Epigenetic Risks of Medically Assisted Reproduction

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Biology
• Developmental Biology
• Epigenetics

Background:

• Over 9 million children born globally via assisted reproductive technologies (ART).
• In vitro fertilization (IVF) environments differ significantly from the maternal oviduct's physiological conditions.
• Early embryogenesis involves crucial epigenetic reprogramming susceptible to environmental factors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence linking ART procedures to epigenetic errors.
• To investigate the consequences of these epigenetic alterations on children conceived via ART.
• To provide an overview of disease risks associated with ART-induced epigenetic or imprinting alterations.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on assisted reproduction treatments and epigenetics.
• Analysis of research concerning epigenetic reprogramming during early embryogenesis.
• Examination of data on imprinting disorders and disease risks in ART-conceived children.

Main Results:

• ART procedures, including in vitro culture and genetic testing, can expose embryos to non-physiological conditions.
• Concerns exist regarding ART's potential to induce epigenetic alterations in germ cells and offspring.
• Evidence suggests a possible link between ART and imprinting disorders.

Conclusions:

• Assisted reproductive technologies may introduce epigenetic errors affecting embryonic development.
• Further research is needed to fully understand the long-term health implications for children born via ART.
• ART-associated epigenetic alterations may increase the risk of certain diseases in offspring.