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Updated: May 11, 2026
11:13
Using Mouse Oocytes to Assess Human Gene Function During Meiosis I
Published on: April 10, 2018
Ovulation induction and epigenetic anomalies.
1Laboratoire de Biologie de la Reproduction, Hôpital de Dijon, Université de Bourgogne, Dijon, France. patricia.fauque@chu-dijon.fr
Fertility and Sterility
|May 30, 2013
Summary
Hormone treatments for ovulation induction may negatively impact the epigenetic reprogramming of eggs and embryos. Assisted reproduction protocols might also alter the uterine environment, potentially causing endometrial epigenetic disturbances.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Epigenetics
- Developmental biology
Background:
- Ovulation induction and assisted reproduction technologies (ART) are widely used for infertility treatment.
- Epigenetic reprogramming is crucial for normal gamete and embryo development.
- Hormonal interventions in fertility treatments raise concerns about potential epigenetic alterations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the impact of ovulation induction and ART on epigenetic control.
- To assess potential epigenetic risks associated with hormonal treatments in gametes, embryos, and the uterine environment.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature, with a primary focus on studies utilizing mouse models.
- Analysis of data pertaining to epigenetic reprogramming in gametes and early embryos.
- Evaluation of potential links between ART hormone protocols and endometrial epigenetic changes.
Main Results:
- Studies, predominantly in mice, suggest hormone treatments can adversely affect epigenetic reprogramming in gametes and early embryos.
- ART hormone protocols may alter the uterine physiological environment, potentially leading to endometrial epigenetic disturbances.
- Current human data are insufficient to isolate the effects of age, infertility, treatment protocols, and hormone doses on genomic imprinting.
Conclusions:
- Hormonal treatments used in fertility therapies may pose risks to the epigenetic integrity of reproductive cells and early development.
- Further research, particularly in humans, is needed to fully understand and mitigate these potential epigenetic risks.
- The complex interplay of factors including patient age, infertility type, and specific treatment parameters requires detailed investigation.
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