: 10.3390/ani12243560] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Revised: 12/12/2022] [Accepted: 12/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
After sperm-oocyte fusion, intracytoplasmic rises of calcium (Ca) induce the release of zinc (Zn) out of the oocyte (Zn sparks). Both phenomena are known to play an essential role in the oocyte activation process. Our work aimed to explore different protocols for activating bovine and porcine oocytes using the novel zinc chelator 1,10-phenanthroline (PHEN) and to compare developmental rates and quality to bovine IVF and parthenogenetic ionomycin-induced embryos in both species. Different incubation conditions for the zinc chelator were tested, including its combination with ionomycin. Embryo quality was assessed by immunofluorescence of SOX2, SOX17, OCT4, and CDX2 and total cell number at the blastocyst stage. Even though blastocyst development was achieved using a zinc chelator in bovine, bypassing calcium oscillations, developmental rates, and blastocyst quality were compromised compared to embryos generated with sperm-induced or ionomycin calcium rise. On the contrary, zinc chelation is sufficient to trigger oocyte activation in porcine. Additionally, we determined the optimal exposure to PHEN for this species. Zinc chelation and artificial induction of calcium rise combined did not improve developmental competence. Our results contribute to understanding the role of zinc during oocyte activation and preimplantation embryo development across different mammalian species.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan P. Cabeza
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Juan Cámera
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Olinda Briski
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Minerva Yauri Felipe
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Daniel F. Salamone
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- CONICET-Universidad de Buenos Aires, Instituto de Investigaciones en Producción Animal (INPA), Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
| | - Andrés Gambini
- Facultad de Agronomía, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires, Buenos Aires C1417DSE, Argentina
- School of Agriculture and Food Sciences, The University of Queensland, Gatton, QLD 4343, Australia
- Correspondence:
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Porumb IG, Coricovac AM, Raica II, Zărnescu O, Didilescu AC, Didilescu AC. Healthy birth in a case of total globozoospermia after intracytoplasmic sperm injection and assisted oocyte activation. Rom J Morphol Embryol 2022; 63:459-463. [PMID: 36374151 PMCID: PMC9801671 DOI: 10.47162/rjme.63.2.17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Globozoospermia is a rare (incidence <0.1%) and very severe disorder, with major implications in male fertility. Total globozoospermia is represented by the presence of spermatozoa with 100% rounded heads and a lack of acrosomes. These specific morphological modifications seem to be connected to defects occurring in the last stage of spermatogenesis, spermiogenesis, and will result in anomalies of the acrosomal reaction and a defective adherence of the spermatozoa to the oocytes zona pellucida. This will result in a failure of natural fertilization. This article aims to present the case of a couple diagnosed and successfully treated for primary male infertility. The 26-year-old male partner underwent two semen analyses that revealed the presence of fully rounded spermatozoa heads (morphological abnormality) and consequently was proposed for in vitro fertilization treatment. Semen preparation and the use of assisted reproductive techniques, intracytoplasmic injection of sperm cells into the assisted oocyte activation, have resulted in the conceivement of a healthy child. The particularities of this case lie in the early recognition of the total abnormal globozoospermia morphology. This is the first case reported in Romania where specific assisted reproductive techniques and treatments have resulted in a successful pregnancy for a couple with male total globozoospermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ionuţ George Porumb
- Department of Embryology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania; ; Department of Embryology, Gynera Fertility Clinic, Bucharest, Romania;
| | - Anca Magdalena Coricovac
- Department of Embryology, Gynera Fertility Clinic, Bucharest, Romania,Department of Embryology, Carol Davila University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Ioana Iulia Raica
- Department of Embryology, Gynera Fertility Clinic, Bucharest, Romania
| | - Otilia Zărnescu
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bucharest, Romania
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Wang A, Huang S, Liu M, Wang B, Wu F, Zhu D, Zhao X. Clinical exome sequencing identifies novel compound heterozygous mutations of the WEE2 gene in primary infertile women with fertilization failure. Gynecol Endocrinol 2021; 37:1096-1101. [PMID: 33904356 DOI: 10.1080/09513590.2021.1916458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The genetic basis of fertilization failure after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) is largely unknown and the aim of this study is to investigate the genetic causes of fertilization failure in primary infertile women. METHODS Six affected women diagnosed with infertility and fertilization failure were recruited. The genetically pathogenic factor of their fertilization failures were investigated by clinical exome sequencing. One hundred healthy controls were verified by Sanger sequencing. RESULTS Novel compound heterozygous mutations c.625G > T and c.759-2A > G of WEE2 in one affected individual were revealed by clinical exome sequencing. Trios analysis of the mutations represented an autosomal recessive pattern. The nonsense mutation c.625G > T (p.Glu209*) indicated the truncation of the WEE2 protein and c.759-2A > G was predicted to affect the splicing. CONCLUSIONS The novel variants extend the spectrum of WEE2 mutations, which promotes the prognostic value of testing for WEE2 mutations in infertile women with fertilization failure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ancong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
