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Aramli MS, Sarvi Moghanlou K, Pourahad Anzabi M. A brief review of the methodology and cryoprotectants in selected fish and mammalian species. Reprod Domest Anim 2024; 59:e14575. [PMID: 38715442 DOI: 10.1111/rda.14575] [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: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 03/24/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 05/23/2024]
Abstract
Cryopreservation is a valuable technique used to assist in the genetic improvement of cultured stocks and provide a continuous supply of good-quality semen for artificial insemination. Conserving semen by cryopreservation serves several purposes (e.g. artificial reproductive technologies and species conservation) and is also used in the clinical treatment of human infertility. However, the lifespan of cryopreserved semen is influenced by a range of factors, including storage temperature, cooling rate, chemical composition of the extender, the concentration of cryoprotectant, reactive oxygen species, seminal plasma composition and hygienic control. The choice of cryoprotectant is a vital factor underlying the success of animal semen cryopreservation. In this regard, extensive research has been carried out on various cryoprotectants, such as egg yolk, dimethyl sulfoxide, methanol, ethylene glycol and dimethylacetamide. Recent studies have also described the use of a range of new cryoprotectants for cryopreservation, including compounds of plant origin (soy), amino acids, antifreeze proteins, carbohydrates and cyclodextrins. Moreover, semen cryopreservation and storage require the use of liquid nitrogen or ultralow refrigeration methods for both long- and short-term storage. This review summarizes the general methods used for freezing semen and discusses the use of traditional and newly emerging cryoprotectants (permeable and non-permeable) for the cryopreservation of semen in selected fish and mammalian species.
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Savvulidi FG, Ptacek M, Malkova A, Kratochvilova I, Simek D, Martinez-Pastor F, Stadnik L. Inhibition of extracellular ice crystals growth for testing the cryodamaging effect of intracellular ice in a model of ram sperm ultra-rapid freezing. JOURNAL OF APPLIED ANIMAL RESEARCH 2023. [DOI: 10.1080/09712119.2023.2171045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Filipp Georgijevic Savvulidi
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food, and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Ptacek
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food, and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Anezka Malkova
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food, and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Irena Kratochvilova
- Department of Functional Materials, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Daniel Simek
- Department of Functional Materials, Institute of Physics of the Czech Academy of Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Felipe Martinez-Pastor
- Instituto de Desarrollo Ganadero y Sanidad Animal (INDEGSAL) and Molecular Biology (Cell Biology), Universidad de Leon, Leon, Spain
| | - Ludek Stadnik
- Department of Animal Science, Faculty of Agrobiology, Food, and Natural Resources, Czech University of Life Sciences, Prague, Czech Republic
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Sciorio R, Manna C, Fauque P, Rinaudo P. Can Cryopreservation in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) Induce Epigenetic Changes to Gametes and Embryos? J Clin Med 2023; 12:4444. [PMID: 37445479 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12134444] [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: 03/11/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/29/2023] [Indexed: 07/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Since the birth of Louise Brown in 1978, more than nine million children have been conceived using assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs). While the great majority of children are healthy, there are concerns about the potential epigenetic consequences of gametes and embryo manipulation. In fact, during the preimplantation period, major waves of epigenetic reprogramming occur. Epigenetic reprogramming is susceptible to environmental changes induced by ovarian stimulation, in-vitro fertilization, and embryo culture, as well as cryopreservation procedures. This review summarizes the evidence relating to oocytes and embryo cryopreservation and potential epigenetic regulation. Overall, it appears that the stress induced by vitrification, including osmotic shock, temperature and pH changes, and toxicity of cryoprotectants, might induce epigenetic and transcriptomic changes in oocytes and embryos. It is currently unclear if these changes will have potential consequences for the health of future offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Romualdo Sciorio
- Edinburgh Assisted Conception Programme, Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Edinburgh EH16 4SA, UK
| | - Claudio Manna
- Biofertility IVF and Infertility Center, 00198 Rome, Italy
| | - Patricia Fauque
- Université Bourgogne Franche-Comté-Equipe Génétique des Anomalies du Development (GAD) INSERM UMR1231, F-21000 Dijon, France
- CHU Dijon Bourgogne, Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction-CECOS, F-21000 Dijon, France
| | - Paolo Rinaudo
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, CA 92037, USA
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Ozimic S, Ban-Frangez H, Stimpfel M. Sperm Cryopreservation Today: Approaches, Efficiency, and Pitfalls. Curr Issues Mol Biol 2023; 45:4716-4734. [PMID: 37367049 DOI: 10.3390/cimb45060300] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Revised: 05/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/28/2023] Open
Abstract
The cryopreservation of human spermatozoa has been an option for patients undergoing chemo or radiotherapies since the late 1950s. Presently, there are different techniques for the cryopreservation of spermatozoa. The most commonly used techniques are programmable slow freezing and freezing on liquid nitrogen vapors, while the use of vitrification is still not accepted as clinically relevant. Although there have been many improvements, the ideal technique for achieving better post-thaw sperm quality continues to be a mystery. A major obstacle during cryopreservation is the formation of intracellular ice crystals. Cryodamage generated by cryopreservation causes structural and molecular alterations in spermatozoa. Injuries can happen because of oxidative stress, temperature stress, and osmotic stress, which then result in changes in the plasma membrane fluidity, motility, viability, and DNA integrity of the spermatozoa. To prevent cryodamage as much as possible, cryoprotectants are added, and in some clinical trial cases, even antioxidants that may improve post-thaw sperm quality are added. This review discusses cryopreservation techniques, cryodamage on molecular and structural levels, and cryoprotectants. It provides a comparison of cryopreservation techniques and describes recent advances in those techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sanja Ozimic
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Helena Ban-Frangez
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Martin Stimpfel
- Department of Human Reproduction, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Medical Centre Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Ljubljana, 1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
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Barbosa BB, Evangelista ITA, Soares ARB, Leão DL, Pereira RJG, Domingues SFS. Kinetic vitrification: concepts and perspectives in animal sperm cryopreservation. Anim Reprod 2023; 20:e20220096. [PMID: 37228692 PMCID: PMC10205064 DOI: 10.1590/1984-3143-ar2022-0096] [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: 10/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation is an important tool for genetic diversity management programs and the conservation of endangered breeds and species. The most widely used method of sperm conservation is slow freezing, however, during the process, sperm cells suffer from cryoinjury, which reduces their viability and fertility rates. One of the alternatives to slow freezing is vitrification, that consist on rapid freezing, in which viable cells undergo glass-like solidification. This technology requires large concentrations of permeable cryoprotectants (P- CPA's) which increase the viscosity of the medium to prevent intracellular ice formation during cooling and warming, obtaining successful results in vitrification of oocytes and embryos. Unfortunately, this technology failed when applied to vitrification of sperm due to its higher sensitivity to increasing concentrations of P-CPAs. Alternatively, a technique termed 'kinetic sperm vitrification' has been used and consists in a technique of permeant cryoprotectant-free cryopreservation by direct plunging of a sperm suspension into liquid nitrogen. Some of the advantages of kinetic vitrification are the speed of execution and no rate-controlled equipment required. This technique has been used successfully and with better results for motility in human (50-70% motility recovery), dog (42%), fish (82%) and donkey (21.7%). However, more studies are required to improve sperm viability after devitrification, especially when it comes to motility recovery. The objective of this review is to present the principles of kinetic vitrification, the main findings in the literature, and the perspectives for the utilization of this technique as a cryopreservation method.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Barreto Barbosa
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Medicina de Animais da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brasil.
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia, Belém, PA, Brasil.
| | - Inara Tayná Alves Evangelista
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Medicina de Animais da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brasil.
| | - Airton Renan Bastos Soares
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Medicina de Animais da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brasil.
| | - Danuza Leite Leão
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Medicina de Animais da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brasil.
- Instituto de Desenvolvimento Sustentável Mamirauá, Tefé, AM, Brasil.
| | - Ricardo José Garcia Pereira
- Departamento de Reprodução Animal, Faculdade de Medicina Veterinária e Zootecnia, Universidade de São Paulo, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.
| | - Sheyla Farhayldes Souza Domingues
- Laboratório de Biotecnologia e Medicina de Animais da Amazônia, Universidade Federal do Pará, Castanhal, PA, Brasil.
- Programa de Pós-graduação em Saúde e Produção Animal na Amazônia, Universidade Federal Rural da Amazônia, Belém, PA, Brasil.
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Antonouli S, Di Nisio V, Messini C, Daponte A, Rajender S, Anifandis G. A comprehensive review and update on human fertility cryopreservation methods and tools. Front Vet Sci 2023; 10:1151254. [PMID: 37143497 PMCID: PMC10151698 DOI: 10.3389/fvets.2023.1151254] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 03/29/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
The broad conceptualization of fertility preservation and restoration has become already a major concern in the modern western world since a large number of individuals often face it in the everyday life. Driven by different health conditions and/or social reasons, a variety of patients currently rely on routinely and non-routinely applied assisted reproductive technologies, and mostly on the possibility to cryopreserve gametes and/or gonadal tissues for expanding their reproductive lifespan. This review embraces the data present in human-focused literature regarding the up-to-date methodologies and tools contemporarily applied in IVF laboratories' clinical setting of the oocyte, sperm, and embryo cryopreservation and explores the latest news and issues related to the optimization of methods used in ovarian and testicular tissue cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sevastiani Antonouli
- Department of Clinical Chemistry, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece
| | - Valentina Di Nisio
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Clinical Science, Intervention and Technology, Karolinska Institutet and Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Christina Messini
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Alexandros Daponte
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
| | - Singh Rajender
- Division of Endocrinology, Central Drug Research Institute, Lucknow, India
| | - George Anifandis
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Faculty of Medicine, School of Health Sciences, University of Thessaly, Larisa, Greece
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Endo Y, Fujii Y, Motoyama H. Clinical and neonatal outcomes of individually vitrified human sperm with Cryotop and Cell Sleeper. Cryobiology 2022; 108:78-81. [PMID: 35870496 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2022.07.003] [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: 03/27/2022] [Revised: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Technique for preserving limited number of human spermatozoa is important for successful treatment of patients with azoospermia and cryptozoospermia. This study determined whether the non-biological devices (Cryotop and Cell Sleeper) efficiently vitrify small numbers of human spermatozoa. From December 2011 to December 2018, 10 males with very low sperm numbers managed with a single sperm vitrification method. Post-warmed sperm recovery was similar with both devices. Post-warmed sperm motility and fertilization after intracytoplasmic sperm injection were significantly higher in Cryotop group than in Cell Sleeper group (40.0% vs. 22.0%, P < 0.01 and 50.7% vs. 21.7%, P < 0.01, respectively). The pregnancy rate was 15.4% and 2 healthy babies were born in the Cryotop, while 14.3% and 1 baby in the Cell Sleeper, which did not differ between the groups. Both devices have clinical advantages in terms of easy use and safety, and would be performed more efficiently by using devices with different properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuji Endo
- IVF Center, Kurashiki Medical Center, 250, Bakurocho, Kurashiki, 710-8522, Japan.
