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Using Mouse Oocytes to Assess Human Gene Function During Meiosis I
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Using Mouse Oocytes to Assess Human Gene Function During Meiosis I

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[Genotoxicity risk assessment and oocytes: basis of genetic toxicology and application in reproductive science]

A Berthelot-Ricou1, J Perrin, T Orsière

  • 1FR CNRS 3098, ECCOREV, UMR CNRS 7263 AMU, IMBE, biogénotoxicologie, santé humaine & environnement, faculté de médecine, Aix-Marseille université, 27, boulevard Jean-Moulin, 13005 Marseille, France.

Gynecologie, Obstetrique & Fertilite
|August 27, 2013
PubMed

Insights

Genotoxicity tests in germ cells assess environmental mutagen risks to fertility and offspring. The comet assay on mouse oocytes reveals 1,2-propanediol may damage DNA at high concentrations.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive toxicology
  • Genetics
  • Cell biology

Context:

  • Assessing environmental mutagen impact on germ cells is crucial for fertility and offspring health.
  • The comet assay offers a rapid method to detect primary DNA damage in oocytes.
  • This technique complements traditional toxicology assays on somatic cells.

Purpose:

  • To evaluate the genotoxicity of cryoprotectants used in oocyte vitrification.
  • To apply the comet assay in reproductive biology for assessing female germ cell genotoxicity.
  • To investigate the DNA damaging potential of specific cryoprotectants at high concentrations.

Summary:

  • Dimethylsulfoxide and ethylene glycol showed no genotoxicity in mouse oocytes using the comet assay.
  • 1,2-propanediol (PrOH) exposure induced significant DNA damage in both CHO cells and mouse oocytes.
  • These findings suggest a potential genotoxic effect of PrOH at high concentrations.

Impact:

  • Highlights the utility of the comet assay in reproductive toxicology.
  • Provides critical safety data for cryoprotectants used in assisted reproductive technologies.
  • Informs risk assessment for environmental factors affecting female reproductive health.
Keywords:
Comet assayCryoprotectantCryoprotecteursDNA damageGenotoxicityGénotoxicitéLésions de l’ADNOocyteOvocyteTest des comètes

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