Research Progress on DNA Methylation of Gametes, Embryos and Offspring from Assisted Reproductive Technology

doi:10.12280/gjszjk.20250508

Abstract

Abstract:

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) may increase pregnancy risks such as preterm birth and placental dysfunction by perturbing DNA methylation regulation. Studies have shown that the hormonal stimulation and culture conditions during in vitro fertilization (IVF) may induce imprinted gene demethylation; and that the micromanipulation during intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) may precipitate paternal epigenetic defects. The cryopreservation-thawing stress associated with frozen-thawed embryo transfer (FET) may modify embryonic methylomes; and the ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) ischemia-reperfusion injury may destabilize ovarian DNA methylation. This review delineates the differential mechanisms of these four modalities, including IVF, ICSI, FET and OTC, in regulating DNA methylation of gametes, embryos, and offspring, which may provide a theoretical framework for optimizing ART protocols and improving offspring health.

Key words: Reproductive techniques, assisted, Fertilization in vitro, Sperm injections, intracytoplasmic, Embryo transfer, Cryopreservation, Epigenomics, DNA methylation

HUANG Ru, JIN Meng-han, ZHONG Yu-nong, WANG Ke-han, MENG Qing-xia. Research Progress on DNA Methylation of Gametes, Embryos and Offspring from Assisted Reproductive Technology[J]. Journal of International Reproductive Health/Family Planning, 2026, 45(1): 45-48.

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