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Molecular characterization of the human ovulatory cascade—Lesson from the IVF/IVM model

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Journal of Assisted Reproduction and Genetics Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Aims

Ovarian follicular development and ovulation in mammals is a complex and highly regulated process. Most advances in the understanding of the ovulatory process have come from animal models. However, translational research in humans is of crucial importance for improving fertility treatment and control.

Methods

IVM/IVF procedures allow us to obtain follicular fluid and granulosa cells (GC) from follicles in different developmental stages with and without hCG priming.

Results

Using the cells and fluids obtained in IVM/IVF procedures allowed us to characterize human ovulatory gene expression during antral folliculogenesis and ovulation, examine gene expression in luteinized and non-luteinized GC in vivo and in vitro and to use cumulus GC genes as biomarkers for oocyte and embryo maturity and competence.

Conclusion

Biological material obtained during IVM/IVF procedures is an important tool to study the human ovulatory cascade and can serve to improve IVM techniques and fertility treatment and control.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. IVF Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Chaim Sheba Medical Centre, Tel-Hashomer, Affiliated to the Sackler School of Medicine, Tel-Aviv University, Tel-Aviv, Israel

    Gil M. Yerushalmi, Ettie Maman, Yuval Yung, Alon Kedem & Ariel Hourvitz

Authors
  1. Gil M. Yerushalmi
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  2. Ettie Maman
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  3. Yuval Yung
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  4. Alon Kedem
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  5. Ariel Hourvitz
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Gil M. Yerushalmi.

Additional information

Capsule We show how biological material obtained during IVM/IVF procedures is used for translational research from animal models to the human ovulatory cascade.

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Yerushalmi, G.M., Maman, E., Yung, Y. et al. Molecular characterization of the human ovulatory cascade—Lesson from the IVF/IVM model. J Assist Reprod Genet 28, 509–515 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-011-9594-9

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10815-011-9594-9

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