| | - Yoshitaka Fujii
- IVF Center, Kurashiki Medical Center, 250, Bakurocho, Kurashiki, 710-8522, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Motoyama
- IVF Center, Kurashiki Medical Center, 250, Bakurocho, Kurashiki, 710-8522, Japan
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Juanpanich T, Suttirojpattana T, Parnpai R, Vutyavanich T. The relationship between reactive oxygen species, DNA fragmentation, and sperm parameters in human sperm using simplified sucrose vitrification with or without triple antioxidant supplementation. Clin Exp Reprod Med 2022; 49:117-126. [PMID: 35698774 PMCID: PMC9184879 DOI: 10.5653/cerm.2021.05120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2021] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This study examined whether the addition of triple antioxidants (3A)—10 µM acetyl-L-carnitine, 10 µM N-acetyl-L-cysteine, and 5 µM α-lipoic acid—in freezing-thawing medium during human sperm cryopreservation using the sucrose vitrification (SuV) and liquid nitrogen vapor (Vapor) techniques could improve post-thaw survival of spermatozoa. Methods We analyzed 30 samples from healthy human sperm donors. Each sample was allocated into one of five groups: fresh control, SuV, SuV+3A, Vapor, and Vapor+3A. The sperm motility, morphology, viability, intracellular and extracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and sperm DNA fragmentation (SDF) were evaluated. Results The cryopreserved spermatozoa had significantly reduced percentages of motility (p<0.05) and viability (p<0.05). Antioxidant supplementation non-significantly improved these parameters (p>0.05). No significant differences were found in sperm morphology between the fresh and frozen-thawed groups (p>0.05). After freezing, the extracellular ROS levels in the frozen-thawed groups were significantly higher (p<0.05) than in the fresh group. However, we did not find any differences in intracellular ROS parameters among these groups (p>0.05). The SDF was higher in the SuV and Vapor groups than in the fresh group, but without statistical significance (p=0.075 and p=0.077, respectively). Conclusion Cryopreservation had detrimental effects on sperm motility, viability, and extracellular ROS levels, without changing the morphology or intracellular ROS levels. Antioxidant supplementation was slightly effective in preventing SDF in frozen-thawed spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rangsun Parnpai
- Embryo Technology and Stem Cell Research Center, School of Biotechnology, Suranaree University of Technology, Nakhon Ratchasima, Thailand
| | - Teraporn Vutyavanich
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Corresponding author: Teraporn Vutyavanich Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai 50200, Thailand Tel: +66-53-21-7204 Fax: +66-53-21-7205 E-mail:
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Huanhuan Hu, Ji G, Shi X, Zhang J, Li M. Current Status of Male Fertility Preservation in Humans. Russ J Dev Biol 2022. [DOI: 10.1134/s1062360422020060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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10
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Cryoprotectants-Free Vitrification and Conventional Freezing of Human Spermatozoa: A Comparative Transcript Profiling. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms23063047. [PMID: 35328464 PMCID: PMC8956043 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23063047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Revised: 03/08/2022] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Spermatozoa cryopreservation is an important technique to preserve fertility for males. This study aimed at exploring the stability of epigenetics information in human spermatozoa, manipulated by two different technologies, freezing and vitrification. Methods: Spermatozoa samples were distributed into three groups: 1. Fresh spermatozoa (control group), 2. Frozen spermatozoa, 3. Vitrified spermatozoa. Epigenetic differences of fresh and cryopreserved spermatozoa were evaluated using high-throughput RNA sequencing. Results: Differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in frozen (1103 genes) and vitrified (333 genes) spermatozoa were evaluated. The bioinformatical analysis identified 8 and 15 significant pathways in groups of frozen and vitrified spermatozoa, respectively. The majority of these pathways are most relevant to immune and infectious diseases. The DEGs of the fertilization process are not detected during vitrification. The freezing process induces more down-regulation of genes and is relevant to apoptosis changes and immune response. Conclusion: Cryopreservation of human spermatozoa is an epigenetically safe method for male fertility preservation. Cryoprotectant-free vitrification can induce more minor biological changes in human spermatozoa, in comparison with conventional freezing.
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Galarza DA, Landi G, Mejía E, Samaniego JX, Méndez S, Soria ME, Taboada J, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Castaño C, Santiago-Moreno J. Cryopreservation of dog epididymal spermatozoa by conventional freezing or ultra-rapid freezing with nonpermeable cryoprotectant. Cryobiology 2021; 103:15-21. [PMID: 34715114 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.10.002] [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: 07/15/2021] [Revised: 10/20/2021] [Accepted: 10/24/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
This study was aimed to assess the effectiveness of two methods for cryopreservation of dog epididymal spermatozoa, one by conventional freezing (CF) with shortening both equilibration and cooling times, and the other by ultra-rapid freezing (URF) with nonpermeable cryoprotectant. Sixty epididymides were recovered from thirty orchiectomized adult dogs and the sperm samples were retrieved by retrograde flushing using TCG-EY (tris, citric acid, glucose + 20% egg yolk) extender and then 20 pools were conformed. Each pool was divided into 2 aliquots and then cryopreserved by CF and URF methods respectively. The CF method maintained the cooled-pool samples for 2h (1h without and 1h with 5% glycerol) and then were frozen by liquid nitrogen (LN2) vapors for 2 min. The URF method cryopreserved the cooled-pool samples using TCG-EY+250 mM sucrose, equilibrating during 30 min (5 °C) and submerging 30-μL drops directly in LN2. The results showed that the URF method produced a lower percentage of total and progressive motilities and acrosome integrity (P < 0.05) than the CF method. However, the kinetic variables (curvilinear and straight-line velocities, straightness, linearity, wobble, amplitude of lateral head displacement, and beat-cross frequency) and plasma membrane integrity did not differ (P > 0.05) between both cryopreservation methods. Unlike the URF method, the width, area and perimeter of sperm head were reduced after the CF method (P < 0.05). In conclusion, despite the low motility achieved after the ultra-rapid freezing method, the similar values of kinetic, viability and head morphometric dimensions to those obtained after conventional freezing, suggest that ultra-rapid freezing with sucrose may be a useful alternative for the cryopreservation of canine epididymal sperm.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diego A Galarza
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Gabriela Landi
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Edisson Mejía
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Jorge X Samaniego
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Silvana Méndez
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Manuel E Soria
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | - Juan Taboada
- Laboratorio de Biotecnología de La Reproducción Animal, Facultad de Ciencias Agropecuarias, Universidad de Cuenca, EC010205, Cuenca, Ecuador.
| | | | - Cristina Castaño
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal, INIA-CSIC, 28040, Madrid, Spain.
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Petrushko M, Yurchuk T, Todorov P, Hristova E, Piniaiev V, Isachenko E, Rahimi G, Mallmann P, Isachenko V. New method for cryoprotectant-free freezing of human oligoasthenoteratozoospremic spermatozoa with high-molecular polymer. Cryobiology 2021; 103:39-44. [PMID: 34606824 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.09.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
Data about cryoprotectant-free cryopreservation of human ICSI spermatozoa are limited. The aim of this investigation was to compare two technologies for cryopreservation of spermatozoa from men with oligoasthenoteratozoospermia: standard conventional freezing with 5% glycerol (freezing in glycerol) and cryoprotectant-free freezing with 5% high-molecular-weight (360 kDa) polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) (PVP-freezing). Capillaries with spermatozoa were cooled in vapor and then plunginged into liquid nitrogen. Head-, midpiece- and tail-abnormality of spermatozoa, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and DNA fragmentation rates after cryopreservation were evaluated. After warming of spermatozoa, fertilization of oocytes (ICSI) was performed. It was detected the lower rate of morphological abnormalities of PVP-frozen spermatozoa in comparison with cells frozen with glycerol (34.6 ± 4.1% vs. 20.7 ± 4.7%, respectively) (P < 0.05). Quality of cells with high MMP after warming in spermatozoa frozen with glycerol was lower than in PVP-frozen spermatozoa (34.7 ± 4.2 vs. 54.5 ± 4.2%, respectively) (P < 0.05). It was established that the DNA fragmentation rate in PVP-frozen spermatozoa was significantly lower in comparison with spermatozoa frozen with glycerol (23.1 ± 2.5% vs. 38.8 ± 3.0%, respectively) (P < 0.05). After fertilization (ICSI) of oocytes, it was established that cleavage and blastulation rates were higher in oocytes after fertilization with PVP-frozen spermatozoa than with spermatozoa frozen with glycerol. Fertilization-, development to 8-blastomeres-, and blastocyst-rates were for PVP-frozen and spermatozoa frozen with glycerol, respectively: 94.4 ± 7.8 vs. 82.2 ± 6.2% (P > 0.1 with tendency to increasing), 90.0 ± 4.6 vs. 69.5 ± 5.1% (P < 0.05), and 45.4 ± 4.1% vs. 30.9 ± 3.3% (P < 0.05). It was concluded that permeable cryoprotectant-free freezing with 5% high-molecular-weight (360 kDa) polyvinylpyrrolidone can be applied successfully for cryopreservation of human oligoasthenoteratozoospremic spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryna Petrushko
- Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine, 61016, Kharkiv, Ukraine; ART-clinic of Reproductive Medicine, 61000, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Taisiia Yurchuk
- Institute for Problems of Cryobiology and Cryomedicine, 61016, Kharkiv, Ukraine
| | - Plamen Todorov
- Institute of biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Elena Hristova
- Institute of biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Bulgarian Academy of Sciences, 1113, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | | | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Medical Faculty, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cologne University, 50931, Cologne, Germany.