| | - Shan Huang
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Linyi Hospital of traditional Chinese Medicine, Linyi, PR China
| | - Min Liu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
| | - Baosong Wang
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
| | - Fengxia Wu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, School of Basic Medical Science, Shandong University, Jinan, PR China
| | - Dongyi Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
| | - Xiangyu Zhao
- Department of Medical Genetics, Linyi People's Hospital, Linyi, PR China
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Wang M, Zhu L, Liu C, He H, Wang C, Xing C, Liu J, Yang L, Xi Q, Li Z, Jin L. A Novel Assisted Oocyte Activation Method Improves Fertilization in Patients With Recurrent Fertilization Failure. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:672081. [PMID: 34368125 PMCID: PMC8334862 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.672081] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) occurs in 1–3% of total intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles and can reoccur in subsequent cycles. Despite the high success rate with the application of assisted oocyte activation (AOA), there is still a small number of couples who cannot obtain fertilized eggs after conventional calcium (Ca2+) ionophores-based ICSI-AOA. Six couples experiencing repeated TFF or low fertilization (<10%) after ICSI and conventional ICSI-AOA were enrolled in this study. Compared with the regular ICSI group and the conventional ICSI-AOA group, the new AOA method, a combination of cycloheximide (CHX) and ionomycin, can significantly increase the fertilization rate from less than 10 up to approximately 50% in most cases. The normal distribution of sperm-related oocyte activation factor phospholipase C zeta (PLCζ1) in the sperms of the cases indicated the absence of an aberrant Ca2+ signaling activation. The results of the whole-embryo aneuploidies analysis indicated that oocytes receiving the novel AOA treatment had the potential to develop into blastocysts with normal karyotypes. Our data demonstrated that CHX combined with ionomycin was able to effectively improve the fertilization rate in the majority of patients suffering from TFF. This novel AOA method had a potential therapeutic effect on those couples experiencing TFF, even after conventional AOA, which may surmount the severe fertilization deficiencies in patients with a repeated low fertilization or TFF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lixia Zhu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chang Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui He
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Cheng Wang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Chenxi Xing
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jinming Liu
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Liu Yang
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingsong Xi
- Department of Oncology, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Zhou Li
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Lei Jin
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
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Dai J, Zhang T, Guo J, Zhou Q, Gu Y, Zhang J, Hu L, Zong Y, Song J, Zhang S, Dai C, Gong F, Lu G, Zheng W, Lin G. Homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 cause fertilization failure and male infertility in humans and mice. Am J Hum Genet 2021; 108:469-481. [PMID: 33626338 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajhg.2021.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Accepted: 02/02/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF) can occur during in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatments, even following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Various male or female factors could contribute to TFF. Increasing evidence suggested that genetic variations in PLCZ1, which encodes 1-phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate phosphodiesterase zeta-1 (PLCζ), is involved in oocyte activation and is a key male factor in TFF. In the present study, we explored the genetic variants in male individuals that led to TFF. A total of 54 couples with TFF or poor fertilization (fertilization rate < 20%) were screened, and 21 couples were determined to have a male infertility factor by the mouse oocyte activation test. Whole-exome sequencing of these 21 male individuals identified three homozygous pathogenic variants in ACTL9 (actin like 9) in three individuals. ACTL9 variations led to abnormal ultrastructure of the perinuclear theca (PT), and PLCζ was absent in the head and present in the neck of the mutant sperm, which contributed to failed normal calcium oscillations in oocytes and subsequent TFF. The key roles of ACTL9 in the PT structure and TFF after ICSI were further confirmed in an Actl9-mutated mouse model. Furthermore, assisted oocyte activation by calcium ionophore exposure successfully overcame TFF and achieved live births in a couple with an ACTL9 variant. These findings identified the role of ACTL9 in the PT structure and the correct localization of PLCζ. The results also provide a genetic marker and a therapeutic option for individuals who have undergone ICSI without successful fertilization.
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Storey A, Elgmati K, Wang Y, Knaggs P, Swann K. The role of ATP in the differential ability of Sr2+ to trigger Ca2+ oscillations in mouse and human eggs. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 27:gaaa086. [PMID: 33543292 PMCID: PMC7846092 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/12/2020] [Revised: 12/02/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
At fertilization in mice and humans, the activation of the egg is caused by a series of repetitive Ca2+ oscillations which are initiated by phospholipase-C(zeta)ζ that generates inositol-1,4,5-trisphophate (InsP3). Ca2+ oscillations and egg activation can be triggered in mature mouse eggs by incubation in Sr2+ containing medium, but this does not appear to be effective in human eggs. Here, we have investigated the reason for this apparent difference using mouse eggs, and human eggs that failed to fertilize after IVF or ICSI. Mouse eggs incubated in Ca2+-free, Sr2+-containing medium immediately underwent Ca2+ oscillations but human eggs consistently failed to undergo Ca2+ oscillations in the same Sr2+ medium. We tested the InsP3-receptor (IP3R) sensitivity directly by photo-release of caged InsP3 and found that mouse eggs were about 10 times more sensitive to InsP3 than human eggs. There were no major differences in the Ca2+ store content between mouse and human eggs. However, we found that the ATP concentration was consistently higher in mouse compared to human eggs. When ATP levels were lowered in mouse eggs by incubation in pyruvate-free medium, Sr2+ failed to cause Ca2+ oscillations. When pyruvate was added back to these eggs, the ATP levels increased and Ca2+ oscillations were induced. This suggests that ATP modulates the ability of Sr2+ to stimulate IP3R-induced Ca2+ release in eggs. We suggest that human eggs may be unresponsive to Sr2+ medium because they have a lower level of cytosolic ATP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Storey
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | | | - Yisu Wang
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Paul Knaggs
- Wales Fertility Institute, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Karl Swann
- School of Biosiences, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
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Torra-Massana M, Cornet-Bartolomé D, Barragán M, Durban M, Ferrer-Vaquer A, Zambelli F, Rodriguez A, Oliva R, Vassena R. Novel phospholipase C zeta 1 mutations associated with fertilization failures after ICSI. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1494-1504. [PMID: 31347677 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2018] [Revised: 04/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are phospholipase C zeta 1 (PLCZ1) mutations associated with fertilization failure (FF) after ICSI? SUMMARY ANSWER New mutations in the PLCZ1 sequence are associated with FFs after ICSI. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY FF occurs in 1-3% of ICSI cycles, mainly due to oocyte activation failure (OAF). The sperm PLCζ/PLCZ1 protein hydrolyzes phosphatidylinositol (4, 5)-bisphosphate in the oocyte, leading to intracellular calcium release and oocyte activation. To date, few PLCZ1 point mutations causing decreased protein levels or activity have been linked to FF. However, functional alterations of PLCζ/PLCZ1 in response to both described and novel mutations have not been investigated. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We performed a study including 37 patients presenting total or partial FF (fertilization rate (FR), ≤25%) after ICSI occurring between 2014 and 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Patients were divided into two groups based on oocyte evaluation 19 h post ICSI: FF due to a defect in oocyte activation (OAF, n = 22) and FF due to other causes ('no-OAF', n = 15). Samples from 13 men with good fertilization (FR, >50%) were used as controls. PLCζ/PLCZ1 protein localization and levels in sperm were evaluated by immunofluorescence and western blot, respectively. Sanger sequencing on genomic DNA was used to identify PLCZ1 mutations in exonic regions. The effect of the mutations on protein functionality was predicted in silico using the MODICT algorithm. Functional assays were performed by cRNA injection of wild-type and mutated forms of PLCZ1 into human in vitro matured metaphase II oocytes, and fertilization outcomes (second polar body extrusion, pronucleus appearance) scored 19 h after injection. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In the OAF group, 12 (54.6%) patients carried at least one mutation in the PLCZ1 coding sequence, one patient out of 15 (6.7%) in the no-OAF group (P < 0.05) and none of the 13 controls (P < 0.05). A total of six different mutations were identified. Five of them were single-nucleotide missense mutations: p.I120M, located at the end of the EF-hand domain; p.R197H, p.L224P and p.H233L, located at the X catalytic domain; and p.S500 L, located at the C2 domain. The sixth mutation, a frameshift variant (p.V326K fs*25), generates a truncated protein at the X-Y linker region. In silico analysis with MODICT predicted all the mutations except p.I120M to be potentially deleterious for PLCζ/PLCZ1 activity. After PLCZ1 cRNA injection, a significant decrease in the percentage of activated oocytes was observed for three mutations (p.R197H, p.H233L and p.V326K fs*25), indicating a deleterious effect on enzymatic activity. PLCZ1 protein localization and expression levels in sperm were similar across groups. FRs were restored (to >60%) in patients carrying PLCZ1 mutations (n = 10) after assisted oocyte activation (AOA), with seven patients achieving pregnancy and live birth. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Caution should be exerted when comparing the cRNA injection results with fertilization outcomes after ICSI, especially in patients presenting mutations in heterozygosis. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS PLCZ1 mutations were found in high frequency in patients presenting OAF. Functional analysis of three mutations in human oocytes confirms alteration of PLCζ/PLCZ1 activity and their likely involvement in impaired oocyte activation. Our results suggest that PLCZ1 gene sequencing could be useful as a tool for the diagnosis and counseling of couples presenting FF after ICSI due to OAF. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by intramural funding of Clínica EUGIN, by the Secretary for Universities and Research of the Ministry of Economy and Knowledge of the Government of Catalonia (GENCAT 2015 DI 049 to M. T.-M. and GENCAT 2015 DI 048 to D. C.-B.) and by the Torres Quevedo Program from the Spanish Ministry of Economy and Competitiveness to A. F.-V. No competing interest declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Torra-Massana
- Clínica EUGIN, Barcelona, Spain.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Rafael Oliva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain.,Molecular Biology of Reproduction and Development Group, Institut d'Investigacions Biomèdiques August Pi i Sunyer (IDIBAPS), Fundació Clínic per a la Recerca Biomèdica, Faculty of Medicine, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
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Dai J, Dai C, Guo J, Zheng W, Zhang T, Li Y, Lu C, Gong F, Lu G, Lin G. Novel homozygous variations in PLCZ1 lead to poor or failed fertilization characterized by abnormal localization patterns of PLCζ in sperm. Clin Genet 2019; 97:347-351. [PMID: 31463947 DOI: 10.1111/cge.13636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2019] [Revised: 08/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Total fertilization failure (TFF), which is the failure of fertilization in all oocytes, occurs in 1%-3% of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles. However, the sperm-related factors that cause fertilization failure in humans are still largely unknown. Here, we identified three novel homozygous variations in the PLCZ1 gene in a recessive inheritance pattern in three consanguineous families, which all located in a key catalytic domain, and predicted to modify its secondary structure and thus impair its hydrolytic activity. Moreover, immunofluorescent staining revealed that PLCζ in mutant sperm exhibited abnormal localization patterns. ICSI-AOA resulted in an increased rate of normal fertilization compared with previous ICSI cycles (75.0% vs 2.2%, P < .001). In summary, we identified three novel homozygous variations in PLCZ1 that led to poor or failed fertilization that could be overcame by ICSI-AOA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Dai
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Can Dai
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Guo
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Wei Zheng
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Tianlei Zhang
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
| | - Yuan Li
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Changfu Lu
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Fei Gong
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Guangxiu Lu
- Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China
| | - Ge Lin
- Institute of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medical Science, Central South University, Changsha, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-XIANGYA, Changsha, China.,Laboratory of Reproductive and Stem Cell Engineering, National Health and Family Planning Commission, Changsha, China.,School of Medicine, Hunan Normal University, Changsha, China
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10
