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Almeida GHDR, da Silva RS, Gibin MS, Gonzaga VHDS, dos Santos H, Igleisa RP, Fernandes LA, Fernandes IC, Nesiyama TNG, Sato F, Baesso ML, Hernandes L, Rinaldi JDC, Meirelles FV, Astolfi-Ferreira CS, Ferreira AJP, Carreira ACO. Region-Specific Decellularization of Porcine Uterine Tube Extracellular Matrix: A New Approach for Reproductive Tissue-Engineering Applications. Biomimetics (Basel) 2024; 9:382. [PMID: 39056823 PMCID: PMC11274565 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics9070382] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2024] [Revised: 06/14/2024] [Accepted: 06/19/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
The uterine tube extracellular matrix is a key component that regulates tubal tissue physiology, and it has a region-specific structural distribution, which is directly associated to its functions. Considering this, the application of biological matrices in culture systems is an interesting strategy to develop biomimetic tubal microenvironments and enhance their complexity. However, there are no established protocols to produce tubal biological matrices that consider the organ morphophysiology for such applications. Therefore, this study aimed to establish region-specific protocols to obtain decellularized scaffolds derived from porcine infundibulum, ampulla, and isthmus to provide suitable sources of biomaterials for tissue-engineering approaches. Porcine uterine tubes were decellularized in solutions of 0.1% SDS and 0.5% Triton X-100. The decellularization efficiency was evaluated by DAPI staining and DNA quantification. We analyzed the ECM composition and structure by optical and scanning electronic microscopy, FTIR, and Raman spectroscopy. DNA and DAPI assays validated the decellularization, presenting a significative reduction in cellular content. Structural and spectroscopy analyses revealed that the produced scaffolds remained well structured and with the ECM composition preserved. YS and HEK293 cells were used to attest cytocompatibility, allowing high cell viability rates and successful interaction with the scaffolds. These results suggest that such matrices are applicable for future biotechnological approaches in the reproductive field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gustavo Henrique Doná Rodrigues Almeida
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Raquel Souza da Silva
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Mariana Sversut Gibin
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Victória Hellen de Souza Gonzaga
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Henrique dos Santos
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Rebeca Piatniczka Igleisa
- The Ken & Ruth Davee Department of Neurology, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL 60611, USA;
| | - Leticia Alves Fernandes
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Iorrane Couto Fernandes
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
| | - Thais Naomi Gonçalves Nesiyama
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (T.N.G.N.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Francielle Sato
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Mauro Luciano Baesso
- Department of Physics, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (M.S.G.); (V.H.d.S.G.); (H.d.S.); (F.S.); (M.L.B.)
| | - Luzmarina Hernandes
- Department of Morphological Sciences, State University of Maringá, Maringá 87020-900, Brazil; (L.H.); (J.d.C.R.)
| | | | - Flávio Vieira Meirelles
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, Faculty of Animal Science and Food Engineering, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (T.N.G.N.); (F.V.M.)
| | - Claudete S. Astolfi-Ferreira
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.S.A.-F.); (A.J.P.F.)
| | - Antonio José Piantino Ferreira
- Department of Pathology, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 05508-270, Brazil; (C.S.A.-F.); (A.J.P.F.)
| | - Ana Claudia Oliveira Carreira
- Department of Surgery, School of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, University of São Paulo, São Paulo 03828-000, Brazil; (R.S.d.S.); (L.A.F.); (I.C.F.); (A.C.O.C.)
- Centre for Natural and Human Sciences, Federal University of ABC, Santo André 09040-902, Brazil
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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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Mendola RJ, Biswas L, Schindler K, Walmsley RH, Russell H, Angle M, Garrisi GJ. Influx of zwitterionic buffer after intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) membrane piercing alters the transcriptome of human oocytes. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:1341-1356. [PMID: 38436798 PMCID: PMC11143126 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03064-2] [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] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/05/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE/STUDY QUESTION Does piercing oocyte membranes during ICSI allow the influx of surrounding zwitterionic buffer into human oocytes and result in altered developmental competence? METHODS Human oocytes directed to IRB-approved research were used to determine the unrestricted influx of surrounding buffer into the oocyte after piercing of membranes via confocal fluorescence microscopy (n = 80 human MII oocytes) and the influence of the select buffer influx of HEPES, MOPS, and bicarbonate buffer on the oocyte transcriptome using ultra-low input RNA sequencing (n = 40 human MII oocytes). RESULTS Piercing membranes of human MII oocytes during sham-ICSI resulted in the unrestricted influx of surrounding culture buffer into the oocyte that was beyond technician control. Transcriptome analysis revealed statistically significant decreased cytoskeletal transcripts in the pierced buffer cohorts, higher levels of embryo competency transcripts (IGF2 and G6PD) in the bicarbonate buffer cohort, higher levels of stress-induced transcriptional repressor transcripts (MAF1) in the HEPES and MOPS cohorts, and decreased levels of numerous chromosomal maintenance transcripts (SMC3) in the HEPES buffer cohort. The HEPES buffer cohort also revealed higher levels of transcripts suggesting increased oxidative (GPX1) and lysosomal stress (LAMP1). CONCLUSION The influence of zwitterionic buffer on intrinsic cellular mechanisms provides numerous concerns for their use in IVF clinical applications. The primary concern is the ICSI procedure, in which the surrounding buffer is allowed influx into the oocytes after membrane piercing. Selecting a physiological bicarbonate buffer may reduce imposed stress on oocytes, resulting in improved embryo development and clinical results because intracellular MOPS, and especially HEPES, may negatively impact intrinsic biological mechanisms, as revealed by transcriptome changes. These findings further support the utilization of bicarbonate buffer as the oocyte-holding medium during ICSI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert J Mendola
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA.
| | - Leelabati Biswas
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Karen Schindler
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, USA
| | - Renee H Walmsley
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA
| | - Helena Russell
- Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - Marlane Angle
- Eastern Virginia Medical School (EVMS), Norfolk, VA, USA
| | - G John Garrisi
- Institute for Reproductive Medicine and Science (IRMS) at Saint Barnabas, Livingston, NJ, USA
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Hesters L, Sermondade N, Lambert C, Pouly JL, Pereira B, Lucas C, Levy R, Brugnon F. Is large for gestational age in singletons born after frozen embryo transfer associated with freezing technique or endometrial preparation protocol? A longitudinal national French study. Hum Reprod 2024; 39:724-732. [PMID: 38384249 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deae027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 01/28/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is large for gestational age (LGA) observed in babies born after frozen embryo transfer (FET) associated with either the freezing technique or the endometrial preparation protocol? SUMMARY ANSWER Artificial cycles are associated with a higher risk of LGA, with no difference in rate between the two freezing techniques (vitrification versus slow freezing) or embryo stage (cleaved embryo versus blastocyst). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Several studies have compared neonatal outcomes after fresh embryo transfer (ET) and FET and shown that FET is associated with improved neonatal outcomes, including reduced risks of preterm birth, low birthweight, and small for gestational age (SGA), when compared with fresh ET. However, these studies also revealed an increased risk of LGA after FET. The underlying pathophysiology of this increased risk remains unclear; parental infertility, laboratory procedures (including embryo culture conditions and freezing-thawing processes), and endometrial preparation treatments might be involved. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A multicentre epidemiological data study was performed through a retrospective analysis of the standardized individual clinical records of the French national register of IVF from 2014 to 2018, including single deliveries resulting from fresh ET or FET that were prospectively collected in fertility centres. Complementary data were collected from the participating fertility centres and included the vitrification media and devices, and the endometrial preparation protocols. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data were collected from 35 French ART centres, leading to the inclusion of a total of 72 789 fresh ET, 10 602 slow-freezing FET, and 39 062 vitrification FET. Main clinical outcomes were presented according to origin of the transferred embryos (fresh, slow frozen, or vitrified embryos) and endometrial preparations for FET (ovulatory or artificial cycles), comparing five different groups (fresh, slow freezing-ovulatory cycle, slow freezing-artificial cycle, vitrification-ovulatory cycle, and vitrification-artificial cycle). Foetal growth disorders were defined in live-born singletons according to gestational age and sex-specific weight percentile distribution: SGA and LGA if <10th and ≥90th percentiles, respectively. Analyses were performed using linear mixed models with the ART centres as random effect. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Transfers led to, respectively, 19 006, 1798, and 9195 deliveries corresponding to delivery rates per transfer of 26.1%, 17.0%, and 23.5% after fresh ET, slow-freezing FET, and vitrification FET, respectively. FET cycles were performed in either ovulatory cycles (n = 21 704) or artificial cycles (n = 34 237), leading to 5910 and 10 322 pregnancies, respectively, and corresponding to pregnancy rates per transfer of 31.6% and 33.3%. A significantly higher rate of spontaneous miscarriage was observed in artificial cycles when compared with ovulatory cycles (33.3% versus 21.4%, P < 0.001, in slow freezing groups and 31.6% versus 21.8%, P < 0.001 in vitrification groups). Consequently, a lower delivery rate per transfer was observed in artificial cycles compared with ovulatory cycles both in slow freezing and vitrification groups (15.5% versus 18.9%, P < 0.001 and 22.8% versus 24.9%, P < 0.001, respectively). Among a total of 26 585 live-born singletons, 16 413 babies were born from fresh ET, 1644 from slow-freezing FET, and 8528 from vitrification FET. Birthweight was significantly higher in the FET groups than in the fresh ET group, with no difference between the two freezing techniques. Likewise, LGA rates were higher and SGA rates were lower in the FET groups compared with the fresh ET group whatever the method used for embryo freezing. In a multivariable analysis, the risk of LGA following FET was significantly increased in artificial compared with ovulatory cycles. In contrast, the risk of LGA was not associated with either the freezing procedure (vitrification versus slow freezing) or the embryo stage (cleaved embryo versus blastocyst) at freezing. Regarding the vitrification method, the risk of LGA was not associated with either the vitrification medium used or the embryo stage. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION No data were available on maternal context, such as parity, BMI, infertility cause, or maternal comorbidities, in the French national database. In particular, we cannot exclude that the increased risk of LGA observed following FET with artificial cycles may, at least partially, be associated with a confounding effect of some maternal factors. No information about embryo culture and incubation conditions was available. Most of the vitrification techniques were performed using the same device and with two main vitrification media, limiting the validity of a comparison of risk for LGA according to the device or vitrification media used. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results seem reassuring, since no potential foetal growth disorders following embryo vitrification in comparison with slow freezing were observed. Even if other factors are involved, the endometrial preparation treatment seems to have the greatest impact on LGA risk following FET. FET during ovulatory cycles could minimize the risk for foetal growth disorders. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work has received funding from the French Biomedicine Agency (Grant number: 19AMP002). None of the authors has any conflict of interest to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laetitia Hesters
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris-Saclay, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clamart, France
| | - Nathalie Sermondade
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Céline Lambert
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Jean-Luc Pouly
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Bruno Pereira
- Biostatistics Unit, Department of Clinical Research and Innovation, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Cécily Lucas
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
| | - Rachel Levy
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris, France
| | - Florence Brugnon
- Department of Reproductive Biology CECOS, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire (CHU) Clermont-Ferrand, Clermont-Ferrand, France
- University of Clermont Auvergne, IMoST, INSERM 1240, Faculté de Médecine, Clermont-Ferrand, France
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Sonigo C, Ahdad-Yata N, Pirtea P, Solignac C, Grynberg M, Sermondade N. Do IVF culture conditions have an impact on neonatal outcomes? A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Assist Reprod Genet 2024; 41:563-580. [PMID: 38246922 PMCID: PMC10957805 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-024-03020-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Accepted: 12/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/23/2024] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Are embryo culture conditions, including type of incubator, oxygen tension, and culture media, associated with obstetric or neonatal complications following in vitro fertilization (IVF)? METHODS A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library was performed from January 01, 2008, until October 31, 2021. The studies reporting quantitative data on at least one of the primary outcomes (birthweight and preterm birth) for the exposure group and the control group were included. For oxygen tension, independent meta-analysis was performed using Review Manager, comparing hypoxia/normoxia. For culture media, a network meta-analysis was carried out using R software, allowing the inclusion of articles comparing two or more culture media. RESULTS After reviewing 182 records, 39 full-text articles were assessed for eligibility. A total of 28 studies were kept for review. Meta-analysis about the impact of incubator type on perinatal outcomes could not be carried out because of a limited number of studies. For oxygen tension, three studies were included. The pairwise meta-analysis comparing hypoxia/normoxia did not show any statistical difference for birthweight and gestational age at birth. For culture media, 18 studies were included. The network meta-analysis failed to reveal any significant impact of different culture media on birthweight or preterm birth. CONCLUSION No difference was observed for neonatal outcomes according to the embryo culture conditions evaluated in this review. Further research is needed about the safety of IVF culture conditions as far as future children's health is concerned.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charlotte Sonigo
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction et Préservation de la Fertilité, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clamart, France
| | - Naouel Ahdad-Yata
- Unité d'Assistance Médicale à la Procréation, Hôpital Américain, Neuilly-sur-Seine, France
| | - Paul Pirtea
- Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique et Reproduction, Hôpital Foch, Université Paris Ouest, Suresnes, France
| | | | - Michael Grynberg
- Service de Médecine de la Reproduction et Préservation de la Fertilité, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Hôpitaux Universitaires Paris Sud, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Clamart, France
| | - Nathalie Sermondade
- Service de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, Hôpital Tenon, Hôpitaux Universitaires Est Parisien, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, 4 rue de la Chine, 75020, Paris, France.