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Kumar P, Wang M, Isachenko E, Rahimi G, Mallmann P, Wang W, von Brandenstein M, Isachenko V. Unraveling Subcellular and Ultrastructural Changes During Vitrification of Human Spermatozoa: Effect of a Mitochondria-Targeted Antioxidant and a Permeable Cryoprotectant. Front Cell Dev Biol 2021; 9:672862. [PMID: 34277615 PMCID: PMC8284099 DOI: 10.3389/fcell.2021.672862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2021] [Accepted: 05/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Mitochondria-targeted antioxidants have great potential to counterbalance the generated reactive oxygen species (ROS) because they cross the inner membrane of the mitochondria. Still, their use was not reported in vitrified human spermatozoa. Our laboratory has successfully vitrified spermatozoa without the use of permeable cryoprotectants, but subcellular-level evidence was missing. Therefore, this study aimed to improve spermatozoa vitrification using a mitochondria-targeted antioxidant (mitoquinone, MitoQ), reveal ultrastructural changes in the spermatozoa due to the use of a permeable cryoprotectant, and report alterations of functional proteins during the spermatozoa vitrification process. For this, each of 20 swim-up-prepared ejaculates was divided into seven aliquots and diluted with a vitrification medium supplemented with varying concentrations of MitoQ (0.02 and 0.2 μM), glycerol (1, 4, and 6%), and a combination of MitoQ and glycerol. All aliquots were vitrified by the aseptic capillary method developed in our laboratory. The spermatozoa function assays revealed that the addition of either MitoQ (0.02 μM), glycerol (1%), or a combination of MitoQ (0.02 μM) and glycerol (1%) in the vitrification medium results in better or equivalent spermatozoa quality relative to the control. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that MitoQ protects the spermatozoa from undergoing ultrastructural alterations, but glycerol induced ultrastructural alterations during the vitrification process. Next, we performed label-free quantitative proteomics and identified 1,759 proteins, of which 69, 60, 90, and 81 were altered in the basal medium, 0.02 μM MitoQ, 1% glycerol, and Mito-glycerol groups, respectively. Actin, tubulins, and outer dense fiber proteins were not affected during the vitrification process. Some of the identified ubiquitinating enzymes were affected during spermatozoa vitrification. Only a few proteins responsible for phosphorylation were altered during vitrification. Similarly, several proteins involved in spermatozoa–egg fusion and fertilization (IZUMO1 and Tektin) were not affected during the vitrification process. In conclusion, MitoQ attenuates the vitrification-induced ultrastructural changes and alterations in the key proteins involved in spermatozoa functions and fertilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pradeep Kumar
- Department of Animal Physiology and Reproduction, ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes, Hisar, India.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Mengying Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Wanxue Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical Faculty, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
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14
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Ohno M, Tanaka A, Nagayoshi M, Yamaguchi T, Takemoto Y, Tanaka I, Watanabe S, Itakura A. Modified permeable cryoprotectant-free vitrification method for three or fewer ejaculated spermatozoa from cryptozoospermic men and 7-year follow-up study of 14 children born from this method. Hum Reprod 2021; 35:1019-1028. [PMID: 32383453 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/deaa072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2019] [Revised: 01/25/2020] [Accepted: 03/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION What technique can be used to successfully cryopreserve three or fewer ejaculated spermatozoa from cryptozoospermic men and is the physical and cognitive development of children born after this technique normal? SUMMARY ANSWER The modified cryopreservation method for three or fewer human spermatozoa from cryptozoospermic men showed a recovery rate above 95% and a survival rate just under 90%, and the physical and cognitive abilities of the children born after ICSI were comparable to those born after natural conception. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Clinical outcomes of ICSI using cryptozoospermic men's ejaculated spermatozoa are considered to be inferior to that using testicular spermatozoa from microsurgical testicular sperm extraction (Micro-TESE), possibly because the DNA fragmentation rate is higher in ejaculated spermatozoa than in testicular spermatozoa from Micro-TESE. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION Evaluation of the efficiency of cryopreservation of three or fewer spermatozoa was conducted retrospectively at St. Mother Clinic. The physical and cognitive development of children born after this method was studied between 2011 and 2018. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This study included 28 cryptozoospermic men who had three or fewer morphologically normal and motile spermatozoa in their ejaculate after centrifugation and who preferred using cryopreserved spermatozoa to Micro-TESE. Control subjects were 31 cryptozoospermic patients using fresh spermatozoa from their ejaculates and 20 non-obstructive azoospermic patients with fewer than 10 spermatozoa obtained by TESE and vitrified. Clinical outcomes among three groups, vitrified spermatozoa from the ejaculate, fresh spermatozoa from the ejaculate and vitrified spermatozoa from the testis, were statistically analysed. For the 7-year follow up study of the 14 children born after ICSI using the ejaculated vitrified spermatozoa, the Japanese government-issued Boshi Kenko Techo (Mother-Child Handbook) and Kinder Infant Development Scale (KIDS scale) were used to determine whether their physical and cognitive development was comparable to that of naturally conceived children. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Recovery and survival rates were 97.8% (510/521) and 87.1% (444/510) for vitrified spermatozoa from the ejaculate and 92.7% (152/164) and 60.5% (92/152) for vitrified spermatozoa from the testis. Clinical pregnancies (%), miscarriages (%) and live birth rates (%), respectively, among the three groups were as follows: vitrified spermatozoa from the ejaculate: 15(25.0), 2(13.3), 13(21.7); fresh spermatozoa from the ejaculate: 26(24.3), 5(19.2), 20(18.7); and vitrified spermatozoa from the testis: 3(16.7), 0(0.0), 3(16.7). Among the groups, there were no statistically significant differences except for the sperm survival rate and the oocyte fertilisation rate, which were lower for vitrified spermatozoa from the testis compared with vitrified spermatozoa from the ejaculate. The 7-year follow-up study showed that the physical and cognitive development of 14 children born after ICSI using vitrified ejaculated spermatozoa from the ejaculate was comparable to that of naturally conceived children. LIMITATIONS, REASONS FOR CAUTIONS The maximum number of spermatozoa to which this method can be applied successfully is about 10. When the number of aspirated spermatozoa is over 10, some of them change direction after colliding with each other inside the aspiration pipette and reach the mineral oil, and once this happens, they cannot be expelled out of the pipette. Even though we did not find evidence of DNA fragmentation, further studies with larger participant numbers and longer time periods are necessary. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS This technique is very useful for the cryopreservation of very small numbers of testicular spermatozoa (fewer than 10) in order to avoid or reduce Micro-TESE interventions. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) No external funding was received to undertake this study. There are no competing interests. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER N/A.
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Affiliation(s)
- Motoharu Ohno
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Atsushi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Motoi Nagayoshi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Takashi Yamaguchi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Youichi Takemoto
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Izumi Tanaka
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Saint Mother Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic and Institute for ART, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Seiji Watanabe
- Department of Anatomical Science, Hirosaki University Graduate School of Medicine, Hirosaki, Japan
| | - Atsuo Itakura
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Juntendo University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan
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15
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Aseptic capillary vitrification of human spermatozoa: Cryoprotectant-free vs. cryoprotectant-included technologies. Cryobiology 2021; 99:95-102. [PMID: 33422478 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2021.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2020] [Revised: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The protocol of aseptic cryoprotectant-free vitrification on human spermatozoa is well documented. However, data about the effect of permeable cryoprotectants at this procedure is limited. Presented study aimed to test the aseptic capillary vitrification technologies using permeable cryoprotectant-included or cryoprotectant-free media. Thirty-two normal samples were included and analyzed after vitrification in three different media and thawing. Three treatment groups were formed: Group 1, basic medium; Group 2, basic medium with 0.25 M sucrose; Group 3, basic medium with glycerol. Before plunging into liquid nitrogen, capillaries were filled by 10 μl of spermatozoa suspension and isolated from liquid nitrogen by location in hermetically closed 0.25 ml straws. Progressive motility, plasma membrane integrity, total motility/viability after 24, 48 and 72 h in vitro culture, apoptosis and mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm) were determined after thawing at 42 °C. Progressive motility of spermatozoa in groups 1, 2, 3 was 24.9 ± 1.7%, 34.5 ± 2.8% and 34.0 ± 1.4%, respectively (P1-2,3<0.05). The plasma membrane integrity of spermatozoa in groups 2 and 3 (48.4 ± 2.9% and 45.5 ± 3.9%, respectively) was higher than in Group 1 (33.3 ± 2.1%, P < 0.05). After 24 h, 48 h and 72 h in vitro culture, the total motility and viability of spermatozoa in Group 1 was significantly lower than Group 2 and Group 3. The apoptosis rate in Group 3 (44.5 ± 3.0%) and Group 2 (47.7 ± 4.1%) were lower than in Group 1 (52.5 ± 4.4%; P < 0.05). ΔΨm rates in Group 3 and Group 2 were higher than in Group 1 (P < 0.05) with no statistical differences between this parameter in Group 2 and Group 3 (P > 0.1). In conclusion, supplementation of medium for aseptic capillary technology for cryoprotectant-free vitrification of human spermatozoa by permeable cryoprotectant does not improve the quality of spermatozoa after warming.