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Bonte D, Ferrer-Buitrago M, Dhaenens L, Popovic M, Thys V, De Croo I, De Gheselle S, Steyaert N, Boel A, Vanden Meerschaut F, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Assisted oocyte activation significantly increases fertilization and pregnancy outcome in patients with low and total failed fertilization after intracytoplasmic sperm injection: a 17-year retrospective study. Fertil Steril 2019; 112:266-274. [PMID: 31133387 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2019.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2018] [Revised: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate the extent to which assisted oocyte activation (AOA) improves clinical outcomes in patients diagnosed with oocyte activation deficiencies (OADs). DESIGN Retrospective cohort study comparing AOA cycles and previous intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) cycles in couples experiencing low or total failed fertilization after ICSI. Importantly, the sperm-related oocyte-activating capacity was examined in all patients before AOA with the use of the mouse oocyte activation test (MOAT). SETTING Infertility center at a university hospital. PATIENT(S) A total of 122 couples with a history of low or total failed fertilization after ICSI. INTERVENTION(S) ICSI, MOAT, AOA, and embryo transfer. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S) Fertilization, pregnancy, and live birth rates. RESULT(S) MOAT revealed 19 patients with a sperm-related OAD (MOAT group 1), 56 patients with a diminished sperm-related oocyte-activating capacity (MOAT group 2), and 47 patients with a suspected oocyte-related OAD (MOAT group 3). AOA (191 cycles) significantly improved fertilization, pregnancy, and live birth rates in all MOAT groups compared with previous ICSI attempts (243 cycles). Fertilization rates after AOA were significantly different among MOAT groups 1 (70.1%), 2 (63.0%), and 3 (57.3%). Between MOAT group 1 and 3, significant differences in pregnancy (49.0% vs. 29.4%) and live birth (41.2% vs. 22.1%) rates were observed. In total, 225 embryo transfers resulted in 60 healthy live births following AOA. CONCLUSION(S) Patients undergoing diagnostic testing before AOA show a significant improvement in clinical outcomes compared with previous cycles. Our findings highlight that AOA should be reserved for patients with clear OADs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Davina Bonte
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Minerva Ferrer-Buitrago
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Lien Dhaenens
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mina Popovic
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Vanessa Thys
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ilse De Croo
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Stefanie De Gheselle
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Nathalie Steyaert
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Annekatrien Boel
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Frauke Vanden Meerschaut
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Ghent Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
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11
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Lu Y, Reddy R, Ferrer Buitrago M, Vander Jeught M, Neupane J, De Vos WH, Van den Abbeel E, Lierman S, De Sutter P, Heindryckx B. Strontium fails to induce Ca 2+ release and activation in human oocytes despite the presence of functional TRPV3 channels. Hum Reprod Open 2018; 2018:hoy005. [PMID: 30895246 PMCID: PMC6276696 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoy005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2017] [Revised: 01/31/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are the transient receptor potential cation channels vanilloid 3 (TRPV3) present and able to mediate strontium (Sr2+) induced artificial activation in human oocytes? SUMMARY ANSWER Sr2+ did not induce Ca2+ rises or provoke activation in human oocytes, however, mRNA for the TRPV3 channel was present in metaphase II (MII) human oocytes after IVM and TRPV3 agonists induced Ca2+ rises and oocyte activation, demonstrating the channels were functional. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Selective activation of TRPV3 by agonists induces Ca2+ entry and promotes mouse oocyte activation, and the absence of TRPV3 channels in mouse oocytes prevents Sr2+ mediated artificial activation. Sr2+ is sometimes used to overcome fertilization failure after ICSI in the clinic, but its efficiency is still controversial and the mechanism(s) of how it mediates the Ca2+ flux has not been studied yet in human. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION The protein distribution (n = 10) and mRNA expression level (n = 19) of the TRPV3 channels was investigated in human MII oocytes after IVM. The Sr2+ (10 mM) and TRPV3 agonists (200 μM 2-aminoethoxydiphenyl borate [2-APB] and 200 μM carvacrol)-induced Ca2+ response was analyzed in human (n = 15, n = 16 and n = 16, respectively) and mouse oocytes (n = 15, n = 19 and n = 26, respectively). The subsequent embryonic developmental potential following the parthenogenetic activation using these three agents was recorded in human (n = 10, n = 9 and n = 9, respectively) and mouse (n = 20 per agent) oocytes, by determining pronucleus, or 2-cell and blastocyst formation rates. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS MII oocytes from B6D2F1 mice (6–10 weeks old) as well as human IVM oocytes and IVO oocytes (from patients aged 25–38 years old) with aggregates of smooth endoplasmic reticulum clusters were used. The expression of TRPV3 channels was determined by immunofluorescence staining with confocal microscopy and RT-PCR, and the temporal evolution of intracellular Ca2+ concentration was measured by time-lapse imaging after exposure to Sr2+ and TRPV3 agonists (2-APB and carvacrol). Artificial activation efficiency was assessed using these agents. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Sr2+ did not promote Ca2+ oscillations or provoke activation in human oocytes. Transcripts of TRPV3 channels were present in IVM MII human oocytes. TRPV3 protein was expressed and distributed throughout the ooplasm of human oocytes, rather than particularly concentrated in plasma membrane as observed in mouse MII oocytes. Both agonists of TRPV3 (2-APB and carvacrol), promoted a single Ca2+ transient and activated a comparable percentage of more than half of the exposed human oocytes (P > 0.05). The agonist 2-APB was also efficient in activating mouse oocytes, however, significantly fewer mouse oocytes responded to carvacrol than 2-APB in both the Ca2+ analysis and activation test (P < 0.001). LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The availability of fresh IVO matured oocytes in human was limited. Data from TRPV3 knockout model are not included. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The benefit of clinical application using Sr2+ to overcome fertilization failure after ICSI requires further validation. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was supported by FWO-Vlaanderen, China Scholarship Council and Special Research Fund from Ghent University (Bijzonder Onderzoeksfonds, BOF). No competing interests are declared.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Lu
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.,Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Renmin South Road 20, 610041 Chengdu, China
| | - R Reddy
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Ferrer Buitrago
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - M Vander Jeught
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - J Neupane
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - W H De Vos
- Cell Systems and Imaging research Group (CSI), Department of Molecular Biotechnology, Faculty of Bioscience Engineering, Ghent University, Coupure Links 653, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.,Laboratory of Cell Biology and Histology, Department of Veterinary Sciences, University of Antwerp, Universiteitsplein 1, 2610 Antwerpen, Belgium
| | - E Van den Abbeel
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - S Lierman
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - P De Sutter
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - B Heindryckx
- Ghent-Fertility and Stem Cell Team (G-FaST), Department for Reproductive Medicine, Ghent University Hospital, De Pintelaan 185, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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12
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Kochhar PK, Ghosh P. Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection with Assisted Oocyte Activation Resulting in Successful Pregnancies and Live Birth in Couples with Globozoospermia: A Report of Two Cases. J Hum Reprod Sci 2018; 11:72-74. [PMID: 29681719 PMCID: PMC5892107 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_47_17] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Globozoospermia, characterized by round-headed acrosomeless sperm, is a rare and severe form of teratozoospermia. We report a successful pregnancy in two cases of total globozoospermia after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) with oocyte activation with calcium ionophore. In thefirst case, globozoospermia was diagnosed on the day of oocyte retrieval. Among 11 retrieved oocytes, only one fertilized after ICSI. The pregnancy test 2 weeks after embryo transfer was negative. Two months later, the patient underwent ovarian stimulation again. The 12 retrieved oocytes were exposed to calcium ionophore medium following ICSI. Four oocytes were fertilized and two blastocysts were transferred resulting in a clinical pregnancy. In the second case, among seven retrieved oocytes, three fertilized after ICSI and assisted oocyte activation, and two 8-cell embryos were transferred, resulting in a positive pregnancy. The successful outcome here justifies the use of ICSI with oocyte activation to improve the pregnancy rate significantly when dealing with globozoospermia.