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Ahmadi H, Aghebati-Maleki L, Rashidiani S, Csabai T, Nnaemeka OB, Szekeres-Bartho J. Long-Term Effects of ART on the Health of the Offspring. Int J Mol Sci 2023; 24:13564. [PMID: 37686370 PMCID: PMC10487905 DOI: 10.3390/ijms241713564] [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: 08/17/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 08/29/2023] [Indexed: 09/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) significantly increase the chance of successful pregnancy and live birth in infertile couples. The different procedures for ART, including in vitro fertilization (IVF), intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), intrauterine insemination (IUI), and gamete intrafallopian tube transfer (GIFT), are widely used to overcome infertility-related problems. In spite of its inarguable usefulness, concerns about the health consequences of ART-conceived babies have been raised. There are reports about the association of ART with birth defects and health complications, e.g., malignancies, high blood pressure, generalized vascular functional disorders, asthma and metabolic disorders in later life. It has been suggested that hormonal treatment of the mother, and the artificial environment during the manipulation of gametes and embryos may cause genomic and epigenetic alterations and subsequent complications in the health status of ART-conceived babies. In the current study, we aimed to review the possible long-term consequences of different ART procedures on the subsequent health status of ART-conceived offspring, considering the confounding factors that might account for/contribute to the long-term consequences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamid Ahmadi
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
| | - Leili Aghebati-Maleki
- Department of Immunology, School of Medicine, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran;
- Immunology Research Center, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz 5165665931, Iran
| | - Shima Rashidiani
- Department of Medical Biochemistry, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Timea Csabai
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
| | - Obodo Basil Nnaemeka
- Department of Laboratory Diagnostics, Faculty of Health Sciences, Pécs University, 7621 Pécs, Hungary;
| | - Julia Szekeres-Bartho
- Department of Medical Biology and Central Electron Microscope Laboratory, Medical School, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary; (H.A.); (T.C.)
- János Szentágothai Research Centre, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- Endocrine Studies, Centre of Excellence, Pécs University, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- National Laboratory of Human Reproduction, 7624 Pécs, Hungary
- MTA—PTE Human Reproduction Research Group, 7624 Pecs, Hungary
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7
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Ducreux B, Barberet J, Guilleman M, Pérez-Palacios R, Teissandier A, Bourc’his D, Fauque P. Assessing the influence of distinct culture media on human pre-implantation development using single-embryo transcriptomics. Front Cell Dev Biol 2023; 11:1155634. [PMID: 37435029 PMCID: PMC10330962 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2023.1155634] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 06/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
The use of assisted reproductive technologies is consistently rising across the world. However, making an informed choice on which embryo culture medium should be preferred to ensure satisfactory pregnancy rates and the health of future children critically lacks scientific background. In particular, embryos within their first days of development are highly sensitive to their micro-environment, and it is unknown how their transcriptome adapts to different embryo culture compositions. Here, we determined the impact of culture media composition on gene expression in human pre-implantation embryos. By employing single-embryo RNA-sequencing after 2 or 5 days of the post-fertilization culture in different commercially available media (Ferticult, Global, and SSM), we revealed medium-specific differences in gene expression changes. Embryos cultured pre-compaction until day 2 in Ferticult or Global media notably displayed 266 differentially expressed genes, which were related to essential developmental pathways. Herein, 19 of them could have a key role in early development, based on their previously described dynamic expression changes across development. When embryos were cultured after day 2 in the same media considered more suitable because of its amino acid enrichment, 18 differentially expressed genes thought to be involved in the transition from early to later embryonic stages were identified. Overall, the differences were reduced at the blastocyst stage, highlighting the ability of embryos conceived in a suboptimal in vitro culture medium to mitigate the transcriptomic profile acquired under different pre-compaction environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastien Ducreux
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
| | - Julie Barberet
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
| | - Magali Guilleman
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
| | - Raquel Pérez-Palacios
- Departamento de Anatomía, Embriología y Genética Animal, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Zaragoza, Zaragoza, Spain
| | | | | | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté—Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Développement (GAD), INSERM UMR1231, Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction—CECOS, Dijon, France
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8
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Juchniewicz P, Kloska A, Portalska K, Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka J, Węgrzyn G, Liss J, Głodek P, Tukaj S, Piotrowska E. X-chromosome inactivation patterns depend on age and tissue but not conception method in humans. Chromosome Res 2023; 31:4. [PMID: 36695960 PMCID: PMC9877087 DOI: 10.1007/s10577-023-09717-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2022] [Revised: 11/27/2022] [Accepted: 12/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/26/2023]
Abstract
Female somatic X-chromosome inactivation (XCI) balances the X-linked transcriptional dosages between the sexes, randomly silencing the maternal or paternal X chromosome in each cell of 46,XX females. Skewed XCI toward one parental X has been observed in association with ageing and in some female carriers of X-linked diseases. To address the problem of non-random XCI, we quantified the XCI skew in different biological samples of naturally conceived females of different age groups and girls conceived after in vitro fertilization (IVF). Generally, XCI skew differed between saliva, blood, and buccal swabs, while saliva and blood had the most similar XCI patterns in individual females. XCI skew increased with age in saliva, but not in other tissues. We showed no significant differences in the XCI patterns in tissues of naturally conceived and IVF females. The gene expression profile of the placenta and umbilical cord blood was determined depending on the XCI pattern. The increased XCI skewing in the placental tissue was associated with the differential expression of several genes out of 40 considered herein. Notably, skewed XCI patterns (> 80:20) were identified with significantly increased expression levels of four genes: CD44, KDM6A, PHLDA2, and ZRSR2. The differences in gene expression patterns between samples with random and non-random XCI may shed new light on factors contributing to the XCI pattern outcome and indicate new paths in future research on the phenomenon of XCI skewing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrycja Juchniewicz
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Anna Kloska
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Karolina Portalska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Jakóbkiewicz-Banecka
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Grzegorz Węgrzyn
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Joanna Liss
- Department of Medical Biology and Genetics, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland ,Research and Development Center, INVICTA, Sopot, Poland
| | - Piotr Głodek
- Research and Development Center, INVICTA, Sopot, Poland
| | - Stefan Tukaj
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Ewa Piotrowska
- Department of Molecular Biology, Faculty of Biology, University of Gdańsk, Wita Stwosza 59, 80-308 Gdańsk, Poland
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9
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Hersbach BA, Fischer DS, Masserdotti G, Deeksha, Mojžišová K, Waltzhöni T, Rodriguez‐Terrones D, Heinig M, Theis FJ, Götz M, Stricker SH. Probing cell identity hierarchies by fate titration and collision during direct reprogramming. Mol Syst Biol 2022; 18:e11129. [PMID: 36106915 PMCID: PMC9476893 DOI: 10.15252/msb.202211129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2022] [Revised: 08/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Despite the therapeutic promise of direct reprogramming, basic principles concerning fate erasure and the mechanisms to resolve cell identity conflicts remain unclear. To tackle these fundamental questions, we established a single-cell protocol for the simultaneous analysis of multiple cell fate conversion events based on combinatorial and traceable reprogramming factor expression: Collide-seq. Collide-seq revealed the lack of a common mechanism through which fibroblast-specific gene expression loss is initiated. Moreover, we found that the transcriptome of converting cells abruptly changes when a critical level of each reprogramming factor is attained, with higher or lower levels not contributing to major changes. By simultaneously inducing multiple competing reprogramming factors, we also found a deterministic system, in which titration of fates against each other yields dominant or colliding fates. By investigating one collision in detail, we show that reprogramming factors can disturb cell identity programs independent of their ability to bind their target genes. Taken together, Collide-seq has shed light on several fundamental principles of fate conversion that may aid in improving current reprogramming paradigms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bob A Hersbach
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center MunichLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
- Graduate School of Systemic Neurosciences, BiocenterLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
| | - David S Fischer
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- TUM School of Life Sciences WeihenstephanTechnical University of MunichFreisingGermany
- Department of InformaticsTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Giacomo Masserdotti
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center MunichLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Deeksha
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center MunichLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
| | - Karolina Mojžišová
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
| | - Thomas Waltzhöni
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Core Facility GenomicsHelmholtz Zentrum MünchenOberschleißheimGermany
| | - Diego Rodriguez‐Terrones
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Present address:
Research Institute of Molecular Pathology (IMP)ViennaAustria
| | - Matthias Heinig
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Department of InformaticsTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
| | - Fabian J Theis
- Institute of Computational Biology, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- TUM School of Life Sciences WeihenstephanTechnical University of MunichFreisingGermany
- Department of InformaticsTechnical University of MunichMunichGermany
- German Excellence Cluster of Systems NeurologyBiomedical Center MunichMunichGermany
| | - Magdalena Götz
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center MunichLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
- German Excellence Cluster of Systems NeurologyBiomedical Center MunichMunichGermany
| | - Stefan H Stricker
- Institute of Stem Cell Research, Helmholtz Zentrum MünchenGerman Research Center for Environmental HealthOberschleißheimGermany
- Division of Physiological Genomics, Biomedical Center MunichLudwig‐Maximilians UniversityMunichGermany
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10
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Koeck RM, Busato F, Tost J, Consten D, van Echten-Arends J, Mastenbroek S, Wurth Y, Remy S, Langie S, Nawrot TS, Plusquin M, Alfano R, Bijnens EM, Gielen M, van Golde R, Dumoulin JCM, Brunner H, van Montfoort APA, Zamani Esteki M. Methylome-wide analysis of IVF neonates that underwent embryo culture in different media revealed no significant differences. NPJ Genom Med 2022; 7:39. [PMID: 35768464 PMCID: PMC9243125 DOI: 10.1038/s41525-022-00310-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/13/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
A growing number of children born are conceived through in vitro fertilisation (IVF), which has been linked to an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, as well as altered growth profiles and cardiometabolic differences in the resultant individuals. Some of these outcomes have also been shown to be influenced by the use of different IVF culture media and this effect is hypothesised to be mediated epigenetically, e.g. through the methylome. As such, we profiled the umbilical cord blood methylome of IVF neonates that underwent preimplantation embryo development in two different IVF culture media (G5 or HTF), using the Infinium Human Methylation EPIC BeadChip. We found no significant methylation differences between the two groups in terms of: (i) systematic differences at CpG sites or regions, (ii) imprinted sites/genes or birth weight-associated sites, (iii) stochastic differences presenting as DNA methylation outliers or differentially variable sites, and (iv) epigenetic gestational age acceleration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebekka M Koeck
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Florence Busato
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, CEA - institut de Biologie François Jacob, Université Paris Saclay, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Jorg Tost
- Laboratory for Epigenetics & Environment, Centre National de Recherche en Genomique Humaine, CEA - institut de Biologie François Jacob, Université Paris Saclay, 91000, Evry, France
| | - Dimitri Consten
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022, GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Jannie van Echten-Arends
- Section of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713, GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105, AZ, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Wurth
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022, GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Sylvie Remy
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium
| | - Sabine Langie
- Health Unit, Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO), Boeretang 200, 2400, Mol, Belgium.,Department of Pharmacology & Toxicology, School for Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism (NUTRIM), Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Tim S Nawrot
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Department of Public Health and Primary Care, Leuven University (KU Leuven), Leuven, Belgium
| | - Michelle Plusquin
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Rossella Alfano
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium
| | - Esmée M Bijnens
- Centre for Environmental Sciences, Hasselt University, Diepenbeek, Belgium.,Department of Human Structure and Repair, Ghent University Hospital, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Marij Gielen
- Department of Epidemiology and Nutrition and Toxicology Research Institute Maastricht (NUTRIM), Maastricht University Medical Centre, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Ron van Golde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - John C M Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Han Brunner
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,Department of Human Genetics, Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Aafke P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University Medical Center+, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| | - Masoud Zamani Esteki
- Department of Clinical Genetics, Maastricht University Medical Centre+, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,Department of Genetics and Cell Biology, GROW School for Oncology and Reproduction, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
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11
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van Duijn L, Steegers-Theunissen RP, Baart EB, Willemsen S, Laven JS, Rousian M. The impact of culture medium used in IVF-treatment on post-implantation embryonic growth and development with emphasis on sex-specificity: The Rotterdam Periconception Cohort. Reprod Biomed Online 2022; 45:1085-1096. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2022.06.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 05/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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12