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16
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Zhou D, Wang XM, Li RX, Wang YZ, Chao YC, Liu ZZ, Huang ZH, Nie HC, Zhu WB, Tan YQ, Fan LQ. Improving native human sperm freezing protection by using a modified vitrification method. Asian J Androl 2021; 23:91-96. [PMID: 32567578 PMCID: PMC7831840 DOI: 10.4103/aja.aja_29_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Slow freezing is the most commonly used technique for the cryopreservation of spermatozoa in clinical practice. However, it has been shown to have a negative impact on sperm function and structure. Vitrification as a successful alternative method has been proved to have better protective effects on human embryos, but vitrification of spermatozoa is still subject to low recovery rates. In this study, a modified vitrification method for native spermatozoa was developed. A total of 28 semen samples were included; each sample was divided into three equal parts and assigned to fresh, slow freezing, and vitrification groups. Sperm vitality, motility, morphology, DNA integrity, and acrosome reaction were assessed for each of the groups. The results showed that vitrification achieves better results for several sperm protection parameters than slow freezing; vitrification achieves a higher recovery rate (P < 0.05), motility (P < 0.05), morphology (P < 0.05), and curve line velocity (P < 0.05) than slow freezing. Furthermore, DNA fragmentation was decreased (P < 0.05) and better acrosome protection (P < 0.05) was exhibited in the spermatozoa after vitrification. Principal component analysis of all sperm parameters revealed that the vitrification cluster was closer to the fresh cluster, indicating that spermatozoa are better preserved through vitrification. In conclusion, while both slow freezing and vitrification have negative effects on sperm function and structure, the vitrification protocol described here had a relatively better recovery rate (65.8%) and showed improved preservation of several sperm quality parameters compared with slow freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dai Zhou
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Xing-Ming Wang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Rui-Xue Li
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Yi-Ze Wang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Yuan-Chi Chao
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Zhi-Zhong Liu
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Department of Urology, Hunan Cancer Hospital, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Zeng-Hui Huang
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Hong-Chuan Nie
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Wen-Bing Zhu
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Yue-Qiu Tan
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
| | - Li-Qing Fan
- Institute of Reproduction and Stem Cell Engineering, School of Basic Medicine Science, Central South University, Changsha 410000, China.,Reproductive and Genetic Hospital of CITIC-Xiangya, Changsha 410000, China
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17
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Dynamic assessment of human sperm DNA damage III: the effect of sperm freezing techniques. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 22:379-387. [DOI: 10.1007/s10561-020-09883-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
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18
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Comparison of rapid freezing versus vitrification for human sperm cryopreservation using sucrose in closed straw systems. Cell Tissue Bank 2020; 21:667-673. [PMID: 32870439 DOI: 10.1007/s10561-020-09860-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Accepted: 08/26/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Rapid freezing and vitrification using sucrose are two simple and cost-effective sperm cryopreservation methods. However, it is still unclear which method is better and what the optimal concentration of sucrose is. This study aimed to determine the optimal sucrose concentration for human sperm cryopreservation and compare the cryoprotective effects of rapid freezing versus vitrification using different closed straw systems in terms of sperm motility and DNA integrity. Our data showed that: (1) The optimal sucrose concentration for vitrification was 0.25 mol/l among the tested 0, 0.125, 0.25 and 0.5 mol/l concentrations; (2) Sperm total motility and progressive motility were cryopreserved significantly better by rapid freezing than vitrification in standard 0.5 ml cryostraws (P < 0.05); and (3) Sperm total motility and progressive motility were cryopreserved significantly better by vitrification in the straw-in-straw system than rapid freezing in the standard 0.5 cryostraw (P < 0.05), but no difference was found in sperm nuclear DNA fragmentation level between the two cryopreservation methods (P > 0.05). It was concluded that sucrose at 0.25 mol/l concentration is suitable for human sperm rapid freezing and vitrification, and sperm cryopreservation can be achieved by rapid freezing using closed standard 0.5 ml straws or by vitrification using the novel straw-in-straw system made of standard 0.25 and 0.5 ml straws.
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19
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Aseptic Cryoprotectant-Free Vitrification of Human Spermatozoa by Direct Dropping into a Cooling Agent. Methods Mol Biol 2020. [PMID: 32797425 DOI: 10.1007/978-1-0716-0783-1_19] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
Abstract
Spermatozoa cryopreservation is used for the management of infertility and some other medical conditions. Routinely applied cryopreservation techniques depend on permeating cryoprotectants and relatively slow freezing rates. Cryoprotectant-free vitrification is an alternative and cost-effective method that is based on rapid cooling of spermatozoa by direct plunging into a cooling agent to prevent lethal intracellular ice crystallization and the detrimental effects of high salt concentrations. One of the problems with this technique is that full sterilization of commercially produced liquid nitrogen, which could be contaminated with different pathogens, is not possible. Here we use a benchtop device for the production of sterile liquid air with the same temperature as liquid nitrogen (-195.7 °C). This has been used to develop aseptic technology for cryoprotectant-free vitrification of human spermatozoa.
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20
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Uribe P, Cárcamo C, Navarro E, Sepúlveda J, Zambrano F, Schulz M, Sánchez R. Protective effect of the superoxide dismutase mimetic MnTBAP during sperm vitrification process. Andrologia 2020; 52:e13665. [PMID: 32539179 DOI: 10.1111/and.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2020] [Revised: 04/21/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Sperm cryopreservation is widely used in assisted reproduction and male infertility therapy; however, it induces oxidative stress affecting sperm quality. This work evaluated the effect of the antioxidant MnTBAP during vitrification steps in human spermatozoa. First, the effect of MnTBAP on viability and ROS production was evaluated. Then, the spermatozoa were vitrified in straws with the vitrification, warming and post-warming incubation media separately supplemented with MnTBAP. An untreated control was included. The sperm viability, ROS production, total and progressive motility were evaluated. The results showed that the direct exposure of spermatozoa to MnTBAP significantly decreases the ROS levels in comparison with the untreated control without affecting the viability. The supplementation of the vitrification medium with MnTBAP did not affect the parameters analysed. However, the supplementation of the warming and incubation post-warming media resulted in a decrease in ROS production and maintained viability and motility for 4 hr after warming with concentrations up to 100 μM of MnTBAP. Higher concentrations of MnTBAP caused a decrease in total motility. In conclusion, the use of MnTBAP during the warming or post-warming incubation media has beneficial effect decreasing ROS levels and maintaining the viability and motility during the vitrification procedure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pamela Uribe
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Internal Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Constanza Cárcamo
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Eliana Navarro
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Josefa Sepúlveda
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Fabiola Zambrano
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Mabel Schulz
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Raúl Sánchez
- Center of Excellence in Translational Medicine - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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21
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Hu H, Shi X, Ji G, Liu R, Zhang J, Zhang H, Li M. Studies on the basic issues relevant to sperm cryopreservation in humans. Ther Adv Reprod Health 2020; 14:2633494120909375. [PMID: 32518916 PMCID: PMC7254583 DOI: 10.1177/2633494120909375] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Accepted: 01/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Rapid freezing and vitrification are becoming popular for sperm freezing in humans; however, basic and critical issues relevant to sperm cryopreservation remain to be resolved. The aims of the present study were to study the effects of osmolality of freezing medium, sperm concentrations, thawing methods, and sugars (sucrose and trehalose) on sperm motility and DNA integrity by rapid freezing using 0.5 ml standard straws loaded with 100 µl sperm each. The results showed that (1) the post-thaw recovery rates of total motility and progressive motility of sperm cryopreserved in freezing medium containing 0.25 M sucrose with 442 mOsm/kg osmolality were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that of sperm cryopreserved in freezing medium containing 0.25 M sucrose with 536 mOsm/kg osmolality (36.5 ± 2.8% and 36.9 ± 1.7% versus 30.4 ± 1.9% and 30.3 ± 2.9%, respectively), (2) cryopreservation of both total and progressive motilities was not significantly affected (p > 0.05) by sperm concentrations in the range from 5 to 20 × 106 sperm/ml, (3) thawing method 37°C for 2 min was better than 42°C for 15 s in terms of post-thaw recovery rates of both total and progressive motilities (p < 0.05), (4) 0.25 M trehalose was better than 0.25 M sucrose in cryopreserving both total and progressive motilities (p < 0.05), and (5) sperm nuclear DNA is relatively resistant to the changes of the above factors compared with sperm motility. It was concluded that human sperm can be best cryopreserved by rapid freezing using 0.25 M sucrose or trehalose with osmolality 442 to 457 mOsm/kg at high sperm concentration followed by thawing at 37°C. Trehalose is a stronger cryoprotectant than sucrose for sperm cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huanhuan Hu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Xiaowei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Guojie Ji
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Rui Liu
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Han Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang, China
| | - Mingwen Li
- Key Laboratory of Fertility Preservation, School of Life Sciences and Technologies, Sanquan College of Xinxiang Medical University, Xinxiang 453003, China
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22
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Cerdeira J, Sánchez-Calabuig MJ, Pérez-Gutiérrez JF, Hijon M, Castaño C, Santiago-Moreno J. Cryopreservation effects on canine sperm morphometric variables and ultrastructure: Comparison between vitrification and conventional freezing. Cryobiology 2020; 95:164-170. [PMID: 32229272 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2019] [Revised: 02/27/2020] [Accepted: 03/25/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Semen cryopreservation is an increasingly demanded technique in canids, particularly in order to preserve and spread high genetic value material. Sperm vitrification may represent an interesting alternative to costly and time consuming conventional freezing. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of sperm vitrification on sperm morphometry and ultrastructure compared to conventional freezing. Pools of nine beagle dogs were both frozen and vitrified. Computerized morphological parameters (length, wide, area and perimeter) and sperm ultrastructure, using scanning and transmission microscopy, were analysed in both fresh and in thawed/warmed samples. There were no differences (p > 0.05) between post-thaw and fresh morphometric variables of the sperm heads. However, cluster analysis revealed that sperm-heads turned out to be smaller after thawing (p < 0.05) in two of the four subpopulations. Vitrification-warming process led to an overall increase in sperm-head size. Furthermore, the sperm head size increased after warming in two subpopulations (p < 0.05). In conclusion, the variations in the sperm head area depended on the cryopreservation procedure (conventional freezing or vitrification). Conventional freezing tended to decrease the head dimensions, at least in some subpopulations, and vitrification led to an overall increase in the sperm head size. Decondensation of chromatin and plasma membrane blebbing in the head region was observed by transmission electron microscopy in several vitrified sperm, which might explain the increase of head dimensions detected by CASA-Morph system.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Cerdeira
- School of Veterinary Medicine, UCM, Madrid, Spain
| | | | | | - M Hijon
- School of Veterinary Medicine, UCM, Madrid, Spain
| | - C Castaño
- Department of Animal Reproduction, INIA, Madrid, Spain
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23
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Huang WJ, Zhang D, Hong ZW, Chen ZB, Dong LH, Zhang Y, Chen GY, Liu Y, Yao B. Sequential interval micro-droplet loading in closed hemi-straw carrier system: A convenient and efficient method for ultra-rapid cryopreservation in extreme oligozoospermia. Cryobiology 2020; 93:75-83. [PMID: 32057735 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2020.02.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/29/2019] [Revised: 02/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/09/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of human spermatozoa with low concentration while maintaining adequate post-thawing motility remains a major challenge for male fertility preservation. A convenient and efficient ultra-rapid freezing method for small amounts of human spermatozoa in a closed Hemi-Straw carrier system (CHS) was developed. Spermatozoa from 60 healthy men were involved in a parameter refining test and another 15 extreme oligozoospermic specimens were assigned to a verification test. A commercialized sperm freezing medium, Quinn's Advantage® Sperm Freeze medium (glycerol and sucrose as the cryoprotective agent) was used in the study. The results showed that the highest recovery rates would be obtained via the method of 2 μl single droplet sequential interval loading, by placing the straw at 1 cm above the liquid nitrogen (LN2) surface for 60 s during freezing and 2 cm above the LN2 for 2 min during thawing. This method was applied in cryopreservation for the normozoospermic specimens and compared with a conventional slow freezing method. The results were better than those in the control group in the total motility recovery rate (77.8 ± 11.2% vs 56.6 ± 11.9%, P < 0.01), progressive motility recovery rate (77.6 ± 13.2% vs 47.7 ± 14.6%, P < 0.01), 24 h survival index (60.9 ± 13.4% vs 42.1 ± 14.1%, P < 0.01) and the sperm DNA fragment index (4.2 ± 3.7% vs 5.8 ± 3.7%, P = 0.126). This method was applied to the oligozoospermic specimens. Motile spermatozoa could be found in 12 of 15 cases in the ultra-rapid freezing group, while only in 7 cases in control group. The results indicated that this freezing method was simple, convenient and bio-safe for cryopreservation of severe oligozoospermic specimens.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wu-Jian Huang
- Jinling Hospital Department Reproductive Medical Center, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, China; Center for Reproductive Medicine, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Duo Zhang
- Research Center for Molecular Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Zhi-Wei Hong
- Shengli Clinical Medical College of Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou, 350000, China; Department of Urology, Fujian Provincial Hospital, Fuzhou, 350000, China
| | - Zhi-Biao Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Li-Hong Dong
- Research Center for Molecular Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Yan Zhang
- Research Center for Molecular Diagnosis of Genetic Diseases, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Guo-Yong Chen
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China
| | - Yun Liu
- Center for Reproductive Medicine, The 900th Hospital of Joint Logistic Support Force, PLA, Fuzhou, 350025, China.
