[Influence of assisted reproduction technologies on genomic imprinting of embryos and offspring]

Zhonghua Yi Xue Yi Chuan Xue Za Zhi. 2014 Aug;31(4):462-5. doi: 10.3760/cma.j.issn.1003-9406.2014.04.010.
[Article in Chinese]

Abstract

Assisted reproduction technologies (ART) include controlled ovarian hyperstimulation, in vitro fertilization-embryo transfer, intracytoplasmic sperm injection, in vitro maturation of oocytes, pre-implantation genetic diagnosis, etc. They have been used for the treatment of impaired fertility but may damage the health of offspring. The ART procedures may alter the epigenetic status of these offspring and DNA methylation may be a crucial mechanism. This paper summarizes epigenetic alterations in ART embryos and offspring, and discusses the risks.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • DNA Methylation
  • Embryo, Mammalian / metabolism*
  • Female
  • Fertilization in Vitro*
  • Genomic Imprinting*
  • Humans
  • Pregnancy
  • Preimplantation Diagnosis*