Follicular fluid oocyte/cumulus-free DNA concentrations as a potential biomolecular marker of embryo quality and IVF outcome

Biomed Res Int. 2014:2014:289306. doi: 10.1155/2014/289306. Epub 2014 Jun 15.

Abstract

The present prospective study examined the follicular fluid oocyte/cumulus-free DNA concentrations (ff o/c-free DNA) during ovarian stimulation and the possible association between ff o/c-free DNA and embryological results such as embryo quality and pregnancy rate. Eighty-three women undergoing IV/ICSI-ET treatments were prospectively included in this study. ff o/c-free DNA was determined by conventional quantitative real time PCR-Sybr green detection approach. The 83 ff samples were categorized in two groups: group 1 (n = 62) with cumulus oocytes complexes (CoCs) ≥2 and group 2 (n = 21) with CoCs = 1. Group 1 revealed significant higher embryo quality in terms of mean score of embryo transfer (MSET), but lower ff o/c-free DNA concentrations compared to group 2. The two groups showed comparable pregnancy rates (positive hCG and clinical pregnancy). The higher the ff o/c-free DNA concentration, the lower the number of produced oocytes. ff o/c-free DNA did not seem to have any direct role in the IVF outcome. Further research is required to clarify whether ff o/c-free DNA is a biomolecular marker of embryo quality and IVF outcome.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers / metabolism*
  • Cell-Free System
  • DNA / isolation & purification*
  • DNA / metabolism
  • Embryo Transfer
  • Female
  • Fertilization in Vitro*
  • Follicular Fluid / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Oocytes / growth & development
  • Oocytes / metabolism
  • Ovulation Induction
  • Pregnancy

Substances

  • Biomarkers
  • DNA