Rhythmic actomyosin-driven contractions induced by sperm entry predict mammalian embryo viability

Anna Ajduk, Tagbo Ilozue, Shane Windsor, Yuansong Yu, K. Bianka Seres, Richard J. Bomphrey, Brian D. Tom, Karl Swann, Adrian Thomas, Chris Graham and Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz ()
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Anna Ajduk: Wellcome Trust/Cancer UK Gurdon Research Institute, University of Cambridge
Tagbo Ilozue: Wellcome Trust/Cancer UK Gurdon Research Institute, University of Cambridge
Shane Windsor: Oxford University
Yuansong Yu: School of Medicine, Cardiff University
K. Bianka Seres: Wellcome Trust/Cancer UK Gurdon Research Institute, University of Cambridge
Richard J. Bomphrey: Oxford University
Brian D. Tom: MRC Biostatistics Unit, Robinson Way
Karl Swann: School of Medicine, Cardiff University
Adrian Thomas: Oxford University
Chris Graham: Oxford University
Magdalena Zernicka-Goetz: Wellcome Trust/Cancer UK Gurdon Research Institute, University of Cambridge

Nature Communications, 2011, vol. 2, issue 1, 1-10

Abstract: Abstract Fertilization-induced cytoplasmic flows are a conserved feature of eggs in many species. However, until now the importance of cytoplasmic flows for the development of mammalian embryos has been unknown. Here, by combining a rapid imaging of the freshly fertilized mouse egg with advanced image analysis based on particle image velocimetry, we show that fertilization induces rhythmical cytoplasmic movements that coincide with pulsations of the protrusion forming above the sperm head. We find that these movements are caused by contractions of the actomyosin cytoskeleton triggered by Ca2+ oscillations induced by fertilization. Most importantly, the relationship between the movements and the events of egg activation makes it possible to use the movements alone to predict developmental potential of the zygote. In conclusion, this method offers, thus far, the earliest and fastest, non-invasive way to predict the viability of eggs fertilized in vitro and therefore can potentially improve greatly the prospects for IVF treatment.

Date: 2011
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DOI: 10.1038/ncomms1424

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