title: Oocyte cryopreservation: searching for novel improvement strategies.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  To highlight emerging techniques aimed at improving oocyte cryopreservation.
  
  
  METHODS
  Review of available and relevant literature through Pubmed and Medline searches.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Oocyte cryopreservation is an increasingly common procedure utilized for assisted reproduction and may benefit several patient populations. Therefore, improving efficiency is paramount in realizing the tremendous promise of this approach. However, in addition to numerous studies looking to improve oocyte cryopreservation efficacy via examination of variables involved with protocol methodology, such as type/concentration of cryoprotectant (CPA), type of storage device, or cooling/warming rates, there are more novel approaches for improvement. These alternate approaches include utilizing different the stages of oocytes, examining alteration of basal media and buffer composition, optimizing CPA exchange protocols and device loading through use of automated technology, as well as examination/manipulation of oocyte cellular composition to improve cryotolerance. Finally, elucidating more accurate or insightful indicators of "success" is crucial for continued improvement of oocyte cryopreservation.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Oocyte cryopreservation has improved dramatically in recent years and is receiving widespread clinical use. Novel approaches to further improve success, as well as improved methods to assess this success will aid in continued improvement.
authors.affiliation: Department of OB/GYN, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA.
authors.forename: Natalie A
authors.initials: NA
authors.lastname: Clark
authors.forename: Jason E
authors.initials: JE
authors.lastname: Swain
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D002455:Cell Division; D002470:Cell Survival; D015925:Cryopreservation / Q000379:methods*; D003451:Cryoprotective Agents; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice; D009865:Oocytes / Q000166:cytology / Q000502:physiology*; D027724:Reproductive Techniques, Assisted
chemical_list: D003451:Cryoprotective Agents