Abstract: One of the major challenges in in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer (IVF-ET) technology is lack of an objective, accurate, noninvasive criteria for evaluating the developmental potential of embryo. We reviewed here the expressions of those genes in cumulus cells related to the developmental potential of oocyte, suggesting that there was a close relationship between the expression of some specific genes in human cumulus cells and oocyte development, maturation, and embryo developmental potential. Recently, using qRT-PCR and microarray technologies, a series of candidate genes in cumulus and granulosa cells were found to be possible markers to predict the developmental potential of embryo, such as those genes related to cumulus expansion, lipid metabolism, cell apoptosis and other aspects, which could be useful to predict fertilization outcomes, embryo morphology and pregnant outcomes. However, the development of oocyte and embryo could be affected by various factors. It is necessary to do more detailed study to develop a accurate, comprehensive and non-invasive test for evaluating the developmental potential of oocyte and embryo.

Key words: Cumulus cells, Oocytes, Polymerase chain reaction, Microarray analysis, Gene expression