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Sacha CR, Gopal D, Liu CL, Cabral HR, Stern JE, Carusi DA, Racowsky C, Bormann CL. The impact of single-step and sequential embryo culture systems on obstetric and perinatal outcomes in singleton pregnancies: the Massachusetts Outcomes Study of Assisted Reproductive Technology. Fertil Steril 2022; 117:1246-1254. [PMID: 35473909 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2022.03.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Revised: 03/07/2022] [Accepted: 03/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To compare the obstetric and perinatal outcomes of deliveries conceived with embryos from single-step vs. sequential culture media systems. DESIGN Historical cohort of Massachusetts vital records linked to assisted reproductive technology clinic data from the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology Clinic Outcome Reporting System and laboratory embryology data from two large academic hospital fertility centers. SETTING Not applicable. PATIENTS Patients with singleton live birth deliveries between 2004 and 2017 conceived with autologous assisted reproductive technology cycles with fresh blastocyst transfer using either single-step (n = 1,058) or sequential (n = 474) culture media systems. INTERVENTIONS None. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Associations of single-step vs. sequential culture with obstetric outcomes (mode of delivery, placental abnormalities, pregnancy-induced hypertension, and gestational diabetes) and perinatal outcomes (preterm birth, low birthweight, small-for-gestational-age, and large-for-gestational-age [LGA]) were assessed with multivariate logistic modeling, adjusted for maternal age, race/ethnicity, education, parity, insurance type, protein supplementation, oxygen concentration, fertilization method, and number of transferred embryos. RESULTS Compared with sequential culture, single-step culture was associated with increased odds of LGA (adjusted odds ratio 2.1, 95% confidence interval 1.04-4.22). There were no statistically significant differences between single-step and sequential culture media systems in the odds of placental abnormalities, pregnancy-induced hypertension, gestational diabetes, prematurity, small-for-gestational-age, or low birthweight. CONCLUSIONS Single-step culture is associated with increased odds of LGA, indicating that embryo culture media systems may affect perinatal outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caitlin R Sacha
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| | - Daksha Gopal
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Chia-Ling Liu
- Massachusetts Department of Public Health, Bureau of Family Health and Nutrition, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Howard R Cabral
- Department of Biostatistics, Boston University School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Judy E Stern
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Lebanon, New Hampshire
| | - Daniela A Carusi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Medicine, Hospital Foch, Suresnes, France
| | - Charles L Bormann
- Massachusetts General Hospital Fertility Center, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts
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13
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Sciorio R, El Hajj N. Epigenetic Risks of Medically Assisted Reproduction. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082151. [PMID: 35456243 PMCID: PMC9027760 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2022] [Revised: 04/05/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the birth of Louise Joy Brown, the first baby conceived via in vitro fertilization, more than 9 million children have been born worldwide using assisted reproductive technologies (ART). In vivo fertilization takes place in the maternal oviduct, where the unique physiological conditions guarantee the healthy development of the embryo. During early embryogenesis, a major wave of epigenetic reprogramming takes place that is crucial for the correct development of the embryo. Epigenetic reprogramming is susceptible to environmental changes and non-physiological conditions such as those applied during in vitro culture, including shift in pH and temperature, oxygen tension, controlled ovarian stimulation, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, as well as preimplantation embryo manipulations for genetic testing. In the last decade, concerns were raised of a possible link between ART and increased incidence of imprinting disorders, as well as epigenetic alterations in the germ cells of infertile parents that are transmitted to the offspring following ART. The aim of this review was to present evidence from the literature regarding epigenetic errors linked to assisted reproduction treatments and their consequences on the conceived children. Furthermore, we provide an overview of disease risk associated with epigenetic or imprinting alterations in children born via ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Nady El Hajj
- College of Health and Life Sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha P.O. Box 34110, Qatar;
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14
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Sciorio R, Esteves SC. Contemporary Use of ICSI and Epigenetic Risks to Future Generations. J Clin Med 2022; 11:jcm11082135. [PMID: 35456226 PMCID: PMC9031244 DOI: 10.3390/jcm11082135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2022] [Revised: 03/30/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Since the birth of Louise Brown in 1978 via IVF, reproductive specialists have acquired enormous knowledge and refined several procedures, which are nowadays applied in assisted reproductive technology (ART). One of the most critical steps in this practice is the fertilization process. In the early days of IVF, a remarkable concern was the unpleasant outcomes of failed fertilization, overtaken by introducing intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), delineating a real breakthrough in modern ART. ICSI became standard practice and was soon used as the most common method to fertilize oocytes. It has been used for severe male factor infertility and non-male factors, such as unexplained infertility or advanced maternal age, without robust scientific evidence. However, applying ICSI blindly is not free of potential detrimental consequences since novel studies report possible health consequences to offspring. DNA methylation and epigenetic alterations in sperm cells of infertile men might help explain some of the adverse effects reported in ICSI studies on reproductive health in future generations. Collected data concerning the health of ICSI children over the past thirty years seems to support the notion that there might be an increased risk of epigenetic disorders, congenital malformations, chromosomal alterations, and subfertility in babies born following ICSI compared to naturally conceived children. However, it is still to be elucidated to what level these data are associated with the cause of infertility or the ICSI technique. This review provides an overview of epigenetic mechanisms and possible imprinting alterations following the use of ART, in particular ICSI. It also highlights the sperm contribution to embryo epigenetic regulation and the risks of in vitro culture conditions on epigenetic dysregulation. Lastly, it summarizes the literature concerning the possible epigenetic disorders in children born after ART.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
- Correspondence:
| | - Sandro C. Esteves
- Androfert, Andrology and Human Reproduction Clinic, Campinas 13075-460, Brazil;
- Department of Surgery, Division of Urology, University of Campinas, Campinas 13083-970, Brazil
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
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15
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OUP accepted manuscript. Hum Reprod Update 2022; 28:457-479. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmac014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Revised: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
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16
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Fleming TP, Sun C, Denisenko O, Caetano L, Aljahdali A, Gould JM, Khurana P. Environmental Exposures around Conception: Developmental Pathways Leading to Lifetime Disease Risk. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:9380. [PMID: 34501969 PMCID: PMC8431664 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18179380] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2021] [Revised: 09/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Environment around conception can influence the developmental programme with lasting effects on gestational and postnatal phenotype and with consequences for adult health and disease risk. Peri-conception exposure comprises a crucial part of the 'Developmental Origins of Health and Disease' (DOHaD) concept. In this review, we consider the effects of maternal undernutrition experienced during the peri-conception period in select human models and in a mouse experimental model of protein restriction. Human datasets indicate that macronutrient deprivation around conception affect the epigenome, with enduring effects on cardiometabolic and neurological health. The mouse model, comprising maternal low protein diet exclusively during the peri-conception period, has revealed a stepwise progression in altered developmental programming following induction through maternal metabolite deficiency. This progression includes differential effects in extra-embryonic and embryonic cell lineages and tissues, leading to maladaptation in the growth trajectory and increased chronic disease comorbidities. The timeline embraces an array of mechanisms across nutrient sensing and signalling, cellular, metabolic, epigenetic and physiological processes with a coordinating role for mTORC1 signalling proposed. Early embryos appear active participants in environmental sensing to optimise the developmental programme for survival but with the trade-off of later disease. Similar adverse health outcomes may derive from other peri-conception environmental experiences, including maternal overnutrition, micronutrient availability, pollutant exposure and assisted reproductive treatments (ART) and support the need for preconception health before pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tom P. Fleming
- Biological Sciences, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; (L.C.); (A.A.); (P.K.)
| | - Congshan Sun
- Departments of Neurology and Neuroscience, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA;
- Center for Genetic Muscle Disorders, Hugo W. Moser Research Institute at Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Oleg Denisenko
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, 850 Republican St., Rm 242, Seattle, WA 98109, USA;
| | - Laura Caetano
- Biological Sciences, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; (L.C.); (A.A.); (P.K.)
| | - Anan Aljahdali
- Biological Sciences, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; (L.C.); (A.A.); (P.K.)
- Department of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, Alfaisaliah campus, University of Jeddah, Jeddah 23442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Joanna M. Gould
- Clinical Neurosciences and Psychiatry, Clinical and Experimental Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK;
| | - Pooja Khurana
- Biological Sciences, Southampton General Hospital, University of Southampton, Southampton SO16 6YD, UK; (L.C.); (A.A.); (P.K.)
- Institute for Biogenesis Research, Research Corporation of the University of Hawaii, Manoa, Honolulu, HI 96822, USA
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17
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Bick L, Nielsen AS, Knudsen UB. Embryo Culture Media Influence on Live Birth Rate and Birthweight after IVF/ICSI: A Systematic Review Comparing Vitrolife G5 Media to Other Common Culture Media. JBRA Assist Reprod 2021; 25:480-492. [PMID: 33710837 PMCID: PMC8312284 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20200099] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2020] [Accepted: 11/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Previous studies have indicated that culture media vary in efficiency and outcomes, such as live birth rate, birthweight and embryo quality. Does Vitrolife G5 series culture media result in higher live birth rates and birthweight compared to other common culture media? This study is a systematic review based on the PRISMA criteria. Relevant search terms, mesh terms (PubMed and Cochrane) and Emtree terms (Embase) were identified. We searched the literature using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane, on November 10, 2019. The inclusion criteria involved published articles in English comparing Vitrolife G5 to other common culture media. We included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and cohort studies. The quality of the studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2.0 and the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Primary outcomes were live birth rate and birthweight. Secondary outcomes were fertilization rate, implantation rate, biochemical pregnancy rate, clinical pregnancy rate, miscarriage rate, multiple pregnancies and congenital malformations. Of 187 articles screened, 11 studies fulfilled the inclusion criteria: Five RCTs and six retrospective cohort studies. Only one study reported live birth rate, showing a non-significantly higher live birth rate for Vitrolife G5 media. Birthweight had equivocal results with three of six studies, showing significantly lower (2)/higher (1) birthweights, whereas the others were non-significant. Overall, there were no significant differences concerning secondary outcomes. The results are equivocal, and we need more studies to evaluate culture media and their effect on short- and long-term health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lena Bick
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Nordre Ringgade 1, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Anja Schulz Nielsen
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Nordre Ringgade 1, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ulla Breth Knudsen
- Faculty of Health, Aarhus University, Nordre Ringgade 1, 8000 Aarhus, Denmark
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Regional Hospital Horsens, Sundvej 30, 8700 Horsens, Denmark
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18
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Mulder CL, Wattimury TM, Jongejan A, de Winter-Korver CM, van Daalen SKM, Struijk RB, Borgman SCM, Wurth Y, Consten D, van Echten-Arends J, Mastenbroek S, Dumoulin JCM, Repping S, van Pelt AMM, van Montfoort APA. Comparison of DNA methylation patterns of parentally imprinted genes in placenta derived from IVF conceptions in two different culture media. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:516-528. [PMID: 32222762 PMCID: PMC7105329 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Study question Is there a difference in DNA methylation status of imprinted genes in placentas derived from IVF conceptions where embryo culture was performed in human tubal fluid (HTF) versus G5 culture medium? Summary answer We found no statistically significant differences in the mean DNA methylation status of differentially methylated regions (DMRs) associated with parentally imprinted genes in placentas derived from IVF conceptions cultured in HTF versus G5 culture medium. What is known already Animal studies indicate that the embryo culture environment affects the DNA methylation status of the embryo. In humans, birthweight is known to be affected by the type of embryo culture medium used. The effect of embryo culture media on pregnancy, birth and child development may thus be mediated by differential methylation of parentally imprinted genes in the placenta. Study design, size, duration To identify differential DNA methylation of imprinted genes in human placenta derived from IVF conceptions exposed to HTF or G5 embryo culture medium, placenta samples (n = 43 for HTF, n = 54 for G5) were collected between 2010 and 2012 s as part of a multi-center randomized controlled trial in the Netherlands comparing these embryo culture media. Placenta samples from 69 naturally conceived (NC) live births were collected during 2008–2013 in the Netherlands as reference material. Participants/materials, setting, methods To identify differential DNA methylation of imprinted genes, we opted for an amplicon-based sequencing strategy on an Illumina MiSeq sequencing platform. DNA was isolated and 34 DMRs associated with well-defined parentally imprinted genes were amplified in a two-step PCR before sequencing using MiSeq technology. Sequencing data were analyzed in a multivariate fashion to eliminate possible confounding effects. Main results and the role of chance We found no statistically significant differences in the mean DNA methylation status of any of the imprinted DMRs in placentas derived from IVF conceptions cultured in HTF or G5 culture medium. We also did not observe any differences in the mean methylation status per amplicon nor in the variance in methylation per amplicon between the two culture medium groups. A separate surrogate variable analysis also demonstrated that the IVF culture medium was not associated with the DNA methylation status of these DMRs. The mean methylation level and variance per CpG was equal between HTF and G5 placenta. Additional comparison of DNA methylation status of NC placenta samples revealed no statistically significant differences in mean amplicon and CpG methylation between G5, HTF and NC placenta; however, the number of placenta samples exhibiting outlier methylation levels was higher in IVF placenta compared to NC (P < 0.00001). Also, we were able to identify 37 CpG sites that uniquely displayed outlier methylation in G5 placentas and 32 CpG sites that uniquely displayed outlier methylation in HTF. In 8/37 (G5) and 4/32 (HTF) unique outliers CpGs, a medium-specific unique outlier could be directly correlated to outlier methylation of the entire amplicon. Limitations, reasons for caution Due to practical reasons, not all placentas were collected during the trial, and we collected the placentas from natural conceptions from a different cohort, potentially creating bias. We limited ourselves to the DNA methylation status of 34 imprinted DMRs, and we studied only the placenta and no other embryo-derived tissues. Wider implications of the findings It has often been postulated, but has yet to be rigorously tested, that imprinting mediates the effects of embryo culture conditions on pregnancy, birth and child development in humans. Since we did not detect any statistically significant effects of embryo culture conditions on methylation status of imprinted genes in the placenta, this suggests that other unexplored mechanisms may underlie these effects. The biological and clinical relevance of detected outliers with respect to methylation levels of CpGs and DMR require additional analysis in a larger sample size as well. Given the importance and the growing number of children born through IVF, research into these molecular mechanisms is urgently needed. Study funding/competing interest(s) This study was funded by the March of Dimes grant number #6-FY13-153. The authors have no conflicts of interest. Trial registration number Placental biopsies were obtained under Netherlands Trial Registry number 1979 and 1298.
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Affiliation(s)
- Callista L Mulder
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Tess M Wattimury
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Aldo Jongejan
- Bioinformatics Laboratory, Clinical Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Cindy M de Winter-Korver
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Saskia K M van Daalen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Robert B Struijk
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Susanne C M Borgman
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Yvonne Wurth
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022 GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Dimitri Consten
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth-TweeSteden Hospital, Hilvarenbeekseweg 60, 5022 GC, Tilburg, the Netherlands
| | - Jannie van Echten-Arends
- Section of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Hanzeplein 1, 9713 GZ, Groningen, the Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - John C M Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P Debyelaan 25, 6229 GX, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Ans M M van Pelt
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Meibergdreef 9, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Aafke P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, P Debyelaan 25, 6229 GX, Maastricht, the Netherlands
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Spangmose AL, Ginström Ernstad E, Malchau S, Forman J, Tiitinen A, Gissler M, Opdahl S, Romundstad LB, Bergh C, Wennerholm UB, Henningsen AA, Pinborg A. Obstetric and perinatal risks in 4601 singletons and 884 twins conceived after fresh blastocyst transfers: a Nordic study from the CoNARTaS group. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:805-815. [PMID: 32294185 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2019] [Revised: 12/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Are obstetric and perinatal outcomes in pregnancies after fresh blastocyst transfer (BT) comparable with those born after fresh cleavage stage transfer (CT) and spontaneous conception (SC)? SUMMARY ANSWER Fresh BT is associated with a higher risk of placental and perinatal complications. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY BT optimizes the selection of top-quality embryos and increases pregnancy and live birth rates per transfer compared to CT. However, concerns have been raised as extended culture duration may increase obstetric complications and impair perinatal outcomes. Previous studies have shown a higher risk of preterm birth (PTB) among infants born after BT compared with CT. Pregnancies after BT are also prone to a higher risk of same-sex twins after single embryo transfer (SET). STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A retrospective register-based cohort study used data from Denmark, Norway and Sweden including three cohorts: 56 557 singletons and 16 315 twins born after fresh IVF/ICSI cycles and 2 808 323 SC singletons in Denmark (birth years 1997-2014), Norway (2010-2015) and Sweden (2002-2015). Of the fresh IVF/ICSI singletons, 4601 were born after BT and 51 956 after CT. The twin cohort consisted of 884 fresh IVF/ICSI children born after BT and 15 431 fresh IVF/ICSI children born after CT. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data were obtained from a large Nordic cohort of children born after ART and SC initiated by the Committee of Nordic ART and Safety (CoNARTaS). The CoNARTaS cohort was established by cross-linking National ART-, Medical Birth-, and National Patients Registers using the unique personal identification number, allocated to every citizen in the Nordic countries. Obstetric and perinatal outcomes after BT, CT and SC were compared using logistic regression analysis. For perinatal outcomes, we calculated gestational age based on the date of oocyte pick-up (OPU) and in sensitivity analyses on data from Denmark and Norway, we also calculated gestational age based on the second-trimester ultrasonography (US) scan. Risk of pregnancies with same-sex twins after SET was used as a proxy for risk of monozygotic twins. Adjustments were made for child's sex, birth year, parity (0 or >1), maternal age, body mass index, smoking, educational level, fertilization method (IVF/ICSI), the number of aspirated oocytes, SET and country. Information on educational level and the number of aspirated oocytes was not available for Norway. Children born after frozen embryo transfer were not included. The birth cohorts were restricted according to the year in which BT was introduced in the different countries. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE A higher risk of placenta previa was found in singleton pregnancies after BT compared with CT (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 2.11 [95% CI 1.76; 2.52]). Singletons born after BT had a higher risk of PTB (aOR 1.14 [95% CI 1.01; 1.29]) compared with CT singletons, when estimated based on OPU. Furthermore, an altered male/female ratio (aOR 1.13 [95% CI 1.06; 1.21]) with more males following BT compared with CT was seen. Risk of same-sex twins after SET was higher after single BT compared with single CT (aOR 1.94 [95% CI 1.42; 2.60]). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Residual confounding cannot be excluded, in particular related to duration and cause of infertility that we could not adjust for due to lack of reliable data. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Extended embryo culture to the blastocyst stage has the potential to compromise obstetric and perinatal outcomes in fresh cycles. These results are important since an increasing number of IVF/ICSI treatments are performed as BT. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) NORDFORSK (project no: 71450). The Research Fund of Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital. ReproUnion Collaborative study, co-financed by the European Union, Interreg V ÖKS. Grants from Swedish state under the agreement between the Swedish government and the county councils, the ALF-agreement (LUA/ALF 70940), Hjalmar Svensson Research Foundation. The Research Council of Norway through its Centres of Excellence funding scheme, project number 262700. None of the authors has any conflicts of interests to declare regarding this study. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN11780826.
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Affiliation(s)
- A L Spangmose
- Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - E Ginström Ernstad
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - S Malchau
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - J Forman
- Section of Biostatistics, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Tiitinen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Helsinki University Hospital and University of Helsinki, Helsinki, Finland
| | - M Gissler
- Information Services Department, Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL), Helsinki, Finland and Department of Neurobiology, Care Sciences and Society, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - S Opdahl
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - L B Romundstad
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway.,Spiren Fertility Clinic, Trondheim, Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - C Bergh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - U B Wennerholm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Science, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - A A Henningsen
- Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - A Pinborg
- Fertility Clinic, Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
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20
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Furuya S, Kubonoya K, Yamaguchi T. Incidence and risk factors for velamentous umbilical cord insertion in singleton pregnancies after assisted reproductive technology. J Obstet Gynaecol Res 2021; 47:1772-1779. [PMID: 33751734 DOI: 10.1111/jog.14727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 01/23/2021] [Accepted: 02/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
AIM Assisted reproductive technology (ART) is gaining popularity worldwide. However, it is associated with increased incidence of velamentous umbilical cord insertion (VCI) in the placenta, resulting in adverse perinatal outcomes. This study aimed to identify the risk factors that might affect the incidence of VCI in pregnancies after ART treatment. METHODS We retrospectively analyzed the records of 906 singleton pregnancies via ART; all women delivered in our facility. Three ART-related variables and infant sex were examined: (1) fertilization method (conventional in vitro fertilization or intracytoplasmic sperm injection), (2) type of embryo at the time of transfer (fresh or frozen-thawed), (3) developmental stage of embryo at the time of transfer (cleavage stage or blastocyst), and (4) infant sex (male or female). Logistic regression analysis was used to assess the impact of these variables on the incidence of VCI. RESULTS Of 906 cases, 55 had VCI (incidence rate, 6.1%). After adjusting for potential confounders, blastocyst stage of development (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 4.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.9-12.7) and female sex (aOR: 2.2, 95% CI: 1.2-3.9) emerged as independent risk factors for the development of VCI. The fertilization method and type of embryo at the time of transfer did not affect the incidence of VCI. CONCLUSIONS Blastocyst stage of development and female sex pose a higher risk for developing VCI. Thus, more attention should be paid to pregnancies achieved by blastocyst and with a female fetus to detect VCI proactively and safeguard the health of both mother and fetus/neonate.
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21
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Adeniyi T, Horne G, Ruane PT, Brison DR, Roberts SA. Clinical efficacy of hyaluronate-containing embryo transfer medium in IVF/ICSI treatment cycles: a cohort study. Hum Reprod Open 2021; 2021:hoab004. [PMID: 33718621 PMCID: PMC7937422 DOI: 10.1093/hropen/hoab004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2020] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does the duration of embryo exposure to hyaluronic acid (HA) enriched medium improve the rate of live birth events (LBEs)? SUMMARY ANSWER The use of embryo transfer (ET) medium rich in HA improves LBE (a singleton or twin live birth) regardless of the duration of exposure evaluated in this study, but does not alter gestation or birthweight (BW). WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY HA-enriched medium is routinely used for ET in ART to facilitate implantation, despite inconclusive evidence on safety and efficacy. STUDY DESIGN SIZE DURATION A cohort study was performed evaluating clinical treatment outcomes before and after HA-enriched ET medium was introduced into routine clinical practice. In total, 3391 fresh ET procedures were performed using low HA and HA-rich medium in women undergoing publicly funded IVF/ICSI treatment cycles between May 2011 and April 2015 were included in this cohort study. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS SETTING METHODS A total of 1018 ET performed using low HA medium were compared with 1198, and 1175 ET following exposure to HA-rich medium for 2-4 h (long HA exposure) or for 10-30 min (short HA exposure), respectively. A multiple logistic regression analysis was used to compare clinical outcomes including BW, gestational age and sex ratios between groups, whilst adjusting for patient age, previous attempt, incubator type and the number of embryos transferred. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The use of HA-rich medium for ET was positively and significantly associated with improved clinical pregnancy rate and LBE, for both exposure durations: long HA (odds ratio (OR) = 1.21, 95% CI: 0.99-1.48), short HA (OR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.02-1.72) and pooled OR = 1.26, 95% CI: 1.03-1.54, relative to the use of low HA medium. A comparative analysis of the risks of early pregnancy loss following long HA exposure (OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.54-1.06), short HA exposure (OR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.54-1.30) and late miscarriage (OR = 0.88, 95% CI: 0.51-1.53) (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 0.72-2.77), were lower and not statistically significant. Similarly, ordinary regression analysis of the differences in BW at both HA exposures; pooled OR = -0.9 (-117.1 to 115.3), and adjusted BW between both HA cohorts; pooled OR = -13.8 (-106.1 to 78.6) did not show any differences. However, a difference in gestational age (pooled OR -0.3 (-3.4 to 2.9)) and sex ratio (pooled OR 1.43 (0.95-2.15)) were observed but these were not statistically significant relative to low HA medium. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION The strength of a randomized treatment allocation was not available in this evaluation study, therefore effects of unmeasured or unknown confounding variables cannot be ruled out. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The result of this large cohort study strengthens the case for using HA-rich medium routinely at transfer, while adding the important clinical information that duration of exposure may not be critical. The composition and effects of commercial IVF culture media on success rate and safety remains a major controversy despite increasing calls for transparency and evidence-based practice in ART. Nonetheless, the lack of differences in BW and gestational age observed in this study were reassuring. However, an appraisal of clinical outcomes and appropriate research investigations are required for the continuous evaluation of efficacy and safety of HA. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS T.A. is funded by a Clinical Doctoral Research Fellowship (CDRF) grant (reference: ICA-CDRF-2015-01-068) from the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR). The views expressed in this publication are those of the authors and not necessarily those of the NHS, the National Institute for Health Research or the Department of Health. The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tope Adeniyi
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Gregory Horne
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Peter T Ruane
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old Saint Mary’s Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
- Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen A Roberts
- Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, Centre for Biostatistics, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, UK
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22
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Ranneva SV, Brusentsev EY, Igonina TN, Ragaeva DS, Rozhkova IN, Ershov NI, Levinson AL, Amstislavsky SY. The Effect of Embryo Culture on Ontogenesis of Mammalian Offspring. Russ J Dev Biol 2020. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360420060077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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23
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Tocci A. The unknown human trophectoderm: implication for biopsy at the blastocyst stage. J Assist Reprod Genet 2020; 37:2699-2711. [PMID: 32892265 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-020-01925-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Trophectoderm biopsy is increasingly performed for pre-implantation genetic testing of aneuploidies and considered a safe procedure on short-term clinical outcome, without strong assessment of long-term consequences. Poor biological information on human trophectoderm is available due to ethical restrictions. Therefore, most studies have been conducted in vitro (choriocarcinoma cell lines, embryonic and pluripotent stem cells) and on murine models that nevertheless poorly reflect the human counterpart. Polarization, compaction, and blastomere differentiation (e.g., the basis to ascertain trophectoderm origin) are poorly known in humans. In addition, the trophectoderm function is poorly known from a biological point of view, although a panoply of questionable and controversial microarray studies suggest that important genes overexpressed in trophectoderm are involved in pluripotency, metabolism, cell cycle, endocrine function, and implantation. The intercellular communication system between the trophectoderm cells and the inner cell mass, modulated by cell junctions and filopodia in the murine model, is obscure in humans. For the purpose of this paper, data mainly on primary cells from human and murine embryos has been reviewed. This review suggests that the trophectoderm origin and functions have been insufficiently ascertained in humans so far. Therefore, trophectoderm biopsy should be considered an experimental procedure to be undertaken only under approved rigorous experimental protocols in academic contexts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angelo Tocci
- Reproductive Medicine Unit, Gruppo Donnamed, Via Giuseppe Silla 12, Rome, Italy.
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24
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Tarahomi M, Vaz FM, van Straalen JP, Schrauwen FAP, van Wely M, Hamer G, Repping S, Mastenbroek S. The composition of human preimplantation embryo culture media and their stability during storage and culture. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:1450-1461. [PMID: 31348827 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2018] [Revised: 05/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the composition and stability during storage and culture of fifteen commercially available human preimplantation embryo culture media? SUMMARY ANSWER No two culture media had the same composition, and both storage and culture had an effect on the concentrations of multiple components. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY The choice of embryo culture medium not only affects the success rate of an IVF treatment, but also affects the health of the future child. Exact formulations of embryo culture media are often not disclosed by manufacturers. It is unknown whether the composition of these media changes during storage or culture in the IVF laboratory. Without details on the exact concentrations, it is not possible to determine which components might be responsible for the differences in IVF success rates and health of the resulting children. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Between October 2014 and October 2015, all complete human preimplantation embryo culture media, i.e. ready to use for IVF, that were commercially available at that time, were included (n = 15). Osmolality and the concentration of thirty seven components including basic elements, metabolites, immunoglobulins, albumin, proteins and 21 amino acids were tested immediately upon arrival into the IVF laboratory, after three days of culture without embryos (sham culture) starting from the day of arrival, just before the expiry date, and after three days of sham culture just before the expiry date. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Ions, glucose, immunoglobulins, albumin and the total amount of proteins were quantified using a combination of ion selective electrodes and photometric analysis modules, and lactate, pyruvate and 21 amino acids were analysed by ultra performance liquid chromatography mass spectrometry. Osmolality was analysed by an advanced micro-osmometer. Statistical analysis was done using multivariate general linear models. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The composition varied between media, no two media had the same concentration of components. Storage led to significant changes in 17 of the 37 analyzed components (magnesium, chloride, phosphate, albumin, total amount of proteins, tyrosine, tryptophan, alanine, methionine, glycine, leucine, glutamine, asparagine, arginine, serine, proline, and threonine). Storage affected the osmolality in 3 of the 15 media, but for all media combined this effect was not significant (p = 0.08). Sham culture of the analyzed media had a significant effect on the concentrations of 13 of the 37 analyzed components (calcium, phosphate, albumin, total amount of proteins, tyrosine, alanine, methionine, glycine, leucine, asparagine, arginine, proline, and histidine). Sham culture significantly affected the osmolality of the analysed culture media. Two media contained 50% D-lactate, which a toxic dead-end metabolite. In a secondary analysis we detected human liver enzymes in more than half of the complete culture media. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The analyzed culture media could contain components that are not among the 37 components that were analyzed in this study. The clinical relevance of the varying concentrations is yet to be determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The presence of D-lactate could be avoided and the finding of human liver enzymes was surprising. The wide variation between culture media shows that the optimal composition is still unknown. This warrants further research as the importance of embryo culture media on the efficacy and safety in IVF is evident. Companies are urged to fully disclose the composition of their culture media, and provide clinical evidence supporting the composition or future changes thereof. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) None.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Tarahomi
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.,Reproductive Biotechnology Research Center, Avicenna Research Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran
| | - F M Vaz
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Laboratory Genetic Metabolic Diseases, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - J P van Straalen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - F A P Schrauwen
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Department of Clinical Chemistry, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - M van Wely
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - G Hamer
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - S Mastenbroek
- Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Center for Reproductive Medicine, Amsterdam Reproduction & Development research institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
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25
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Castillo CM, Horne G, Fitzgerald CT, Johnstone ED, Brison DR, Roberts SA. The impact of IVF on birthweight from 1991 to 2015: a cross-sectional study. Hum Reprod 2020; 34:920-931. [PMID: 30868153 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dez025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2018] [Revised: 12/14/2018] [Accepted: 02/14/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Has birthweight (BW) changed over time among IVF-conceived singletons? SUMMARY ANSWER Singleton BW has increased markedly over the past 25 years. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY IVF conceived singletons have had a higher incidence of low BW compared to spontaneously conceived singletons, and this has raised concerns over long-term increased risks of cardio-metabolic disease. However, few causal links between IVF procedures and BW have been robustly established, and few studies have examined whether BW has changed over time as IVF techniques have developed. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A total of 2780 live born singletons conceived via IVF or ICSI treated in the reproductive medicine department of a single publicly funded tertiary care centre between 1991 and 2015 were included in this retrospective study. The primary outcome measure was singleton BW adjusted for gestational age, maternal parity and child gender. Multivariable linear regression models were used to estimate the associations between patient prognostic factors and IVF treatment procedures with adjusted BW. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All singletons conceived at the centre following IVF/ICSI using the mother's own oocytes, and non-donated fresh or frozen/thawed embryos with complete electronic data records, were investigated. Available electronic records were retrieved from the Human Fertilization and Embryology Authority for dataset collation. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate associations between IVF treatment parameters and BW, after adjusting for the year of treatment and patient characteristics and pregnancy factors. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE In the primary multivariable model, singleton BW increased by 7.4 g per year (95% CI: 3.2-11.6 g, P = 0.001), an increase of close to 180 g throughout the 25-year period after accounting for gestational age, maternal parity, child gender, IVF treatment parameters, patient prognostic characteristics and pregnancy factors. Fresh and frozen embryo transfer-conceived singletons showed a similar increase in BW. Frozen/thawed embryo transfer conceived singletons were on average 53 g heavier than their fresh embryo conceived counterparts (95% CI: 3.7-103.3 g, P = 0.035). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION The independent variables included in the study were limited to those that have been consistently recorded and stored electronically over the past two decades. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS There has been a progressive BW increase in IVF singletons over time in one large centre with consistent treatment eligibility criteria. Such a change is not seen in the general population of live born singletons in the UK or other developed countries, and seems to be specific to this IVF population. This may be a reflection of changes in practice such as undisturbed extended embryo culture to the blastocyst stage, optimized commercial culture media composition, single embryo transfer and ICSI. Moreover, singletons conceived from frozen/thawed embryos had higher birth weights when compared to their fresh embryo transfer counterparts. The causal pathway is unknown; however, it could be due to the impact on embryos of the freeze/thaw process, self-selection of embryos from couples who produce a surplus of embryos, and/or embryo replacement into a more receptive maternal environment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This work was supported by the EU FP7 project grant, EpiHealthNet (FP7-PEOPLE-2012-ITN-317146). The authors have no competing interests to declare. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catherine M Castillo
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK.,Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
| | - Gregory Horne
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
| | - Cheryl T Fitzgerald
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
| | - Edward D Johnstone
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK.,Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
| | - Daniel R Brison
- Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK.,Maternal & Fetal Health Research Centre, St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK.,Department of Reproductive Medicine, Old St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
| | - Stephen A Roberts
- Centre for Biostatistics, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care, School of Health Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, The University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Oxford Rd., Manchester, UK
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Fesahat F, Montazeri F, Hoseini SM. Preimplantation genetic testing in assisted reproduction technology. J Gynecol Obstet Hum Reprod 2020; 49:101723. [PMID: 32113002 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogoh.2020.101723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/15/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
A significant proportion of clinically recognized pregnancies end in miscarriage. About 50 % of early pregnancy losses are due to chromosome abnormalities. In assisted reproduction technology (ART), a high proportion of top-quality embryos with morphological values are aneuploid whenever they have been evaluated in terms of genetic integrity in human preimplantation embryos either from in vitro or in vivo matured oocytes. It is plausible to think of preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) as a means of increasing pregnancy rates and minimizing the risk of fetal aneuploidy. It is believed that PGT will assume a prominent role in the field of ART, especially in a successful pregnancy, so it is embraced recently as a popular diagnostic technique. The PGT includes three sub-categories of PGT for aneuploidies (PGT-A), PGT for single gene / monogenic disorders (PGT-M), and PGT for chromosome structural rearrangements (PGT-SR). PGT-A is used to detect aneuploidies and previously it was known as PGS. PGT-M, formerly known as PGD, is intended to reduce monogenic defects. Previously known as PGS translocation, PGT-SR is PGT to identify structural chromosomal rearrangements. Since many of the old and new definitions for PGT are still vague and confusing for some researchers in the field of reproductive genetics, the main purpose of this study is to introduce all PGT classifications as well as elaborate on different aspects of this technology to improve ART outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farzaneh Fesahat
- Reproductive Immunology Research Center, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences, Yazd, Iran.
| | - Fateme Montazeri
- Abortion Research Center, Yazd Reproductive Sciences Institute, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
| | - Seyed Mehdi Hoseini
- Biotechnology Research Center, International Campus, Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Yazd, Iran
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Berntsen S, Söderström-Anttila V, Wennerholm UB, Laivuori H, Loft A, Oldereid NB, Romundstad LB, Bergh C, Pinborg A. The health of children conceived by ART: ‘the chicken or the egg?’. Hum Reprod Update 2019; 25:137-158. [DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmz001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 177] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2018] [Revised: 10/31/2018] [Accepted: 01/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sine Berntsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Hvidovre Hospital, University of Copenhagen, Kettegaard Alle 30, Hvidovre, Denmark
| | - Viveca Söderström-Anttila
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 2, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Ulla-Britt Wennerholm
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Sahlgrenska University Hospital East, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Hannele Laivuori
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Tampere University Hospital, Teiskontie 35, Tampere, Finland
- Faculty of Medicine and Life Sciences, University of Tampere, Arvo Ylpön Katu 34, Tampere, Finland
- Medical and Clinical Genetics, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Haartmaninkatu 8, Helsinki, Finland
- Institute for Molecular Medicine Finland, Helsinki Institute of Life Science, University of Helsinki, Tukhomankatu 8, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Anne Loft
- Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Nan B Oldereid
- Livio IVF-klinikken Oslo, Sørkedalsveien 10A, Oslo, Norway
| | - Liv Bente Romundstad
- Spiren Fertility Clinic, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen, Oslo, Norway
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, PO Box 222 Skøyen, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christina Bergh
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Sahlgrenska Academy, Gothenburg University, Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Anja Pinborg
- Fertility Clinic, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen University Hospital, Blegdamsvej 9, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Le Saint C, Crespo K, Bourdiec A, Bissonnette F, Buzaglo K, Couturier B, Bisotto S, Phillips SJ, Stutz M, Gouze JN, Sampalis JS, Hamamah S, Kadoch IJ. Autologous endometrial cell co-culture improves human embryo development to high-quality blastocysts: a randomized controlled trial. Reprod Biomed Online 2019; 38:321-329. [PMID: 30660602 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.12.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2018] [Revised: 12/18/2018] [Accepted: 12/20/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
RESEARCH QUESTION Does autologous endometrial cell co-culture (AECC) improve the number of good-quality blastocysts obtained by IVF/intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), compared with conventional embryo culture medium in a broad group of patients referred to assisted reproductive technology (ART)? DESIGN This interventional, randomized, double-blind study took place at Clinique Ovo from March 2013 to October 2015 and included 207 healthy patients undergoing an IVF or ICSI protocol, of which 71 were excluded before randomization. On the previous cycle, all participants underwent an endometrial biopsy at D5 to D7 post-ovulation, following which the endometrial cells were prepared for AECC. RESULTS The data demonstrated that AECC significantly increased the incidence of good-quality blastocysts compared with culture in conventional media (42.6% vs 28.4%, P < 0.001). No significant differences were found in pregnancy and live birth rates. CONCLUSION This study demonstrated the benefits of AECC on blastocyst quality compared with conventional embryo culture medium, in a broader category of patients referred to ART as opposed to other studies that concentrated on specific causes of infertility only. However, limitations of the study design should be taken into consideration; the analysis was performed using embryos rather than patients and a follow-up of children born following the treatments could not be conducted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cécile Le Saint
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Labo, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada.