| | - Bing Yao
- Jinling Hospital Department Reproductive Medical Center, Southern Medical University, Nanjing, 210002, China.
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Aseptic Technology for Cryoprotectant-Free Vitrification of Human Spermatozoa by Direct Dropping into Clean Liquid Air: Apoptosis, Necrosis, Motility, and Viability. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 2020:2934315. [PMID: 32047807 PMCID: PMC7003260 DOI: 10.1155/2020/2934315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 12/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to compare the quality of human spermatozoa vitrified by direct plunging into liquid nitrogen vs. liquid air. Spermatozoa were divided into three groups: fresh spermatozoa (Group F) were used as a control. Spermatozoa suspension (20 μl) was vitrified in open granules by direct dropping into liquid nitrogen (Group LN) or clean liquid air (Group LA). After warming at 37°C, the progressive motility rate of Group F was reduced from 65.9 ± 2.5% to 34.0 ± 1.9% (Group LN) and 38.1 ± 2.3% (Group LA), respectively (P1-2,3 < 0.05). The reductions in viability were 65.6 ± 2.2%, 29.0 ± 1.8%, and 36.6 ± 2.6% for Groups F, LN, and LA, respectively (P1-2,3 < 0.05). Comparing spermatozoa vitrified in liquid nitrogen vs. liquid air, no significant differences were detected in motility (34.0 ± 1.9% vs. 38.1 ± 2.3%), viability (29.0 ± 1.8% vs. 36.6 ± 2.6%), early apoptosis (13.8 ± 1.5% vs. 14.3 ± 1.8%), late apoptosis (45.5 ± 1.8% vs. 43.7 ± 2.2%), and necrosis (19.5 ± 2.0% vs. 15.0 ± 1.8%; p > 0.01 for all respective differences). There was a statistical tendency for increasing rates of “progressive motility” and “viability” and decreasing rates of “apoptosis” and “necrosis” when comparing spermatozoa vitrified in liquid air vs. liquid nitrogen. It is concluded that cryoprotectant-free vitrification by the direct dropping of human spermatozoa in a clean cooling agent (liquid air) is a good alternative to the use of nonsterile liquid nitrogen and can be used to cool cells while minimising the risk of microbial contamination.
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Amer M, Ismail N, GamalEl Din SF, Rashad EZ, Fakhry E, Abd El Hakim W, Ragab A. Effect of cryoprotectant-free vitrification versus conventional freezing on human testicular sperm motility: a prospective comparative study. HUM FERTIL 2019; 24:389-394. [PMID: 31838927 DOI: 10.1080/14647273.2019.1698774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to demonstrate the effect of conventional freezing versus cryoprotectant-free vitrification on the recovery of testicular sperm motility. Testicular samples were obtained from 50 patients with azoospermia for testicular biopsy ± potential sperm storage. We retrieved 100 spermatozoa from each patient divided equally into two straws. They were frozen using conventional freezing as a control group and cryoprotectant-free vitrification in micro-capillary system using open-pulled straws. Seven days later, cryopreserved straws were thawed and assessed in duplicate. The mean sperm motility between the original spermatozoa sample and the post warming sample was reduced after conventional freezing compared to cryoprotectant-free vitrification (4.48 ± 2.09% versus 3.25 ± 1.92%, p < 0.001; 4.48 ± 2.09% vs 3.68 ± 1.93%, p < 0.001, respectively). There was a significant difference between the two methods regarding the mean sperm motility after warming (3.38 ± 1.86% versus 3.76 ± 1.88%, p = 0.015). The mean recovery percent of testicular sperm motility from the original sperm sample was lower (p = 0.02) after conventional freezing compared to cryoprotectant-free vitrification (78.4 ± 28.17% versus 85.37 ± 23.63%). Overall, the rate of post-thaw recovery of human testicular sperm motility improved using cryoprotectant-free vitrification compared to conventional freezing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Medhat Amer
- Andrology, Sexology and STDs Department, Kasr Al-Ainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt.,Adam International Hospital, Giza, Egypt
| | - Nashaat Ismail
- Andrology and STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
| | - Sameh Fayek GamalEl Din
- Andrology, Sexology and STDs Department, Kasr Al-Ainy Faculty of Medicine, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt
| | | | | | | | - Ahmed Ragab
- Andrology and STDs Department, Faculty of Medicine, Beni-Suef University, Beni-Suef, Egypt
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Abstract
Human sperm vitrification is a novel method of sperm freezing which achieves cryopreservation due to ultra-rapid cooling rates that prevent ice-crystal formation. However, sperm vitrification protocols are still largely not standardized for routine clinical use and seldom achieve a post warm sperm survival of 25-35%. The study aim was to validate and optimize a simple method of sperm vitrification that yields a high survival rate of spermatozoa for clinical use. Semen samples from 10 normozoospermic patients were subject to a simple swim-up into pre-warmed gamete handling media. Swim-up specimens were mixed in a 1:1 ratio with 0.5 M sucrose. Swim up specimens were then directly dropped in liquid N2. After a week of storage samples where warmed at 42 degree Celsius and sperm motility and viability was estimated. The mean sperm total motility of the fresh sample after the swim up preparation was 94.3 ± 3.06 %. Upon, vitrification followed by warming the mean percentage of total motile sperm fraction recovered was 74.70 ± 5.60 %. The mean sperm progressive motility of vitrified-warmed spermatozoa was 68 ± 8.47 %. The overall mean percentage of motile sperm recovery was 70.05% of the fresh swim up sample in this study. The overall mean sperm viability as assessed using the HOST vitality test was 77.21 ± 7.52%. •This study presents a simple protocol on the 'droplet method' of sperm vitrification.•Sperm cells vitrified using our modified method show a >70% motility and viability rates compared to the routine 25% to 35% of reported survival with the original sperm vitrification/freezing methodologies. This survival is attributed to a crucial change in the warming step.•This method has the advantage of using no toxic cell permeating cryoprotectant or expensive programmable freezing devices.
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Spis E, Bushkovskaia A, Isachenko E, Todorov P, Sanchez R, Skopets V, Isachenko V. Conventional freezing vs. cryoprotectant-free vitrification of epididymal (MESA) and testicular (TESE) spermatozoa: Three live births. Cryobiology 2019; 90:100-102. [PMID: 31419408 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2019.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2019] [Revised: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Data of cryoprotectant-free vitrification of human testicular and epididymal spermatozoa are limited. The aim of this investigation was to compare two aseptic technologies of TESE (testicular) and MESA (epididymal) spermatozoa cryopreservation: standard conventional freezing with the use of cryoprotectants and cryoprotectant-free vitrification. Sperm motility, capacitation-like changes, acrosome reaction and the mitochondrial membrane potential of frozen (5% glycerol, -10 °C/min) and vitrified (Human Tubal Fluid + 1% Human Serum Albumin+0.25 M sucrose, plunging into liquid nitrogen of capillaries with spermatozoa isolated from liquid nitrogen (aseptic method) were compared. The quality of the cryoprotectant-free vitrified MESA- and TESE-spermatozoa was higher than that of spermatozoa conventionally frozen with permeable cryoprotectants. Intracellular sperm injection (ICSI) was performed with vitrified spermatozoa. We report the birth of three healthy babies from two women following ICSI with motile MESA- and TESE-spermatozoa vitrified without cryoprotectants. This is the first report of full-term pregnancies and babies born after ICSI with epididymal and testicular spermatozoa vitrified without cryoprotectants. In conclusion, cryoprotectant-free vitrification can be successfully applied for the cryopreservation of motile TESE- and MESA-spermatozoa.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emilia Spis
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany; Clinic for Reproductive Medicine OXY-Center, Krasnodar, Russia
| | | | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany
| | - Plamen Todorov
- Institute of Biology and Immunology of Reproduction, Sofia, Bulgaria
| | - Raul Sanchez
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - Viola Skopets
- Clinic for Reproductive Medicine OXY-Center, Krasnodar, Russia
| | - Vladimir Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Cologne University, Cologne, Germany.
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Pabón D, Meseguer M, Sevillano G, Cobo A, Romero JL, Remohí J, de Los Santos MJ. A new system of sperm cryopreservation: evaluation of survival, motility, DNA oxidation, and mitochondrial activity. Andrology 2019; 7:293-301. [PMID: 30916488 DOI: 10.1111/andr.12607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/11/2018] [Revised: 02/08/2019] [Accepted: 02/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Sperm vitrification (V) is a method for cryopreservation, without the use of conventional cryoprotectants, by plunging the sperm suspension directly into liquid nitrogen (LN25). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to compare the new system of V with conventional freezing (CF) protocol using fresh spermatozoa as reference (C). MATERIAL AND METHODS Prospective cohort study. A total of 47 sperm samples from men attending the infertility clinic at Instituto Valenciano de Infertilidad Valencia. The sperm V solution was 0.3 M trehalose-sucrose and plunged directly in liquid nitrogen in microdroplets of 5-10 lL, using a new system collector of V. Sperm viability indicators such as sperm motility, vitality rates, mitochondrial function, and sperm DNA oxidation were assessed before and after cryopreservation. Sperm motility and vitality analysis were performed according to published guidelines of the World Health Organization (WHO, 2010). Mitochondrial function was evaluated using JC-1 (fluorescent cationic dye, 5,50,6,60-tetrachloro-1-10,3,30-tetraethyl-benzamidazolocarbocyanin iodide). Sperm DNA oxidation was determined using a fluorescent assay (Oxy-DNA test) for the detection of 8-oxoguanine. The evaluation was carried out before and after cryopreservation using flow cytometry. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA and chi-square test, and p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. RESULT(S) Sperm parameters, including progressive motility, total motility, and viability, observed after cryopreservation were as follows: C = 74.9% [1] 12.3, CF = 27.2% [1] 8.4, V = 42.3% [1] 9.3, p < 0.001; C = 90.1 [1] 6.8, CF = 42.0 [1] 12.9, V = 61.4 [1] 11.8, p < 0.001; C = 90.0% [1] 7.4, CF = 42.5% [1] 14.6, V = 70.9% [1] 6.5, p < 0.001, respectively. Regarding Oxy-DNA and mitochondrial activity, they were significantly affected in both groups (V and CF) when compared to the control group. DISCUSSION The sperm V and CF have negative impact on sperm parameters as well as DNA integrity and mitochondrial activity. However, sperm V presented improved sperm motility recovery, similar levels of DNA oxidation, and, moreover, a slightly increase in mitochondrial activity when compared to the conventional method. CONCLUSION(S) V as an optimal protocol for sperm cryopreservation.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Pabón
- IVI VALENCIA, Valencia, Spain
| | | | | | - A Cobo
- IVI VALENCIA, Valencia, Spain
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Karthikeyan M, Arakkal D, Mangalaraj AM, Kamath MS. Comparison of Conventional Slow Freeze versus Permeable Cryoprotectant-Free Vitrification of Abnormal Semen Sample: A Randomized Controlled Trial. J Hum Reprod Sci 2019; 12:150-155. [PMID: 31293330 PMCID: PMC6594128 DOI: 10.4103/jhrs.jhrs_154_18] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The cryopreservation of semen samples by slow freezing remains as standard protocol. Recently, vitrification of spermatozoa was successfully reported with superior outcome. Till date, there is no randomized trial comparing the two different protocols. Aim: The aim of the present study is to evaluate the slow freezing with vitrification of the subfertile men spermatozoa to evaluate the progressive motility, vitality, and chromatin integrity. Setting: The study was conducted at University teaching hospital. Design: Study design involves randomized control trial. Materials and Methods: Twenty subfertile men with semen characteristics of severe oligoasthenozoospermia (SOA) and very SOA (VSOA) randomized to undergo slow freezing and vitrification protocol and cryopreserved at 1-month and 6-month storage interval, postthawed or warmed, samples were assessed for progressive motility, vitality, and hyaluronan binding. SPSS version 14 software was used for statistical analysis. Results: The SOA samples at 1 month revealed significantly higher motility (42% [22%–74%] vs. 7% [1%–13%]; P = 0.015) and vitality (57% [45%–78%] vs. 34.5% [27–42]; P < 0.001) following vitrification compared to slow-freeze method. For Very severe oligoasthenozoospermia (VSOA), the motility was significantly higher following vitrification (14.5% [2%–32%] vs. 2.5% [0%–4%]; P = 0.007). At 6 months, no statistically significant difference in motility was found between the two groups for Severe Oligoasthenozoospermia (SOA) samples (27% [13%–62%] vs. 8% [0%–11%]; P = 0.066), but motility was significantly higher following vitrification for VSOA samples (12.5% [3%–32%] vs. 2% [1%–5%]; P = 0.019). The hyaluronan-binding assay was comparable in both the groups at 6 months. Conclusions: The current study found the vitrification method involving the use of only nonpermeable cryoprotectants for cryopreservation of abnormal semen sample to be an effective alternative to the conventional slow-freeze technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muthukumar Karthikeyan
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Darshana Arakkal
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Ann M Mangalaraj
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Mohan S Kamath
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, Reproductive Medicine Unit, Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, India
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Vitrification and conventional freezing methods in sperm cryopreservation: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2018; 233:84-92. [PMID: 30580229 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2018.11.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2018] [Revised: 11/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective is to systematically review and synthesize the literature on the efficacy with two different cryopreservation methods used for human spermatozoa and evaluate whether vitrification protocol and quality of sperm influence effect estimates. DESIGN The following electronic databases were searched up to September 2017: Pubmed, Embase and Web of Science. The search strategy used the following the relevant medical subject heading (MeSH) terms, keywords, and word variants for: sperm parameters, conventional freezing, and vitrification. Queries were limited to those involving humans. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that published in English languages were considered eligible. Studies and references were included if they reported total motility, progressive motility, morphology, or DNA fragmentation index (DFI) for vitrified or conventional cryopreserved human spermatozoa. Patients recruited in RCTs considering sperm vitrification as one of the experimental arms and conventional freezing (including slow freezing or vapor fast freezing) sperm control as the other. Studies that had high risks of allocation concealment were excluded when performing sensitivity analysis. We specified 2 subgroup variables, including vitrification protocol and quality of spermatozoa cryopreserved, to investigate sources of heterogeneity. A meta-analysis was performed using a random effects (I2 > 50%) or fixed effects (I2 < 50%) model to calculate weighted mean differences (MD) and 95% CI. RESULT(S) The search yielded a total of 2428 articles and 13 RCTs were included for analysis. They involved 486 vitrified and 486 conventional cryopreserved sperm samples. Four sperm parameters were reported as mean differences and based on adjusted estimates in all included studies. Meta-analysis of these studies showed significantly higher total motility [weighted mean differences (WMD) 6.98; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.94; 11.02; P < 0.0001] and progressive motility [WMD 4.59; 95% CI 0.78; 8.39; P = 0.02] of past-thawed sperm following vitrification compared with conventional freezing methods. However, DNA fragmentation index (DFI) [WMD -1.18; 95% CI -2.81; 0.45; P = 0.16] and morphology [WMD 0.11; 95% CI -0.42; 0.63; P = 0.69] of past-thawed sperm are similar between two freezing groups. Subgroup analysis shown that the vitrification protocol and quality of spermatozoa are potential risk factors for the efficacy of vitrification. Higher past-thawed sperm parameters following the cryoprotectants-free (CPAs-free) vitrification were observed, as well as a lower past-thawed sperm parameters with the cryoprotectants-presence (CPAs-presence) vitrification, which could reflect the CPAs related cytotoxicity. Meanwhile, vitrification had higher ability in preservation of high quality of spermatozoa compared with vitrification of low quality spermatozoa. CONCLUSION(S) According to the results of present meta-analysis, vitrification is superior to conventional freezing methods in preservation of spermatozoa, regarding total and progressive motility. However, the efficacy of vitrification is influence by using different vitrification protocol and cryopreservation of different quality spermatozoa. It is must emphasized that the results of present meta-analysis is limited by the small number of studies of variable vitrification protocol. Further well conducted studies are required to confirm the efficacy of vitrification in cryopreservation of spermatozoa, in addition, allow the examination of the two cryopreservation methods in terms of pregnancy achievement and determination of the role of clinical variable on efficacy of vitrification.
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Isachenko V, Sanchez R, Rahimi G, Mallmann P, Isachenko E, Merzenich M. Cryoprotectant-free vitrification of spermatozoa: Fish as a model of human. Andrologia 2018; 51:e13166. [DOI: 10.1111/and.13166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2018] [Revised: 09/03/2018] [Accepted: 09/07/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vladimir Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - Raul Sanchez
- Center of Reproductive Biotechnology - Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEBIOR - BIOREN); Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
| | - Gohar Rahimi
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - Peter Mallmann
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - Evgenia Isachenko
- Research Group for Reproductive Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical Faculty; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
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Hezavehei M, Sharafi M, Kouchesfahani HM, Henkel R, Agarwal A, Esmaeili V, Shahverdi A. Sperm cryopreservation: A review on current molecular cryobiology and advanced approaches. Reprod Biomed Online 2018; 37:327-339. [PMID: 30143329 DOI: 10.1016/j.rbmo.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 202] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2017] [Revised: 05/19/2018] [Accepted: 05/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
The cryopreservation of spermatozoa was introduced in the 1960s as a route to fertility preservation. Despite the extensive progress that has been made in this field, the biological and biochemical mechanisms involved in cryopreservation have not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Various factors during the freezing process, including sudden temperature changes, ice formation and osmotic stress, have been proposed as reasons for poor sperm quality post-thaw. Little is known regarding the new aspects of sperm cryobiology, such as epigenetic and proteomic modulation of sperm and trans-generational effects of sperm freezing. This article reviews recent reports on molecular and cellular modifications of spermatozoa during cryopreservation in order to collate the existing understanding in this field. The aim is to discuss current freezing techniques and novel strategies that have been developed for sperm protection against cryo-damage, as well as evaluating the probable effects of sperm freezing on offspring health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maryam Hezavehei
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran; Department of Animal BiologyFaculty of Biological SciencesKharazmi UniversityTehranIran
| | - Mohsen Sharafi
- Department of Poultry ScienceFaculty of AgricultureTarbiat Modares UniversityTehranIran.
| | | | - Ralf Henkel
- American Centre for Reproductive MedicineCleveland ClinicClevelandUSA
| | - Ashok Agarwal
- Department of Medical BioscienceUniversity of the Western CapeBellvilleSouth Africa
| | - Vahid Esmaeili
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran
| | - Abdolhossein Shahverdi
- Department of EmbryologyReproductive Biomedicine Research CentreRoyan Institute for Reproductive BiomedicineACECRTehranIran.
