Developmental potential of oocytes after cryopreservation Year Two

Oocyte cryopreservation is imperative for assisted reproductive technologies (ART). It offers cancer patients to preserve their oocytes for future fertilization, flexibility in the timing of infertility treatment, and the potential for establishing oocyte banking. However, the currently available protocol is limited because the oocytes after cryopreservation have lower ability to develop into viable embryos (developmental competence) compared to unfrozen oocytes. The aim of proposed study is to improve the conditions of oocyte cryopresrvation which subsequently result in an increase in oocyte competence. This aim will be achieved by supplementing the cryopreservation medium with substances, known to play roles in oocyte metabolism, energy production, and oxidative stress prevention, and testing subsequent oocyte development into embryos by using murine models. The established protocol will be used to improve human oocyte cryopreservation technology at the Montreal Reproductive Center (MRC).

Faculty Supervisor:

Teruko Taketo

Student:

Partner:

Montreal Reproductive Centre;OriginElle Fertility Clinic & Women's Health Centre (ON)

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology

University:

Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre

Program: