The in vitro maturation (IVM) of human oocytes for in vitro fertilization (IVF): is it time yet to switch to IVM-IVF?
The recent study by Li et al. observed that human oocytes from patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) matured in vitro exhibited a higher proportion of abnormal spindle structures and disturbed chromosomal configurations compared with in vivo-matured oocytes from a control group of PCOS patients. This article discusses the obstacles that must be overcome and factors that must be monitored when attempting to optimize conditions for the in vitro maturation of human oocytes, with particular attention to the strengths and weaknesses of the study by Li et al.
Northridge Center For Reproductive Medicine, Northridge, California 91324, USA. gpiquette@aol.com
Gary N
GN
Piquette
D000818:Animals; D002454:Cell Differentiation / Q000502:physiology*; D046149:Embryo Culture Techniques / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D005307:Fertilization in Vitro / Q000009:adverse effects / Q000379:methods* / Q000639:trends*; D006801:Humans; D009865:Oocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D009866:Oogenesis / Q000502:physiology; D011085:Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D011247:Pregnancy