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33
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Aizpurua J, Medrano L, Enciso M, Sarasa J, Romero A, Fernández MA, Gómez-Torres MJ. New permeable cryoprotectant-free vitrification method for native human sperm. Hum Reprod 2018; 32:2007-2015. [PMID: 28938751 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dex281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/01/2016] [Accepted: 08/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Is permeable cryoprotectant-free vitrification of native sperm samples a good alternative to conventional slow freezing? SUMMARY ANSWER The permeable cryoprotectant-free sperm vitrification protocol tested in this study renders considerably better recovery rates of good quality sperm compared to slow freezing. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Slow freezing is currently the most commonly used technique for sperm cryopreservation, though this method has been repeatedly shown to have negative effects on both structural and functional sperm features. New alternative methods such as vitrification have been established as a successful alternative in other reproductive cell types, but vitrification of spermatozoa is still a rather unexplored methodology, with limited studies showing its efficacy in male gametes. STUDY DESIGN SIZE, DURATION This study included 18 normozoospermic sperm samples from patients seeking ART treatment between 2014 and 2015. The effects of a new vitrification protocol on functional and structural sperm quality parameters in comparison to fresh and slow-frozen samples were assessed. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS All samples were divided into three aliquots: fresh (F), slow freezing-thawing (S) and vitrification-warming (V). Sperm concentration, motility, morphology, vitality, DNA fragmentation, cytoskeleton integrity and spontaneous acrosome reaction were assessed and compared between the groups. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Results showed improved preservation of sperm features after vitrification compared to conventional freezing. Permeable cryoprotectant-free vitrification presented a significantly higher percentage of live spermatozoa, than slow freezing, better preservation of acrosomes was achieved in vitrified samples and DNA fragmentation was reduced approximately one-third on average compared to slow freezing. Regarding tubulin assay, three different labelling patterns were observed. The frequency of these labelling patterns was similar in F and V groups but this was not the case of the S group. The multivariate analysis of all sperm quality parameters studied revealed that the V group presented features that are closer to the F group than the S group, indicating that samples are better preserved through vitrification than slow freezing. LIMITATIONS REASONS FOR CAUTION This validation has been undertaken only on normozoospermic sperm samples. It would be necessary to compare these results in pathological samples and also to evaluate the influence of the application of this methodology on clinical outcomes. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS The sperm vitrification protocol here described warrants better maintenance of sperm quality parameters than traditional freezing methods and may be a good alternative to preserve sperm samples from patients seeking IVF treatment. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) This study was funded by IVF-Spain Foundation. The authors have no conflicts of interest to declare.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Aizpurua
- IVF-Spain, Av. Ansaldo 13, 03540, Alicante, Spain.,Human Fertility Chair, University of Alicante, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - L Medrano
- IVF-Spain, Av. Ansaldo 13, 03540, Alicante, Spain.,Human Fertility Chair, University of Alicante, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | - M Enciso
- iGLS, Carrer Britania 7, 03540, Alicante, Spain
| | - J Sarasa
- iGLS, Carrer Britania 7, 03540, Alicante, Spain
| | - A Romero
- Biotechnology Department, University of Alicante, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
| | | | - M J Gómez-Torres
- Human Fertility Chair, University of Alicante, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain.,Biotechnology Department, University of Alicante, Carretera de San Vicente del Raspeig s/n, 03690, San Vicente del Raspeig, Alicante, Spain
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34
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Vitrification of dog spermatozoa: Effects of two cryoprotectants (sucrose or trehalose) and two warming procedures. Cryobiology 2018; 80:126-129. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2017.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2017] [Revised: 10/17/2017] [Accepted: 11/02/2017] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
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35
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Uribe P, Rojas C, Meriño J, Zambrano F, Villegas JV, Treulen F, Boguen R, Isachenko V, Isachenko E, Sánchez R. Effect of incubation temperature after devitrification on quality parameters in human sperm cells. Cryobiology 2017; 79:78-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2017.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 10/10/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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36
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Isachenko V, Rahimi G, Mallmann P, Sanchez R, Isachenko E. Technologies of cryoprotectant-free vitrification of human spermatozoa: asepticity as criterion of effectiveness. Andrology 2017; 5:1055-1063. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2017] [Revised: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- V. Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; University Maternal Hospital; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - G. Rahimi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; University Maternal Hospital; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - P. Mallmann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; University Maternal Hospital; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
| | - R. Sanchez
- Center of Translational Medicine; Scientific and Technological Bioresource Nucleus (CEMT- BIOREN); Department of Preclinical Science, Faculty of Medicine, University de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
| | - E. Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology; University Maternal Hospital; Cologne University; Cologne Germany
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37
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Effectiveness of human spermatozoa biomarkers as indicators of structural damage during cryopreservation. Cryobiology 2017. [PMID: 28641947 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2017.06.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Human spermatozoa cryopreservation techniques are used to maintain and protect male fertility in cases such as infertility and malignancy treatments. However, during cryopreservation, the spermatozoa's metabolic rate is reduced and they undergo dramatic functional and structural changes owing to exposure to cryoprotectants and freezing-thawing procedures. While the effects of cryopreservation on cells are documented, to date the induced cryodamage on structural and/or functional sperm biomarkers is not well established at multivariate scale. To address this question, we performed basic sperm analysis, sperm DNA fragmentation assessment, spontaneous acrosome reaction measurement, and cytoskeleton evaluation after thawing samples from subjects with normal and low-quality semen. A cryodamage rate was used to determine the effects of the freeze-thaw process on spermatozoa. In addition, a Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was used for data reduction and to evaluate sperm-specific patterns during the cryopreservation process. We found that the vitality, progressive motility and sperm count from low-quality samples after cryopreservation show higher damage rates (≥40%) than in normal sperm samples. However, cytoskeleton, DNA, tail and mid-piece and acrosome display the highest cryodamage rates (∼50-99%) and are equally susceptible to cryopreservation-induced damage in both low- and normal-quality semen samples. Overall, the evaluation of these parameters provides meaningful information about different aspects of sperm functionality after cryopreservation.
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38
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Schulz M, Risopatrón J, Matus G, Pineda E, Rojas C, Isachenko V, Isachenko E, Sánchez R. Trehalose sustains a higher post-thaw sperm motility than sucrose in vitrified human sperm. Andrologia 2017; 49. [PMID: 28543267 DOI: 10.1111/and.12757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/10/2016] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the cryopreservation methods that best preserves sperm function is vitrification. However, comparative studies have not been performed to evaluate the effect of nonpermeable cryoprotectors on sperm function for prolonged periods of time post-devitrification. These times are necessary, especially in in vitro fertilisation and intrauterine insemination, for gamete interaction and then fertilisation to occur, while maintaining motility to arrive at the fertilisation site. In this study, sucrose (.25 m) and trehalose (.1 and .05 m) were compared in essential parameters like motility and plasma membrane integrity for 12 hr. Post-devitrification sperm motility using .1 m trehalose was 68.9%, higher than that obtained with .05 m trehalose (59.9%, p < .0081) and .25 m sucrose (57.9%, p < .0002). Similar results were obtained at 6 and 12 hr with .1 m trehalose (58.0% and 42.3% respectively) compared to .05 m trehalose (p < .0184 and p < .033) and .25 m sucrose (p < .0001 and p < .0012).There was no difference between .25 m sucrose and .05 m trehalose. Membrane integrity was best preserved at time 0 by .1 m trehalose (p < .05), but there was no significance at 6 and 12 hr compared to sucrose. Our results suggest that for assisted reproduction techniques that require motile spermatozoa for a longer period of time, use of .1 m trehalose is recommended in the sperm vitrification technique.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Schulz
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Doctorate in Morphological Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - J Risopatrón
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Basic Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - G Matus
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - E Pineda
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - C Rojas
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
| | - V Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cologne, Köln, Germany
| | - E Isachenko
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Cologne, Köln, Germany
| | - R Sánchez
- Center for Reproductive Biotechnology (CEBIOR-BIOREN), Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile.,Department of Preclinical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Universidad de La Frontera, Temuco, Chile
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39
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Horta F, Alzobi H, Jitanantawittaya S, Catt S, Chen P, Pangestu M, Temple-Smith P. Minimal volume vitrification of epididymal spermatozoa results in successful in vitro fertilization and embryo development in mice. Asian J Androl 2017; 19:107-112. [PMID: 27427551 PMCID: PMC5227658 DOI: 10.4103/1008-682x.183378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
This study compared three cryopreservation protocols on sperm functions, IVF outcomes, and embryo development. Epididymal spermatozoa cryopreserved using slow-cooling (18% w/v raffinose, RS-C) were compared with spermatozoa vitrified using 0.25 M sucrose (SV) or 18% w/v raffinose (RV). The motility, vitality, and DNA damage (TUNEL assay) of fresh control (FC) spermatozoa were compared with post-thawed or warmed RS-C, RV, and SV samples. Mouse oocytes (n = 267) were randomly assigned into three groups for insemination: RV (n = 102), RS-C (n = 86), and FC (n = 79). The number and the proportion of two-cell embryos and blastocysts from each treatment were assessed. Sperm motility (P < 0.01) and vitality (P < 0.05) were significantly reduced after vitrification compared with slow-cooled spermatozoa. However, DNA fragmentation was significantly reduced in spermatozoa vitrified using sucrose (15 ± 1.8% [SV] vs 26 ± 2.8% [RV] and 27 ± 1.2% [RS-C]; P < 0.01). Although the number of two-cell embryos produced by RS-C, RV, and FC spermatozoa was not significantly different, the number of blastocysts produced from two-cell embryos using RV spermatozoa was significantly higher than FC spermatozoa (P = 0.0053). This simple, small volume vitrification protocol and standard insemination method allows successful embryo production from small numbers of epididymal spermatozoa and may be applied clinically to circumvent the need for ICSI, which has the disadvantage of bypassing sperm selection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabrizzio Horta