| | - Kimberley Crespo
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Labo, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada.
| | - Amélie Bourdiec
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo R and D, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada
| | - François Bissonnette
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Labo, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo R and D, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo Fertility, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; University of Montréal, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Luc Hospital (CHUM), 1051 Sanguinet Street, Montréal Quebec H2 × 0C1, Canada
| | - Karen Buzaglo
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Fertility, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; University of Montréal, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Luc Hospital (CHUM), 1051 Sanguinet Street, Montréal Quebec H2 × 0C1, Canada
| | - Bernard Couturier
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Labo, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo R and D, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo Fertility, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; University of Montréal, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Luc Hospital (CHUM), 1051 Sanguinet Street, Montréal Quebec H2 × 0C1, Canada
| | - Sandra Bisotto
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo R and D, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada
| | - Simon J Phillips
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Fertility, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, University of Montréal, Montréal Quebec, Canada
| | - Melissa Stutz
- JSS Research, 9400 Henri-Bourassa West, St-Laurent Quebec H4S 1N8, Canada
| | - Jean-Noël Gouze
- Laboratoires Genévrier, 280 de Goa Street, ZI des Trois Moulins Antibes 06600, France
| | - John S Sampalis
- JSS Research, 9400 Henri-Bourassa West, St-Laurent Quebec H4S 1N8, Canada
| | - Samir Hamamah
- ART/PGD Department, Arnaud-de-Villeneuve Hospital, University Hospital of Montpellier, Inserm U1203, CHRU Montpellier, Montpellier 34295, France
| | - Isaac Jacques Kadoch
- Clinique Ovo, Ovo Labo, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo R and D, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; Clinique Ovo, Ovo Fertility, 8000 Décarie Boulevard, Suite 600, Montréal Quebec H4P 2S4, Canada; University of Montréal, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint-Luc Hospital (CHUM), 1051 Sanguinet Street, Montréal Quebec H2 × 0C1, Canada
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Poli M, Girardi L, Fabiani M, Moretto M, Romanelli V, Patassini C, Zuccarello D, Capalbo A. Past, Present, and Future Strategies for Enhanced Assessment of Embryo's Genome and Reproductive Competence in Women of Advanced Reproductive Age. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:154. [PMID: 30941103 PMCID: PMC6433971 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Recent advancements in genomic analysis allow testing of an increasing number of genetic features in human preimplantation embryos. Typical single gene mutation and whole chromosomes testing can now be integrated with assessment of mitochondrial DNA and polygenic conditions. Diagnostic expansion into epigenetic and transcriptomic assessment in the near future are potential technological targets which may improve the prognostic outlook of patients of advanced reproductive age and overall in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment outcomes. In this review, we discuss the technological progress of recent years and their future applications in preimplantation genetic testing in IVF.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maurizio Poli
- IGENOMIX, Marostica, Italy
- REPROOMICS, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Antonio Capalbo
- IGENOMIX, Marostica, Italy
- IGENOMIX, Parque Tecnologico Paterna, Valencia, Spain
- Sezione Istologia ed Embriologia Medica, Dipartimento di Scienze Anatomiche, Istologiche, Medico-Legali e dell'Apparato Locomotore, University of Rome “La Sapienza”, Rome, Italy
- *Correspondence: Antonio Capalbo
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30
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Huntriss J, Balen AH, Sinclair KD, Brison DR, Picton HM. Epigenetics and Reproductive Medicine. BJOG 2018; 125:e43-e54. [DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15240] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
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31
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Duranthon V, Chavatte-Palmer P. Long term effects of ART: What do animals tell us? Mol Reprod Dev 2018; 85:348-368. [DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22970] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2017] [Accepted: 02/09/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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Nuttinck F, Jouneau A, Charpigny G, Hue I, Richard C, Adenot P, Ruffini S, Laffont L, Chebrout M, Duranthon V, Guienne BML. Prosurvival effect of cumulus prostaglandin G/H synthase 2/prostaglandin2 signaling on bovine blastocyst: impact on in vivo posthatching development. Biol Reprod 2017; 96:531-541. [PMID: 28339853 PMCID: PMC5819843 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.116.145367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2016] [Accepted: 01/24/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Apoptotic activity is a common physiological process which culminates at the blastocyst stage in the preimplantation embryo of many mammals. The degree of embryonic cell death can be influenced by the oocyte microenvironment. However, the prognostic significance of the incidence of apoptosis remains undefined. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) derived from prostaglandin G/H synthase-2 (PTGS2) activity is a well-known prosurvival factor that is mainly studied in oncology. PGE2 is the predominant PTGS2-derived prostaglandin present in the oocyte microenvironment during the periconceptional period. Using an in vitro model of bovine embryo production followed by transfer and collection procedures, we investigated the impact of periconceptional PGE2 on the occurrence of spontaneous apoptosis in embryos and on subsequent in vivo posthatching development. Different periconceptional PGE2 environments were obtained using NS-398, a specific inhibitor of PTGS2 activity, and exogenous PGE2. We assessed the level of embryonic cell death in blastocysts at day 8 postfertilization by counting total cell numbers, by the immunohistochemical staining of active caspase-3, and by quantifying terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick-end labeling signals and apoptosis regulator (BCL-2/BAX) mRNA expression. Morphometric parameters were used to estimate the developmental stage of the embryonic disk and the extent of trophoblast elongation on day 15 conceptuses. Our findings indicate that periconceptional PGE2 signaling durably impacts oocytes, conferring increased resistance to spontaneous apoptosis in blastocysts and promoting embryonic disk development and the elongation process during preimplantation development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alice Jouneau
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Gilles Charpigny
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Isabelle Hue
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | | | - Pierre Adenot
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Sylvie Ruffini
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Ludivine Laffont
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
| | - Martine Chebrout
- UMR BDR, INRA, ENVA, Université Paris Saclay, Jouy en Josas, France
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Hu K, Yu Y. Metabolite availability as a window to view the early embryo microenvironment in vivo. Mol Reprod Dev 2017; 84:1027-1038. [PMID: 28722155 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.22868] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2017] [Accepted: 07/17/2017] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
A preimplantation embryo exists independent of blood supply, and relies on energy sources from its in vivo environment (e.g., oviduct and uterine fluid) to sustain its development. The embryos can survive in this aqueous environment because it contains amino acids, proteins, lactate, pyruvate, oxygen, glucose, antioxidants, ions, growth factors, hormones, and phospholipids-albeit the concentration of each component varies by species, stage of the estrous cycle, and anatomical location. The dynamic nature of this environment sustains early development from the one-cell zygote to blastocyst, and is reciprocally influenced by the embryo at each embryonic stage. Focusing on embryo metabolism allowed us to identify how the local environment was deliberately selected to meet the dynamic needs of the preimplantation embryo, and helped reveal approaches to improve the in vitro culture of human embryos for improved implantation rates and pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailun Hu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Reproductive Medical Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China
| | - Yang Yu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Peking University Third Hospital, Reproductive Medical Center, Beijing, People's Republic of China
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Albertini DF. Reformatting the reproductive tract to accommodate the needs of human ARTs. J Assist Reprod Genet 2017; 34:301-302. [PMID: 28247099 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-017-0894-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
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Canovas S, Ivanova E, Romar R, García-Martínez S, Soriano-Úbeda C, García-Vázquez FA, Saadeh H, Andrews S, Kelsey G, Coy P. DNA methylation and gene expression changes derived from assisted reproductive technologies can be decreased by reproductive fluids. eLife 2017; 6. [PMID: 28134613 PMCID: PMC5340525 DOI: 10.7554/elife.23670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 106] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2016] [Accepted: 01/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
The number of children born since the origin of Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) exceeds 5 million. The majority seem healthy, but a higher frequency of defects has been reported among ART-conceived infants, suggesting an epigenetic cost. We report the first whole-genome DNA methylation datasets from single pig blastocysts showing differences between in vivo and in vitro produced embryos. Blastocysts were produced in vitro either without (C-IVF) or in the presence of natural reproductive fluids (Natur-IVF). Natur-IVF embryos were of higher quality than C-IVF in terms of cell number and hatching ability. RNA-Seq and DNA methylation analyses showed that Natur-IVF embryos have expression and methylation patterns closer to in vivo blastocysts. Genes involved in reprogramming, imprinting and development were affected by culture, with fewer aberrations in Natur-IVF embryos. Methylation analysis detected methylated changes in C-IVF, but not in Natur-IVF, at genes whose methylation could be critical, such as IGF2R and NNAT. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.23670.001 Infertility has become more common in many countries, particularly those where many people delay having children until later in life. To help individuals experiencing infertility conceive a child, scientists have developed treatments called assisted reproductive technologies (or ARTs for short). So far, more than 5 million children have been born with the help of these treatments. Most of the children seem healthy; however, birth defects are more common in ART-conceived babies than those conceived without treatment. The cause of these birth defects is not known, though scientists suspect it may have something to do with techniques used in ART. One possible culprit is the liquid that is used in the laboratory to help the parents’ sperm and egg come together for fertilization. This same liquid is also used to bathe the developing embryo for the first few days after fertilization before it is implanted into its mother’s womb. Some scientists wonder whether adding the fluids normally found in the reproductive tract of their mother to this liquid could reduce defects in children conceived via ART. Now, Canovas et al. have shown that fertilizing and growing pig embryos in liquids supplemented with fluid from the wombs of female pigs results in embryos that are closer to naturally conceived pig embryos than in non-supplemented liquids. In the experiments, naturally conceived embryos were compared to ART embryos exposed to the usual liquids and with ART embryos grown in liquids with fluid collected from the pig’s reproductive tract added. Cutting edge technologies were used to sequence the entire genomes of all of the embryos and compare which genes were active in each case. Canovas et al. also looked at chemical markers on the DNA – called epigenetic changes – that turn on or off the expression of genes without changing the DNA code itself. The analysis showed that ART-conceived embryos grown in the usual liquid had different patterns of gene expression and epigenetic changes compared to naturally conceived embryos. Gene expression and epigenetic changes in the ART embryos grown with the pig reproductive fluid was more similar to the naturally conceived embryos. These findings suggest that abnormal gene expression in the ART-liquid exposed embryos may lead to birth defects, and that using natural reproductive fluids may be safer. To confirm this, scientists will have to implant embryos conceived in these three different conditions into mother pigs and assess the health and gene expression patterns of the resulting piglets. If successful, these new insights might one day lead to improvements in ART techniques used to treat infertility in people. DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.23670.002
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Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian Canovas
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
| | - Elena Ivanova
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Raquel Romar
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
| | - Soledad García-Martínez
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
| | - Cristina Soriano-Úbeda
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
| | - Francisco A García-Vázquez
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
| | - Heba Saadeh
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Bioinformatics Group, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Simon Andrews
- Bioinformatics Group, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Gavin Kelsey
- Epigenetics Programme, The Babraham Institute, Cambridge, United Kingdom.,Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Pilar Coy
- Physiology of Reproduction Group, Departamento de Fisiología, Facultad de Veterinaria, Universidad de Murcia-Campus Mare Nostrum, Murcia, Spain.,Instituto Murciano de Investigación Biosanitaria, Murcia, Spain
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Cagnone G, Sirard MA. The embryonic stress response to in vitro culture: insight from genomic analysis. Reproduction 2016; 152:R247-R261. [DOI: 10.1530/rep-16-0391] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Recent genomic studies have shed light on the impact of in vitro culture (IVC) on embryonic homeostasis and the differential gene expression profiles associated with lower developmental competence. Consistently, the embryonic stress responses to IVC conditions correlate with transcriptomic changes in pathways related to energetic metabolism, extracellular matrix remodelling and inflammatory signalling. These changes appear to result from a developmental adaptation that enhances a Warburg-like effect known to occur naturally during blastulation. First discovered in cancer cells, the Warburg effect (increased glycolysis under aerobic conditions) is thought to result from mitochondrial dysfunction. In the case of IVC embryos, culture conditions may interfere with mitochondrial maturation and oxidative phosphorylation, forcing cells to rely on glycolysis in order to maintain energetic homeostasis. While beneficial in the short term, such adaptations may lead to epigenetic changes with potential long-term effects on implantation, foetal growth and post-natal health. We conclude that lessening the detrimental effects of IVC on mitochondrial activity would lead to significantly improved embryo quality.
