In vivo oxygen, temperature and pH dynamics in the female reproductive tract and their importance in human conception: a systematic review

AbstractBACKGROUNDDespite advances in ART, implantation and pregnancy rates per embryo transfer still remain low. IVF laboratories strive to ensure that the process of handling gametesin vitro closely mimics thein vivo environment. However, there remains a lack of knowledge regarding thein vivo regulation and dynamic variation in biophysical parameters such as oxygen concentration, pH and temperature within the reproductive tract.OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALETo undertake a systematic review of the current understanding of the physico-chemical parameters of oxygen tension (pO2), pH and temperature within the female reproductive tract, and their potential implications in clinical and pathological processes related to fertility and those pertaining to limited reproductive capacity.SEARCH METHODSA comprehensive literature search was performed using electronic databases including Medline, Embase, Cochrane Library and Pubmed to identify original and review articles addressing the biophysical parameters (pO2, pH and temperature) in the female reproductive tract of any species. The search included all studies published between 1946 and November 2015. Search terms included ‘oxygen’, ‘pH’, ‘hydrogen ion concentration’, ‘acid base’ and others terms. We also used special features and truncations to identify synonyms and broaden the search. Studies were excluded if they only assessed embryo culture conditions, fetal acid–base status, oxidative stress, ou tcomes of pregnancy an...
Source: Human Reproduction Update - Category: OBGYN Source Type: research