Effects of Alginate Hydrogel on Bovine Embryo Development
Author Information
Author(s): Ferronato Giuliana de A., Rosa Paola M. da S., Bridi Alessandra, Santos Angélica Camargo dos, Nociti Ricardo P., Chiaratti Marcos Roberto, Perecin Felipe, Meirelles Flávio V., Sangalli Juliano R., Silveira Juliano C. da
Primary Institution: University of São Paulo
Hypothesis
A softer environment could differently modulate the in vitro produced embryos.
Conclusion
The alginate hydrogels adversely affected the embryo development, which were paralleled by epigenetic and transcriptomic changes.
Supporting Evidence
- Blastocyst rates were decreased in TOP and ENC groups compared with CON.
- Three miRNAs involved in cell proliferation were differently modulated by the TOP and ENC groups.
- Global levels of DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation were increased in the TOP group compared with CON and ENC.
Takeaway
Using a softer gel for growing embryos didn't help them grow better; in fact, it made them grow worse.
Methodology
Presumptive zygotes were produced by in vitro fertilization and divided into three groups: Control (CON), on top of an alginate hydrogel surface (TOP), and encapsulated inside an alginate hydrogel sphere (ENC).
Limitations
The study did not test if there is an association between blastocyst rates and embryo quality.
Participant Demographics
Bovine embryos were used in the study.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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