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Freour T, Vassena R. Transcriptomics analysis and human preimplantation development. J Proteomics 2016; 162:135-140. [PMID: 27765633 DOI: 10.1016/j.jprot.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2016] [Revised: 08/25/2016] [Accepted: 10/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The study of oocyte and preimplantation embryo biology has been regarded with great curiosity throughout scientific history, but it is not until the development of robust methods for in vitro observation and manipulation of animal gametes that developmental biology has flourished as a discipline. By far the biggest technical challenge in studying transcription in oocytes and early embryo has been the necessity of developing techniques that retain a high level of accuracy when starting from small amount of material. The objective of this narrative review is to summarize the knowledge gained about the embryonic preimplantation period in the human species from transcriptomics experiments, and to discuss technical limitations and solutions to the study of transcriptomics in these samples. SIGNIFICANCE In this review we identify key critical issues in performing transcriptomics experiments during the human preimplantation period, and identifying possible ways to overcome them. This, combined with a description of clinical perspectives and the definition of future avenues for research will provide useful for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Freour
- Clinica EUGIN, Barcelona, Spain; Service de médecine et biologie de la reproduction, CHU de Nantes, Nantes, France; Faculté de médecine, Université de Nantes, Nantes, France; INSERM UMR1064, Nantes, France
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Gu F, Deng M, Gao J, Wang Z, Ding C, Xu Y, Zhou C. The effects of embryo culture media on the birthweight of singletons via fresh or frozen-thawed embryo transfer: a large-scale retrospective study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2016; 16:270. [PMID: 27643856 PMCID: PMC5029106 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-016-1077-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2016] [Accepted: 09/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Embryo culture media used for IVF treatment might affect fetal growth and thus birthweight of the newborns. Methods A retrospective study was conducted in South China using data from 2370 singleton neonates born after IVF/ICSI between 2009 and 2012. Two culture media, i.e., either Vitrolife or SAGE were used as embryo culture media during the study period. Neonates’ birthweights were compared between the two embryo culture media groups. Results Among the 2370 singletons, 1755 cases came from fresh cleavage embryo transfer while 615 were from frozen-thawed cleavage embryo transfer. Within the fresh embryo transfer newborns, no statistical difference was observed in either birthweight (mean ± SD: 3196.0 ± 468.9 versus 3168.4 ± 462.0g, p > 0.05) or adjusted birthweight controlled for gestational age and gender (z-score mean ± SD: 0.11 ± 1.02 versus 0.11 ± 0.99 g, P > 0.05) between the Vitrolife (n = 419) and the SAGE group (n = 1336). Likewise within frozen embryo transfer neotates, no statistical difference of the birthweight (3300.6 ± 441.3 vs.3256.0 ± 466.7 g, P > 0.05) and adjusted birthweight (0.30 ± 0.99 g versus 0.29 ± 0.97 g, P > 0.05) was found between the Vitrolife (n = 202) and the SAGE group (n = 413). The sex ratio [OR1.17, 95 % CI (0.94–1.46)/OR1.1, 95 % CI (0.78–1.54)], rate of small for gestational age [OR1.14, 95 % CI (0.82–1.59)/OR1.06, 95 % CI (0.56–2.02)] and large for gestational age [OR1.07, 95 % CI (0.64–1.76)/OR0.98, 95 % CI (0.47–2.02)] in fresh and frozen-thawed subgourps are all comparable respectively between the two culture media. No group differences were found in the rate of low birthweight and macosomia. Multiple linear regression analysis demonstrated that maternal weight, gestational age, frozen-thawed embryo transfer and infant gender were significantly related to neonatal birthweight (P < 0.001). Conclusions It appears that embryos cultured in SAGE or Vitrolife media after fresh or frozen-thawed cleavage embryo transfer did not affect neonate’s birthweight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fang Gu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Mingfen Deng
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Jun Gao
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Zilian Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The First Affiliated hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China
| | - Chenhui Ding
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China.,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China
| | - Yanwen Xu
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.
| | - Canquan Zhou
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Medical Center, The First Affiliated Hospital of SunYat-senUniversity, No 58 Zhongshan Road 2, Yuexiu District, Guangzhou, 510080, China. .,Key Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine of Guangdong Province, Guangzhou, China.
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Kleijkers SHM, Mantikou E, Slappendel E, Consten D, van Echten-Arends J, Wetzels AM, van Wely M, Smits LJM, van Montfoort APA, Repping S, Dumoulin JCM, Mastenbroek S. Influence of embryo culture medium (G5 and HTF) on pregnancy and perinatal outcome after IVF: a multicenter RCT. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2219-30. [PMID: 27554441 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 95] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2015] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does embryo culture medium influence pregnancy and perinatal outcome in IVF? SUMMARY ANSWER Embryo culture media used in IVF affect treatment efficacy and the birthweight of newborns. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY A wide variety of culture media for human preimplantation embryos in IVF/ICSI treatments currently exists. It is unknown which medium is best in terms of clinical outcomes. Furthermore, it has been suggested that the culture medium used for the in vitro culture of embryos affects birthweight, but this has never been demonstrated by large randomized trials. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION We conducted a multicenter, double-blind RCT comparing the use of HTF and G5 embryo culture media in IVF. Between July 2010 and May 2012, 836 couples (419 in the HTF group and 417 in the G5 group) were included. The allocated medium (1:1 allocation) was used in all treatment cycles a couple received within 1 year after randomization, including possible transfers with frozen-thawed embryos. The primary outcome was live birth rate. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Couples that were scheduled for an IVF or an ICSI treatment at one of the six participating centers in the Netherlands or their affiliated clinics. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The live birth rate was higher, albeit nonsignificantly, in couples assigned to G5 than in couples assigned to HTF (44.1% (184/417) versus 37.9% (159/419); RR: 1.2; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.99-1.37; P = 0.08). Number of utilizable embryos per cycle (2.8 ± 2.3 versus 2.3 ± 1.8; P < 0.001), implantation rate after fresh embryo transfer (20.2 versus 15.3%; P < 0.001) and clinical pregnancy rate (47.7 versus 40.1%; RR: 1.2; 95% CI: 1.02-1.39; P = 0.03) were significantly higher for couples assigned to G5 compared with those assigned to HTF. Of the 383 live born children in this trial, birthweight data from 380 children (300 singletons (G5: 163, HTF: 137) and 80 twin children (G5: 38, HTF: 42)) were retrieved. Birthweight was significantly lower in the G5 group compared with the HTF group, with a mean difference of 158 g (95% CI: 42-275 g; P = 0.008). More singletons were born preterm in the G5 group (8.6% (14/163) versus 2.2% (3/137), but singleton birthweight adjusted for gestational age and gender (z-score) was also lower in the G5 than in the HTF group (-0.13 ± 0.08 versus 0.17 ± 0.08; P = 0.008). LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION This study was powered to detect a 10% difference in live births while a smaller difference could still be clinically relevant. The effect of other culture media on perinatal outcome remains to be determined. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Embryo culture media used in IVF affect not only treatment efficacy but also perinatal outcome. This suggests that the millions of human embryos that are cultured in vitro each year are sensitive to their environment. These findings should lead to increased awareness, mechanistic studies and legislative adaptations to protect IVF offspring during the first few days of their existence. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This project was partly funded by The NutsOhra foundation (Grant 1203-061) and March of Dimes (Grant 6-FY13-153). The authors declare no conflict of interest. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NTR1979 (Netherlands Trial Registry). TRIAL REGISTRATION DATE 1 September 2009. DATE OF FIRST PATIENT'S ENROLMENT 18 July 2010.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sander H M Kleijkers
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Eleni Mantikou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Els Slappendel
- IVF Department, Catharina Hospital, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | - Dimitri Consten
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, St. Elisabeth Hospital, Tilburg, The Netherlands
| | - Jannie van Echten-Arends
- Section of Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Alex M Wetzels
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Radboud university medical center, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Madelon van Wely
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Luc J M Smits
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Aafke P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - John C M Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynaecology, GROW School for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Sebastiaan Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Sunde A, Brison D, Dumoulin J, Harper J, Lundin K, Magli MC, Van den Abbeel E, Veiga A. Time to take human embryo culture seriously. Hum Reprod 2016; 31:2174-82. [PMID: 27554442 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 103] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is it important that end-users know the composition of human embryo culture media? SUMMARY ANSWER We argue that there is as strong case for full transparency concerning the composition of embryo culture media intended for human use. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Published data suggest that the composition of embryo culture media may influence the phenotype of the offspring. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A review of the literature was carried out. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data concerning the potential effects on embryo development of culture media were assessed and recommendations for users made. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The safety of ART procedures, especially with respect to the health of the offspring, is of major importance. There are reports from the literature indicating a possible effect of culture conditions, including culture media, on embryo and fetal development. Since the introduction of commercially available culture media, there has been a rapid development of different formulations, often not fully documented, disclosed or justified. There is now evidence that the environment the early embryo is exposed to can cause reprogramming of embryonic growth leading to alterations in fetal growth trajectory, birthweight, childhood growth and long-term disease including Type II diabetes and cardiovascular problems. The mechanism for this is likely to be epigenetic changes during the preimplantation period of development. In the present paper the ESHRE working group on culture media summarizes the present knowledge of potential effects on embryo development related to culture media, and makes recommendations. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION There is still a need for large prospective randomized trials to further elucidate the link between the composition of embryo culture media used and the phenotype of the offspring. We do not presently know if the phenotypic changes induced by in vitro embryo culture represent a problem for long-term health of the offspring. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Published data indicate that there is a strong case for demanding full transparency concerning the compositions of and the scientific rationale behind the composition of embryo culture media. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This work was funded by The European Society for Human Reproduction and Embryology. No competing interests to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne Sunde
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, St. Olav's University Hospital in Trondheim, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Daniel Brison
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, Manchester, UK
| | - John Dumoulin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, IVF Laboratory, Maastricht University Medical Center, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Joyce Harper
- Embryology, IVF and reproductive genetics group, Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, UK
| | - Kersti Lundin
- Reproductive Medicine, Sahlgrenska University Hospital, Göteborg, Sweden
| | | | | | - Anna Veiga
- Reproductive Medicine Service, Hospital Universitari Dexeus, Barcelona, Spain
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Sfontouris IA, Martins WP, Nastri CO, Viana IGR, Navarro PA, Raine-Fenning N, van der Poel S, Rienzi L, Racowsky C. Blastocyst culture using single versus sequential media in clinical IVF: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1261-1272. [PMID: 27491772 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0774-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/10/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The purpose of this study was to undertake a review of the available evidence comparing the use of a single medium versus sequential media for embryo culture to the blastocyst stage in clinical IVF. METHODS We searched the Cochrane Central, PubMed, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, Current Controlled Trials and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform to identify randomized controlled trials comparing single versus sequential media for blastocyst culture and ongoing pregnancy rate. Included studies randomized either oocytes/zygotes or women. Eligible oocyte/zygote studies were analyzed to assess the risk difference (RD) and 95 % confidence intervals (CI) between the two media systems; eligible woman-based studies were analyzed to assess the risk ratio (RR) and 95 % CI for clinical pregnancy rate. RESULTS No differences were observed between single and sequential media for either ongoing pregnancy per randomized woman (relative risk (RR) = 0.9, 95 % CI = 0.7 to 1.3, two studies including 246 women, I 2 = 0 %) or clinical pregnancy per randomized woman (RR = 1.0, 95 % CI = 0.7 to 1.4, one study including 100 women); or miscarriage per clinical pregnancy: RR = 1.3, 95 % CI = 0.4 to 4.3, two studies including 246 participants, I 2 = 0 %). Single media use was associated with an increase blastocyst formation per randomized oocyte/zygote (relative distribution (RD) = +0.06, 95 % CI = +0.01 to +0.12, ten studies including 7455 oocytes/zygotes, I 2 = 83 %) but not top/high blastocyst formation (RD = +0.05, 95 % CI = -0.01 to +0.11, five studies including 3879 oocytes/zygotes, I 2 = 93 %). The overall quality of the evidence was very low for all these four outcomes. CONCLUSIONS Although using a single medium for extended culture has some practical advantages and blastocyst formation rates appear to be higher, there is insufficient evidence to recommend either sequential or single-step media as being superior for the culture of embryos to days 5/6. Future studies comparing these two media systems in well-designed trials should be performed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioannis A Sfontouris
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK.,Eugonia Assisted Reproduction Unit, Athens, Greece
| | - Wellington P Martins
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Carolina O Nastri
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.,SEMEAR fertilidade, Reproductive Medicine, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Iara G R Viana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil.,SEMEAR fertilidade, Reproductive Medicine, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Paula A Navarro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Ribeirao Preto Medical School, University of Sao Paulo, Ribeirao Preto, Brazil
| | - Nick Raine-Fenning
- Division of Child Health, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, School of Medicine, University of Nottingham, Nottingham, UK
| | - Sheryl van der Poel
- HRP (the UNDP/UNFPA/UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Special Programme of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction), Geneva, Switzerland.,Population Council, Reproductive Health Programme, New York, USA
| | - Laura Rienzi
- GENERA Centre for Reproductive Medicine, Clinica Valle Giulia, via de Notaris 2b, Rome, Italy
| | - Catherine Racowsky
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Biology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, 75 Francis Street, Boston, 02115, MA, USA.
