Time to take human embryo culture seriously

STUDY QUESTION Is it important that end-users know the composition of human embryo culture media? SUMMARY ANSWER We argue that there is as strong case for full transparency concerning the composition of embryo culture media intended for human use. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Published data suggest that the composition of embryo culture media may influence the phenotype of the offspring. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION A review of the literature was carried out. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS Data concerning the potential effects on embryo development of culture media were assessed and recommendations for users made. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE The safety of ART procedures, especially with respect to the health of the offspring, is of major importance. There are reports from the literature indicating a possible effect of culture conditions, including culture media, on embryo and fetal development. Since the introduction of commercially available culture media, there has been a rapid development of different formulations, often not fully documented, disclosed or justified. There is now evidence that the environment the early embryo is exposed to can cause reprogramming of embryonic growth leading to alterations in fetal growth trajectory, birthweight, childhood growth and long-term disease including Type II diabetes and cardiovascular problems. The mechanism for this is likely to be epigenetic changes during the preimplantation period of development. In the presen...
Source: Human Reproduction - Category: Reproduction Medicine Authors: Tags: Eshre Pages Source Type: research