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Unit of Reproductive Medicine, Clínica Las Condes, Lo Fontecilla 441, Las Condes, Santiago, Region Metropolitana, 7550000, Chile
| | - Hamida Alzobi
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Sutthipat Jitanantawittaya
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Sally Catt
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Penny Chen
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Mulyoto Pangestu
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
| | - Peter Temple-Smith
- Education Program in Reproduction and Development, Department Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash University, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia
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40
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Agha-Rahimi A, Khalili MA, Nottola SA, Miglietta S, Moradi A. Cryoprotectant-free vitrification of human spermatozoa in new artificial seminal fluid. Andrology 2016; 4:1037-1044. [DOI: 10.1111/andr.12212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2015] [Revised: 03/01/2016] [Accepted: 04/04/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- A. Agha-Rahimi
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility; Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences; Yazd Iran
| | - M. A. Khalili
- Research and Clinical Center for Infertility; Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences; Yazd Iran
| | - S. A. Nottola
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics; La Sapienza University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - S. Miglietta
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, Forensic Medicine and Orthopaedics; La Sapienza University of Rome; Rome Italy
| | - A. Moradi
- Department of Medicinal Chemistry; Faculty of Pharmacy; Shahid Sadoughi University of Medical Sciences; Yazd Iran
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41
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Liu J, Tanrikut C, Wright DL, Lee GY, Toner M, Biggers JD, Toth TL. Cryopreservation of human spermatozoa with minimal non-permeable cryoprotectant. Cryobiology 2016; 73:162-7. [PMID: 27498216 DOI: 10.1016/j.cryobiol.2016.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2016] [Revised: 08/02/2016] [Accepted: 08/03/2016] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Cryopreservation of human spermatozoa is a commonly used technique in assisted reproduction, however freezing low concentrations of sperm while maintaining adequate post-thaw motility remains a challenge. In an effort to optimize post-thaw motility yields, low volumes of human sperm were frozen in polyimide-coated fused silica micro-capillaries using 0.065 M, 0.125 M, 0.25 M, or 0.5 M trehalose as the only cryoprotectant. Micro-capillaries were either initially incubated in liquid nitrogen vapor before plunging into liquid nitrogen, or directly plunged into liquid nitrogen. Post thaw sperm counts and motility were estimated. Spermatozoa that were initially incubated in liquid nitrogen vapor had greater post thaw motility than those plunged immediately into liquid nitrogen independent of trehalose concentration. The protective effect of 0.125 M d-glucose, 3-O-methyl-d-glucopyranose, trehalose, sucrose, raffinose, or stachyose were evaluated individually. Trehalose and sucrose were the most effective cryoprotectants, recovering 69.0% and 68.9% of initial sperm motility, respectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Liu
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Cigdem Tanrikut
- Department of Urology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Diane L Wright
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Gloria Y Lee
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - Mehmet Toner
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA
| | - John D Biggers
- Department of Surgery, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA; Department of Cell Biology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02115, USA; Shriners Hospital for Children, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
| | - Thomas L Toth
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Massachusetts General Hospital and Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA 02114, USA.
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42
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Pradiee J, Esteso MC, Castaño C, Toledano-Díaz A, Lopez-Sebastián A, Guerra R, Santiago-Moreno J. Conventional slow freezing cryopreserves mouflon spermatozoa better than vitrification. Andrologia 2016; 49. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/14/2016] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- J. Pradiee
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA; Madrid Spain
- Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Cientifico e Tecnológico - Cnpq; Brasilia Brasil
| | - M. C. Esteso
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA; Madrid Spain
| | - C. Castaño
- Departamento de Reproducción Animal; INIA; Madrid Spain
| | | | | | - R. Guerra
- Zoológico de Córdoba; Ayuntamiento de Córdoba; Córdoba Spain
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43
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Pradiee J, Esteso M, Lopez-Sebastián A, Toledano-Díaz A, Castaño C, Carrizosa J, Urrutia B, Santiago-Moreno J. Successful ultrarapid cryopreservation of wild Iberian ibex (Capra pyrenaica) spermatozoa. Theriogenology 2015; 84:1513-22. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2015.07.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2015] [Revised: 07/28/2015] [Accepted: 07/28/2015] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
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44
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Reed ML, Said AH, Thompson DJ, Caperton CL. Large-volume vitrification of human biopsied and non-biopsied blastocysts: a simple, robust technique for cryopreservation. J Assist Reprod Genet 2014; 32:207-14. [PMID: 25464896 DOI: 10.1007/s10815-014-0395-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2014] [Accepted: 11/24/2014] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To evaluate the transition from a proven slow-cooling cryopreservation method to a commercial large-volume vitrification system for human blastocysts. METHODS Retrospective analysis of de-identified laboratory and clinical data from January 2012 to present date for all frozen embryo replacement (FET) cycles was undertaken. Cryopreservation of trophectoderm-biopsied or non-biopsied blastocysts utilized during this time period was logged as either slow-cooling, small-volume vitrification, or large-volume vitrification. Blastocyst survival post-warm or post-thaw, clinical pregnancy following FET, and implantation rates were identified for each respective cryopreservation method. RESULTS Embryo survival was highest for large-volume vitrification compared to micro-volume vitrification and slow-cooling; 187/193 (96.9 %), 27/32 (84.4 %), and 244/272 (89.7 %), respectively. Survival of biopsied and non-biopsied blastocysts vitrified using the large-volume system was 105/109 (96.3 %) and 82/84 (97.6 %), respectively. Survival for micro-volume biopsied and non-biopsied blastocysts was 16/30 (83.3 %) and 2/2 (100.0 %) respectively. Slow-cooling post-thaw embryo survival was 272/244 (89.7 %). Clinical pregnancy and implantation rates outcomes for non-biopsied embryos were similar between large-volume and slow-cooling cryopreservation methods, 18/39 (46.2 %) clinical pregnancy and 24/82 (29.3 %) implantation/embryo, and 52/116 (44.8 %) clinical pregnancy and 67/244 (27.5 %) implantation/embryo, respectively. Comparing outcomes for biopsied embryos, clinical pregnancy and implantation rates were 39/67 (58.2 %) clinical pregnancy and 50/105 (47.6 %) implantation/embryo and 4/16 (25 %) clinical pregnancy and 6/25 (24.0 %) implantation/embryo, respectively. CONCLUSIONS The LifeGlobal large-volume vitrification system proved to be very reliable, simple to learn and implement in the laboratory. Clinically large-volume vitrification was as, or more effective compared to slow-cooling cryopreservation in terms of recovery of viable embryos in this laboratory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael L Reed
- Center for Reproductive Medicine of New Mexico, 201 Cedar Street SE, Suite S1-20, Albuquerque, NM, 87106, USA,
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45
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Sharma R, Kattoor AJ, Ghulmiyyah J, Agarwal A. Effect of sperm storage and selection techniques on sperm parameters. Syst Biol Reprod Med 2014; 61:1-12. [DOI: 10.3109/19396368.2014.976720] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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46
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Chen Y, Li L, Qian Y, Xu C, Zhu Y, Huang H, Jin F, Ye Y. Small-volume vitrification for human spermatozoa in the absence of cryoprotectants by using Cryotop. Andrologia 2014; 47:694-9. [PMID: 25081345 DOI: 10.1111/and.12320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Cryotop is a carrier that has been used successfully in the cryopreservation of human spermatozoa. Here, we explored a novel method to vitrify human spermatozoa without cryoprotective agents (CPAs) using Cryotop. Spermatozoa from 21 Normozoospermic patients were collected and vitrified without CPAs or with sucrose in small volume using Cryotop. The sperm recovery rate, motility, viability, chromatin damage and DNA fragmentation were assessed. No significant difference was observed in the sperm recovery rate and motility rate between the spermatozoa cryopreserved without CPAs and with sucrose. The post-thawed spermatozoa cryopreserved without CPAs had a higher viability and lower damage to sperm chromatin and DNA than those cryopreserved with sucrose. These results suggest that small numbers of human spermatozoa can be successfully vitrified without CPAs using Cryotop.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y Chen
- Reproductive Medicine Center, Taihe Hospital, Hubei University of Medicine, Shiyan, Hubei, China.,Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - L Li
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Y Qian
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - C Xu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Y Zhu
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - H Huang
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - F Jin
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
| | - Y Ye
- Department of Reproductive Endocrinology, Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, Zhejiang, China
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47
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Pellet cryopreservation for chicken semen: Effects of sperm working concentration, cryoprotectant concentration, and equilibration time during in vitro processing. Theriogenology 2014; 82:251-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2013] [Revised: 04/01/2014] [Accepted: 04/02/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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48
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Merino O, Aguagüiña WE, Esponda P, Risopatrón J, Isachenko E, Isachenko V, Sánchez R. Protective effect of butylated hydroxytoluene on sperm function in human spermatozoa cryopreserved by vitrification technique. Andrologia 2014; 47:186-93. [DOI: 10.1111/and.12246] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 12/29/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- O. Merino
- BIOREN-CEBIOR; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
| | | | - P. Esponda
- BIOREN-CEBIOR; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
| | - J. Risopatrón
- BIOREN-CEBIOR; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
- Department of Basic Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
| | - E. Isachenko
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - V. Isachenko
- Departments of Obstetrics and Gynecology; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - R. Sánchez
- BIOREN-CEBIOR; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
- Department of Preclinical Sciences; Faculty of Medicine; Universidad de La Frontera; Temuco Chile
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49
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Raúl Sánchez G. Presente y futuro de la anología. REVISTA MÉDICA CLÍNICA LAS CONDES 2014. [DOI: 10.1016/s0716-8640(14)70005-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
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50
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Affiliation(s)
- Heriberto Rodríguez-Martínez
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine (IKE), Faculty of Health Sciences, Linköping University, SE-581 85 Linköping, Sweden
| | - Fernando Peña Vega
- Laboratory of Equine Reproduction and Equine Spermatology, Veterinary Teaching Hospital, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, University of Extremadura, Cáceres, Spain
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