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13
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Jeve YB, Potdar N, Blower JA, Gelbaya T. Strategies to improve fertilisation rates with assisted conception: a systematic review. HUM FERTIL 2017; 21:229-247. [PMID: 28545312 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2017.1324182] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Successful fertilisation is one of the key steps determining success of assisted conception. Various factors including sperm or oocyte pathology and environmental factors have a significant impact on fertilisation rates. This systematic review is aimed to evaluate the existing evidence about factors affecting fertilisation and strategies to improve fertilisation rates. A literature search was performed using Ovid MEDLINE ® (Jan 1950-April 2016), EMBASE (Jan 1950-April 2016), Ovid OLDMEDLINE ®, Pre-MEDLINE (Jan 1950-April 2016) and the Cochrane Library. Relevant key words were used to combine sets of results and a total 243 papers were screened. Only qualitative analysis was performed, as there was major heterogeneity in study design and methodology for quantitative synthesis. Factors affecting fertilisation were divided into sperm- and oocyte-related factors. The methods to improve fertilisation rates were grouped together based on the approach used to improve fertilisation rates. Optimising laboratory condition and procedural effects in techniques is associated with improved fertilisation rates. Various techniques are described to improve fertilisation rates including assisted oocyte activation, physiological intracytoplasmic sperm injection (PICSI) and intracytoplasmic morphologically selected sperm injection (IMSI). This review highlights the promising strategies under research to enhance fertilisation rates. Adequately powered multicentre randomised trials are required to evaluate these techniques before considering clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yadava Bapurao Jeve
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Neelam Potdar
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK.,b Reproductive Sciences Section , University of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Jane A Blower
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
| | - Tarek Gelbaya
- a Leicester Fertility Centre , University Hospitals of Leicester , Leicester , UK
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14
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Vanden Meerschaut F, Nikiforaki D, Heindryckx B, De Sutter P. Assisted oocyte activation following ICSI fertilization failure. Reprod Biomed Online 2014; 28:560-71. [PMID: 24656559 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2014.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 97] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2013] [Revised: 01/12/2014] [Accepted: 01/22/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
The capacity of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) to permit almost any type of spermatozoa to fertilize oocytes has made it the most successful treatment for male factor infertility. Despite its high success rates, fertilization failure following ICSI still occurs in 1-3% of couples. Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) is being increasingly applied in human assisted reproduction to restore fertilization and pregnancy rates in couples with a history of ICSI fertilization failure. However, controversy still exists mainly because the artificial activating agents do not mimic precisely the initial physiological processes of mammalian oocyte activation, which has led to safety concerns. This review addresses the mechanism of human oocyte activation and the relatively rare phenomenon of fertilization failure after ICSI. Next, it describes the current diagnostic approaches and focuses on the application, efficiency and safety of AOA in human assisted reproduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Vanden Meerschaut
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185 - 1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Dimitra Nikiforaki
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185 - 1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185 - 1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185 - 1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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15
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Vanden Meerschaut F, D'Haeseleer E, Gysels H, Thienpont Y, Dewitte G, Heindryckx B, Oostra A, Roeyers H, Van Lierde K, De Sutter P. Neonatal and neurodevelopmental outcome of children aged 3-10 years born following assisted oocyte activation. Reprod Biomed Online 2013; 28:54-63. [PMID: 24125944 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2013.07.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2013] [Revised: 07/18/2013] [Accepted: 07/23/2013] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Assisted oocyte activation (AOA) using a calcium ionophore has been used for more than a decade following intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) fertilization failure. However, since AOA does not mimic precisely the physiological fertilization process, concerns exist about its use in human assisted reproduction. This study assessed the neonatal and neurodevelopmental outcome of children aged ≥ 3 years who had been born following AOA in our centre. Twenty-one children participated in the study (81% response rate; mean age 63.6 ± 21.07 months). Neonatal data were collected via questionnaires. Neurodevelopmental outcome was tested using the Reynell Developmental Language Scales or Clinical Evaluation of Language Fundamentals, Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence or Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, and the Movement Assessment Battery for Children III. Behaviour was scored by the Social Communication Questionnaire, the Child Behaviour Checklist and the Teachers Report Form. For all tests and questionnaires, the mean outcomes lay within the expected ranges. These are first data on the developmental outcome of AOA children. The high response rate and the robustness of the tests support the data, which are reassuring although still considered preliminary. Therefore, AOA should still be performed only in selected couples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frauke Vanden Meerschaut
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185-1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Evelien D'Haeseleer
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Speech and Language Pathology, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185-2P2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Hannelore Gysels
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Research Group Developmental Disorders, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Ylenia Thienpont
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Research Group Developmental Disorders, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Griet Dewitte
- Centre for Developmental Disorders, De Pintelaan 185-2K5, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Björn Heindryckx
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185-1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - An Oostra
- Centre for Developmental Disorders, De Pintelaan 185-2K5, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Herbert Roeyers
- Department of Experimental Clinical and Health Psychology, Research Group Developmental Disorders, Ghent University, Henri Dunantlaan 2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Kristiane Van Lierde
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head and Neck Surgery, Speech and Language Pathology, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185-2P2, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
| | - Petra De Sutter
- Department for Reproductive Medicine, University Hospital Ghent, De Pintelaan 185-1P4, 9000 Ghent, Belgium
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