Single-cell profiling of transcriptomic changes during maturation of human oocytes.

Purpose: maturation (IVM) of human oocytes offers an invaluable opportunity for infertility treatment. However, matured oocytes often show lower developmental abilities than their counterparts, and molecular mechanisms underlying successful maturation remain unclear. In this study, we investigated gene expression profiles of matured oocytes at the single-cell level to gain mechanistic insight into IVM of human oocytes.

Reproductive medical providers' behaviors, considerations, and plans for fertility treatments during the COVID-19 pandemic in Japan: A nationwide web-based survey.

Purpose: This study was conducted to investigate how the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted reproductive medical providers' behaviors and considerations, including their concerns regarding the necessity of fertility treatments.

Methods: A web-based questionnaire was distributed to Japan Society of Fertilization and Implantation (JSFI) members from May 18 through May 31, 2020 to survey their professional behaviors and concerns during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Results: Most survey participants reported a decrease in the number of patients and a decrease in their workload.

Evaluation of antioxidant status and oxidative stress markers in follicular fluid for human in vitro fertilization outcome.

Purpose: Antioxidant status and oxidative stress markers in human follicular fluid (FF) surrounding oocytes may be related to the outcomes of in vitro fertilization and embryo transfer (IVF-ET). Therefore, we herein examined the relationship between antioxidant status and oxidative stress markers in FF and the outcomes of IVF-ET.

Methods: One hundred and seventeen infertile women were included in this study.