WCRB2014 POSTER PRESENTATIONS (1) (335 abstracts)
1National Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, Tehran, Iran; 2Razi University, Kermanshah, Iran
Introduction: Cryopreservation is possible for all stages of pre-implantation embryos. It has been reported that survival rate of blastocyst is comparably lower than other stages. There is a high volume of fluid in blastocoel cavity that can be a good ground for ice crystals formation, resulting in damage to the cell structure. In this study, the effects of artificial collapseand reduction of the fluid volume in blastocyst cavity before vitrification process on the survival rate and quality of blastocysts were assessed by estimating the expression levels of Oct4, Nanog, Sox2, and Klf4.
Materials & Methods: Mouse blastocysts divided into 5 groups including: A) Vitrified- thawed blastocysts, B) Vitrified- thawed blastocysts after artificial collapse, C) Collapsed blastocysts, D) Immersed blastocysts in vitrification/warming solutions and E) Fresh blastocysts as control group. The survival and hatching rate of embryos were evaluated and the expression of pluripotency-specific genes was assessed by Real Time PCR technique in comparison to control group.
Results and Discussion: Although there was a significant reduction in hatching rate of groups A and B, the survival rate in group B increased significantly compared with other groups (P<0.05). In addition, there were no significant changes in expression of genes of all groups (P>0.05). It can be concluded that artificial collapse of blastocyst could be a simple and effective way to contribute to the successful blastocyst vitrification.