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Bartmann A, Amaral ATBD, Gonçalves L. A descriptive study of culture media in Brazilian assisted reproduction clinics. JBRA Assist Reprod 2016; 20:107-11. [PMID: 27584601 PMCID: PMC5264373 DOI: 10.5935/1518-0557.20160025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective The present study aimed to draw a profile of the most commonly used media and
protocol characteristics from assisted reproduction technology (ART)
facilities in Brazil. Methods To obtain an overview of ART methods and culture media, a questionnaire was
given to embryologists from ART clinics in Brazil. Further research in
scientific papers and journals was carried out for describing the processes
around Brazil, USA and Europe. Results From the questionnaire, we found that the embryo medium mostly used is
CSCMTM from Irvine Scientific, represented 37.04% in
Brazilian ART clinics; interestingly, 70.37% of clinics exchange the embryo
media bath; however, 70.37% do not change the media type. Transfers in
Brazilian clinics were variable, but day 3 transfer was a procedure seen in
37.04%. The remaining embryos are habitually maintained in prolonged
cultivation in 51.85% of the clinics interviewed. Conclusion Although there are numerous studies trying to better understand embryo
culture media influences, there is a lack of evidence for choosing one as
the most appropriate. In short, it is a random decision for such an
essential stage of In Vitro Fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Bartmann
- Assisted Reproduction Center - Department Gynecology and Obstetrics - Medical School - University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto/SP - Brazil.,Human Reproduction Center of the Ana Bartmann Clinic - Ribeirão Preto/SP - Brazil
| | | | - Letícia Gonçalves
- Assisted Reproduction Center - Department Gynecology and Obstetrics - Medical School - University of Ribeirão Preto (UNAERP), Ribeirão Preto/SP - Brazil.,Human Reproduction Center of the Ana Bartmann Clinic - Ribeirão Preto/SP - Brazil
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Munch EM, Sparks AE, Gonzalez Bosquet J, Christenson LK, Devor EJ, Van Voorhis BJ. Differentially expressed genes in preimplantation human embryos: potential candidate genes for blastocyst formation and implantation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2016; 33:1017-25. [PMID: 27241529 PMCID: PMC4974233 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-016-0745-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2016] [Accepted: 05/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose The aim of this study was to determine which genes and gene pathways are differentially expressed when comparing human blastocysts with cleavage-stage embryos. Methods We individually assessed gene expression in preimplantation human embryos at cleavage (n = 3) and blastocyst (n = 3) stages. Gene expression patterns were then validated in publically available datasets and then independently validated in vitro with additional human embryos using TaqMan gene expression assays. Immunolocalization studies were conducted to identify protein expression in intact blastocyst-stage embryos. Results Compared to cleavage-stage embryos, blastocyst-stage embryos differentially expressed 51 genes (p < 0.001), with overrepresentation in amoebiasis pathways and pathways in cancer. Of these 51 genes, 21 were found to be independently validated in a separate, publically available dataset, with a substantial agreement with our initial findings (κ = 0.8). In an independent set of cleavage- and blastocyst-stage embryos, we validated that six of eight tested genes were differentially expressed (p < 0.05) by RT-qPCR. Immunofluorescence studies documented the presence of two studied proteins in the trophectoderm of blastocyst-stage embryos. Conclusions Differentially expressed genes may be implicated in the invasion and proliferation of the early embryo. Our research highlights specific genes that may be further studied for their role in the implantation process and additionally raises questions about localized gene and/or protein expression in the trophectoderm, which could affect protocols for, and interpretation of, trophectoderm biopsies performed in in vitro fertilization cycles. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s10815-016-0745-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika M Munch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA.
| | - Amy E Sparks
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Jesus Gonzalez Bosquet
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Lane K Christenson
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, The University of Kansas School of Medicine, Kansas City, KS, 66160, USA
| | - Eric J Devor
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
| | - Bradley J Van Voorhis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, 200 Hawkins Drive, PFP 31330, Iowa City, IA, 52242, USA
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Hanevik HI, Hessen DO, Sunde A, Breivik J. Can IVF influence human evolution? Hum Reprod 2016; 31:1397-402. [PMID: 27094480 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dew089] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2016] [Accepted: 03/29/2016] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
IVF, a procedure in which pharmacological and technological manipulation is used to promote pregnancy, offers help to infertile couples by circumventing selection at the most fundamental level. Fertility is clearly one of the key fitness-promoting drivers in all forms of sexually reproducing life, and fertilization and pregnancy are fundamental evolutionary processes that involve a range of pre- and post-zygotic screening mechanisms. Here, we discuss the various selection and screening factors involved in fertilization and pregnancy and assess IVF practices in light of these factors. We then focus on the possible consequences of these differences in selection pressures, mainly at the individual but also at the population level, to evaluate whether changes in the reproducing genotype can affect human evolution. The aim of the article is not to argue for or against IVF, but to address aspects of assisted reproduction in an evolutionary context.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hans Ivar Hanevik
- Fertilitetsavdelingen Sor, Telemark Hospital Trust, Porsgrunn, Norway
| | - Dag O Hessen
- Department of Biosciences, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Arne Sunde
- Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Jarle Breivik
- Department of Behavioural Sciences in Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Development and validation of a custom microarray for global transcriptome profiling of the fungus Aspergillus nidulans. Curr Genet 2016; 62:897-910. [PMID: 27038308 DOI: 10.1007/s00294-016-0597-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 03/17/2016] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
Transcriptome profiling is a powerful tool for identifying gene networks from whole genome expression analysis in many living species. Here is described the first extensively characterized platform using Agilent microarray technology for transcriptome analysis in the filamentous fungus Aspergillus (Emericella) nidulans. We developed and validated a reliable gene expression microarray in 8 × 15 K format, with predictive and experimental data establishing its specificity and sensitivity. Either one or two 60-mer oligonucleotide probes were selected for each of 10,550 nuclear as well as 20 mitochondrial coding sequences. More than 99 % of probes were predicted to hybridize with 100 % identity to their aimed specific A. nidulans target only. Probe sensitivity was supported by a highly narrow distribution of melting temperatures together with thermodynamic features, which strongly favored probe-target perfect match hybridization, in comparison with predicted secondary structures. Array quality was evaluated through transcriptome comparison of two A. nidulans strains, differing by the presence or not of Escherichia coli LacZ transgene. High signal-to-noise ratios were measured, and signal reproducibility was established at intra-probe and inter-probe levels. Reproducibility of microarray performances was assessed by high correlation between two-color dye signals and between technical replicates. Results were confirmed by RT-qPCR analysis on five genes. Though it covers 100 % of the A. nidulans targeted coding sequences, this low density array allows limited experimental costs and simplified data analysis process, making it suitable for studying gene expression in this model organism through large numbers of experimental conditions, in basic, biomedical or industrial microbiology research fields.
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Swain JE, Carrell D, Cobo A, Meseguer M, Rubio C, Smith GD. Optimizing the culture environment and embryo manipulation to help maintain embryo developmental potential. Fertil Steril 2016; 105:571-587. [PMID: 26851765 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2016.01.035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 64] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2015] [Revised: 01/25/2016] [Accepted: 01/26/2016] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
With increased use of comprehensive chromosome screening (CCS), the question remains as to why some practices do not experience the same high levels of clinical success after implementation of the approach. Indeed, the debate surrounding the efficacy and usefulness of blastocyst biopsy and CCS continues. Importantly, several variables impact the success of an assisted reproductive technology cycle. Transfer of a euploid embryo is but one factor in an intricate system that requires numerous steps to occur successfully. Certainly, the culture environment and the manipulations of the embryo during its time in the laboratory can impact its reproductive potential. Environmental stressors ranging from culture media to culture conditions and even culture platform can impact biochemical, metabolic, and epigenetic patterns that can affect the developing cell independent of chromosome number. Furthermore, accompanying procedures, such as biopsy and vitrification, are complex and, when performed improperly, can negatively impact embryo quality. These are areas that likely still carry room for improvement within the IVF laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Doug Carrell
- Department of Surgery (Urology) and Human Genetics, University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Ana Cobo
- Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - Gary D Smith
- Department of Molecular and Integrative Physiology, Ob/Gyn, Urology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Do We Pay Enough Attention to Culture Conditions in Context of Perinatal Outcome after In Vitro Fertilization? Up-to-Date Literature Review. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2016; 2016:3285179. [PMID: 26942190 PMCID: PMC4749777 DOI: 10.1155/2016/3285179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2015] [Revised: 12/20/2015] [Accepted: 01/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Adverse perinatal outcomes in singleton IVF pregnancies have been most often explained by parental underlying diseases and so far laboratory conditions during embryo culture are still not explored well. The following review discusses the current state of knowledge on the influence of IVF laboratory procedures on the possible perinatal outcome. The role of improved media for human embryo culture is unquestionable. Addition of certain components to culture media and their effect on embryo survival and implantation rates have been taken into consideration recently and studied on animal model. Impact of media on perinatal outcome in IVF offspring has also been studied. It has been discovered that epigenetic changes and neonatal birth weight are probably associated with the use of specific culture media, as is the relation between placental size and its influence on perinatal outcome. There are still questions in the discussion about duration of embryo culture (cleavage stage versus blastocyst transfer). Some of the IVF methods, such as in vitro maturation of oocytes and freezing/thawing procedures, also require well-powered randomized controlled trials in order to define their exact impact on perinatal outcome. Constant further research is needed to assess the impact of laboratory environment on fetal and postnatal development.
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Mantikou E, Jonker MJ, Wong KM, van Montfoort APA, de Jong M, Breit TM, Repping S, Mastenbroek S. Factors affecting the gene expression of in vitro cultured human preimplantation embryos. Hum Reprod 2015; 31:298-311. [PMID: 26677958 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dev306] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2014] [Accepted: 11/20/2015] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What is the relative effect of common environmental and biological factors on transcriptome changes during human preimplantation development? SUMMARY ANSWER Developmental stage and maternal age had a larger effect on the global gene expression profile of human preimplantation embryos than the culture medium or oxygen concentration used in in vitro culture. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Studies on mouse and bovine embryos have shown that different conditions in the in vitro culture of embryos can lead to changes in transcriptome profiles. For humans, an effect of developmental stage on the transcriptome profile of embryos has been demonstrated, but studies on the effect of maternal age or culture conditions are lacking. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Donated, good quality, day 4 cryopreserved human preimplantation embryos (N = 89) were randomized to be cultured in one of two culture media (G5 medium or HTF medium) and one of two oxygen concentrations (5% or 20%), with stratification for maternal age. Next to these variables, developmental stage after culture was taken into account in the analysis. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Embryos that developed to morula or blastocyst stage during these 2 days whose amplified mRNA passed our quality control criteria for microarray hybridization were individually examined for genome-wide gene expression (N = 37). MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Based on the number of differentially expressed genes (DEGs), developmental stage (3519 DEGs) and maternal age (1258 DEGs) had a larger effect on the global gene expression profile of human preimplantation embryos than either tested culture medium (596 DEGs) or oxygen concentration (492 DEGs) used during in vitro culture. Interactions between the factors were found, indicating that culture conditions might have a different effect depending on the developmental stage or the maternal age of the embryos. Affected pathways included metabolism, cell cycle processes and oxidative phosphorylation. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTION Culture of embryos for only 2 days might have limited the effect on global gene expression by the investigated culture conditions. Earlier stages of development (Day 0 until Day 4) were not analyzed and these embryos might respond differently to the experimental conditions. The freezing and thawing procedures might have had an effect on gene expression. RT-PCR validation was not performed due to scarcity of the material. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS Our results show that when studying gene expression in single human preimplantation embryos under various experimental conditions, one should take into account the confounding effect of biological variables, such as developmental stage and maternal age. This makes these experiments different from gene expression experiments where these variables can be tightly controlled, for example when using cell lines. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTERESTS This study received no external funding and there were no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Mantikou
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands MicroArray Department and Integrative Bioinformatics Unit (MAD-IBU), Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science (FNWI), University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - M J Jonker
- MicroArray Department and Integrative Bioinformatics Unit (MAD-IBU), Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science (FNWI), University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands Netherlands Bioinformatics Center (NBIC), 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - K M Wong
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - A P A van Montfoort
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, GROW school for Oncology and Developmental Biology, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202 AZ Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - M de Jong
- MicroArray Department and Integrative Bioinformatics Unit (MAD-IBU), Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science (FNWI), University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands Present address: GenomeScan B.V., Plesmanlaan 1d, 2333BZ Leiden, The Netherlands
| | - T M Breit
- MicroArray Department and Integrative Bioinformatics Unit (MAD-IBU), Swammerdam Institute for Life Sciences, Faculty of Science (FNWI), University of Amsterdam, 1090 GE Amsterdam, The Netherlands Netherlands Bioinformatics Center (NBIC), 6525 GA Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - S Repping
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - S Mastenbroek
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, Academic Medical Center, University of Amsterdam, 1105 AZ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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